Richmond 17 March ‘63
10 ½ P.M.
Genl
Jackson & Stuart report enemy crossing Rappk. I wish you to march with your division back to Fred—Start as soon as you can, taking care to bring your cooking utensils, provisions & making arrangements for forage. Report your departure to Gen Longstreet. Direct to me at Fred—reporting progress &c.
Very respt your obt servt
RE Lee
Source: The Lost Papers of Confederate General John Bell Hood, edited by Stephen M. Hood, pp. 186-187
Transcribed by Colin Woodward, 2018 November 30