Robert E. Lee to Genera, December 5, 1862

December 5, 1862. Respectfully forwarded. sal Considering the perils attending such an expedition, the boldness of its inception was no less creditable to the parties concerned than was its brilliant execution. I commend Major Waller’s command to the favorable notice of the general. The expedition was proposed and planned by Colonel Beale some days ago. J. E. B. STUART,

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF NORTHERN Virginia, December 5, 1862. Maj. Gen. J. E. B. STUART, Commanding Cavalry:

GENERAL: I have the honor to acknowledge the communication of General W. H. F. Lee of the attack of Major [John] Pelham upon the enemy’s gunboats in the Rappahannock, and inclosing the report of Col. R. L. T. Beale of the expedition of a portion of his regiment, under Major [T.] Waller, across that river.* The boldness of Colonel Beale’s plan was equaled by the success of its execution, and reflects great credit upon himself and the officers and men engaged. Major Pelham aad his men deserve great credit for the manner in which they co-operated in the attack of General Hill’s battery upon the gunboats. I beg you to express to all the officers and men my gratification and appreciation of their services.

very respectfully, your obedient servant,