Lexington VA, 6 July 1869
Gentn,
Although I have had to decline requests for the use of my name as a reference in consequence of the numerous applications as to my inability to reply to inquiries. I cannot refuse it to a firm, one of whose members is my old friend and classmate, Judge Charles Mason.
It is therefore at your service if you desire it.
Very respy your obt servt
R E Lee
Messrs Mason, Fenwick & Lawrence
R. E. Lee Collection, Leyburn Library