This is one of the most important source books of American history. General Heath's memoirs, which were originally published in 1798, are of direct value to the student of the war of the Revolution, constituting a first-hand account of many of the operations connected therewith, and assisting to an appreciation of the men and conditions of the period. The author served as a major general in the American army throughout the long conflict, his military activity dating from the battle of Concord, where he took part in the harrying of the retreating British.