Agnes Macdonald's private papers are used for the detailed study of Canada's "first lady," who became Sir John A. Macdonald's second wife on the eve of Confederation. The author's well-researched telling of Agnes's story paints a picture of a politically astute, naturally adventurous woman who had to change her style due to her position in the public eye, but who nevertheless retained her own opinions and lived her life with courage and integrity.