Robert E. Lee to E. H. Herbert

I have recd. your letter of the 22d Ulto: in reference to the conduct & standing of your son. I am happy to inform you that the amount of the demerit which he has recd. has arisen from inattention to his duties & violation of regulations, which though contrary to the discipline of the Academy & unbecoming a good soldier, are not of a nature to affect either his moral standing or character. It is nevertheless much to be regretted that this amount has reached the limit (100) which if exceeded, will render him liable to the penalty imposed by the regulations for their infraction: & from which it is not in my power to relieve him. I hope however from the improvement which has taken place in his conduct that he has determined not to exceed this amount & that the penalty will thus be avoided.

I regret very much to have to inform you of his want of due proficiency both in his course of Mathematics & English studies; & that unless some marked improvement takes place between this & Jany., it is the opinion of his Profr. that he will not be able to pass the semi annual examination of the Cadets at that time. I have endeavored to stimulate him to greater application, but I fear his youth, & the consequent underdeveloped state of his mind may prevent him from being prepared, notwithstanding the efforts he may make.

Should you therefore from your correspondence with him be satisfied of his inability to master his studies, it might probably be more agreeable to him as well as to yourself, to allow him the resign, rather than run the risk of failure.

I remain with much consideration resply your obedt Servt

Sigd./ R. E. Lee Br. Col.

Supt. Mil. Acady