From the preface: "During the performance of [these] duties of Post Surgeon at New York, and of Medical Director in Virginia, enatailing on him the care and treatment of the wounded, with the innumerable duties and responsibilities contingent thereon … it was his good fortune to be able to soothe the last agonies of many hundred officers and soldiers of the army, and to bear the parting message of affection and dying blessing to many a bereaved parent or sister..."