Stratford May 3d 13
dear sir
I am just about to sail for the W Indies by permission, on the hope of effecting the restoration of my much injured health by the mob of Baltimore. It is probable that I may return by the way of Savannah & Chstown to see some of the few surviving of my military comrades, among whom you know how much I estimate you. My brother Theodorick will travel thither to meet me or if I am long detained, to come to me. I recommend him to yr kind & marked friendship & flatter myself he will experience the fruits of that affection which distinguished my conduct to you in early life, & which has been ever demonstrated by yr regard to me. I hope you & yr family enjoy good health, the continuance of which with an abundance of the goods of this world, I certainly wish you & they may long enjoy.
Yrs truly
H Lee
Source: The Archives of the Robert E. Lee Memorial Foundation, Papers of the Lee Family, Box 2, M2009.121, Jessie Ball duPont Library, Stratford Hall
Transcribed by Colin Woodward, 2016 May 5
