I am very slow to write you again about the Watauga Railway, but I am just in receipt of a letter from Mr Grandin, in which he states that he is willing to give bond to build the road to Boone, provided he can get 150 convicts. He has always complained about having so few. In view of the fact that he has spent $711000 in cash, and we provide for the convicts to do work to the amount of only 25% of the grading, it seems that if the convicts are to be had, and I think they can be, it would be wise to accept his proposition. It will cost the state no more to do 25% in one year than two. Mr Grandin will then get the Watauga bonds.

Since we were in Raleigh, I have tryed to find out something of Mr Grandins financial standing. He and his brother are said to be worth many millions—not less than thirty. They can carry out any scheme they undertake.

I am unable to tell you of the great interest here. Every man is discussing it. Our future depends upon it.

It means so much for the state. If we fail, no hope will we have of a railroad in this generation. We rejoice at the good road movement—but surely there is no development in all North Car—so badly needed as this railroad across the mountains. I do not believe we will let it fail now. 122 additional men will do all Mr G. demands. Let's give them to him, and let him do the rest!