John Welsh to Edward W. Blyden, August 9, 1878

Mr. Welsh to Mr. Blyden.

Dear Sir: I have received your letter of the 8th instant in regard to the construction of a railroad from Liberia to the interior. As you have requested, I will present the subject to the Government of the United States. As it could not be more effectively done I will send to it a copy of your letter to me. The railroad, as suggested, is a work of paramount importance, and to me, personally, it would be a cause of great gratification were the United States to aid your government in its construction, but it is very doubtful whether such aid can be constitutionally granted. There is another point raised by you—the emigration of the labor of our country. I do not believe that the general government can with any propriety do anything to forward it.

With great respect, I am, &c.,