Robert E. Lee to Joseph G. Totten

I have the honor to enclose a copy of a communication from Bvt. Major R. S. Garnett, Comdt. of Cadets, reporting the arrest of Cadet Lazell for being absent from Reveille & Camp under circumstances which leave no doubt that his absence was caused by drunkenness.

It is with mortification that I am compelled to bring to the notice of the Hon Secty of War, so flagrant a violation of the regulations of the Mily Acady, which standing by itself is punishable by the 118 paragraph with dismissal from the service; but superadded to this last offence; it appears from the Academic records that Cadet Lazell has persevered, during his connection with this Institution in a course of conduct highly disreputable to himself, totally unworthy of his position as a member of he Corps of Cadets, and entirely subversive of good order & military discipline. The report of Major Garnett, and a letter from Col: Lee to you, dated Jany 7. 1853, so fully set forth his various offenses, high demerit, & low standing, that it is unnecessary I should enter into further details.

I know of now palliation of his scandalous conduct, so seriously reflecting upon the moral tone of the Corps of Cadets, in which I trust these are few such to be found, so unworthy of the fostering care of the government. I am therefore under the painful necessity of urgently recommending the prompt dismissal of Cadet Lazell from the Military Academy.

Very respectfully Sir. Your obedt Servt

(Signed) Geo. W.Cullum

Capt: U.S. Engrs

Supt. Mil. Acady