The Daily Dispatch: September 20, 1861., [Electronic resource]

Gen. Lee.

Whatever the result, it is probably already decided. If the victory which military critics pronounce certain — the unavoidable casualties of battle only excepted — shall indeed crown the monument of Gen. Lee, we shall greatly rejoice for our country's sake. But we shall do more; we shall rejoice for Gen. Lee's sake. Hither to his duties have kept him in his closet. The good which he was doing, the people could not know. Going to the rescue where our fortunes were darkest, he has, if present anticipations be realised, given us proofs of what generalship can do. He has certainly inspired his own men with the utmost ardor and enthusiasm. He has circumvented the enemy, has taken their General, reduced them to privation, and cut off their supplies and their retreat. If now he forces them to surrender without a blow, it will stand a monument to his fame of which any professor of the military art, however gifted or fortunate, might well be proud. Thus far at least, he has done admirably.