Letter from Oliver Ames to Thomas C. Durant, August 7, 1868

In this letter from August 7, 1868, Oliver Ames writes to Thomas C. Durant regarding the changes Durant proposed in the grading of the railroad. He states that I. L. Williams, the "Special Messenger of the Secretary of the Interior," has argued strongly against the change of grade and that "his opinions would be almost Law to the Department." Ames tells Durant "before making any change let us have the best Evidence that a change is required for the best interests of the Company."

N. Easton

August 7^th/68

Dr. T. C. Durant

Dear Sir,

I recieved a long Telegram from I. L. Williams to-day, which remonstrates very strongly against any change of grade increasing it over 90 feet. The line, he says, is not expensive and can be built so as not to delay the road. From the evident feeling, he manifests in this matter, which is based, he affirms, from a personal examination of the ground, I think it would be well to reason the matter over with him before any change is made. Williams has, as the Special Messenger of the Sec^y of Interior, at this time, great influence with the Department and on a question of Location having the Sanction of Dodge, Williams & Blickensdorfer, all persons of great influence with Gov^t, his opinions would be almost Law to the Department. Before making any change let us have the best Evidence that a change is required for the best interests of the Co.

Yours Truly,
Oliver Ames Prest