LS signed “R. E. Lee,” one page both sides, 7.75 x 9.75, Lexington, Va. letterhead, September 8, 1869. A letter to George G. Butler in Stanford, Ky. recommending Allan McDonald for a position as mathematics instructor. In part: “After consultation with the Faculty am prepared to reply to your request. We have no person who will exactly fulfill the requisites demanded. I have however concluded to recommend to you Mr. Allan McDonald, who has passed creditably … and who by his attainments in that branch, and by his mental and moral qualification seems to me suited for the position you wish to fill. He is a young man of good family and character I think would give you satisfaction. He could teach through the Analytical Geometry which is perhaps as far as you would wish. He has been requested to correspond with you.” In very good condition, with scattered areas of staining not affecting legibility, bisecting mailing folds, and a marginal tear repaired on the reverse. After the war Lee became president of Washington College (now Washington and Lee Univ.). Although President Andrew Johnson never granted him the official amnesty for which he applied, Lee nevertheless urged the people of the South to work for the restoration of peace and harmony in a united country. Reportedly of admirable personal character, Lee was idolized by his soldiers and the people of the South and soon won the admiration of the North. He has remained an ideal of the South and an American hero. COA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
