This book is chock full of some of the most fascinating, entertaining, and important first-hand anecdotes about leading figures in the American Civil War.Charles Anderson Dana is unknown to most Americans but was at the center of action during the war. Assistant Secretary of War under Edwin Stanton, Dana spent much of the war at Grant's headquarters, becoming a trusted and well-liked part of Grant's military family.Dana wrote about his many experiences with Abraham Lincoln, Edwin Stanton, Grant, Sherman, Sheridan, and many more of his friends and comrades. A reporter for Horace Greeley, he was let go by the great editor because Dana supported the Union war effort.Stanton first brought Dana into his department to do oversight and sent him to Vicksburg to see if the reports of Grant's excessive drinking were correct. Dana proved his value to the Union efforts over and over, and stayed at the center of the conflict throughout."This book forms one of the most remarkable volumes of historical, political, and personal reminiscences which have been given to the public. Mr. Dana was not only practically a member of the Cabinet and in the confidence of the leaders of Washington, but he was also the chosen representative of the War Department with General Grant and other military commanders, and he was present at many of the councils which preceded movements of the greatest importance."