Page:Southern Historical Society Papers volume 15.djvu/21

 Rh present, the two letters were signed and delivered, and the parties prepared to separate. Lee, before parting, asked Grant to notify Meade of the surrender, fearing that fighting might break out on that front, and lives be uselessly lost. This request was complied with, and two Union officers were sent through the enemy's lines as the shortest route to Meade—some of Lee's officers accompanying them to prevent their being interfered with. At a little before four o'clock, General Lee shook hands with General Grant, bowed to the other officers, and with Colonel Marshall left the room. One after another, we followed and passed out into the porch. Lee signalled to his orderly to bring up his horse, and while the animal was being bridled the General stood on the lowest step and gazed sadly in the direction of the valley beyond where his army lay—now an army of prisoners. He smote his hands together a number of times in an absent sort of way; seemed not to see the group of Union officers in the yard who rose respectfully at his approach, and appeared unconscious of everything about him. All appreciated the sadness which overwhelmed him, and he had the personal sympathy of everyone who beheld him at this supreme moment of trial. The approach of his horse seemed to recall him from his reverie, and he at once mounted. General Grant now stepped down from the porch, and moving towards him, saluted him by raising his hat. He was followed in this act of courtesy by all of our officers present. Lee raised his hat respectfully in acknowledgment, and rode off to break the sad news to the brave fellows whom he had so long commanded.

"Before General Grant had proceeded far towards camp, he was reminded that he had not yet announced the important event to the government. He dismounted by the road-side, sat down on a large stone, and called for pencil and paper. Colonel (afterwards General) Badeau handed his order-book to the General, who wrote on one of the leaves the following message, a copy of which was sent to the nearest telegraph station. It is dated at 4.30 P. M.:

"Hon. E. M. S, Secretary of War, Washington:

"General Lee surrendered the Army of Northern Virginia this afternoon on terms proposed by myself. The accompanying additional correspondence will show the conditions fully.

"U. S. G, Lieutenant-General"

"There were present at McLean's house besides Sheridan, Ord, Merritt, Custer and the officers of General Grant's staff, a number