This collection consists primarily of a letter that Cadet John L. Neely wrote to his mother, Bettie Neely, from the University of Tennessee on September 19, 1887. In it, he says that he enjoys school, discusses his classes, assures his mother that his health has been good, and mentions having spoken with the University's President (Charles W. Dabney) when he was visiting the dorm. Also included is a receipt (signed by W. W. Morrison) indicating that Cadet J. L. Neely has paid the $20.00 that he owed for board between November 1 and December 27, 1887.