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

HdQrs Dabbs= House

16th June 1862

Dear Sir;

If you intend riding this afternoon, you will greatly oblige me if you can make it convenient to call by my HdQrs.  I am desirous to see you, but find it out of my power to be absent long enough to visit you in Richmond.

                                                                  Very respy

 Your obtservt

                                                                               R E Lee

Hon: G. W. Randolph,

Secty of War

                 Richmond.

Note: General Lee took command of the Army of Northern Virginia on 1 June 1862.