Le Petit Versailles
Confederate State of Louisiana
19th July 1862
Dear Mr O’Malley,
Your letter unsettled me so, that you would ever even consider putting your affections for me above those of duty to your country. My country and I are inseparable. Mother says that this is the reason our brave boys go to battle – to preserve inviolate our beautiful South and the honour of Southern ladies. There is not one without the other.
‘Love’ would not be love (of the higher order) were you to yield to such thoughts. A lady could not encourage such a debasing of love’s virtues. Nor could she entertain a gentleman – for he would cease to be one – who would present such a jaded offering. (Such as might appeal to those personages in New Orleans whom General Butler declares no longer ‘ladies’!)
But this is not to chide you – for you are ever the object of all my affections. I know that you, like my brave Lamarr and Lovelace would make the final sacrifice if called upon – in the name of those you love and who love you dearly.
As always,
Emmy
P.S. Mother sends respects to Captain Joyce.