Wms Port [Maryland]1 7 July 1863
I have heard with great grief My dear Mary that F___ has been captured by the enemy. I had not expected that he would have been taken from his bed & Carried off. But we must bear this additional affliction with fortitude & resignation & not repine at the will of God. It will eventuate in Some good that we Know not of now. I am particularly grieved on your account & Charlottes. Tell the latter it will all Come to good in the end. I fear I will not be able to write to her. But say for me all I feel & would say if opportunity offered. Tell dear Cousin Anne I am grateful for her sympathy. But I must bear this as I have to bear other things. I have sent a check for $1000. to Mr C__ for you. Thank Agnes for her affectionate letter & say I will write when I can. Kiss my Precious life for me. We are all well & bear our labours & hardships manfully. Our noble men are cheerful & confident. May God in his mercy bless our efforts to save our country! I Constantly remember you in my thoughts & in my prayers. May God bless you all is my constant prayer
With true affection
R E Lee
1. Lee’s army was unable to cross the Potomac at Williamsport for several days because of recent rains that caused high water.
Source: Transcribed from photocopy of original letter, Lee Family Papers, Mss1 L51 c 462, Section 23, Virginia Museum of History and Culture
Transcribed by Colin Woodward 2022 February 21
