Hdqrs. Army of Northern Virginia, July 17, 1863
Hon. James A. Seddon, Secretary of War:
Sir: I regret to announce the death of General J. J. Pettigrew, commanding the North Carolina brigade of Heth's division, General A. P. Hill's corps.
He was wounded by a pistol-shot in the attack of the enemy's cavalry on our rear guard in crossing the Potomac on the morning of the 14th instant.
The army has lost a brave soldier and the Confederacy an accomplished officer. The senior colonel of the brigade, a good soldier, Col. C. Leventhorpe, was wounded at the battle of Gettysburg, and is absent. I do not know how long he will be detained from duty.
Col. T. C. Singeltary, the next officer in rank, is absent with his regiment at Hanover Junction. I have no other officer whom I can put in command of the brigade. I therefore wish very much to get his regiment with the brigade if he can possible be relieved. I request, if practicable, that some other troops be sent to guard that point, and this regiment be ordered to join me.
I am, with great respect, your obedient servant.
R E Lee
General
Source: The War of the Rebellion, Series 1, Volume 27, Part 3, p. 1016
Transcribed by Colin Woodward, 2017 July 17
