Hanover Junction
23 May ’64
On my arrival here yesterday dear Mary I recd your note & Agnes’. Genl Grant having apparently become tired of forcing his passage through us, on the night of the 20th began to move around our right towards Bowling Green, placing the Mattapony River between us. Fearing he might unite with Sheridan & make a sudden & rapid move upon Richmond I determined to march to this point so as to be within striking distance of Richmond & be able to intercept him. He has however as far as I can judge not passed beyond Bowlingreen on the route East of Mattapony. The army is now south of the North Anna. We have the advantage of being nearer our supplies & less liable to have our Communication, trains, &c., cut by his Cavy & he is getting farther from his base. Still, I begrudge every step he makes towards Richmond. I hope you are all well & that my dear Daughter has recovered entirely. Tell Agnes all is done that Can be done in reference to the daughters of her correspondent.
Ask Custis to send me my cotton drawers & socks. My present ones are becoming too warm. Yesterday was hot. But this morning the wind is easterly & cool. With prayers for your health & happiness & much love to all, I am as ever fondly yours.
R E Lee
Source: Lee Family Papers, Mss1 L51c 520, Section 26, Virginia Historical Society, Richmond
Transcribed by Colin Woodward, 2017 February 24
