This book narrates the history of the Marquis de Lafayette during the twenty months that elapsed between the day that Lafayette arrived in American and the day he returned to France.

The land of promise -- Three would-be Generals -- Major-General without command -- A debt of blood -- Conway and Lafayette cabal -- Washington or Conway? -- Encounter with the board of war -- Canadians, Tories, and Indians -- Humbling Conway -- Reconciliation or alliance? -- Defensive tactics -- On the offensive -- Lee's "disobedience" -- American soldiers and French sailors -- Straining the alliance -- Cajoling the Admiral -- Wheedling Congress -- A prudent Commander-in-chief -- Homeward bound.