somewhere, if only for a little time. I have written to Robert telling
him if, after considering what I have previously said to him on the
subject of his joining the company he desires under Major Ross, he
still thinks it best for him to do so, I will not withhold my consent.
It seems he will be eighteen; I thought seventeen. I am unable to
judge for him and he must decide for himself. In reply to a recent
letter from him to me on the same subject, I said to him all I could.
I pray God to bring him to the right conclusion.... For military news,
I must refer you to the papers. You will see there more than ever
occurs, and what does occur the relation must be taken with some
allowance. Do not believe anything you see about me. There has been
no battle, only skirmishing with the outposts, and nothing done of
any moment. The weather is still unfavourable to us. The roads, or
rather tracks of mud, are almost impassable and the number of sick
large....

"Truly and devotedly yours,

"R. E. Lee."

My mother was at the Hot Springs--I had taken her there and was with
her. I don't now remember why, but it was decided that I should return
to the University of Virginia, which opened October 1st, and continue
my course there. While at the Springs my mother received this letter
from my father:

"Valley Mount, September 17, 1861.

"I received, dear Mary, your letter of the 5th by Beverly Turner [A
son of Mr. Edward Turner, of 'Kinloch'], who is a nice young soldier.