Lee, Robert E. (1807-1870) to Mary F. Jarvis
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC07005 Author/Creator: Lee, Robert E. (1807-1870) Place Written: Lexington, Virginia Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 30 December 1865 Pagination: 2 p. ; 20.2 x 12.5 cm Order a Copy
Lee, then president of Washington College, responds to an enquiry about whether or not a young man of Pennsylvania would be welcomed at the Virginia school. Although it was less than a year from the end of the Civil War and tensions were still runing high, Lee assures Jarvis that there would be no objection to the admission of a Northern student, as long as he met the requirements. He remarks that "from the young & thoughtless, he may occassionally hear some unpleasnat remark...The majority of the students are too high minded & generous to knowingly wound his feelings."
Lexington Va: 30 Decr 65
Miss Mary F. Jarvis
I have just recd. your letter of the 25th Inst: & enclose a Circular of Washington College, which I hope will furnish you with the information you desire, in reference to the qualifications for admission.
I know of no objection to the admission of any young gentleman into the College, from Penna. or any where else, who will Conform to the rules and regulations: and it will depend entirely upon himself I think, whether his position will be agre[e]able or not. It is possible that from the young & thoughtless he may occasionally hear some unpleasant remarks. But this [2] he must not mind.
The majority of the Students I am Convinced, are too high minded & generous to knowingly wound his feelings, & will welcome him to their Classes.
Students are admirable at any time during the Session, provided they can keep pace with the Classes into which they enter. Those admitted after the 1st. Feby. (The Commencement of the 2nd. half Session) pay for tuition & all other fees $50. -
Very respy your Obt Servt
R E Lee
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