| Engineer Bureau |
| January 5th 1864 |
| |
| Capt. J. M. Robinson, Corps Engrs
&c |
| Zillicoffer Tenn |
| |
| Captain, |
| This letter will be handed to you by Mr.
Jas H. Rumbough brother of a Captain of our Corps. Mr. Rumbough has
been presented to me by the Hon Messers Swan & Heickell as a man
of great energy and experience as a constructor and also greatly
interested in the prompt repair of the Va & Tenn RR, & willing
to render any assistance in his power. He is specially commended to
you, both by the Hon Sec of War and myself, in the belief that your
efforts to repair the road will be materially advanced by his
cooperation, rendered the more effective from his complete knowledge
of the people and resources of East Tenn. Consult therefore frankly
with Mr. Rumbough and decide upon the rates of payment &c which
will meet your approval, that Mr R may the more easily render you
effective assistance in securing men and materials. I have also given
Mr. R. a letter to Genl James Longstreet. |
| Very Truly &c |
| A. L. Rives |
| Lt Col & Actg Chf of Bureau |
|