Unknown to Robert E. Lee

Being desirous of sending my nephew, Mr. Francis Dumarchait, to the Military Institute of Lexington, and knowing no agents for the same in this city, I would respectfully beg you to enclose a prospectus of the Academy directed to me.

Having been educated at the University of Va, I have been taught to appreciate the superior advantages of it’s educational system, and as a matter of predeliction for the great and honored name which you bear, enshrined as it is in the hearts of every true Southren; I feel deeply desirous that my friends & relatives should be called to the blessings of that Institution where are taught those manly virtues, of which you fit the pattern & illustrious example. Deem me not fulsome Genl - as an old soldier of yours and one whom an aged mother, as she sped me to the front, enjoined to love & reverence, I must speak as I feel - The young man, who will soon be one of your scholars, is tractable, anxious to learn & full of commendable ambition - The hope & stay of a widowed mother, I recommend him specially to your kind offices - With renewed assurances of my highest regards & profound respect I remain respectfully

Your obdt ServtChas O. DeLahoussaye
New Orleans La.