Chaffin’s  21 Oct. ‘64 
 
My dear Gen’l 
 
  I have received your note of the 19th. I had expected you to ask a blessing on our table, and turned to you with that need. It was my fault I think in not making a more pointed request, which I should have done. Finding you apparently preparing to take your seat, I failed to request your office, and as is very frequently the case with me at our informal camp meals, offered a silent petition of thanks.  
                      I reciprocate in the fullest manner your feelings of friendship which has always been to me a source of pleasure and am deeply obliged to you for your fervent pious prayers in my behalf. No one stands in greater need of them. My feeble petitions I dare hardly hope will be answered. 
        Very truly yours, 
         R E Lee 
 
Gen’l W. N. Pendleton