Original (Not in General Lee=s handwriting but signed by him).

Coosawhatchie

March 3d 1862

Dear Sir

The box of prepared meats sent me by you through Mr. J. B. Trout was duly received and its contents proved very satisfactory.  I should have acknowledged its receipt earlier but that I have been called away upon various duties soon after its arrival.  Wholesome nutritious and palatable food put up in such convenient form must add materially to the comfort of camp life, and I beg leave to return you my thanks for your efforts to administer to the welfare of the soldiers-

Very respectfully

Your obt servant

                                                                                                            R E Lee