"Trusting to Almighty God, an approving conscience, and the aid of my
fellow citizens, I will devote myself to the defense and service of
my native State, in whose behalf alone would I have ever drawn my
sword."

On April 26th, from Richmond, he wrote to his wife:

"...I am very anxious about you. You have to move and make arrangements
to go to some point of safety, which you must select. The Mount Vernon
plate and pictures ought to be secured. Keep quiet while you remain
and in your preparation. War is inevitable, and there is no telling
when it will burst around you. Virginia, yesterday, I understand,
joined the Confederate States. What policy they may adopt I cannot
conjecture. May God bless and preserve you, and have mercy upon all
our people, is the constant prayer of your affectionate husband,

"R. E. Lee."

On April 30th:

"On going to my room last night I found my trunk and sword there, and
opening them this morning discovered the package of letters and was
very glad to learn you were all well and as yet peaceful. I fear
the latter state will not continue long.... I think therefore you
had better prepare all things for removal, that is, the plate,
pictures, etc., and be prepared at any moment. Where to go is the
difficulty. When the war commences no place will be exempt, in my
opinion, and indeed all the avenues into the State will be the scenes
of military operations.