The collection contains a letter written by Willis F. Riddick in Richmond, Virginia, to Addie Courier, April 1st, 1863. Riddick's letter is written from the Confederate Capitol of Richmond, Virginia and contains information relating to popular literature, war news, and items regarding the city of Richmond. Riddick relates his opinion about a short novel, "The Step Sister," as well as his opinions of "Paddy Gilmore," a comedic piece. Both pieces were written in 1863. Riddick writes that the Spotswood Hotel and Richmond House (a boarding house) were recently closed due to a lack of food. Riddick shares his opinion of the duration of the war and believed that it would continue until the election of 1864.