Richmond 14 May ’62
I have recd. my precious Annie your affectionate note. I sent you a message with the other girls in my note to your mother. You must not think I am robbing yourself or your mama. I hope she will have enough for her purposes if any thing can be saved. Not independent of the consideration, in these perilous times it is well that all should have a little. Some may be saved & they can help the others. It is useless to return the papers. The transfers are all made & the certificates merely shew the amount standing in your name. Keep them therefore & take care of them. Draw the interests in July & Jany & use the money as may be required. The stock in the Valley of Virga. Winchester is not yet transferred & you will not therefore find the certificate of that in your package. But the authority to do so has been given. Mr. Macfarland has the power of attorney & will send it to Mr Brent1 Cashr. of the Bank in Winchester as soon as opportunity offers. Now Goodbye & may God in his infinite mercy guard & protect you always. Give much love & many Kisses to Agnes & Mildred.
Your affectionate father
R E Lee
Miss Annie Lee
Source: Transcribed from photocopy of the original letter, Lee Family Papers, Mss1 L51 c 353, Section 18, Virginia Historical Society, Richmond
Transcribed by Colin Woodward, 2017 March 7
1. Henry Moore Brent (1797-1875) was born in Winchester. His parents were Colonel Innes Brent and Rachel Moore. He married Harriet E. Baker, ca. 1825. He died 1875 October 17 in Winchester.
