[RebelBanker]

I have read a number of late 18th century and early 19th century writings that refer to "these United States." As you astutely pointed out, "United States" was plural until the War Between the States settled the question of supremacy of State or Federal law.

[stainlessbanner]

Lee's identification with his home country (state) is an example of the Compact Theory - the United States of America was created by free and sovereign states.

Jefferson and Calhoun advocated the Compact Theory, while Lincoln and others believe the Union existed before the states were created. An analogy would be a marriage before the two spouses were born.