Memphis Tennessee,
March the 28 1863
Miss Sophronia McNitt,

Dear Miss

As it is a beautiful day it requires me to write to a beautiful girl who is charming to the eye of man. Dear Miss I commence this note not knowing with I shall be able to speak my mind on a delicate subject which is apt to puzzle inexperienced persons of our sex. The fact is that I adore you, that I greatly admire you, that I tenderly love you, this day, this happy day permits me to declare. For the hands of a sculptor never gave a lovelier face to arts embrace nor heart of painter e’er conceive.  In evilest dreams a sweeter face, O; of you I think by day and dream by night, you are the of my life and hope of my existence, O; well, you make bright and happy the life that will be dreary and gloomy without you. Could I know that these sentiments be sincerely expressed by me were as tenderly returned by you, none more so happy as your obedient servant,

Bachelor