Charleston 15 Nov 1861
My precious daughter
I have recd your letter forwarded to Richmond by Mr Powell & I also got while in the West the letter sent by Bev Turner. I Can write but seldom but your letters always give me great pleasure. I am glad you had such a pleasant visit at Kinlock. I have passed a great many pleasant days there myself in my young days. Now you must labour at your looks & gain Knowledge & wisdom. Do not mind what Rob says. I have a beautiful white beard. It is much admired at least much remarked on. You Know I have told you not to believe what the young men tell you. I was unable to See your poor mother when in Richmond. Before I could get down I was sent off here. Another forlorn hope expedition. Worse than Western Virginia. Fitzhugh has Come in from the West on a little visit & is with Charlotte. She & your Mother were at Shirley, & she wrote me of the death of Annie Leighs little baby, which had just received them. Happy little creature to be spared the evil of this world. Charlottes baby was improving & they were all going to the White House.
I have much to do in this Country. I have been to Savannah & have to go again. The enemy is quiet after his Conquest of Port Royal Harbour & his whole fleet is lying there.
May God guard & protect you my dear Child prays your
affectionate father
R E Lee
Source: Transcribed from photocopy of original letter, Lee Family Papers, Mss1 L51 c 323, Section 16, Virginia Historical Society, Richmond
Transcribed by Colin Woodward, 2016 August 22
