Lee is frustrated with his leaders, but slow to comment or judge. He waits to hear their side and wants to give them every opportunity to succeed. He observes his commanders, their personalities, flaws, and strengths and reads the interactions between the men. He learns what makes his men tick so that he can use it to motivate them to the desired result — victory.
In spite of his frustration with Ewell, Lee reflects that Ewell is not a Jackson, and he can't be. He wonders if a man loses something when he loses a leg, even though a man's spirit is not in his leg or any other part. Yet Lee does not judge, acknowledging the wound has not happened to him and so he cannot understand. Instead, when Ewell returns later, apologetic and upbeat, looking to please Lee, Lee responds with nurturing and a recognition of what Ewell has managed to achieve. Lee lets Ewell know he realizes it's hard to be a new commander.
Lee's faith in God shows up, particularly at the end of the chapter. So much anxiety and so many questions crowd his mind. Yet he prays, turns it all over to God, and falls asleep.
The close relationships between enemy commanders are apparent as Lee thinks of the dead Union general, John Reynolds. He even prays for him. There is the respect for a worthy opponent, a fellow gentleman.
