Savannah 18 Nov 1861
My dear Mary
This is the first moment I have had to write to you & now am waiting the call to breakfast, on my way to Brunswick, Fernandina &c. This is my second visit to Savannah night before last I returned to Coosawhatchie S.C. from Charleston, where I have placed my Hdqrs: & last night came here, arriving after midnight. I recd. in Charleston your letter from Shirley. It was a grievous disappointment to me not to have seen you but better times will come I hope. I am very glad Fitzhugh has got in to see his little wife & son & hope the latter will soon be well now since he has seen his Pa’a. Poor little Annie I am sorry for her, but the child is happy.
You probably have seen the operations of the enemys fleet. Since this first attack they have been quiescent apparently, confining themselves to: Hilton Head, where they are apparently fortifying.
I have no time more. Love to all,
Yours very affy & truly
R E Lee
Source: Transcribed from photocopy of original letter, Lee Family Papers, Mss1 L51 c 324, Section 16, Virginia Historical Society, Richmond
Transcribed by Colin Woodward, 2016 August 22
