Page:Southern Historical Society Papers volume 17.djvu/357

 Lee's Birthday, 349

Oeneral Robert E. Lee as one of the greatest soldiers of the civil war.

But for his generalship the Southern Confederacy would no doubt have sooner broken up, and he kept his army together under circum- stances that would have appalled almost any other leader.

General Lee accepted the situation after Appomattox in the true spirit which characterized all his actions, and I feel sure that when he died he had the respect of every Northern soldier and sailor, to say nothing of the thousands of citizens who admired his private character.

David D. Porter, Admiral.

Washifigtoriy D, C. . ^

GOV. CAMPBELL, OF OHIO.

As a Northern man, and a member of that wing of the Demo- cratic party which readily conceded anything to prevent war, yet cheerfully risked everything to preserve the Union after war had come, I pay my modest tribute to Robert E. Lee, the Christian gentleman, the fearless soldier, the upright citizen, the modql hus- band, son, and father.

James E. Campbell.

Columbus, O,

senator REAGAN, OF TEXAS.

General Robert E. Lee combined in his own person and character the best qualities of a good citizen and great military commander. To a handsome and noble personal appearance, combined with finished grace and dignity of manner, was added great ability and courage, thorough military training and calm judgment, which no good or bad fortune could disturb.

I regarded and do now regard him as the best ideal type of an American citizen, gentleman, and soldier.

John H. Reagan.

Washington^ D, C,

cardinal gibbons.

General Lee was a hero of whom the whole nation is proud.

James Card. Gibbons. Wilmingtony N, C,