Union Pacific Railroad was not of "first-class construction"

From: "Josh Dulberg" joshdul24@yahoo.com

I have a few questions regarding the construction of the Union Pacific Railroad.

I recall reading – in a letter from the Commissioner of the Railway Commission to President Lincoln [sic], that after inspection, the railway was not of "first-class construction." I also believe that he said that it would cost another 11,000,000 dollars to make the railway of "first-class" construction. Did the government give the $11 million he estimated, or did they give something else? Or, was the railroad left how it was, or was more construction done on it?

—Josh Dulberg