Winchester, Virginia, July 18, 1861

We have all prepared for marching and are now ready waiting orders. We are entirely ignorant of the movement, whether in advance or retreat. You will know before this reaches you. We are reduced to our knapsacks. I have left my trunk with Mr. Williams. It contains your two last letters and the bible you gave me, with your likeness. These will be destroyed in case there is any danger of their falling into the hands of the enemy.

Goodby my own dear Elodie. Wherever I go and whatever fate betide me, I am your own devoted betrothed. May God in his mercy protect and guard us both.

Unless we leave this part of the state, you will continue to write me here. If you have any doubts of my whereabouts, write under cover to Mr. Williams. I am quite well and hope for the best. So far God has been kind. I have done better than I could have expected. I love you, my dearest, with all the devotion of my nature and prefer your love to that of anyone in the world. Your two last letters, from their affectionate tone, have greatly [] me. I will as you say endeavor to do my duty “as a brave, Southern soldier,” inspired by the love of a heroic maiden.

You must excuse this note, but I can do no better as we are much hurried. I think we will abandon Winchester and go to Manassas Junction. I will, however, write you as soon as it is known. If we go to Manassas write to me at Charlottesville of John Lewis Cochran, Esq. Goodbye.

Ever sincerely and affectionately yours,

N.H.R. Dawson