Near Cartersville 21 Aug 65 My dear Sir I thank you very sincerely for your notes of the 20th, which have just been delivered by Capt Owings- I am constrained to decline both of your kind propositions. That relating to the proposed school I feel entirely inadequate to, nor do I feel able to undertake your farm. I am too far advanced in life now, to undertake the labour necessary to the conduct of the former, even with your valuable aid, & I should merely be a clog upon your operation. Your farm desirable as it is, would not suit my circumstances or views, & I think it can be better applied in carrying out your own purposes, which under skilful & energetic management, I feel sure will succeed & work great good to the Country. You carry with you in your enterprize my cordial sympathy & well wishes. As Capt Owings says he must return immediately, I cannot enter more fully into the subjects of your letters, but this I wish you to be fully assured; that I entirely appreciate your kind motives as to myself & that you (page 2) will always have my grateful thanks Your obtservt R E Lee Mr Wm D. Cabell Norwood