Lexington Va: 21 Jany 1870 Dear Sir I regret that indisposition will prevent my attending the funeral of Mr George Peabody. I am unable to undertake the journey at this season & cannot therefore anticipate the pleasure of seeing you in my passage through New York as you propose - Please make my compliments to your wife & accept my thanks for your kind invitation Very respy your obt servt R E Lee Mr S. Root