Head Qr 1st Brigade &c
July 15th 1862
Genl R. E. Lee
Comdg Dep &c
General
The reply to your note concerning Lieut Websters horse has been almost unavoidably delayed from my inability to obtain the information you desire. I have not yet been able to hear anything of the horse, but shall not cease to make inquiry concerning him.
Lieut Webster having been sent by me with a message to Genl Garland the moment before our brigades charged, did not enter the charge with me, nor did I see him any more. I was assured upon causing inquiry to be made about him after the battle was over, that he had been on route for Richmond. I heard nothing to the contrary the next morning about 10, when his body was pointed out to Capt Baldwin by Lieut Early of Genl Garlands staff
I at the same time learned from Lt Early that Lieut W. had joined in the charge with Genl Gs brigade was killed by a shell whilst on horseback that the horse was not killed, his ran off.
I would respectfully suggest that the surest plan to obtain the horse is to advertise him. I shall cause a lookout to be kept up in this Div: for him
If he is to be found at all, he will be found in the hands of some person either of this Div: or in Maj Genl Ewells
I beg to leave to hear testimony here to Lieut Websters great gallantry and intelligence. His service this day was to me and my command almost invaluable
I am General with great respect
Yr obt servant
R. E. Rodes
Source: Photocopy of original letter, Lee Family Papers, Mss1 L51 c 367, Virginia Historical Society, Richmond
Transcribed by Colin Woodward, 2018 April 17
