Williamsburg Va

                                                                        June 18^th 1866

Genl R. E. Lee

            Etc Etc

                                                Dear General Lee:

                                                            You can hardly imagin (sic) the grateful emotions that rise up in my bosom as I write that noble name – “Lee”! the universally recognized synonym for moderation, justice, purity, patriotism!  You, who bear that name stand “head and shoulders” above any man in the present age in all that constitutes the sincere gentleman, hero and Christian warrior!  Nothing less than this high appreciation of your many virtues which adorn your public career, induce me to solicit in behalf of three other comrades (once ?) in arms, whom you complimented so highly in your 9^th and last general order to the fated Army of Northern Virginia, at Appomattox C. H. Va., your name in your own autography to each of the enclosed “9^th Gen. Order,” as they wish to preserve them in their families as mementoes of the past.  Grant this easy present, with the assurance that it shall be preserved and tenderly transmitted with the highest encomiums by your most sincere friends & well wishers

                                                                                                Ro. P. Taylor

                                                                                                            Et Als

Notation on reverse in General Lee’s handwriting:

            18 June 1866

            Robt. P. Taylor

requests signature to

Genl Orders of 9 Apl ‘65

21 June

            Acknd