Lot 329
Lee, Mary Custis (1808-1873) Wife of Confederate General Robert E. Lee; great granddaughter of Martha Washington, from Mrs. Washington's first marriage to Daniel Custis. Autograph letter signed ("M C Lee"), 2 1/3 pages, 8 x 5 in., Denver (West Va.), Aug. 29 (1867). To an unnamed correspondent: "…Mrs. Preston a refugee from Savannah who is entirely destitute the Yankees having destroyed the little property she had. She is anxious to do anything which will enable her to support herself & children. It occurred to me that as you were just setting up your school that you might be in need of a matron or housekeeper who might while she faithfully discharged those duties exercise the influence a refined lady always can have over boys….She would rather prefer to teach young children…but is willing to do anything which will give her some income….She is very pleasing and gentle in her manners and a perfect lady….The Genl & my family write with me in kind regards to you & yours." Docket on verso reads "Mrs. R E Lee." Splitting to vertical seam of bifolium; uneven browning. An interesting letter with war-related content.
Estimated Value $350 - 450.
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| Realized $225 |
