This collection consists of a single letter written by Henry A. Converse, a Philadelphia attorney, on December 12-14, 1863. The letter is addressed to Converse's aunt, Mary B. Haralson of Longmeadow, Massachusetts. Converse writes of the experiences of Rev. A. H. Sloat, recently arriving from Virginia "under conduct of the Secretary of War (Confederate)" and reporting on the depreciation of Confederate currency. Converse then describes at length his personal activities: visiting with friends, playing checkers and chess with fellow boarders. He shares his views on the conscription act, apparently concerned that the examption for myopia will be rescinded, and relates the recent experiences of Frank Wolfe in reaching his post as clerk and secretary for Quartermaster General [Montgomery C.] Meigs in Chattanooga. Converse then writes at length regarding his struggle in establishing his law practice: "In the legal profession, times were never perhaps darker than they are now," Converse writes. "I have had my office open for a month. I have yet to take in the first fee." He hopes for an improvement in the law profession after the end of the war, as happened following the war of 1812. The writer then describes his little office and asks his aunt for advice in furthering his career and improving his income. The letter is accompanied by a stamped envelope and a typed transcript.