In a letter to his wife written during the Civil War, Lee wrote of Grant: "He is a man of great determination and energy, and will push to the accomplishment of his purposes whatever obstacles may oppose him." After the war, Lee praised Grant's decision to allow Confederate soldiers to return home with their horses and arms, saying that it was "a most generous and humane act, and one which will do much to conciliate the feelings of our people."
Lee and Grant first met in person at the surrender at Appomattox Court House on April 9, 1865. Lee described the meeting as "painful," but he was impressed by Grant's "kind and magnanimous" demeanor. He later said of Grant, "He is a kind and noble-hearted man, as well as a great general."
In conclusion, Robert E. Lee had a high opinion of Ulysses S. Grant. He considered him to be a skillful and determined general, as well as a man of character and integrity. Lee admired Grant's conduct during the surrender at Appomattox Court House and praised him for his generosity and humanity.