Chapter 3 Summary

Ellet publishes his report. In 1853, Humphreys receives an appointment to study European deltaic rivers and spends 18 months in field studies. Upon his return, he publishes a pamphlet attacking Ellet's study. In 1857, Humphreys reopens the Mississippi survey office in Washington. In 1860 and 1861, Humphreys spends a great deal of time compiling his report and gathering new field data. Finally, in 1861 amidst the civil war, Humphreys publishes his Mississippi River report. The report quickly wins acclaim in Europe, but due to the civil war, it is not widely received in the United States of America.

Humphreys is thereafter appointed brigadier general and placed in command of a combat infantry division. In combat he proves ruthless, cold and profligate in the expenditure of his troops. Humphreys basks in the acclaim of his superiors and the press and disregards any criticism.

After the war, Humphreys' report becomes the...