| Quartermaster General's Department |
| Richmond Jan. 12th 1865 |
| |
| Genl R. E. Lee |
| Comdg A. N. Va. |
| |
| General, |
| I beg leave to hand you the enclosed
report of Captain Robinson, made at my instance, on the condition of
the rolling stock of the Petersburg R. R. (Mr Sanfords). It exhibits a
very unfortunate state of things, which may affect us seriously --
every species of pressure has been brought to bear on Mr Sanford
(short of taking actual possession and control of his road &
rolling stock by the Govt.) to induce him to put his equipment in
order to serve the transportation calls of the Department. So little
success has thus far attended these efforts that I must beg your
assistance and influence in that behalf. I ask this with less
reluctance, after the last conversation I had with you on this
subject: In which you kindly offered to secure the requested
Co-operation of Mr Sanford in our efforts to improve RR
transportation. Mr S is very true & kindly disposed, but so fixed
in his arrangements that we can never rely on him to meet a pressing
emergency. Please stimulate him a little; & if possible secure a
statement of what he can promise as to the use, repair and disposition
of his equipment. |
| Referring to my telegram of yesterday on
the subject of private supplies, I take leave to suggest that a word
from you in this emergency would assist us in securing aid from the
people, whose supplies have already been sadly reduced, but are
disposed to lend if made to understand that it is necessary. I
have sent active officers & agents in every direction to secure
grain; but find myself placed in the painful position of having to
turn it over as fast as I secure it to the Commissary Dept. Horses
must give place to men. |
| Very Respectfully |
| Yours |
| A. R. Lawton Qr. Mr. Genl. |
|