Lee, Robert E., Confederate General

Autograph letter signed ("R E Lee Genl"), 1 1/8 pages (9 7/8 x 7 3/4 in.; 252 x 200 mm) on a leaf of blue-line paper, "Head Quarters Army No. Va. Camp near Fredericksburg," 29 December 1862, to Colonel H[enry]. B[revard]. Davidson, docketed on verso; browned, mounting stub from album on right margin verso.

From an archive of correspondence related to CSA Brig. Gen. Henry B. Davidson.

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General Lee directs Colonel Henry Brevard Davidson, commanding the Confederate garrison at Staunton, Virginia, at the beginning of the Valley Campaign: "Directions will be given for the baggage of the different Brigades of this Army & the men now guarding it, to be recalled from Staunton, as soon as possible. I will also direct that Jenkin's Cav. Brigade be ordered to the Valley, if they can be spared from the Dept. of West Va."

Lee also reveals his plans for General William E. Jones, then commanding all Confederate cavalry in the Valley District. "I have directed Gen'l W. E. Jones to concentrate the troops in the Valley Distr. and to drive the Enemy if possible beyond the Potomac. I am glad to find that you consider our forces sufficient for the purpose. I hope the troops under Gen Jones, those under you & Col. [John D.] Imboden, with such other aid as can be be obtained, will be able speedily to rid that section of Country of the presence of the Enemy & prevent the oppression of the inhabitants which they seem to premeditate. I rely greatly upon the cooperation of yourself & Col. Imboden."