Autograph letter signed by John T. Doyle. 13 lines, in ink, on sheet of lined writing paper 25.5x20 cm (10x7¾"). Docketed in pencil at top of letter, apparently in Ralston's hand.
John Thomas Doyle, who for fifty years worked on the "Pious Fund" case as legal counselor for San Francisco Catholic Archbishops Joseph Alemany and Patrick Riordan, was also involved in transportation matters, and served as California State Commissioner of Transportation in 1877-78. Doyle writes to San Francisco banker and financier W.C. Ralston, "I presume you have noticed my project for a narrow gauge R. Road in San Mateo County. I don't want to take up your time with talking over it, but you have interests down there & doubtless have an opinion about it..." Attached to the letter is a contemporary newsclipping reporting on the "San Mateo Railroad Convention," with proposed articles of incorporation, a slate for directors (Doyle and Ralston among them), etc.
