It was my intention to see you, while you were in Asheville, but in so much as I did not, I shall write you.

I see from news-paper re-ports that the State Convicts, shall shortly commence work on the Hendersonville side of The Hickory Nut Gap. In case they should, I would like very much to take charge of that work. I have been trained in "Practical Road Building" for many years as you know, that ought to fit me well for work of that kind.

I suppose that you have seen the charges brought by Ned Atkinson, that I allowed Fleet Watkins "special privileges" I did allow him to go home to see his sick wife, (knowing him as I do, to be one of the bravest trustiest men that I have ever known) and remained at home four days and nights. The Commissioners had allowed him the same privilege, three times previous. In this I may have done wrong, but if it were to over I'd do the same thing again. Now in regard to Reet Woodward ordering whiskey, I knew nothing about it. Mr. Woodward is appointed by the Board, therefore, they and not I, are responsible for his actions I do not drink whiskey and am not in sympathy with those that do.