| Northern Division Superintendent's Office |
| Mobile & Ohio Railroad |
| Jackson, Tenn., Nov. 4, 1861 |
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| Maj. Genl. Polk |
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| Dear Sir, |
| I have been closely engaged trying to
arrange for the early completion of the Paducah Road {New
Orleans & Ohio RR}. The contractors on the road have been
stopped by having their assets seized at Paducah & we will be
compelled to make new arrangements. The report of the Engineer is
herewith enclosed & presents the following case. We will need the
rails shipped to Columbus by water to be sent from there by railroad.
It will then require twelve thousand Dollars to purchase chairs &
spikes & filling the road bed & carry down the rails. I have
no money at my command or in my power. To effect the completion of the
track, you will have to ship up the rails in Government steamers &
advance us the means say $12000.00 to finish the road. I will give the
Government a loan on the road to secure the repayment for the iron
& for the amt. advanced in a manner that will secure the
Government. This is the best I can do. I send my Engineer to see you
in person who can give you correct & exact information on all the
points. |
| No chairs or spikes to be had at Memphis
or New Orleans. I am going down to Mobile in the morning to see what
can be done there. It is probable that Richmond is our only chance.
Should you deem my suggestions worthy to be entertained, please give
my Engineer Mr. Williams instructions as to what you will have done. |
| In haste yours truly |
| Milton Brown Prest |
| Mobile & Ohio R. R. Co. |
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