"My dearest Annabelle,

Oh my greatest love, I am writing to you hoping you get this letter before it's too late. You know my loyalties for many a year lay with the most honorable of men, General Locker, and it pains me to put this in writing, but Locker was shot. Though we rushed to help him, as we bandaged his wound, the field hospital was captured, and he ordered us to flee. Oh my noble general, how I am shamed by my actions. I looked back as we rode and saw his tent aflame. And then they ran him through with a bayonet. And at some point I think they even broke his thumb. I do not think he will ever be fit to lead the Union ever again, even if he survived his wounds.

I fled North with the Confederates hot on my tail, when a light shown in the East and glory to my sight was a man I would come to know as "Stonewall" Mettsiah. He led a charge and fought off the men chasing me (though he took a wound to his shoulder, the stubborn man did not budge when Confederate reinforcements arrived). Watching him, I truly believe he is the true heir McNair and worthy of leading this nation that President McNair thrust into greatness.

I am now riding west. Though currently incapacitated, Mettsiah ordered me to help bolster our defenses. Until he can lead from the frontlines again we are vulnerable to an attack. Especially by ground! I am seeking the help of the last hero of a once proud nation. They call him Leonard of Troy. I can only hope I make it back before one of the Confederates' foreign generals make land and they mount their attack. It is said they sought the help of both Mariota the Duck and Chief Jameis of the Seminole nation. My only hope is that the pirates and buccaneers raiding the coast will slow them down long enough for me to return.

My dearest Annabelle, you must stay safe. I know you love our life there, but do not stay in the Pocket. I repeat do not stay in the Pocket. It is not as safe as it once was. Maybe someday Mettsiah will retake and hold the Pocket, but for now you must flee. Take the kids and ride hard to Kern. They say it is the closest thing to safe left in the north.

With love,

Your First Sergeant of the Draft"