I enclose the proposition from the Penn State Company, which I have accepted, it is regarded as the best company and its ties are 75 c less than any other. Was advised by all RRd men to get the 56 lbs. Please file their proposal. I bought a Baldwin engine of 30 tons for $7500 certainly very low. Will be delivered by April 1st. The heavy rains have filled up our ditches to such extent that our track is getting bad, I should like exceedingly to get 20 additional hands for the gravel train. I will see Mr. Hicks this evng, if you see him please put in a word for me. I only wish them 30 or 60 days on that work and can not spare them from the grading.
Avery has written you about Ben Newland, I agree with him so also A. M. Erwin a word from you quickly to Gnl Roberts & R. H. Baker will fix it. I will see Scales my self. I fear some more will be made against Major Tate, I have talked to him but it does no good he is drinking too much. A letter from yrself or Mrs. Vance to him might have a good effect, his family act in such way that they have no good influence over him. I expected to return by Raleigh, but needs in my family hurried me home.