My experience, containing the different battles, marches, skirmishes, pickets, etc., in which my Regiment, the 17th South Carolina Volunteers, commanded by Colonel John H. Means, participated. Containing sketches of service on the coast of South Carolina as well as in Virginia, more particularly referring to EH Carolina Rifles, the company to which I belonged, commanded by Captain John W. Avery, Yorkville, South Carolina
I wish this book to be kept inviolate, remember this.
Do not disfigure it but keep it sacred.
I desire to keep it as long as I live for certain reasons.
When I am away guard it with care if you love me.
This is my wish.
