I enclose the proposition from the Penn State Company, which I have accepted, it is regarded as the best company and its ties are 75c less than any other. Was advised by all RRd men to get the 56 lbs. Please file their proposal. I bought a Baldwin engine of 30 Tons for $7500 certainly very low. Will be delivered by April 1st. The heavy rains have filled up our ditches to such extent that our track is getting bad, I should like exceedingly to get 20 additional hands for the gravel train. I will see Mr. Hicks this evng, if you see him please put in a word for me. I only wish them 30 or 60 days on that work and can not spare them from the grading.

Avery has written you about Ben Newland, I agree with him so also A. M. Erwin a word from you quietly to Genl Roberts & R. H. Battle will fix it. I will see Scales my self. I fear some more will be made against Major Tate, I have talked to him but it does no good he is drinking too much. A letter from yrself or Mrs. Vance to him might have a good effect, his family act in such way that they have no good influence over him. I expected to return by Raleigh, but measles in my family hurried me home.