Letter from Grenville Dodge to Samuel B. Reed, December 27, 1867

In this letter from December 27, 1867, Grenville Dodge writes to Samuel Reed, affirming his support for Reed's work. Dodge states that Reed has been blamed for the construction problems in 1867 "when you ought not to be." He also advises Reed to "steer clear of New York complications" during construction in the upcoming season.

New York
Dec. 27^th, 1867

S. B. Reed:

Dear Sir:

You are, no doubt, aware that there has been some dissatisfaction among some of the Board about the past years management of construction. You, of course, have been blamed when you ought not to be. I have been called before the managers several times about the matter and in our past meetings there has been quiet discussion of it. Mr. Ames, Mr. Dillon and I have now convinced a large majority of all of them on my statement of the case, an open, bold defense of you, have show it in this case. When I get time I will write you more fully what I think the plans you should pursue next year and what I advise the Board to do. They want to build four hundred miles of road and you must do more head work and put the details on assistants. Keep as harmonious as possible with the Running Department and send your communications and telegrams to address, Crane, and steer clear of New York complications which we have no direct interest in.

Yours Truly,