This is the seventh novel in Inglis Fletcher's celebrated Carolina series, and the keystone volume in her large design to compass in story the 200 years history of North Carolina from first settlement to ratification of the Constitution. The year is 1788 and Albemarle folk who have been united in war are divided in peace. A Constitution has been shaped in Philadelphia. Friend stands against friend in the bitter dissension over whether North Carolina shall ratify it and join the new union of the states. Leaders like brilliant, farsighted James Iredell and staunch Governor Sam Johnston use all their eloquence and prestige to persuade fellow citizens of the advantage in strong central government. As in 'Raleigh's Eden,' the principal characters are Adam and Mary Rutledge. Mary's strong conviction that the Constitution will safeguard all she holds dear. . . is opposed to Adam's belief that the new plan of government ignores the rights of men. His vote at the Hillsborough convention could estrange him from Mary.