Parker Cambell to Braxton Bragg, April 21, 1864

General BRAXTON BRAGG, Richmond, Va.:

GENERAL: It has been ordered that the supplies of Georgia be forwarded to the Army of Virginia and that the Army of Tennesse® be sustained from Alabama. The corn crop of the eastern section of this State was limited and will not afford a supply; hence the necessity of depending upon the middle and western portions. The only outlet for the removal of stores from Central Alabama is the Montgomery and West Point Railroad, which has not capacity for the requirements of the Government. Its gauge is narrower than that of the other roads, and it is now deemed impracticable to increase its rolling-stock.

I would respectfully call your attention to the completion of the railroad from Talladega, Ala., to Rome, Ga., a distance of fifty-three miles, the track for which, I am informed, is graded through. This would complete the line to the Alabama and Tombigbee Rivers, and the rich land of all that portion of the State. The great pressure upon this, the only available, line would be relieved, and the most productive section now within our reach brought in easy communication.

I have understood the value of this improvement has been before represented, and pressing necessity alone induces me to ask that consideration which the importance of supply demands.

Your obedient servant,