Lee came out of the Mexican War with a brilliant reputation. He was wounded in action, and was breveted for gallantry three times. After the war, he was appointed superintendent of the U.S. Military Academy, considered to be a "plum" assignment, and was on the fast track for the highest posts in the army. He was almost universally admired in the old army, not just for his outstanding war record, but primarily for his intellect and sterling character. I believe that Scott was grooming Lee to succeed him as General-in-Chief of the Army.