Edward, I think you are correct regarding Lee's complexity. He was a thoughtful, intelligent man who had read widely and studied his craft. He was also self contained and controlled. Op cit his four years at West Point with no demerits, in contrast with Davis, who was nearly expelled, if I remember correctly, over a visit to Benny Havens' tavern. According to a letter he wrote his daughter, his was a very difficult decision. He had served his country many years, as you said to the detriment of his own fortunes. We don't have the grasp of loyalty to one's state that was prevelant at the time, and which was a large part of Lee's thinking. When he tendered his resignation, it was not to immediately join Virginia forces. He was still a true American, and did not wish to fight his country, unless his state was invaded. Only then did he again raise his sword. In the end, he was rightly honored by both dides, because his motives were purer than most. They certainly had nothing to do with slavery. Stan