Port Royal, May 12, 1861

My dear Elodie is not forgotten even at this late hour—ten o’clock at night. I have just arrived here in accordance of my command. For the first time since leaving Selma I am to sleep in a house and in a comfortable bed which Capt. Jones of the Va. Army has given me. I have been traveling since 5 o’clock yesterday evening and have just luxuriated in washing my face and hands for the first time. I have had neither breakfast, dinner, or supper, and have only eaten a cold lunch kindly provided by Miss Cobb of Lynchburg. God bless her goodness.

I am now within 18 miles of Harpers Ferry, and we will have to march there on tomorrow as the railroad terminates here. It will be a tedious travel, but I must make the best of it, and I can endure as well as the majority of my men.

We have passed thru a beautiful country. Some places are remarkably picturesque and romantic, but I hope Mr. Averitt will furnish Mrs. White with a full description and that you will excuse me from the task. In passing many beautiful country places, I wished that I could inhabit them with my own loved Elodie. Secluded and retired from the world would be happiness increased.

And now dear girl I must bid you good night. May God bless, preserve, and keep you and may angels guard your dreams and may they sometimes be of me who worships and adores you.

Ever and affectionately yours,

N.H.R. Dawson

Write frequently.

May 13, 5 o’clock A.M.

I have just risen from a refreshing sleep in which the image of my loved and sweet Elodie was not forgotten.

I enclose you a piece from a paper upon marriage which you will agree with me in thinking very beautiful. Read for my sake. We leave very soon, but I fear we will have rain.

Ever yours,

N.H.R. Dawson