U.S. Military Academy West Point 12 Oct. 1853
Genl.
In compliance with your letter of the 3rd Inst: I have the honour to hand herewith an Estimate prepared by Capt: Cullum, of the entire cost of fitting out for the field, a pontoon train for a span of 300 yards in addition to what can be contributed from the stock on hand.
The letter of Capt. Cullum accompg the Estimate, will explain the several parts; & as it was directed to embrace the Engineer train proper, it was supposed that the means of transportation in the field was to be included. This with the necessity of new pontoons makes the chief expense.
I am Very respectfully your obt Serv
Sigd./ R. E. Lee. Br. Col:
Supt: Mil: Acady
Superintendent's Daily Correspondence United States Military Academy
Superintendent's Letter Book No. 3, p. 60. Addressed “Genl: Jos: G. Totten Chief Engineer Washington City D.C.”