Found this letter in the archive microfilm, which explains why Chaplain Carothers left thhe 17th S.C.

Head Quarters 17th Regt. S. C. V.

Secessionville, S. C. November 24th, 1863

Col. F. W. McMaster

I respectfully tender to you my resignation of the office of Chaplain, 17th South Carolina Regiment.

In taking this step I am influenced by the following considerations. My residence is in the country (in York Dist. S. C.) and there are around my home several plantations owned by families who do not reside upon them, but have here to for kept overseers on them to control & manage the slaves--By the recent action of our own state authorities these overseers have been called into the military service; and my family are now left in an unprotected condition, exposed to depredations from four negro quarters, the most distant of them not more than two miles from my place.

In addition to the above consideration, I have the assurance of a worthy minister that he will (if appointed) take my place on the first of January next, & serve your Regiment.

I therefore hand into you my resignation. To take effect on the 23rd of Decr- proximo.

Very Respectfully

W. W. Carothers
Chaplain 17 th S.C.V.