^#1935 ^Lot 1996 Robert E. Lee

War-dated LS signed “R. E. Lee,” one page, 7.75 x 9.75, June 2, 1861. Letter to “Dinwiddie B. Phillips, Surgeon Va. Army, Woodville, Rappahannock County, Virginia.” Letter reads, in full: “I have received your communication of the 31st ult: referring to two suspicious persons, Brownell and Romines. I have referred it to Gen’l Beauregard, Commanding at Manassas Junction, for his consideration. Capt. Green’s company of which Brownell is a member, is under Gen’l Beauregard’s command.” Professional repairs to separations along horizontal folds on reverse, removed old tape along reverse of mailing folds, scattered toning, primarily to right side and bottom, with a bit over signature, a few thin areas of paper, and several creases, otherwise very good condition.

Lee received Phillips’ letter concerning possible spies among the Confederate troops at Manassas just before the Battle of Bull Run, the first major battle of the war. Lee was in command of the Virginia state forces in June of 1861 and had just returned from visiting Manassas Junction on May 28. He observed the wide-ranging quality of the troops at Manassas and was very concerned about the selection of a commander for the exposed post, a position that went to his friend, General Beauregard. Phillips later served as surgeon aboard the C.S.S. Virginia (or Merrimac). A remarkable document from early in Lee’s command.