Lee, Robert E., 1807-1870 to Matilda Mason
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC08894 Author/Creator: Lee, Robert E., 1807-1870 Place Written: Mexico City, Mexico Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 20 September 1847 Pagination: 4 p. : address ; 21.5 x 13.6 cm Order a Copy
Responds to a previous letter from Matie, possibly a relative by marriage. Mentions mutual acquaintances, including a fellow soldier named Rhett. Relates that he occupies a suite of apartments belonging to Senora Santa Anna (wife of former Mexican leader Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna) at the National Palace. Discusses Senora Santa Anna's flowers at length. Supposes Mexico City's "principal people have fled..." Discusses characteristics and the layout of the city, including the position of the National Palace and museums. States that Bankhead (possibly Charles Bankhead) serves as the British minister to Mexico, and that Bankhead's wife invited him for a visit. Writes "It will be sweet to hear the English language upon a woman's tongue again. I think I will go today." Reflecting on the U.S.-Mexican War, declares "War is a great evil. It brings much individual as well as National Suffering. The sight of every battle field has made my heart bleed. The glorious dead were at rest... But it was for the living that I sorrowed." Discusses Santa Anna's departure and the dispersal of the Mexican army. States that despite these circumstances, Mexicans refuse to acknowledge defeat. Mentions Jose Joaquin Herrera, who had previously replaced Santa Anna. Discusses the will of Colonel Pinckney.
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