| Head Quarters Dept Cape Fear |
| Wilmington N. C. April 18th 1864 |
| |
| Col. S. L. Fremont |
| Supt W. & W. R. R.
{Wilmington & Weldon RR} |
| Present |
| |
| Col., |
| I have received your note stating that
there is a project on foot to consolidate the roads between here &
Richmond &ct. and asking me certain questions, which I proceed to
answer. 1st I do not think any change in the management of the R. R.
which would involve the substitution of new men for the experienced
officers now engaged would be advisable at this time when the efforts of
the road are taxed to the almost & likely for some time to be so. |
| 2nd Ever since I have been in Command in
this Dept. I have always found the authorities in control of the W. & W.
R. R. prompt & zealous to the utmost of their power in carrying out the
requirements of the Govt. No delay which could be properly charged to
them has come under my observation. The road has been several times
attacked & cut by the enemy. When this has occurred, I think great
credit is due the management for the able & rapid manner in which they
have repaired the damage and restored communication. The interruption to
which must always be a most serious disaster. |
| The road has had great difficulties to
contend with in the transportation of freight on account of the repeated
& almost constant calls for the passage of troops, either through its
whole extent or from one portion of the state to another. |
| With regard to consolidation, I am not
able to advise. Generally speaking, I think R. R. Corporations like
others are likely to know and do their own business. It might however,
be well to make a consolidation of cars between the different roads sot
that trains could run through to Richmond without breaking bulk. I am
satisfied that most if not all of the alleged delay is due to the time &
trouble of shifting cars. |
| Very Respectfully |
| W. H. C. Whiting |
| Maj Genl |