Mr. Mallory to Mr. Mason, October 26, 1862

Mr. Mallory to Mr. Mason.

Sir: Your letter of the 18th ultimo reached me
a few days ago. Without your advice and effectual assistance the
enterprise for which Lieutenant Sinclair has been selected must have
been indefinitely deferred, and you have my cordial thanks for your
action therein. Your stipulations in behalf of this department are fully
indorsed, and will be promptly fulfilled.

The treasury has under consideration your suggestions as to cotton bonds,
and Mr. Benjamin will advise you of the modifications of the form
transmitted by you which Mr. Memminger deems necessary.

The speedy completion and departure of Mr. Sinclair’s work I regard of so
much importance that I must invoke your further aid, should he require
it, to enable him to raise funds for the purpose of which I have advised
him, and the repetition of which here I deem inexpedient.

The courier who brought your despatches found a means of communication
whose safety justifies their further use, and Mr. Benjamin will probably
advise you thereof. The completion of the contract of this gentleman
will place a peculiar class of ships, never before constructed, upon the
sea in our service; and I shall regret if the treasury department shall
fail to make such arrangement as will enable him to accomplish this
important enterprise.

I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,