Winchester, June 27, 1861

My dear Elodie has not written me since the 17th, or rather I have not had a letter since that date, but I will not refuse to write as I know she has good reasons for her silence. I have written you almost every day since reaching this place.

Why shall I write? I have no intelligence to communicate, except the old story of my love and devotion, which will continue thro’ life.

We have now a most beautiful and pleasant encampment. For miles around we can see the blue mountains, distant about twenty miles. You would imagine our encampment a place that Robin Hood would have selected for his band, so shady and retired.

The ladies come out to see us, some in carriages, some on horse back. I wish I could recognize you, like [] mounted on a [] charger, riding into our camp. We would all give you three cheers.

The prospects of war and peace are daily discussed, but I see little hope of a speedy settlement of our difficulties, tho’ an hour may change all. We have rec’d from Selma sundry boxes of hams, and clothing and money, and are much elated. The cadets have passed resolutions of thanks, and I have written letters to the [] which go by mail today. I wrote one to Mrs. Babry. Don’t be jealous, my dearest, as I did not mention Miss G. in the note except in a general way. Among the caps was one for me, beautifully made and trimmed with gold lace, sent by Mrs. Man and Mrs. Dennis’s friend, Mrs. DeBose.

I am officer of the day and am again in full regimentals and have a horse to ride. I would send you my likeness did I think you would like to see me.

I have seen a notice of the concert in the Reporter. Did you sing the tale of Chamorini? I hope soon to receive a full account of the affair from your own pen.

We have a grand review on Wednesday evening. Gen. Bee is an elegant officer and has made a very decided impression on the soldiers. He says our regiment is the best in the army. We had an excellent band of music and marched thro the city of Winchester, much to the gratification of the ladies. You have no idea how popular brass buttons are with the Va. ladies, but I believe it is a weakness of the sex, from which I except you of course.

I hear today from Judge Pettus that Reginald is captain of a company in Wilcox county. It seems our family will all have a place in the army. My cousin, Dr. Talhia of Marion, a Baptist minister, commands a co. in Col. Moore’s regiment. So we go the world over. Now if you will organize a band to protect the gentlemen who remain at home, the circle will be complete.

Col. Ashby gained a glowing victory a few days since. With [] of his men, he routed a company of sixty-five [] regular dragoons, killing twenty-five with his own sabre. His brother Capt. Ashby was mortally wounded in the fight. Two daring men.

I am quite well again, my dearest, and have been quite uneasy about you, as you wrote that you were not well. Not having heard from you has increased my anxiety, but I suppose that our removal from Harper’s Ferry has had something to do with it as I wrote you not to write me until you heard further from me. You must excuse a short letter as my duties now take me away.

May God guard and keep you, my own dear Angel.

Affectionately and sincerely yours,

N.H.R. Dawson