In this diary, Pinckney Latham describes his service with Company A of the 4th Tennessee Infantry (CSA), nicknamed the Shelby Grays. Early entries mention troop movements, Latham's capture on February 12, 1865 near Memphis, Tennessee, and his parole at Vicksburg the following month. The diary goes on to describe his assignment to Meridian, Mississippi, including his journey to Meridian, the people he meets, the girls he sees, his activities when off duty, the weather, the progress of the war (including the fall of Selma, Alabama and Richmond, Virginia), and finally news of Lee's surrender. Only two entries were written after April 30, 1865. The end of the book includes account records and notes regarding finances. Also included are an index card regarding Imogene Latham's death, an obituary for Thomas M. Page, Confederate money, railroad vouchers, a blank furlough form for paroled or exchanged prisoners of war, and a note honorably dismissing Latham from Princeton University.