In this letter dated November 2, 1863, S.S. Siles writes to Mary Knight from Camp Simmons, situated near Charleston, S.C. Siles conveys his disillusionment with the war and his yearning to be reunited with his family. He reveals that he has lost all sense of patriotism and now identifies as a "peace man." The letter also touches upon the harsh conditions at the camp, including inadequate rations and subpar living quarters. Siles mentions rumors that the regiment may soon relocate to Charleston to form a cavalry brigade. He expresses concern over the limited provisions and the toll the war is taking on women and children, especially given the insufficient pay for soldiers. The letter concludes with Siles urging Mary to write back soon and to bestow kisses on their children on his behalf.

Siles, S.S., Letter to Mary Knight, November 2, 1863. MS/52 William Knight Civil War Letters, Box 1, Folder 3. Valdosta State University Archives and Special Collections. 1 pdf document, 2 page scans, 29.5 MB (30,942,006 bytes). Includes transcript.