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After four years of arduous
service marked by unsurpassed
courage and fortitude, the Army
of Northern Virginia has been
compelled to yield to over-
whelming numbers and resources.
  
I need not tell the brave
survivors of so 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 and 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
|Genl.
