NA, ENG 8/27A/1863

Engineer Bureau
Aug 27, 1863
 
Robt. Auld, Esqr.
Agent for the Exchange of Prisoners
Richmond Va.
 
Sir,
   The Secretary of War has allowed the removal of the iron from the City Point Branch R. Rd. {a branch of the South Side RR} for the use of the South Side R. Rd Co in repairing their main line. I notify you of the fact as it must affect your arrangements for the transportation of prisoners. Permit me to suggest that the Steamer "Shultz" could pass the barrier at Drewrys Bluff & bring up the returned Confederate prisoners: The Federals could be carried by rail to within three miles of Port Walthall & marched there or to a point opposite City Point should you prefer, the old arrangement of marching the Federal prisoners to Varina, James River & then embarking them, could be adopted.
Very respectfully your obdt servt.
A. L. Rives
Lt Col & Actg chf Bur.

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