This collection consists of a photocopy of a letter written by Joab Roberson (or Robertson), a private in Company I of the 57th Virginia Infantry during the Civil War. Writing to his wife Nan, Roberson discusses the possibility of selling his house to obtain a substitute to fulfill his military service, concluding, "I would be gladest [sic] in the world if I could get one but I think Nan that chance is a very bad one." Roberson mentions mutual acquaintances, both in the army and at home, and expresses a desire to be with his family. Elsewhere, he asks Nan to make and send him two shirts, using "cloth that would hide dirt good." A typed transcript accompanies the photocopy.