He was connected by blood with a long line of illustrious men, who had borne a conspicuous part in the events which led to the declaration of American independence and the establishment of this constitutional Government.  It was Richard Henry Lee who offered in the Continental Congress, in June, 1776, that stirring resolution which proclaimed to the world “that these United Colonies are, and of right ought to be, free and independent States; that they are absolved from all allegiance to the British Crown; and that all political connection between them and Great Britain is, and ought to be, totally dissolved.”

It was his own grandfather, known in history as “Light-Horse Harry Lee,” who, in the long struggle which followed this bold declaration, struck such sturdy blows for the liberties and rights of his countrymen as caused him to receive the special commendation of George Washington, of whom in turn he uttered those memorable words:  “First in war, first in peace, and first in the hearts of his countrymen.”  Bearing a name thus associated with all the glorious achievements of the past, it was but natural that he should have felt an ardent attachment to the Union.  But he was a son of Virginia, “where American liberty raised its first voice and where its youth was nurtured and sustained.”

There the doctrine of the sovereignty of the State was accepted as the true interpretation of the Constitution almost without division of sentiment.  Her people held that allegiance was first due to their State, and while all deplored the necessity for, few, if any, doubted as to the right of separation.  When in April, 1861, a convention representing her people passed the ordinance of secession, he felt no hesitation in adopting his course.  He resolved at once to consecrate himself and his sword to the sacred duty of defending her homes and firesides.

Having raised a company of cavalry, he was made its captain, and was rapidly promoted from rank to rank until he reached that of major-general.  Soon after his entry into the Confederate service he became associated with the command of Gen. J.E.B.  Stuart, and participated thereafter in nearly all the movements of that fearless and dashing leader, whom the brave Gen. Sedgwick, of the United States Army, pronounced “the best cavalry officer ever foaled in North America.”  On June 3, 1862, Gen. Robert E. Lee, the father of my deceased colleague, assumed the command of the Army of Northern Virginia three days after the retiracy of Gen. Joseph E. Johnston, caused by a wound received in the battle of Seven Pines.