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Lexington VA:

6 July 1866

My dear Col

I am much obliged to you for your kind invitation. I had desired to have attended the Teachers Convention of the 17th, but the Board of Trustees of Washington College assemble here on that very day, at which I must be present. I shall not therefore be able to be with you, I will deliver your message to Custis but I do not think his present plan of a continuous journey on horseback west will admit of his going to Charlottesville. His health has been very bad this spring & I have advised him (page 2) making the tour of the Springs, in hope that some one of the waters may suit his case. I shall myself take Mrs Lee to the Rockbridge baths next week & locate her there till the adjournment of the Bd of Trustees, & if she derives no benefit, will endeavor to carry her to the Warm Springs. It will be necessary for me to be with her.

I hope some good will result from the Convention of Teachers. I think good books from Primary up should be funded, & all issued under the sanction of the Board so as to make them acceptable. Professor Campbell will represent Washington College-

Please make my respects to all the gentlemen, & particularly to those of the University-

The Trustees at their late meeting (page 3) were unable to fill some of the Chairs of the College, among them a Profr of Mental & Moral Philosophy, & adjourned to the 17th Inst for the purpose.

Who is the best man for the Chair named?

With my best rspects to Mrs Venable

I am very truly yours

R E Lee

Profr Chas: S. Venable

Note: Envelope addressed to:

Profr Chas. S. Venable

University of Vrga

Albemarle Co