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Union soldier writing to his cousin on election day. Hoping to be home for Christmas. Asks about his cousin’s recent sexual experiences. “Do you ever get any grouse? Plenty of it here but it is black strap.” Uses racist language to describe sexual relations with a previously enslaved woman, potentially the result of rape or coercion. Mentions a desire to play billiards with his cousin and their friends and requests an update about “that dear friend of mine… that lives in the Hotel.” Repeated use of the word “Bully.” In a “U.S. Christian Commission” envelope.

A former roommate, Doc, thrown in jail for drunkenness. Enjoying the bachelor's life and thinks he may "convert to the first principles of Shakerism and never get married." Listens to a band playing "Let me kiss him for his mother." Comments on a visit from Sam Welles, who spent the night in his room. "I rather think he was troubled with a night mare and taking me for a horse tried to ride - the consequence was - we both got kicked out of our virtuous couch." Written on Navy Department, Bureau of Equipment and Recruiting letterhead.

Staying with family in Cleveland. Held a surprise party for Harriet’s fifth wedding anniversary, describing the meal and gifts. Brief mention of April Fool’s Day and meeting a “divorced husband.” Attending Bible class with Dr. Maynard. Notes a large church procession of young girls marching to the Cathedral. Sad to see their piano taken away. Visited greenhouses and acquired plants and offers to purchase fabric for her mother if she “enclose[s] a greenback” in her next letter. Comments on pictures sent between family members and not telling anyone about the “accident which befell the Ambrotype.” Advises her mother to visit a dentist.

Letter to her brother, serving in the Union Army. Phonetically written. Pencil illustration of a woman.

Was not able to attend Georgie's dance, as she "had no one to run my Train down." Had hoped to come to Riverhead, but the train failed to come. Plans to visit soon. "… we are going to have skating here before long and you must come down." Notes Georgie's past skating parties.

Mother's advice to her son, including appropriate room temperature, washing clothing, and avoiding alcohol. Local news, including strife in the community about a doctor, debates over health impacts of using kerosene, a carriage accident, distrust of the local tavern. Frustration with constant social visits. Discusses family health and treatments.

Intends to leave early to arrive in Cincinnati in time for their wedding. Wonders if they need a marriage license. Comments on Nettie's nerves and preparations for the wedding, including cards and her ring. Mentions that it is "an interesting time in our City Churches," on account of the "Praying interest." Relays information about Lylla's "enjoying the Gayities of Washington City, quite a Contrast with our quiet life here, and frequent Prayer Meetings." Worries that Nettie may need more "Gayety" than his current lifestyle can provide. Received a pair of free passes for the Pennsylvania Railroad from a Senator.

Writing to their parents in New York, where Elie Charlier was teaching at the Charlier Institute, inquiring about their return to Brattleboro. Going to pick strawberries. Requests soft paper. Letter to their father is written in French, sending love.

Will not be returning this fall, or perhaps ever. Purchased a portion of a grocery store and will not be working in the pinery this winter. Crude and violent references to sex and the sexual pursuit of women, including an African American woman.

Comments on writing and receiving letters, including from cousin Tommie in Memphis. Will write to her Uncle Nick because her mother requested it, despite her disinclination due to hard treatment. Provides insight into Uncle Jimmie's "case," seemingly with a woman that Dallie does not respect. "... if he is willing to do what I wrote cousin Tommie he must, make himself a perfect fop, I do not think he need be uneasy about winning a 'yes' from her rosy lips." Asks after her mother's satisfaction with Mrs. Pitts, who cooks and cleans for her. Asks after her younger brother and sister.