Fredg 21 Nov ‘62
My dear Genl
I have just recd your note in reference to Capt Mason & Lt Col Harvey. Although sorry to part with them. I will yield them to you if you desire. I have so informed Capt Mason, who will probably have tomorrow. Col Harvey is absent, not having arrived from Culpepper. Upon joining me I will make to him your proposition & see how I can replace him. Although sorrow[ed] your scene of duty is so distant, I yet rejoice for the Country that you are again able to take the field & anticipate from your services the most favourable results. May success & happiness attend you is my earnest prayer. I write with difficulty must now stop.
With best regards to Mrs. Johnston
I am as ever your friend
R E Lee
Genl Jos: E. Johnston
Source: Scan of original letter, Joseph E. Johnston Papers, 1825-1891, Swem Library Special Collections, College of William and Mary, Williamsburg
Transcribed by Colin Woodward, 2018 March 30
