Charles Walsh to James Magee, November 11, 1862

(D.)—Mr. Walsh to Mr. Magee.

Dear Sir: The State of Alabama is very anxious to insure to its creditors their dues to the utmost fraction, notwithstanding the obstacles now thrown in the way of the United States government to prevent creditors in the Confederate States from meeting their obligations.

This State will owe, the coming year, in payment of its interest coupons, in bonds due British subjects, some £40,000 sterling, which coupons are payable at the Union Bank and at the counting-house of the Messrs. Rothschild, in London. The State is not only anxious, but determined, if possible, to continue to protect its credit, and promptly meet its obligations as heretofore; also to fulfil strictly its promises to its foreign creditors, both in regard to the payment of its dues as well as its promised places of payment. With this view, will you allow me to invoke your kind aid in behalf of the State, and this bank, which has acted as the fiscal agent of the State for many years past in the payment of its foreign interests, to fulfil its obligations, which is of the utmost importance, in every point of view, both to the State of Alabama and its foreign creditors. I have now to ask the favor of your ascertaining from the British minister at Washington (or through any other channel) if this bank can be allowed to place in your hands the sum necessary, in coin, for transmission to England by the first favorable opportunity, at the expense of the State, for the purpose mentioned. I must ask you, kindly, to give me as early a reply to this communication as your convenience will permit.

I am, &c.,