Robert E Lee, Letter to Winfield Scott, page 1, 1861

Robert E Lee, Letter to Winfield Scott, page 1, 1861 Arlington, Washington City P. O. 20 April 1861 Lt Genl Winfield Scott Commd the Army Genl Since my interview with you on the 18 Inst: I have felt that I ought not longer to retain my Commission in the Army. I therefore tender my resignation, which I request you will recommend for acceptance. It would have been presented at once, but for the struggle it has cost me to separate myself from a Service to which I have devoted all the best years of my life, & all the ability I possessed. During the whole of that time, more than 30 years, I have experienced nothing but kindness from my Superiors, & the most Cordial friendship from my Companions. To no one Genl have I been as much indebted as to yourself for uniform kindness & Consideration, & it has always been my ardent desire to merit your approbation. I shall Carry with me to the grave the most grateful recollections of your kind Consideration, & your name & fame will always be dear to me. Save in Writer Robert E Lee Date written 1861 Paper x in x x in Pen Penmanship Style Collection Courtesy of the Rosenbach of the Free Library of Philadelphia Robert E. Lee (1807-1870), Robert E. Lee, autograph letter signed to Winfield Scott. Arlington, Va., 20 April 1861. AMs 359/23[1] File name Lee Robert E 1807-001-001-001