Salisbury, N. C., April 23d 1878
Gov Vance
Dear Govr,
We are required to change the Newton Branch this year and on several accounts I wish it done. They are willing to let me have the hands on the narrow gauge provided I can assure them that you will return them when I am done. Can you give me this assurance and will the Penitentiary Board take charge of them for the time I need them. I will build the stockade if desired. This arrangement will do away with the necessity of taking any force from above.
Very Respy & Truly
P. S. Dr. Powell tells me the fish way at his place is a great success. You can see numbers of fish passing up. 4 shad were caught above his dam.