Elihu Beard's Diary of 1849 represents a very personal view of America during its greatest period of transition and conflict. This remarkable young student of a Quaker family shares his thoughtful views on issues of his day, many of which still have pertinence today."...after a long and solitary walk, I found myself in a lonely and secluded spot. Yes, solitude is dear to me. I love it! There is a gloom upon my mind. I feel a heaviness of soul which fearfully speaks the boding of some fell disease within. Well Let it come; I dread it not there is but one thing in the world for which I would wish to live, and that is, that I may add something that will benefit the condition of my fellow beings or be of use to future generations." EBB