I was talking with Mr. Mann Saturday. He thinks that he can make arrangements to begin work on the Hickory Nut Gap road at once. I wish that you would write to him to do the best he can consistently with other interests of the state.

After you left, I tried to get in communication with Mr. Lambeth, but could not. I then tried to get in communication with George Hackney, with the intention of appointing him State's Proxy. He too was out of town, and I could not reach him. You understand that it was absolutely necessary for me to have the State's Proxy at the meeting.

Something else will arise by which I will be enabled to recognize Thomasville. I agree with all you say about their democracy, and about my obligations to the people there.