I assure you, sir, that no want of appreciation of the honor
conferred upon me by this resolution, or insensibility to the kind feeling that
prompted it, induces me to ask, as I most respectfully do, that no further
proceedings be taken with reference to the subject. The house is not necessary
for the use of my family, and my own duties will prevent my residence in
Richmond. I shall therefore be compelled to decline the generous offer, and
trust that whatever means the City Council may have to spare for this purpose
may be devoted to the relief of the families of our soldiers in the field, who
are more in need of assistance and more deserving of it than myself.
SOURCE: John William Jones, Life and Letters of
Robert Edward Lee: Soldier and Man, p. 290-1
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