Dalton, April 29, 1861

We reached this place, my dear Elodie, last night at two o'clock. Our passage from west point, over the whole route, was a continuous ovation to the troops. At Atlanta we were received very hospitably but by the citizens, and in the evening one of the prominent citizens addressed and welcomed our company. I replied, and in reply to an allusion made to our beautiful flag, which was recovered without injury, stated that it was the creation of two ladies nearly related to the hostess of the White House and had been presented to us by the fair women of Selma. The announcement was hailed in long and loud cheering. You will excuse the allusion, but my heart was full of you at the time, and I could not resist it. We were placed in an open house last night, and I slept with my shawl over me on a blanket with a billet of wood for a pillow, but with all this rough accommodation, I slept soundly, dreaming of my own noble and cherished "Ladye Love," who was then, I hoped, reposing peacefully at home. No I will not tell you so, for I flattered myself, that she was even then probably thinking of me.

We are now in our tents with our camp fire and will bivouac around them tonight. The regiment will be organized tomorrow and then we will proceed to Lynchburg Va. I do not know who will be Colonel as all of the companies have not yet arrived. The Guards will be here tonight or tomorrow morning. I know all of the officers here and, as many of them are personal friends, I hope to pass my time agreeably. I have not yet heard from you but hope to get a letter this evening or before I leave. I cannot tell how long we will remain at Lynchburg but will expect to hear from you there.

I am quite well, never felt better in my life, and if you were mine and I was at home with you to enjoy your cheerful laugh and sunny conversations, I would be happy indeed. How I long to sit again in my library with you presiding genius, surrounded by books, and with my dear Elodie to sing and play on the Piano. I feel certain that this happiness is in store for me, and how happy will be its fruition. If I deserve any distinction or promotion, it is on your account that I may be all that you will deserve in a husband. Goodbye. May God protect and guard you, and may I be worthy of you, my dear Elodie.

Ever your attached friend,

N. H. R. Dawson