Mike, I was reading an online piece from Edward Porter Alexander's memoirs earlier and he talks about his trying to convince Lee to "take to the hills". Lee felt it would be both futile and detrimental to the future of the country. He even provides figures Lee mentioned to show just how little was left of his army. Both in numbers and resources. Alexander stated that if they had went into guerilla type actions that they could have only armed about 1/3 of the men with even a musket. He spoke of Lee mentioning the fact that the men had families who needed them back home.

Maybe Lee did say it but I will have to see proof before I erase all my doubts. Lee was in failing health and very near death when this reportedly occured. I think I may have to get myself a copy of Alexander's memoirs to read. I just not long ago finished reading Cannoneers in Gray which is about the artillery of the AoT. I would like to hear Alexander's comments on Longstreet's campaigns while attached to the AoT.

Good to hear from you old friend!