His reconnaissances, though pushed far
beyond the bounds of prudence, were conducted with so much skill that
their fruits were of the utmost value--the soundness of his judgment
and personal daring being equally conspicuous."
At Vera Cruz Lee had the pleasure of meeting his older brother, from
whom he had long been separated. This was Lieutenant Sydney Smith Lee,
who had entered the Navy before Robert went to West Point. Now for the
first time the brothers, sailor and soldier, fought side by side. But
it was with mixed feelings that Robert Lee passed through this
experience. He was brave enough on his own account, but he constantly
trembled for Sydney! He had placed a battery in position to reduce the
town, and thus describes the ensuing action:
"The first day this battery opened Smith served one of the guns. I had
constructed the battery, and was there to direct its fire. No matter
where I turned, my eyes reverted to him, and I stood by his gun
whenever I was not wanted elsewhere. Oh! I felt awfully, and am at a
loss what I should have done had he been cut down before me. I thank
God that he was saved. He preserved his usual cheerfulness, and I
could see his white teeth through all the smoke and din of the fire."
When the soldiers moved inland, after capturing Vera Cruz, the sailors
were left behind, and Lee had to bid his brother farewell.
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