Henry W. Halleck to E. M. Stanton, Secretary of War, July 7, 1862

Hon. E. M. Stanton, Secretary of War:

Sm: I inclose herewith a copy of a report of Brigadier-General McPherson, superintendent of railroads, from which it will be seen that we opened 367 miles of road in less than one month, besides repairing a number of locomotives and cars which were captured from the enemy greatly injured. Indeed the wood work of most of the cars has been entirely rebuilt, and all this work has been done by details from the army. The men have worked with most commendable industry and energy, and have shown the greatest willingness and alacrity in thus securing the territory we have gained from the enemy. Without these roads our position here would have been untenable for the want of supplies.

We are still greatly in want of rolling stock, but Assistant Secretary Tucker has assured me that he will immediately give his attention to supplying this deficiency. I have made requisition on the Quartermaster-General for the purchase of the Rogers locomotives.

Brigadier-General McPherson deserves great credit for the energy and untiring industry which he has devoted to the repair and organization of these roads.

Very respectfally,

your obedient servant,