For your consideration is a rare, hardcover copy of "Robert E. Lee" by John Esten Cooke (1830-1886), author of "Surry of Eagle's Nest," "Mohun," etc. G.W. Dillingham Co, New York, publisher, 1899. This classic book contains the biography of General Robert E. Lee, the famous military officer best known for having commanded the Confederate Army of Northern Virginia in the American Civil War, yet his greatest contribution to the United States was his effort to reunite the country following the American Civil War. In the opinions of his contemporaries and historians, Lee played a crucial role in restoring peace following the war. Books on the Confederacy are becoming harder to find. John Esten Cooke was an American novelist, writer and poet. He was the brother of poet Philip Pendleton Cooke. During the American Civil War, Cooke was a staff officer for Maj. Gen. J.E.B. Stuart in the Confederate States Army cavalry and, after Stuart's death, for Brig. Gen. William N. Pendleton. Cooke became noted for his writing about Virginia, much of it in historical novels. This brown clothbound gold gilt stamped hardcover is in good overall condition, scuffing noted to cover edges. The front cover shows a beautiful gilt with a flower and confederate sword stamped design, white colouring fading. Spine is loose, intact pages exhibit age tanning throughout, minimal foxing noted, no other obvious marring observed. Measures 5.25"W x 7.5"L x 1.25"D