Petersburg 11 Mar 65
My dear Daughter
I found among some papers that were being removed the accompg ode. I do not know the author unless it may be he who presented it. It reached me I recollect at a very busy time at the opening of the past Campaign & had almost passed from my memory when it Caught my eye among some letters that were being destroyed. I thought it might Cure you of all your ailments & so inspire you as to write me a poetic response, for I do not remember ever having acknowledged its reception & fear I have not. I hope you are well.
I[n] great affection & much haste
Your affectionate father
R E Lee
Source: Transcribed from original letter, Mary Custis Lee Papers, Mss1 L 5144 a, Section 14, Virginia Historical Society, Richmond
Transcribed by Colin Woodward, 2019 January 31
