Book excerpt: This is a valuable contribution to general history, and especially to the history of the Uniteed States. The past of Texas is here brought down and covers a period of 161 years—the greatest prominence being given to the first half of the 19th century. Several familiar names figure in the work, respecting whom, in connection with Texas, the reader will naturally desire to learn what is here told. This is one of the most authentic and valuable books, in connection with the general affairs of Texas, that can be found; in which nothing is stated upon individual responsibility—everything in it is sustained by the official documents. This is volume one out of two.