ALS signed 'R. E. Lee,' four pages on two adjoining sheets, 5 x 7.5, August 16, 1846. Letter to Matilda Mason, written three days before he was sent to San Antonio under General John Wool. In full, 'I have been hoping for so long my beautiful Matie, to hear from you when you were coming on to see us and have been so long disappointed, that I am wearied and sick with expectation. At first it was Sister Campbell that detained you at home. Then it was Sister Rhett, but what is it now? The Summer is fast passing away, Cousin George is married, the Alexdrians are flocking to the North and you will not come to us. Do come, but not for a few days as you did before, but for the whole Summer. The horses are longing for your arrival, and the green fields and bright waters only want your presence to make them beautiful. Even the little Lees are pining for you, and their venerable Papa would be quite rejuvenated were you here. Tell your Mother we should be very happy if she would come on with you, and would do all in our power to make her time agreeable [sic]. I had hoped when in Phila. to have heard of your plans for the Summer. But I could not get out to Devon, Mr. Campbell was away, Mrs. King in Md. and even the Dr. was out of the City. So I came back as wise as I went. I have been much quired [?] too hear that you were not as well this Summer as usual. Don't you think that the air of the Narrows would be beneficial? We are now all alone. Mr. and Mrs. Custis will not get to the North this Summer and Mrs. Lee Says I must tell you with her love that we are terribly lonesome and that you must come on. Even little Sally is growing thin and I do not think her tongue is quite as nimble as usual. I have been obliged to make several short journies [sic], which with any other duties have kept me so occupied, that although I have been constantly meditating a letter to you, this is the first time I have been able to carry it into effect. In a few hours I shall set off for New London, and this must be my apology for this short sheet. I shall reserve everything till you come on. I have heard that the Hugers have come North, but have not been able to find then. You have herd of Miss Hanuits engagement probably that poor Frank was again very sick. Miss H is to be married in the Fall, and I suppose is making her preparation in seclusion. Now that Miss Hollie and Cousin George have left you, you have none to Sympathize with you but me. So do come and let me know when to expect you. They are all well at the Stantons, and Stephen have grown up a fine beaux for you. Here is the Dr. too, and Major Smith has recovered on purpose to greet you.' In fine condition, with light show through from text on reverse, expected folds and a small hole to second page at fold intersection. COA John Reznikoff/University Archives and RRAuction COA.
