Improvement of the World

In the concluding volume of his biographical trilogy, Chalfant (English, Hofstra U.) discloses the third of Adams' three secret lives. His partnership with Elizabeth Cameron, alliance with John Hay, travel to distant parts of the world, returns to Washington, and considerable writing all contribute to the tale. The other volumes are Both Sides of the Ocean , covering 1838-62, and Better in Darkness , covering 1862-91. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)