A wonderful and fascinating letter to Lee from West Point classmate JACK MACKAY, a scion of one of Savannah's finest families, and one of Lee's closest friends a and confidantes. Dated July 18th, 1848, from Fort Delaware. Mackay is writing to welcome Lee on his "return home after having performed such glorious service & near such narrow risks," referring to the recent victory in the Mexican War. A particularly poignant line mentions "I do not know how you may feel, but I most sincerely hope that our country have no more wars in our day," little knowing that his friend was destined to lead the Confederate armies in the bloodiest war the country had ever seen. Terrific content covering world affairs, political commentary, engineering issues (both men were engineers by training, and had experience building and improving coastal forts). A docket indicates that the letter was not sent, as Lee had already arrived. Not signed. Transcription provided. $7500.00

Confederate General, Superintendent of West Point. Served spectacularly in the Mexican War, with the elite 2nd U.S. cavalry in Texas and at Harper's Ferry. General Winfield Scott called him "the best soldier I ever saw in the field." Symbol of the Southern cause. After the war he became the President of Washington College, now Washington and Lee University. A portrait photograph (2 1/2" x 3 1/2") of Lee, signed by him "R. E. Lee". (6 1/2" x 8 1/2"). $5900.00