The letter expresses “heartfelt gratification” for the “heroic conduct displayed by Officers and Men during the arduous operations” of the Confederate victory at Chancellorsville, near Fredericksburg, Virginia. Lee continues, “Let us not forget in our rejoicing the brave soldiers who have fallen in defense of their country, and while we mourn their loss, let us resolve to emulate them by example.” The letter concludes with a quotation from a dispatch from Jefferson Davis, President of the Confederate States, “as an expression of his appreciation of its success.” Signed, “R.E Lee Genl.”.