Lee, Robert E. (1807-1870) to Samuel G. French re: coordinating Va. Govt. and militia with C.S.A. Govt.
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC03491 Author/Creator: Lee, Robert E. (1807-1870) Place Written: Meadow Bluff Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 27 October 1861 Pagination: 1 p. 24 x 18 cm Order a Copy
Meadow Bluff
27 Oct 1861
My dear Col
I recd your letter of the 24th last night in reference to the proper medium of Communication between the Govr & Vols: of the State. I Considered that the ordinance of the Convention placed that duty on me & that the business would be Conducted through my office. It is true that Col Deas is a Confederate officer as well as myself, & our duties are therefore double. As long as I am Considered in Command of the Va. Vols: it is my duty to attend to all their intercourse with the Govr & it was So Conducted when I was in Richmond.
The transfer of the State of its military to the CS transferred me too I suppose, but still did not prevent my attending to the organization of the Vols for the Govr to offer to the CS Govt.
I expect to be in Richmond Soon where this matter Can be placed in its proper footing & the lines of duty better defined.
Very truly yours
R. E. Lee
Col: S. Bassett French
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