In the letter to Semmes protests his arrest on December 15 and asks Grant to present the matter before the president. He claims the arrest is a violation of the parole he was granted after his surrender ("solemn military capitulation") at the end...
In the letter he discusses mutual acquaintances and relatives; some dental work he had recently; his plans for business and study; and social activities (including an unsuccessful taffy pull). He specifically mentions attending a show by "Negro...