Easton, Mo., March 16, ‘66

Gen. R. E. Lee:

                                    Sir – I have seen it stated in several newspapers lately that there would shortly be issued from a publishing house in New York, your history of the late war, or of your campaigns.  Such a book written by yourself, would be in great demand  among the Southerners in this State.

            If the arrangement could be made either with you or the publishers, I would like to have the exclusive right to sell it in this State, or a portion of it.

            I was an officer in the 37^th Va. Inf. of your army during the war, and as a member of the Va Legislature at the time of the surrender.  The best of references can be given if required.

            I am now teaching a common school for a support, and desire a more active as well as more lucrative employment.  A reply at your earliest convenience will be duly appreciated.

                                                            Very respectfully

                                                                                    Your ob’t servt

                                                                                    Thos. J. Smith

Address, Capt. T. J. Smith

                        Easton,

                                    Mo.

Notation of front page in General Lee’s handwriting:

Capt. T. J. Smith

Wants agency to sell Cam

-         paigns in Mo:-

Ansd: 29 Mar