Robert E. Lee to Henry A. DuBois

U.S. Mil Acad - y West Point 9 Feb - y 1853

Sir

I have rec - d your letter of the 7th Inst: & regret that I cannot with proprieity grant the leave of absence to your Son you desire, to attend a wedding in your family on the 17th -

I have been obliged to refuse many similar applications: for what is granted to one must be given to all; & you can readily see the serious interruptions that would take place to their studies & duties. The whole time of the Cadets is necessary to master their Course at the Academy, & any withdrawal of their attention, affects them injuriously.

You have no doubt rec - d the result of the recent Examination in the Case of your son, & have seen that he has fallen in Mathematics from 5th to 16th. I think it is more to his advantage to have every opportunity to regain the high standing in his class, he held last June, then to enjoy the gaities of the wedding. He will have many occasions for the latter I hope in after life. I remain with much respect

I remain with much respect

R E Lee Bt Col

Supt Mil Acad - y

Henry A. DuBois Esqr Lexington N.Y.