Lexington VA: 6 Oct 65 
  
My dear Sir 
  
I recd this inst your letter of the 18th ulto: Your remarks as to the advantages of the early publication of the work I propose, are entirely correct.  But there are obstacles in the way which time can only remove.  I shall endeavor to complete it as soon as possible. 
  
I am very much obliged to you for your offer to publish the work, & for the interest you have taken in the matter.  Your mode of publication seems to possess advantages, but I find now I ought to have informed you in my former letter, that soon after the cessation of hostilities, Mr Richard- (page 2)son of New York called on me in Richmond & made to me such proposals, that in the event of my completion, the work I feel that I ought to first offer it to him for publication. 
With great respect 
  Your obtservt 
  
R E Lee 
  
Messrs Jos: S. Topham & Co