US Mil: Academy West Point. NY. June 29. 1853.
Dear Sir.
Your note of yesterdays date is just received. I am sorry to inform you that the rumor of the failure of Mr. Dabney Sterndon is correct.
He left here yesterday for his home. The official announcement will be forwarded to his parents by tomorrows mail.
Very respectfully. Your obedt Servt
Signed/ R. E. Lee.
Superintendent's Daily Correspondence United States Military Academy
Superintendent's Letter Book No. 3, p. 37. Addressed “Geo. Manning Esq New York”