My dearest Randolph,

I begin every day with thoughts of you and I end every night as I drift off to sleep, thinking of that night at the cotillion. Never in my life have I felt so alive, or has my life held such meaning.

Now you are far away, and I do not know how I will bear your absence. If we had never danced together, I would remain in blissful ignorance of the fullness of life, but now I am all the more filled with your absence.

Yet it is childish and selfish of me to complain. I can hardly imagine the hardships you must bear in the tropical jungles to which you have been sent. Are you hungy, plagued by mosquitos, or attacked by the evil Spanish.

In the weeks since you left, I've heard no news. I know if you could write, you would, and hope that you are well and your letters are delayed or lost at sea, and I can only hope my letters reach you to give you solace from your sufferings. Please do not worry on my behalf. Your love sustains me every day, and I am growing up and becoming stronger.

Be brave and keep yourself safe so you can return to me soon.

With all my love,

Mary