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Lee's military career ended with General Orders No. 9, a heartfelt farewell to his troops. There, he expressed his admiration and gratitude, acknowledging the bravery and steadfastness of the men who had stood with him through years of grueling conflict. Even as a paroled prisoner of war, Lee’s mind remained committed to peace, urging for an end to hostilities and a restoration of order—a position that contrasted sharply with that of his former commander-in-chief, Jefferson Davis.