Norfolk, V.A., 3:52 PM, Dec. 15, 1917.

T. W. Bickett
Governor
Raleigh, N.C.

Answering wire date. Regret exceedingly inability furnish car coal Louisburg as our fuel situation precarious and indeed serious confonted as are with lumber of troop train and heavy movement of government supplies which we are urged to expedite all possible. Would like to comply with your request but our judgement in view of existing situation we should give first consideration to keeping railroad going. Suggest you make application fuel administration Washington for releif.

C. E. Hix
5:36 P