Richmond 3 Nov ’62
My Precious Child
Since we parted a great affliction has overwhelmed us. May God in his mercy turn it to our benefit & cause us to be prepared for the summons to his presence. Now that your dear sister has been taken from you, consider her character with affection. If you find in it any thing to condemn, avoid it. Thus her death may prove of as much advantage to you as her life. I can not tell you how much I lament her loss. How much I grieve over her early death. Yet I know it is well, & the heavy blow that has been dealt to us, was sent in mercy & kindness to her. I feel that she is now safe, & far removed from all harm & danger. But as those dear to me are diminished, I cling more anxiously to those who remain. To you my dear child my heart yearns with intense affection. I long to see you. Look closely to your conduct & course & may we yet meet in happiness. I pray constantly for you & think of you constantly. With great love & affection your devoted father
R E Lee
Source: Transcribed from photocopy of original letter, Lee Family Papers, Mss1 L51 c 399, Section 20, Virginia Historical Society, Richmond
Transcribed by Colin Woodward, 2016 October 27
