Lee, Robert E. (1807-1870) to John Letcher re: urging concilatory attitude towards Yankees
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC06776 Author/Creator: Lee, Robert E. (1807-1870) Place Written: Near Centreville, [Virginia] Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 28 August 1865 Pagination: 2 p. ; 25.4 x 20.3 cm Order a Copy
Concening President's Johnson's Reconstruction Policy. Lee asks "to calm feelings which have too long existed... the interest of the state are... the same as those of the U. States"
near Cartersville Cumbd Co: 28 Aug '65
My dear Sir
I was much pleased to hear of your return to your home, & to learn by your letter of the 2nd, of the kindness & consideration with which you were treated during your arrest; & of the Sympathy extended to you by your former Congressional associates & friends, in Washington. The Conciliatory manner in which President Johnson spoke of the South, must have been particularly agreable [sic] to one, who has the interests of its people so much at heart as yourself. I wish that spirit could become more general. It would go far to promote confidence, & [inserted: to] calm feelings which have [inserted: too] long existed. The questions which for years were in dispute between the State & Genl Governments, & which unhappily were not decided by the dictates of reason, but referred to the decision of war, having been decided against us; it is the part of wisdom to acquiesce in the result, & of candour to recognize the fact. The interests of the State are therefore the same as those of the U. States. Its prosperity will rise or fall with the welfare of the Country. The duty of [2] its citizens then, appear to me too plain to admit of doubt. All should write in honest efforts to obliterate the grievous effects of war, & to restore the blessings of peace. They should remain if possible in the Country; promote harmony & good feeling; qualify themselves to vote; & elect to the State & Genl Legislatures, wise & patriotic men, who will devote their abilities to the interests of the Country & the healing of all dissensions. I have invariably recommended this course, since the cessation of hostilities, & have endeavoured to practice it myself.
I am very much obliged to you for the interest you have expressed, in my acceptance of the Presidency of Washington College. If I believed I could be of advantage to the youth of the Country, I should not hesitate. I have stated to the committee of Trustees, the objections which exist in my opinion to my filling the position, & will yield to their judgement.
Please present me in the kindest manner to Mrs Letcher & your children , & believe me
most truly yours R E Lee
Honble John Letcher
Lexington VA
[docket]
R. E. Lee Sept 5/65;
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