C. S. Quartermaster's Department
| Railroad Bureau |
| Richmond, March 31, 1864 |
| |
| Brig. Gen. A. R. Lawton |
| Quartermaster-General |
| |
| General, |
| The necessity of more rapid communication
with Wilmington has long been felt, but has failed of accomplishment
from a want of harmony with the railroad officers. I am satisfied
that we can expect no lasting improvement until the three roads
between this city and that {Richmond &
Petersburg, Petersburg, Wilmington & Weldon} are under
one management and worked as one corporation. I am also satisfied
that this can never be done if the wishes of the present officers
are consulted. Three presidents and as many superintendents will be
sure to find reasons why no good could result from such an
arrangement. I would therefore recommend that the six officers of
these roads above named be convened and the wishes of Government be
unfolded to them, at the same time assuring them that the temporary amalgamation
was a military necessity and must be complied with. The terms should
be liberal, as the end, if attained, is beyond price. If the
Government would take the roads with all rolling-stock, shops,
machinery, tools, etc, just as they stand, and agree to pay an
annual interest of 12 1/2 per cent. until the war closes, and then
to replace the roads, etc, in as good condition as received, there
would be no reasonable objection to turning them over to the
Government. It is not an object to stickle about terms if the
companies can be brought to agree to it; and so important do I
consider the arrangement that I urge it upon your consideration even
to the extent of impressment. |
| I am, general, very respectfully, etc. |
| F. W. Sims |
| Lieutenant-Colonel, etc |
| |
| [Indorsement] |
| April 1, 1864 |
| As this proposition involves the exercise of large
powers, and may involve very heavy expenditures on the part of the
government, it is respectfully submitted to the Secretary of War for
his sanction. |
| A. R. Lawton |
| Quartermaster-General |
|