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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