Alida; or, Miscellaneous Sketches of Incidents During the Late American War. / Founded on Fact

The narrative follows a young woman named Alida from rural childhood through education, family loss, romantic entanglements, and a brother’s military service and captivity during the American war. Personal dramas of separation, clandestine marriage, and restored fortunes are interwoven with detailed accounts of battles, patriotic celebrations, and a travel-rich tour of New York’s rivers, towns, falls, and military sites. The prose balances domestic and public events with moral reflection on reputation and charity, supplemented by poems and occasional editorial notes, and culminates in reconciliations and an emphasis on benevolent intentions for the work’s proceeds.