OR, Series 1, Vol. 46, Part 2, Page 1034

War Department, C. S. A.
Richmond, Va., January 11, 1865
 
General R. E. Lee
Petersburg, Va.
 
   The late rain has unfortunately broken down the Piedmont Railroad in various places so that transit will not be practicable over twenty miles of it for several days, perhaps a week. I fear the extraordinary power reposed in commanding generals of impressing without limit will have to be resorted to by you. A call by you on the people would be more influential in inducing acquiescence, perhaps voluntary contributions, than from any other source. Field transportation is also very necessary.
J. A. Seddon
Secretary of War

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