                           Lee's Farewell To His Army
                                     1865

             "Head-Quarters, Army of Northern Virginia,

                                        April 10, 1865.

  "After four years of arduous service, marked by unsurpassed
courage and fortitude, the Army of Northern Virginia has been
compelled to yield overwhelming numbers and resources. I need not tell
the survivors of so many hard-fought battles, who have remained
steadfast to the last, that I have consented to this result from no
distrust of them: but, feeling that valour and devotion could
accomplish nothing that could compensate for the loss that would
have attended the continuation of the contest, I have determined to
avoid the useless sacrifice of those whose past services have endeared
them to their countrymen. By the terms of the agreement, officers
and men can return to their homes and remain there until exchanged.
You will take with you the satisfaction that proceeds from the
consciousness of duty faithfully performed; and I earnestly pray
that a merciful God will extend to you His blessing and protection.
With an increasing admiration of your constancy and devotion to your
country, and a grateful remembrance of your kind and generous
consideration of myself, I bid you an affectionate farewell.

                                  "R. E. LEE, General."
