August 14, 1862
My Dear Custis
I write a line to say good-bye to you & Mary. I had hoped to have been able to have come in & see you both to night, but I find it impossible to enjoy that pleasure. I have had much to do which with preparation for my departure renders it impossible.
Good bye my dear children. May God bless & guard you both. Tell your mother when she arrives that I was unable to stop to see her. I go to Gordonsville. My after movements depends on circumstances that I cannot foresee.
Truly & affy your father
R E Lee
P.S. I send in my straw hat which please give house room to. Also a summer under-jacket which I find out of my trunk. If you have the key put it in, or ask your mother to mend it & keep it for me.
R E L
Transcribed by Colin Woodward, 2017 April 3