3

you contemplate, will enable me
to advance to the point of
writing the specification before
I visit the spot -- by that time
the Major will have returned --
but as this subject opens upon
me, with all its massive and
elaborate details, and the necessity
too, of combining amplitude and
strength with rigid economy, I
am appalled to think of the
short time allowed me to prepare
Plans and Specifications of such
magnitude and importance, when
so much of my time is absorbed
by the exactions of a Government
Office; still I shall strain every
nerve, and hope the result will
fully meet your views --

Truly & respectfully Yours

T. K. Wharton