80. ROBERT E. LEE (1807-1870) Confederate General and commander of the Army of Northern Virginia, arguably the most brilliant commander of field armies in American history. A.L.S. "R E Lee" as President of Washington College, 1p. 4to., Lexington, Va., May 11, 1867 to John A. Sims concerning his son's tuition at Washington College. He writes, in part, "...In compliance with your request of the 4th Inst I enclose the Treasurers statement of the accounts of your Sons in support of which he refers to the vouchers in his possession, his checks in payment of same on the Bank of Lexington. He informs me that he gave Mr. Eskrige a receipt for the money he deposited with him, upon the reception of the $100 from yourself, he deposited it to the credit of your sons & informed them of it. He also gave them his receipt for their portion of said deposit...I regret that your Sons have suffered so much from chills-fever...I presume this mountain climate will in time eradicate the disease. Hoping they may soon recover". Offered with the original transmittal envelope addressed in Lee's hand. Also together with a manuscript document, 1p. legal folio, an account headed "James K. Edmondson Depositary Washington College/In account with John W. Sims". The lower portion is headed "Same/In account with George W. Sims", the total amount paid for each son was $125.00. Also present is a 3pp. 4to. printed brochure for the college. Lee served as President of Washington College from 1865 to his death 1870 when the college was renamed Washington and Lee University in his honor. Usual folds, else fine condition. 4,000 - 5,000