A contemporary copy of Lee’s General Order No. 9, written and signed in an unknown hand, one page, both sides, 5 x 8. Entitled “Farewell address of Gen R E Lee to the army of N V, General Orders No 9.” The address copied here, delivered by Lee to his beleaguered Army of Northern Virginia, reads in full: "After four years of ardious [sic] service marked by unsurpassed courage and fortitude, the Army of N. Va. has been compelled to yield to overwhelming numbers and resources. I need not tell the brave survivors of some many hard fought battles who have remained steadfast to the last that I have consented to this result from no distrust of them. But feeling that valor and devotion could accomplish nothing that could compensate for the loss that must have attended the continuance of the contest, I determined to avoid the useless sacrifice of those whose past services have endeared them to their countrymen. By the terms of the Agreement, officers and men can return to their homes and remain until exchanged. You will take with you the satisfaction that proceeds from a consciousness of duty faithfully performed; and I earnestly pray that a Merciful God will extend to you His blessings & protection. With an unceasing admiration of your constancy and devotion to your Country, and a grateful remembrance of your kind and generous consideration for myself, I bid you all an affectionate farewell. R. E. Lee General.” Professional repair on reverse of a complete separation along central horizontal fold, several other small tears and areas of paper loss, a few of which are repaired, scattered toning and soiling, and some show-through from docketing on reverse, otherwise very good condition. Original transcripts signed by Robert E. Lee fetch in excess of $100,000 at auction. RRAuction COA.
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