This book is specifically about the Barbary Wars against the Barbary Pirates. The author shows a fine appreciation of the character and achievement of these brave naval captains. The "brilliant, picturesque figure of Stephen Decatur" is strongly portrayed; and "the dashing and splendid quality" of his achievements which "leave a blaze upon the page of history" are told with great dramatic force. The story of the destruction of the Philadelphia frigate in the harbor of Tripoli is given in a most romantic and thrilling way. The "gentle character and quiet undaunted courage" of Richard Somers are brought out in vivid contrast to the generous, impetuous, Decatur. The fine friendship between these two men is a noteworthy incident in American history and is sympathetically drawn by the author. Her account, of the intrepid young Somers's rash attempt to destroy the ships in the Tripoli Harbor and the consequent loss of the brave young naval captain and his courageous crew of thirteen in the "Intrepid" is given with rare dramatic emphasis and appreciation of the great tragedy.
