An expansive, conversational memoir by an American newspaperman who recounts childhood in a politically charged household, formative years in Washington, Civil War-era perils and travel, and a long career in journalism and newspaper leadership. The narrative mixes vivid personal anecdotes about meetings with literary, scientific, and political figures, practical accounts of editorial and partisan battles, and candid reflections on slavery, Reconstruction, party conflict, feminism and suffrage, public character, and the practice of public life, balancing reminiscence with commentary on society, culture, and the responsibilities of the press.