Richmond 19 Apl  ‘62 
 
My Dear Major 
  I have taken the liberty to apply for your appointment as my mil. Secty which you may have observed under a late law of Cong. has the rank and pay of a Col. of Cavl. I had endeavored to obtain you promotion in another way which probably would have been more agreeable to you, but failing in that I have taken this course. If confirmed by the Senate I will inform you, and you must let me know whether the situation is agreeable to you. If it is not and you prefer remaining where you are, or any other situation is more agreeable you let me know, and I will do what I can to obtain it for you. At all events understand not to consider yourself obliged to accept the one offered. 
       Remember me to Mrs. Long and the baby 
        Truly Yours 
         R E Lee 
 
Major A Long