Group: sci.military.naval · Group Profile
Author: deemsbilldeemsbill Date: Feb 20, 2008 16:13
On Feb 20, 10:09 am, Jack Linthicum earthlink.net>
wrote:> On Feb 20, 10:03 am, "D. Spencer Hines" excelsior.com> wrote:
>>> "I am not a Virginian, but an American."
>
>> -- Patrick Henry (speech in the First Continental Congress,
>> 6 September 1774)
>
>> Reference: Patrick Henry: Life Correspondence and Speeches, Wirt,
>> ed., vol. 1 (220); original Life and Works of John Adams, vol. 2
>> (365)
>
> Arlington, Washington City, P.O
> 20 Apr 1861
>
> Lt. Genl Winfield Scott
> Commd U.S. Army
>
> Genl,
> Since my interview with you on the 18th Inst: I have felt that I ought
> not longer to retain any Commission in the Army. I therefore tender my
> resignation which I request you will recommend for acceptance. It
> would have been presented at once but for the struggle it has Cost me
> to separate myself from a Service to which I have divoted all the best
> years of my life, & all the ability I possessed. During the whole of
> that time, more than a quarter of a century, I have experienced
> nothing but kindness from my superiors & the most Cordial friendships
> from any Comrades. To no one Genl have I been as much indebted as to
> yourself for kindness & Consideration & it has always been my ardent
> desire to merit your approbation. I shall carry with me, to the grave
> the most grateful recollections
> of your kind Consideration, & your name & fame will always be dear to
> me. Save in the defense of my native state shall I ever again draw my
> sword. Be pleased to accept any more [illegible] wishes for "the
> Continuance of your happiness & prosperity & believe me
>
> Most truly yours
> R E Lee
Lots of fancy words for "I'm a traitor to the nation I swore to
serve."
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