Barrier writes that he is presently experiencing the "coldest winter within the knowledge of the oldest inhabitants of this section." All is quiet, though Saturday last the enemy shelled their position all day and advanced upon them, with little result. He acknowledges the recent news that peace talks have failed, decries those who still hope for reconstruction with the union, and celebrates Jefferson Davis for honorably attempting to pursue peace: "The time has at last arrived when there is no middle ground. Every man is compelled to say whom he will serve. We are compelled to fight to the bitter end or acknowledge ourselves the abject slaves of yankey taskmasters." He wishes that every man between 18 and 45 would take up arms and join the war effort and finds fault with those who do not, no matter who they may be. He offers his low opinion of his cousin's intended husband and advises his father against traveling to see him this winter, as it is miserable out on the road. He asks for more gloves and socks, as his current gear is "played out."