"=> Whether we shall need a _mining_ head, independently of these gentlemen, is a question upon which, after you have studied them, and the working of the business, I should like your opinion. It may be that a general business head will be all that will be required, and that Mr. Ray and Mr. Foote will get along well in their respective departments. Or it may be that some man like Mr. Merry or Mr. Ferguson will be required. "Between us, Mr. Merry told me, just before I left, that he wished me to bear in mind that he expected to be with us next year. Mr. Stewart, of the Jackson Co., rather complained to Col. Foster that Mr. Ogden had interfered with them in respect to Merry. "I mention the state of things that you may be advised of the actual state of the case, and may be considering what information and advice you can give me. "As to Mr. Curtis--he was engaged by Col. Foster as a sort of cashier when the former was about leaving without our having much knowledge or experience in respect to him. I have been to see Mr. Booth, who recommended him, and get the best accounts as to his trustworthiness. "Whether we can hereafter enlarge his functions will depend upon how his capacities shall develop in the experience of our business. "In the mean time he should be required to _organize_ our _accounts_, take an inventory of all materials and supplies sent up for the use of the company, keep a record of their use, and be able to account for them; open an account with each mine, and enable us to know that all the expenditures of each are proper, keeping a sort of financial supervision over their operations; corresponding with us, and keeping us advised of everything which is going on. "Col. Foster informs me that he instructed Ray and Foote to send here a report each week of their doings. "=> Consult with Mr. Wetmore and give me your views as to "(1) What is necessary for the sale of ore and the management of transportation at Cleveland or elsewhere; study the organization of the other companies; see whether it is best, etc. "(2) What will be necessary at Escanaba. "(3) Whether anything further will be necessary at the mines. "5. It will be quite necessary for us to have the branch to the Cliff mines and the extension to the Cleveland done, and all the road in good running order. "6. It is very desirable that we have this winter the benefit of a telegraphic communication with the Cliff mines. "It is equally necessary for the Peninsular railroad. And for that--but _especially for the Northwestern_--a winter road from Escanaba to Green Bay is important. "7. For the Iron Cliff mines see that all necessary supplies are provided; see Ray and Foote on this subject, and have them closely interrogated that nothing may be overlooked; Mr. Merry would aid with all his experience in making provisions for winter work, and Mr. Wetmore will also have much information on this subject.