Originally published in 1859, the author was a former American Vice Consul in Nicaragua. Some of the press comments of the time were: "The work pursues a natural order - overlooking nothing of interest - giving glowing accounts of the country, its scenery and resources - doing justice to the history of the country and its revolution and leaders, and present inhabitants. ..." - Independent Civilian "During the filibustering career of Walker, he was a resident of Nicaragua, and saw many of the movements of the belligerents. His information is copious and thorough. The style is clear and lively, and the reader finds no difficulty in taking in the scenes described, and the events related. Whoever is interested in the affairs of Nicaragua, will find this book an indispensable necessity." - Philadelphia Dispatch