This sequel to Donald McCaig's Civil War novel "Jacob's ladder" delivers a saga of Reconstruction America from Lee's 1865 surrender at Appomattox to Custer's 1876 massacre at Little Big Horn. McCaig follows the changing fortunes of a diverse ensemble of characters, including Edward, a wartime top sergeant for the 38th Regiment, U.S. Colored Troops. Travelling west as a scout, trail cook, cattle driver, and sharpshooter, he marries a Santee Indian.