| Confederate States of America |
| War Department |
| Richmond, Va. January 9 1864 |
| |
| His Excellency |
| The President of the C. S. A. |
| Richmond Va. |
| |
| Sir, |
| I have the honor herewith to return the
papers of S. L. Fremont referred to me for attention, and to state
that on the report of Major Sims Chief of R R Bureau, it is found
that the Engine referred to was engaged to the W & W R Rd {Wilmington
& Weldon RR} but
before it was delivered the necessities of stock for the Piedmont R
Rd were discussed, and I instructed him verbally to husband all
that was suitable for it. He wrote to Mr Fremont immediately
withdrawing his proposition and found on examination of his letters
that his withdrawal was dated August 29th, while Fremont's
acceptance of his offer is dated 31st August. The Engine was never
in Mr F's possession, though under other circumstances he should
have had it. |
| The offer of sale having been withdrawn
on the 29th August, before its acceptance on the 31st of that month
no rights vested in the W & W R R. and no injustice has
therefore been don them. |
| Very Respectfully |
| Your Obdt Sevt |
| James A Seddon |
| Secretary of War |
|