The Leopard's Spots is the statement in historical outline of the conditions from the enfranchisement of the Negro to his disenfranchisement. The book begins: On the field of Appomattox General Lee was waiting the return of a courier. His handsome face was clouded by the deepening shadows of defeat. Rumors of surrender had spread like wildfire, and the ranks of his once invincible army were breaking into chaos. Suddenly the measured tread of a brigade was heard marching into action, every movement quick with the perfect discipline, the fire, and the passion of the first days of the triumphant Confederacy.