This collection consists of a single letter written by Riley Smith, a soldier in the 3rd Michigan Infantry during the American Civil War. Written from the regiment's camp on March 7, 1864, the letter is addressed "Dear Cousin Erma." Smith writes of his recent visit home, then of the prospects for peace: "I think the war will be over in the early part of summer because the army has been filled with men, not money or officers. ... Again Copperheadism that has been such a fire in the rear to us is about 'Plaid [sic] Out.' Later, he writes of the Confederate deserters crossing the lines each day. Smith also provides his reasons for reenlisting: "I like [my life as a soldier] very well when not in danger which happens but few times a year. ... I enlisted first with the prospect of eleven dollars per month and all the fighting to help put down this rebellion and I have never seen a time when I had so little faith in a government by the people that I was ready to go home and leave the job unfinished." Smith continues with a positive description of the local climate and its effect on his health.