you of my absence, in case you should not receive answers to any
letters that may arrive. I have not heard from you since I last
wrote; nor have I anything to relate. I heard from my dear little
Rob, who had an attack of chills and fever. He hoped to escape the
next paroxysm.... I witnessed the opening of the convention [The
Episcopal Convention of the Diocese of Virginia] yesterday, and
heard the good Bishop's [Bishop Meade, of Virginia] sermon, being
the 50th anniversary of his ministry. It was a most impressive scene,
and more than once I felt the tears coming down my cheek. It was
from the text, 'and Pharoh said unto Jacob, how old art thou?' It
was full of humility and self-reproach. I saw Mr. Walker, Bishop
Johns, Bishop Atkinson, etc. I have not been able to attend any
other services, and presume the session will not be prolonged. I
suppose it may be considered a small attendance. Should Custis
arrive during my absence, I will leave word for him to take my room
at the Spotswood till my return. Smith [His brother, S. S. Lee,
C. S. N.] is well and enjoys a ride in the afternoon with Mrs.
Stannard. The charming women, you know, always find him out. Give
much love to Cousin Anna, Nannie, and dear daughters. When Rob leaves
the University take him with you.

"Truly and affectionately, R. E. Lee."

By this time my mother and all the family had left Arlington. My
brother, Custis, had joined my father in Richmond, the girls had
gone to Fauquier county, to visit relatives, and my mother to
Ravensworth, about ten miles from Arlington towards Fairfax Court
House, where her aunt, Mrs. A. M. Fitzhugh, lived. Always considerate
of the happiness and comfort of others, my father feared that his
wife's presence at Ravensworth might possibly bring annoyance to