Lexington VA: 25 March 66 My dear Sir I have been requested by the friends of Genl R. H. Chilton, to express to you my opinions of his capacity, business qualifications etc which I most cheerfully do: and can at the same time bear testimony to his character for honesty probity (?) & integrity. You are probably aware that he graduated at the Mil: Academy at West Point with distinction; & served many years in the Army of the U. States: in which he was promoted to the Staff, for meritorious conduct, He has had long experience in the management of men, in the conduct of business, & in the duties of disbursing. While he was Paymaster in the U. S. Army I heard it stated that his accounts were most regular & accurate that were recd at the Dept in Washington. He is earnest & conscientious in the discharge of his duties, & faithful in their performance. Very respy your obt servt R E Lee Honbl Reuben Johnston