[Virginia Ridgerunner]

Well, like I said in an early post, the U.S. was a different country in the 1850s and 1860s. Here's what Lee himself said about his resignation from Federal service and joining the forces of Virginia.

"I can anticipate no greater calamity for the country than the dissolution of the Union. It would be an accumulation of all the evils we complain of, and I am willing to sacrifice everything but honor for its preservation."

"I shall carry with me to the grave the most grateful recollections of your kind consideration, & your name & fame will always be dear to me. Save in the defense of my native State, I never desire again to draw my sword."

With all my devotion to the Union and the feeling of loyalty and duty of an American citizen, I have not been able to make up my mind to raise my hand against my relatives, my children, my home. I have therefore resigned my commission in the Army, and save in defense of my native State, with the sincere hope that my poor services may never be needed, I hope I may never be called on to draw my sword...

[xxqqzz]

In Virginia other southern states that did not seceed initially, there was not a lot of enthusiasm for war or secession, but most people would side with the south if there was war. Lee was put in a difficult position being offered the command of the Union Army to invade Virginia.