The collection consists of a single letter, possibly written by Marshall F. Gravely, to his sister. Written from a camp near Centreville, Virginia, the letter includes information about army conditions and the author's thoughts on service: he does not plan to reenlist before his first term is up, but he would glad continue on if drafted. A majority of the letter concerns issues of class. While Gravely is willing to serve, he is frustrated by wealthier men who aren't fighting. He spends nearly two pages talking about the Morrison family and their social conflict with him:

"I have always tried to keep them in a good humor with me...had it not been for them [the Gravely family] their Parlor would have been adorned with such interesting...characters as the Lawrences and Gilberts, and other mountain-tackies..."