maples are beginning to turn already, and the grass is luxuriant.

"'Richmond' [His horse] has not been accustomed to such fare or such
treatment. But he gets along tolerably, complains some, and has not
much superfluous flesh. There has been much sickness among the men--
measles, etc.--and the weather has been unfavourable. I hope their
attacks are nearly over, and that they will come out with the sun.
Our party has kept well.... Although we may be too weak to break
through the lines, I feel well satisfied that the enemy cannot at
present reach Richmond by either of these routes, leading to Staunton,
Milborough or Covington. He must find some other way.... God Bless
you, my children, and preserve you from all harm is the constant
prayer of

"Your devoted father,

"R. E. Lee."

On account of rheumatism, my mother was anxious to go to the Hot Springs
in Bath County. She was now staying at "Audley," Clarke County,
Virginia, with Mrs. Lorenzo Lewis, who had just sent her six sons into
the army. Bath County was not very far from the seat of war in western
Virginia, and my father was asked as to the safety of the Hot Springs
from occupation by the enemy. He writes as follows to my mother:

"Valley Mountain, September 1, 1861.

"I have received, dearest Mary, your letter of August 18th from Audley,
and am very glad to get news of your whereabouts.... I am very glad
you are enabled to see so many of your friends. I hope you have found