Editor’s Note: This article was transcribed by Jackie Martin.
The Raleigh CONSERVATIVE, of the 3d instant, publishes the following extract of a letter of General Lee to Governour [Zebulon B.] Vance, complimenting the North Carolina troops for their glorious victory achieved at Reams’ station:
HEADQUARTERS ARMY NORTHERN VIRGINIA,
29th August, 1864.
HIS EXCELLENCY, Z[ebulon]. B. VANCE, GOVERNOUR OF NORTH CAROLINA:
I have been frequently called upon to mention the services of North Carolina soldiers in the army, but their gallantry and conduct were never more deserving of admiration than in the engagement at Reams’ station on the 25th instant.
The brigades of Generals Cook[e], M[a]cRae and Lane, the last under the temporary command of General Conner, advanced through a thick abatis of felled trees under a heavy fire of musketry and artillery, and carried the enemy’s works with a steady courage that elicited the warm commendation of their corps and division commander and the admiration of the army.
On the same occasion the brigade of General Barringer bore a conspicuous part in the operations of the cavalry, which were no less distinguished for boldness and efficiency than those of the infantry.
If the men who remain in North Carolina share the spirit of those they have sent to the field, as I doubt not they do, her defence may be securely entrusted to their hands.
I am, with great respect,
Your obedient servant,
R. E. LEE, General.1
Source:
- No title. Richmond Examiner. September 10, 1864, p. 1 col. 3 ↩