Lee, Charles (1731-1782) to Sydney Lee
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC00251 Author/Creator: Lee, Charles (1731-1782) Place Written: Palo Alto, Virginia Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 20 September 1779 Pagination: 2 p. ; 32.5 x 20 cm. Order a Copy
Marked No. 31 in a different hand. Written by the discredited Continental General in retirement on his farm in Virginia to "my dear Sister." Recipient inferred as Sydney Lee, his only sister. Mentions his experiences during the Revolution and defends his honor. Says "I feel for the horrid ravages & desolation I have been witness of, on this Continent" and expressing Tory sympathies claims "I feel for the Empire of G. Britain, for its glory[,] We[l]fare & existence; I feel for the fortunes of my Friends and relations." Claims he cannot talk about politics because the letter will be opened before it arrives to her, but says he can comment on his letters that are already public. Says he wrote to Burgoyne and warned him of his imminent defeat. Claims that General Gage will have to answer to the British people for his actions in the war. Says he will have to "answer for, the subversion of the Whole British Empire." Mentions his conduct at the Battle of Monmouth.
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