Rebellion Record: a Diary of American Events: Poetry and Incidents., Volume 4.
Frank Moore, Ed.

Sir: The Commandant has received the proposition from the blacksmiths, finishers, and strikers of this yard, “offering gratuitously to work until eight o'clock every night on the Merrimac, in order to expedite her completion.” He embraces an early occasion to express his high appreciation of the loyalty which influenced them in making this tender of their services, affording evidence, if any were wanting, of their patriotism and zeal in the discharge of their duties. If it should be found necessary to require their services as expressed, they will be duly notified by the executive officer of the yard. Respectfully, your obedient servant,