The letter, dated September 20, 1863, is from Camp Lee and addressed to Mary. The author, identified as S.S. Siles, expresses relief that William has returned home and hopes for his quick recovery. Siles mentions the difficulties faced by women who visit camps to bring their sick husbands home, noting that officers rarely pay them any attention. Siles laments the poor condition of the tents, which are old and worn, failing to provide adequate shelter from rain. He mentions that the Quarter Master tried but failed to secure new tents in Savannah. The letter also touches on the precarious state of the Confederate army, suggesting that its future may hinge on an upcoming battle in Northern Georgia. Siles fears that a defeat could lead to mass desertions. The letter describes the men as being very sickly, attributing this to their poor diet of only beef and cornmeal. Siles himself is not in good health, suffering from chest pains and fevers, but continues to perform his duties as an acting Orderly Sergeant. He urges Mary to tell William to write to him and to keep him updated with news.

Stiles, S.S., Letter to Mary Knight, September 20, 1863. MS/52 William Knight Civil War Letters, Box 1, Folder 3. Valdosta State University Archives and Special Collections. 1 PDF and 2 scans. Includes transcript.