of a politician.

Of the myriad of bound volumes and pamphlets called forth by the war, a
very large number have long since been consigned to oblivion. Many of
these were written to bolster up personal ambitions, interests,
rivalries and jealousies, while as many more were composed, without
regard to facts, to gain dollars and cents. Of none of these productions
need anything further be said.

Comparatively speaking, there were but few books relating to the war and
published during the war that deserve to be recalled. After the war,
quite a number were issued, and, within the last ten years, a large
number have appeared, all destined to rank as "authorities" for the
future historian. The purpose of the present series of articles is, to
give such information in regard to these publications, as shall guide
students in mapping out a course of reading, and shall assist persons
entrusted with the selection of _standard books_ on war history for
use in city and town libraries.

The suggestions and information herein offered are, at their best, only
random notes. No special plan, or classification, will be followed by
the writer; his sole aim being to include only what is absolutely worthy
and "authoritative."


THE AMERICAN CONFLICT:--A History of the Great Rebellion in the United
States of America, 1860-64: Its Causes, Incidents, and Results. Intended
to exhibit especially its Moral and Political Phases, with the Drift and
Progress of American opinion respecting Human Slavery, from 1776 to the
close of the War for the Union. By Horace Greeley. Illustrated, 2