April 9, 1846

I sprang out of my berth and cried out to Mr. Hart [roommate] that the boat was on fire, and he in his hurry to save himself from the flames, came well nigh jumping astraddle of my neck, as he left the upper berth. However when I got my eyes open, I found I had been only dreaming….

Dear, dear Martha, I never knew how much, or how tenderly I love you, until I left you. I have often hoped, (though perhaps vainly) that the separation was less painful to you than to me; and I can hardly forgive myself now for leaving you so sick, and distressed as you were...

Your ever devoted

James