Our people here are very much gratified to learn that there is a good prospect for us securing a number of convicts for the Hiawassee Valley Railway Co.

Although there is some little discension now, as you notice from the papers, this amounts to very little, in my opinion, and it appears that the Railroad from Andrews to Hayesville and across to the main line of the Southern in Ga is practically assured if we can secure these convicts. I suppose you are acquainted with conditions in this section and know that this road will open up about four counties heretofore untouched by a railroad, the last and one of the best undeveloped sections of the West.

The bonds rated ($150000- in Valley Town Township and Clay County.) are insufficient to build the road, and we are dependent upon these convicts for its completion.

You know conditions here and know our needs, and I trust you will use every possible effort to aid us.-