Letter from W. Goodman to Mississippi Governor Charles Clark; January 6, 1864

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Southern Division Miss. Central R. R. SUPERINTENDENT'S OFFICE. Canton, Jany 6th 1864

Genl. Chas Clark Gov of Missi

Dear Sir

I have received your letter of the 31st Decr. Previous to its reception I had submited a proposition for the purchase of Cotton & wool Cards for the state through Mr. Jno C Matson. I think the price put upon the cards is as low as they can be furnished even if all purchased can be brought through the Federal lines. If any portion should be lost, then the proposed price will not pay cost. If delivered, the [ssale?] could readily sell what if it does not donate at $10 or $15 per pair & this really would not cost the State one cent. In my proposition I required a permit to send out 1000 Bales of Cotton—This is probably more than would be required to pay for the Cards—I supposed if the cotton was purchased with the funds of the State—that I should have to repay the State the amount advanced in Cards at $5 per pair Thus virtually paying the State the cost of the Cotton in Federal Currency and my intention is, if the contract is granted to me, with the remainder of the proceeds of the sale of the cotton to purchase & introduce within the Confederate lines, if it can be done, Bacon, Blankets, Shoes and other articles of necessity for our army & people & sell them for Confederate money at Cost & transportation with such reasonable profits as may be thought reasonable & right.

I cannot say how soon—or at what time I could deliver the Cards, but should do it in the least possible time—certain it is they cannot be introduced at one & the same time—

Last edit 5 months ago by Lindsey Peterson (CWRGM Co-Director)
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Salt

They must come in small lots & some of them may be seized by the Enemy—They will not permit them introduction into the Confederate lines—. I suppose all could be delivered within three months from the time the permission is granted to send our Cotton to pay for them—perhaps in two months—$20.000 or 25.000 Cards may not be found in a day—Then you will remember that Wool Cards cost more than Cotton Cards & the latter cannot now be purchased in the Northern cities for less than $21/4 to $21/2 per pair.

I wish it to be understood—if I am to have any thing to do with the contract that it must not be known that the State has made any such Agreement. It cannot be known here without its being known over the Border—and if Known there the Cotton will be seized & confiscated permits to introduce it to the Contrary notwithstanding and a double watch will be on the lookout for the Cards. It may be well for you to act on this suggestion although the contract should be awarded to others. I would not touch it if it is to be made public or known to others than yourself.

With this precaution I can comply with the contract with the conditions named—. I could state other things that will be necessary to sweep if I had an opportunity of a personal interview. Not having such opportunity the above must suffice.

Others may propose to do better and may cause failure & disappointment. I think I write understandingly & will perform what I undertake.

Your Respectfully

WGoodman

Last edit 4 months ago by Lindsey Peterson (CWRGM Co-Director)
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