From private information I am led to believe that some kind of a bargain has been made between T. D. Carter and Gnrl Roger Pryor for his pretended ownership of the W NC RRd and that in a few days proceedings will be started in the W S court to have a receiver appointed. If such is the case the lawyer on our Board will no doubt expect to look after the company’s interest but in addition would it not be well to speak to W N H Smith, as he has been so well acquainted with the history of the road. If any thing turns up will keep you advised. 
I would be very glad if you would get the Asst Genl. to send me 4 improved guns for use of guard on gravel train, have only shot guns and they are not safe.
I see the board has sent another Fayetteville man in the place I hoped to get for Maj Tate or Freeman, as we can have no choice in the selection, what say you to my letting out on them in the Blade and show that far more officers are employed than an economical administration of their business would require. $200 can be saved in salaries up here. Besides (until now) bacon is shipped first to Raleigh from Balts and then here a firm in Raleigh of coarse getting commissions this thing is talked of up here and I thought it best to let you know but as not of my own knowledge being position of the fact I wd rather not be named in the matter, if desired could send you exactly what our bacon costs direct.
Another matter, I was last week over in Mitchell Co. and a party in one day caught 327 trout, the finest I ever saw. I believe a hatchery there in addition to the one at Swannanoa wd do finely as the streams of so many mountain counties could be supplied from there. If the state would build the pond and stock it I could get a man to see to it free of charge. 
Recd the $500, you will see an article in the Blade, also Watchman. No news of interest.