Based largely on primary documents, Davis (history, Virginia Tech) has written a biography of the friendship between Toombs and Stephens, presenting it as a microcosm of the Confederacy. He follows the friendship from its origin in the Georgia legislature to Toombs' eulogy for Stephens. He tells how Stephens and Toombs dominated the formation of the CSA and served as its Vice President and Secretary of State. He also recounts the disillusionment which led them each to renounce participation in the Confederate government. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)