Lamar's Folly

Mirabeau Lamar seeks nothing less than a Texas empire that will dominate the NorthAmerican continent. Brave exploits at the Battle of San Jacinto bring him rank, power,and prestige, which by 1838 propel him to the presidency of the young Republic ofTexas and put him in position to achieve his dream. Edward Fontaine, who works forand idolizes Lamar, vows to help his hero overcome all obstacles, including the substantialpower of Sam Houston. Houston and Lamar are not only political, but personalenemies, and each man regards the other with contempt.Edward's slave Jacob likes and admires his master, but cannot share his hatred ofSam Houston. The loyalties of both Jacob and Edward are tested by President Lamar'sbelief that a righteous cause justifies any means necessary to sustain it. Lamar becomesinfatuated with a married woman who resembles his deceased wife. He sends the woman'shusband on the ill-fated Santa Fe Expedition, the failure of which humiliates Lamarand provokes a crisis in his relationship with Edward, who in turn jeopardizes the trustthat Jacob has placed in him. Edward laments the waste of Lamar's genius, while Jacobmarvels at the hypocrisy of both men.Jeffrey Stuart Kerr is the author of several titles, including Seat of Empire: The EmbattledBirth of Austin, Texas, winner of the Summerfield G. Roberts Award and a TrueWest Best Western Book.