General Robert E. Lee's Farewell to his Army
Headquarters, Army of Northern Virginia
Appomattox Court House, Virginia
April 10, 1865
After four years of arduous service, marked by unsurpassed courage
and fortitude, the Army of Northern Virginia has been compelled to
yield to overwhelming numbers and resources. I need not tell the
survivors of so many hard-fought battles who have remained
steadfast to the last, that I have consented to this result from no
distrust of them, but feeling that valour and devotion could
accomplish nothing that could compensate for the loss that would
have attended the continuation of this contest. I have determined
to avoid the useless sacrifice of those whose past service has
endeared them to their countrymen. By the terms of the agreement,
officers and men can return to their homes and remain there until
exchanged. You will take with you the satisfaction that proceeds
from the consciousness of duty faithfully performed; and I
earnestly pray that a merciful God will extend to you His blessing
and protection. With an increasing admiration of your constancy
and devotion to your country, and a grateful remembrance of your
kind and generous consideration of myself, I bid you an
affectionate farewell.
