Lexington Va 25 May ‘66
My dear Genl
I was very glad to receive your letter of the 18th but you told me so little of yourself that I presume you intend writing to me again shortly. But what you did say was very satisfactory, & I am much pleased to know that your prospects in a commercial point of view are good & progressive. I hope they may regularly & surely advance. I feel much obliged by your kind proposition as regards myself. For the present I must remain where I am. When I see that I have done all the good that I can accomplish for Washington College. I may find it necessary to do something that will enable me to preserve a competence for my family. I will then turn my hand to whatever may offer. For myself I want nothing but my food & clothes. I send in compliance with your request a number of autographs, enough I should think to last for all time, but if they will be of any service to you, I will send more. Mr Lowe has not yet reached Lexington. It will give me pleasure to see him when he does, as he comes from you.
As you did not mention your arm, I hope that is improving too. You must never omit to mention it. Mrs. Longstreet & your children, when you write, & see Garland, very often in my walks, but very rarely at my house.
I fear my daughters are not attractive enough for him. All unite in kindest regards to yourself & family
Most truly yours
R E Lee
Source: Photocopy of original letter, call number 23312, Library of Virginia, Richmond
Transcribed by Colin Woodward, 2017 October 10
