U.S. Mil: Academy West Point. N.Y. Augt: 29. 1853.
Col:
I found on my arrival here, S. order No. 112, Current Series, assigning Asst: Adjt: Genl: S. Williams, to duty at the Head Qrs. of the E. Division together with the orders of the Secty. of War of the 16th Inst: directing him to report in person to the Commg. Genl. of said Division.
You are aware that at this particular time, in addition to the quarterly & monthly Returns &c. the section rolls of all the Cadets in each branch of study have to be made out & the duties of the Acady arranged for the ensuing term. The assistance of Capt: Williams is particularly necessary to me until I can obtain another Adjt: He has reported to Genl. Wool who has no objection to his remaining at the Acady until this service is accomplished, or till the 20th proximo, & I therefore respectfully ask your assent thereto.
I am very respectfully Your obedt Servt
Sigd./ R. E. Lee Br. Col:
Supt. Mil: Acady
Superintendent's Daily Correspondence United States Military Academy
Superintendent's Letter Book No. 3, p. 47. Addressed “Col: S. Cooper Adjt: Genl: U.S. Army Washington City D.C.”