The advocates of the convicts on the Hiawassee Railroad called my attention to the law of the Alleghany Railroad which says they should have not less than fifty nor more than one hundred convicts. I acknowledge my ignorance as I voted to put the convicts on the Elkin and Alleghany Road not knowing that clause was in the law. I laid it before the Attorney General, and he said that the only thing I could do was to notify the Prison authorities that after that date the extra convicts would not be allowed to be charged against the State. This I did promptly. Enclosed find copy of my letter to Mr. Mann. This morning I am in receipt of a letter from Mr. McCullough, a copy of which I send you.

I think it my duty to keep you posted in regard to this matter.