DaveBrt
1st Lieutenant
- Joined
- Mar 6, 2010
- Location
- Charlotte, NC
We see mention of various plans and ideas to trade through the lines during the war. Rarely does such record include what the South desired to receive for their cotton in such trades. Below is a letter from the QM General's Letterbook, replying to a plan by Sam. Tate, President of the Memphis & Charleston RR and general fix-it man. Since the letter is from the QMG, only Quartermaster supplies are desired.
Quartermaster General's Department |
Richmond Oct. 13th 1864 |
Mr. Saml Tate |
Demopolis Ala |
Sir, |
Your communication of the 28th ult. with enclosure from Gen. Harris has been received. |
I am anxious to avail of your services, having faith in your ability & disposition to execute what you propose. At the same time, however, I am constrained to modify to some extent the terms suggested by you. You contemplate delivering the supplies in Mississippi. That is in the Military Dept. commanded by Lt. Genl. Taylor & there it is understood that cotton delivered in payment for Army supplies must be expended on the following basis to it at 50 cts a lb. in payment for supplies delivered at invoice prices with an addition of 15 pr ct thereon for cost of transportation. The invoices should be supported by prices current at the date of purchase & in the locality where the same is made. |
The annexed statement will show you the articles most needed. All such suitable for Army use will be received, at convenient points within our lines by Maj. L. Mims QMaster Enterprise Miss, or some subordinate designated by him, & will be paid for in cotton as herein proposed & permission will be granted from Dept Hd. Qrs to export the cotton beyond our lines. |
If these terms are acceptable by you please say so & state also within what time the supplies can be delivered. Time is important as they are needed for Winter use. |
A R Lawton QMG |
List of Supplies to be delivered |
1st 50,000 prs of heavy Army shoes (Bluchers) high quarters assorted in size & cording to enclosed circular dated Sept 23d '64 from this office |
2nd 100,000 yds of 6/4 Grey Army Cloth 22 to 24 oz pr yd |
3rd 50,000 prs of Army Blankets wt: 8 lbs per pair, each Blanket 58x80 inches |
4th Stationery, Leather, & Shoe Makers tools & findings, in such quantities as may be brought in |
P. S. The above was written prior to the receipt of your letter of the 6th ins. It is still sent in the hope that it may lead to something. |