25. Nellie's Letters, June - July 14, 1866

Portland Me June 7th 1866

Dear Harry --

You will perceive that I'm in Portland town. I came here with the bridal party and for various reasons have stayed two days. I shall return this afternoon.

We had a very pleasant time at the wedding notwithstanding the slightly unpropitious state of the weather. Monday

was a pouring rainy day and the journey was quite uncomfortable for me as I was on the road from six in the morning until six at night. Tuesday, the day, it did not rain but was overcast and looked a little gloomy They were worried at nine O clock in the morning. Wash and a Miss Norton stood up with them. The ceremony was very good -- neither long or short, and was with the visible symbol -- the ring. Their house was well filled with friends, wedding cake and wine was passed to the guests, of course Hattie

looked pretty; and she didn't spoil her beauty by weeping -- it is so much better not to have a scene.

Her presents were many and elegant. I can't think of enumerating them.

They were to stay Sunday night in Boston and the next in New Haven. If it is not too warm they will go as far as Washington and perhaps to Richmond, and return via Niagara, being gone about a month.

Last night I went to hear Miss Western play at the Theater. She is splendid in her rendering of her part in East Lynn, and was well supported.

I enjoyed it very much. Who do you guess took me there?

I'll tell you -- young Gage begged that honor and I gratified him. My friends seem to think much more of me as the time approaches for me to leave them -- and I do of them. Indeed I am just beginning to realize how hard 'twill be for me to say "good bye" to all the loved ones and start away with a dignified stranger. Oh, Harry! -- if you were only going to take me yourself! 'twould be so much easier!

You'll forgive me, won't you if my courage should fail me at the eleventh hour!

I'll try to be brave, and not disappoint you, but I'm a

little afraid of my strength. However, I'm not very well now -- haven't been for several weeks, and perhaps it is nervousness that brings these feelings. Don't worry, it is only a severe cold and I shall be nicely when we have some good weather.

My last letter from you was that of May 8th. Am glad you got my picture, but you do not say how you liked it.

It's provoking that you are to be annoyed by an opposition paper, but I can't think the annoyance will last very long. Such enter-