Capturing a Locomotive: A History of Secret Service in the Late War.

The narrative recounts a secret raiding party sent into enemy territory to seize a locomotive and disrupt vital railroad connections, following the raiders' initial success, a prolonged and dramatic pursuit, capture, harsh imprisonment, court-martial proceedings, suffering and occasional exchanges, and daring escapes. The author blends personal eyewitness testimony with official reports, maps, and contemporary commentary to trace planning, execution, the railroad chase, prison conditions, medical and spiritual struggles, and the eventual fates of participants. Appendices and illustrations provide official findings, outside assessments, and visual clarification of routes and incidents.