| Engineer Bureau |
| Richmond, April 16th, 1863 |
| |
| Colonel J. W. Lapsley |
| Selma, Ala. |
| |
| Col., |
| Your letter of the 7th inst addressed to
the Hon J. L. McCurry, in regard to the Blue Mountain & Rome R. Rd. has
been referred to this Bureau. |
| The Government has decided to assist the
road by a loan but is unable to furnish iron. On the 11th inst the
following telegram was sent to Judge Thos A. Walker, Prest. Ala. & Tenn.
R. Rd. Co. {Alabama & Tennessee River RR}
by this Bureau. |
| "Telegram" "Copy" |
| "The Secretary of War decides that the
$220,000 will be loaned to your road for preparation of roadway
including the delivery of cross ties but the Govt. cannot contract to
furnish the iron. A further loan may be made if your company can procure
the iron." |
| Hoping that the above information will
prove satisfactory I remain |
| Very Respectfully, Yours &c |
| J. F. Gilmer |
| Colonel of Engrs & Chf of Bureau |