… a distinct possibility
Beware the dilapidated bridge. Inflation was hitting lumber prices in the Richmond area, but bridge owners were better off paying for repairs to avoid more costly lawsuits in the future.
From the Richmond Daily Dispatch December 4, 1863:
Mayo’s bridge
is becoming “more holy” than agreeable to those who have to cross it night and day. The flooring in many places is badly worn, and if not promptly repaired serious accidents may occur. Lumber is awfully high now, but bridge owners must buy at any price, or run the risk of serious accidents and law suits for heavy damages.
Mayo’s across the James
