Soon after this letter was written my father was recalled to Richmond,
"and was assigned on the 13th of March, under the direction of the
President, to the conduct of the military operations of all the armies
of the Confederate States" ["Four Years with General Lee"]. My mother
was still at the White House, my brother's place on the Pamunkey,
and there my father wrote to her:

"Richmond, March 14, 1862.

"My Dear Mary: I have been trying all the week to write to you, but
have not been able. I have been placed on duty here to conduct
operations under the direction of the President. It will give me great
pleasure to do anything I can to relieve him and serve the country,
but I do not see either advantage or pleasure in my duties. But I
will not complain, but do my best. I do not see at present either
that it will enable me to see much more of you. In the present
condition of affairs no one can foresee what may happen, nor in my
judgement is it advisable for any one to make arrangements with a
view to permanency or pleasure. The presence of some one at the
White House is necessary as long as practicable. How long it will
be practicable for you an Charlotte to remain there I cannot say.
The enemy is pushing us back in all directions, and how far he will
be successful depends much upon our efforts and the mercy of Providence.
I shall, in all human probability, soon have to take the field, so
for the present I think things had better remain as they are. Write
me your views. If you think it best for you to come to Richmond I
can soon make arrangements for your comfort and shall be very glad
of your company and presence. We have experienced a great affliction
both in our private and public relations. Our good and noble Bishop
Meade died last night. He was very anxious to see you, sent you his