U.S. Mil. Acady. West Point 8 March 1855
Captain.
In answer to your letter of the 25th Jany. announcing your application through Genl. Totten for the Professorship of Ethics & Law at the Mil. Acady. I have to state that the proposed separation of the duties now performed by the chaplain, has not as far as I am aware been sanctioned by Cong.
I have not yet been furnished with the Copy of the Mil. Acady. Bill passed at the late session; but believe it contains no provision for the Professorship in question.
Although sensible of your qualifications, & of your high standing at the Acady., I am therefore unable to advance your views in the matter.
I remain Captain your very Obt. Servt.
Signed/ R. E. Lee Br. Col.
Supt. Mil. Acady.
Superintendent's Daily Correspondence United States Military Academy
Superintendent's Letter Book No. 3, p. 190. Addressed “Capt: J. H. Whittlesey 1st Dragoons Fort Union New Mexico.”