| ??? Aug. 2 1861 |
| |
| Mr H D Whitcomb {Superintendent,
Virginia Central RR} |
| |
| Dear Sir, |
|
You will remember in a conversation between us some
months ago I referred to the probable difficulty I would meet in
going home when my work was completed. You thought there would be no
trouble in my procuring leave to pass out -- when I was ready -- as
you could secure me the necessary permit. Mr Shephard is now taking
the final estimates on Section 63 and 66 -- and before he has them
ready to send in -- the cattleguards and ballasting will also be
completed. My time I am doing the best I can do, but have been
compelled by the removal of all the workmen to the different battle
fields. I shall still press at it as forcibly as possible and will
leave the contract in such a shape as will ensure the most faithful
attention as far as the scarcity of men will permit. You are
probably aware that in my persistent endeavors to retain my men in
order to complete my work I have exposed myself to some risks and
probably no little personal damage.
|
| I have been faithful in finishing the
work against all hazards and now that I am through, feel it due to
my family to remove them to a safer locality. I shall feel that I
owe much to you for your ??? kindness toward me, while upon the
Central R R, and hope you will add to your former kindnesses the
final one of procuring for me the documents necessary to enable me
to reach the frontier. |
| I congratulate you very earnestly upon
your new appointment, and trust me may sometime in the future meet
again under pleasanter aspects. |
| Very Sincerely Your friend |
| Edward Jay Allen |
| |
| My family consists of my wife and child
my niece Miss Nancie Rolison & brother in law Wm B Rolison |
| I should like permission to take out a
team to pull my personal baggage, and should probably travel by
private conveyance. |
| Please write me at Corrington |
| Should any other exertions than you will
be necessary, I am acquainted with Chas. G. Talcott Supt {Richmond
&} Danville RR who I am assured would gladly render me
any service in his power -- also with Capt Ferris on General
Floyd's staff. |
| Or should the Arkansas regiment be in
Richmond, any of their officers if from the upper portion of
Arkansas will assist in procuring what may be necessary. |