Alexandria 8 Jay 1814
Your package in the post office which was left for me I received after my return from Fauquier. At my time of life it is dangerous to take so long a journey at this inclement Season of the year, and more specially in the present inescapable state of the roads. In the ditches of our turnpike road to Washington which is too narrow in the gravelled part, they being covered by snow, I must have lost my life by the fall of my horse who was not in fault when he fell into the pit covered with snow. Having full presence of mind I escaped unhurt.
However I have written to Mr. Hopkins to tell me whether the causes of the Virginia company are ready, and if they are to fix a day this month when I shall attend if possible.
My object is to serve my relatives & friends in this affair & I once thought I had a clear view of the subject. The fate of the controversy I think very critical.
As to Report of advertising & felling under the power of attorney, that I cannot undertake to meddle with. In my own simple affairs I do not find either leisure or capacity to manage my affairs in that way.
Charles Lee
Source: The Archives of the Robert E. Lee Memorial Foundation, Papers of the Lee Family, Box 2, M2009.122, Jessie Ball duPont Library, Stratford Hall
Transcribed by Colin Woodward, 2016 May 12
