Frances Jenkins Olcott

Where may the wearied eye repose,
When gazing on the Great;
Where neither guilty glory glows,
Nor despicable state?
Yes—one—the first—the last—the best—
The Cincinnatus of the West,
Whom Envy dared not hate,
Bequeathed the name of Washington,
To make man blush there was but one!

Lord Byron

LINCOLN ON WASHINGTON’S BIRTHDAY

This is the one hundred and tenth anniversary of the birthday of Washington. We are met to celebrate this day. Washington is the mightiest name of earth—long since mightiest in the cause of Civil Liberty; still mightiest in moral reformation. On that name no eulogy is expected. It cannot be. To add brightness to the sun or glory to the name of Washington, is alike impossible. Let none attempt it.

In solemn awe pronounce the name, and in its naked deathless splendour, leave it shining on.

Abraham Lincoln, February 22, 1849

Washington was born, February 22, 1732

Was appointed Commander-in-Chief of the American Army, 1775

Was made President of the Federal Convention for Framing the Constitution, and signed the Constitution, 1787

Was inaugurated, first President of the United States, 1789

Issued his “Farewell Address,” 1796

He died at Mount Vernon, December 14, 1799

THE BOY IN THE VALLEY

The boy George Washington was magnificently strong and tall, with firm muscles and powerful body. He could run, leap, wrestle, toss the bar, and pitch quoits. He rode fiery horses and hunted foxes. He was a silent, determined lad, truth-telling, with a wonderful grip on his temper. By the time that he was sixteen he was an excellent surveyor.

And he was a proud and happy boy when, one spring day, he leaped on his horse, and, with a companion, rode away into the Wilderness on a real job of surveying.

Lord Fairfax, his close friend, owned a great estate of over five million acres stretching to the westward. A part of the estate was a wilderness, and lay on the other side of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It had never been surveyed. Squatters were stealing the land. So Lord Fairfax had sent sixteen-year old George Washington to survey it for him.

As the boy rode over the mountains, and guided his horse down the steep trail into the beautiful Shenandoah Valley, Spring was busy all around him. Cascades and torrents of snow-water were rushing from the mountain-tops to feed the bright Shenandoah River—“The Daughter of the Stars,” the Indians called the river.

The boy spent the better part of the first day riding through fine groves of sugar maples, and admiring the trees and the richness of the land. Here and there showed the little clearings, where the squatters were preparing their small farms for crops of tobacco, hemp, and corn.

For some days, he surveyed along the banks of the river and in the valley, roughing it at night. And many were the adventures he had about which he has written in his diary.

Sometimes he slept before the camp-fire or in a hut, at others in a tent. Once, he was nearly burnt to death when his straw bed caught fire. He roasted wild turkeys, and ate off chips for plates. He swam his horse through swollen streams, and followed the rough roads made by the squatters.

But his most exciting adventure was with Indians.

On the bank of the Potomac stood a little cabin. Near it was hung a huge kettle suspended over a place always ready for a fire. The cabin belonged to Cresap, a frontiersman, and so did the kettle. He kept the fireplace and everything in readiness for the passing Indians to cook their meals. The grateful Red Skins called him “Big Spoon.”

Rain and floods drove Washington to the cabin. Big Spoon invited him to stay until the bad weather was past.

On the third day, Washington looked out and saw a band of Indians carrying a scalp, come toward the cabin. It was a war-party returning from a raid.

Big Spoon greeted them heartily, for everybody was welcome at his place. The Indians built a fire, sat down in a circle, and held a big celebration. Then they performed a war-dance, while their musicians played on drums made of pots half full of water, with deerskin stretched tightly over them.

And as Washington watched their savage antics, he little dreamed how soon he himself would be fighting with Red Skins.

When his surveying was finished, he returned home to make his report. Lord Fairfax was delighted with his careful work and fine maps. In fact, to-day the surveys Washington made when a boy, stand unquestioned; they are so perfect.

Roughing it in the Shenandoah Valley was not the last of Washington’s adventures in the Wilderness. He was appointed public surveyor. For the next three years, he spent a great deal of time in the wilds, with settlers, frontiersmen, trappers, and Indians.

He grew to be over six feet tall, and remarkably strong and rugged. He overcame difficulties and faced dangers through pluck and perseverance.

He became a Colonel of a Virginia regiment. He acquired military training and widened his knowledge of handling all sorts of men.

What he learned about Indian warfare and life in the forests and in the Wilderness, taught him the caution and knowledge which he showed while guarding the retreat of what was left of Braddock’s troops.

So his adventures while a boy in the Valley, and his experiences as a young man roughing it on the frontier, fighting with Indians, carrying messages through the Wilderness, and serving as a soldier,—all prepared Washington to become the Liberator of our Country.

WASHINGTON’S MOTHER

Molly Ball of Virginia, Molly Ball with hair like flax and cheeks like mayblossoms,—as she is described in the fragment of a quaint old letter,—married Augustine Washington of Virginia, and became the mother of George Washington.

Washington was like his mother in qualities of character. He had her strength of will, love of truth, firm purpose, high sense of duty, dignity, and reverence.

All these noble qualities were strengthened and made practical by her careful education and discipline.

When he became great, she was quietly proud of him. And when people spoke warmly of his glory and success, she would say:—

“But, my good sirs, here is too much flattery. Still, George will not forget the lessons I early taught him. He will not forget himself, though he is the subject of so much praise.”

When she was informed by special messenger that Cornwallis had surrendered, she exclaimed:

“Thank God! war will now be ended, and peace, Independence, and happiness, bless our Country!”

After the surrender of Cornwallis, Washington visited his mother at Fredericksburg, where she was living in her own little house. She was about seventy-five years old.

He reached Fredericksburg surrounded by his numerous and brilliant suite. He dismounted, and sent to inquire when it would be her pleasure to receive him.

Afoot and alone, he walked to her house. She was by herself, employed in a household task, when she was told that the victor-chief was waiting at her door. She bade him welcome by a warm embrace, calling him “George,” the dear familiar name of his childhood.

She spoke to him of old times and old friends, but of his glory, not one word.

Meanwhile, in the town of Fredericksburg there was excitement and rejoicing. The place was crowded with foreign and American officers. Gentlemen from miles around were hastening into town to congratulate the conquerors of Yorktown.

The citizens got up a splendid ball in Washington’s honour, to which his mother was specially invited.

The foreign officers were eager to meet their Chief’s mother. They had heard of her remarkable character. They expected to see her enter the ballroom in glittering attire, clad in rich brocades, like the noble ladies of Europe.

How surprised they were, when, leaning on her son’s arm, she entered dressed simply. She was dignified and imposing. She received quietly all the compliments and attentions showered upon her. At an early hour she wished the company much pleasure, saying that it was time for old folk to be in bed.

She retired leaning on the arm of her son.

“If such are the matrons in America,” exclaimed the foreign officers, “well may she boast of illustrious sons!”

George Washington Parke Custis and Other Sources

WASHINGTON’S WEDDING DAY

Washington plighted his troth with Martha Dandridge, the charming widow of Daniel Parke Custis. She was young, pretty, intelligent, and an heiress.

It was a brilliant wedding party which assembled on a winter day in the little church near Mrs. Custis’s home. There were gathered the gay, free-thinking, high-living Governor, gorgeous in scarlet and gold; British officers, red-coated and gold-laced; and all the neighbouring gentry in their handsomest clothes.

The bride was attired in silk and satin, laces and brocade, with pearls on her neck and in her ears. While the bridegroom appeared in blue and silver trimmed with scarlet, and with gold buckles at his knees and on his shoes.

After the ceremony, the bride was taken home in a coach and six, Washington riding beside her, mounted on a splendid horse, and followed by all the gentlemen of the party.

Henry Cabot Lodge (Arranged)

WASHINGTON AND THE CHILDREN

I

There were two joyous little people who went to live with the bride in her new home at Mount Vernon. They were her two children, Jack Custis, six years old, and his sister Patsy, just four years old.

Washington gave them little ponies to ride. He bought fashionably dressed baby dolls for Patsy, silver shoe and knee buckles for Jack, and for both of them toys, gingerbread-figures, sugar-images, and little books with coloured pictures in them. He gave them each a Bible bound in turkey leather with their names printed in gilt letters on the inside covers.

II

Washington loved all children. He always smiled at them. He was specially popular with boys.

When he rode in state to Independence Hall in his cream-coloured coach drawn by six bays, and with postilions and outriders, boys were always at hand to cheer as he drove by. And when he returned to Mount Vernon, there were other boys waiting to welcome him. He could always count on boys, wherever he went, to shout and wave their hats. He used to touch his own hat to them as politely as if they were veterans on parade.

After his great dinners at Mount Vernon, as soon as the guests were done eating, he would tell his steward to call in the neighbours’ boys, who were never far away at such a time. In they would come, crowding around the table, and make quick work of the cakes, nuts, and raisins the guests had left.

At twilight, Washington had a habit of pacing up and down the large room on the first floor with his hands behind him.

One evening, a boy who had never seen him, climbed up to a high open window to look in at him.

The boy fell and hurt himself. Washington heard him cry, and sent a servant to see what was the matter.

The servant came back and said, “The boy was trying to get a look at you, sir.”

“Bring him in,” said Washington.

And when the boy came in, he patted him on the head, saying:—

“You wanted to see General Washington, did you? Well, I am General Washington.”

But the little fellow shook his head, and replied:—

“No, you are only just a man. I want to see the President.”

Washington laughed, and told him that he was the President and a man for all that. Then he had the servant give him some cakes and nuts, and sent him away happy.

Grace Greenwood and Other Sources (Retold)

THE LITTLE GIRL AND THE RED COATS

When Washington with the Army entered Boston after the British had evacuated the city, he made the best tavern in town his Headquarters. It had been the British Headquarters. The tavern-keeper’s little girl was running about very much interested in all that was going on.

Washington called her to him, and holding her on his knee, asked:—

“Now that you have seen the soldiers on both sides, which do you like best?”

The little girl hesitated, but like the great Washington himself, she could not tell a lie, so she said:—

“I like the Red Coats best.”

Washington laughed at her frankness, and said gently:—

“Yes, my dear, the Red Coats do look the best, but it takes the ragged boys to do the fighting.”

Wayne Whipple (Retold)

NELLIE AND LITTLE WASHINGTON

George Washington loved children, and, as he had none of his own, he adopted two of his wife’s grandchildren, Nellie Custis and George Washington Parke Custis.

The little boy was known as “Washington.” Nellie was a beautiful child with smiling black eyes and thick curly brown hair; while her brother was of very light complexion.

They had good times together at Mount Vernon. There was a delightfully fearsome pack of hounds in the kennel; French dogs, the gift of Lafayette, “fierce, big-mouthed, savage.” And there were litters of beautiful puppies.

The stables were full of horses, fine creatures for pets and playfellows. Nellie liked to be with the horses, and was constantly alarming her grandmother as she flashed by the windows or down the lanes, mounted upon some half-broken colt.

The children loved old Nelson, Washington’s war horse. They used to climb upon the fence to pat his forehead, as he came racing up to greet his master.

There were many other animals—gifts to Washington of friends and admirers.

Among them were Spanish jackasses, Chinese pigs, and Chinese geese.

There was always something going on to interest the children. They might run down to the river-landing to see what strange fish “Daddy Jack” had caught; day in and day out, “Daddy Jack” was always fishing there in his canoe. Or they might go to meet the hunter “carrying his gun and pouch, his body wrapped with strings of game, his dogs at heel.” They liked to look at the game, and smooth the thick feathers or soft fur. There were birds, squirrels, wild turkeys, molly cotton-tails, wily ’possums, and canvas-back ducks.

Coaches of company, too, were coming and going. State dinners were cooked and served to nobles and dignitaries.

And when the children ran about the gardens, they saw rare things growing—“fig-trees, raisins, limes, oranges, large English mulberries, artichokes.”

Then there were the mills to visit, the smithy, the shops, the fields, and the negro-quarters, all in company with their dear adopted father, Washington himself.

But the children and indeed every one looked forward to the evening, when Washington sat with them. This was the children’s hour, when by the uncertain twinkle of the home-made candles, they danced and sang their little songs.

The curled darling of the house was “Master Washington”—George Washington Parke Custis. Many years later, when Lafayette visited Master Washington, then grown up, he told how he had first seen him on the portico of Mount Vernon, a little boy, a very little gentleman, with a feather in his hat, holding fast to one finger of Washington’s hand, which finger was so large that the little boy could hardly hold on to it.

As for Nellie, she wanted to romp and play from morning till night. She did not like to have her hair dressed with feathers and ribbons. She did not enjoy her books and music. And she used to cry for hours together, while her determined grandmother stood guard over her, keeping her at practice on the beautiful harpsichord, which Washington had given her.

As for Washington, he tried to lighten little Nellie’s tasks, and used to carry her off for a gallop or brisk outdoor walk.

He was always extremely fond of little girls. He liked other little girls beside Nellie. He had with him her pretty sister, Elizabeth, when he sat for one of his portraits. And in the most critical week of his Presidency, Washington went to the house of one of his cabinet officers, and played with his little daughters.

Harriet Taylor Upton (Retold)

Many of the stories in this book are from the Life of Washington, by his adopted son, George Washington Parke Custis.

SEEING THE PRESIDENT

Sometimes, when President Washington went on a journey in his state-coach, he wanted to travel quietly, without attracting people’s attention. So he charged his courier, who rode on ahead, to make all necessary arrangements at inns, but to tell no one but the landlords, that the President was coming.

Often, however, the news leaked out, and was flashed throughout the countryside. Trumpets were blown, as the veterans of the War for Independence gathered to welcome their Chief. Village cannon roared. Every village and hamlet poured out its folk to greet the man who was “first in the hearts of his countrymen.”

As for the school children, how eagerly they hurried to get their lessons, so that as a reward, they might see General Washington.

And when at last he did come, how happy the children were to be presented to him. With delight, they listened to his kind voice, felt the kindlier touch of his hand, and even climbed on his knee to look up into his smiling face.

George Washington Parke Custis (Retold)

NELSON THE HERO

There was one old horse at Mount Vernon, after the War for Independence, who was a hero. He was never ridden. He was cared for kindly. He grazed in a pleasant paddock.

That was Nelson, Washington’s favourite and splendid charger, which he had ridden on the day of the surrender at Yorktown. He was a light sorrel, with white face and legs.

Now that he was old, he was petted and cared for. Whenever Washington made the rounds of his kennels and stables, he stopped at the paddock. Then the old war-horse would run neighing up to the fence, proud to be caressed by the hand of his master.

George Washington Parke Custis (Retold)

CARING FOR THE GUEST
Told by the Guest Himself

I had feasted my imagination, for several days, on the near prospect of a visit to Mount Vernon, the seat of Washington. No pilgrim ever approached Mecca with deeper enthusiasm.

The first evening I spent under the wing of his hospitality, we sat a full hour at table, by ourselves, without the least interruption after the family had retired.

I was extremely oppressed with a severe cold and excessive coughing, contracted from the exposure of a harsh winter journey. He pressed me to use some remedies, but I declined doing so.

As usual, soon after retiring, my cough increased.

When some time had elapsed, the door of my room was gently opened. And, on drawing back my bed-curtains, to my utter astonishment, I beheld Washington himself standing at my bedside with a bowl of hot tea in his hand.

Elkanah Watson (Condensed)

THOUGHTFUL OF OTHERS

Once, when Washington was stopping for refreshment at a house in Jersey, some one told him that a wounded officer was there, who could not bear the slightest sound.

During the meal, Washington spoke in an undertone, and was careful to make no noise.

After he had left the table, however, his officers began to talk in loud voices. Instantly, Washington softly opened the dining-room door, entered on tip-toe, took a book from the mantelpiece, and stole out of the room without uttering a word.

His officers took the hint, and were silent.

THE CINCINNATUS OF THE WEST

In the ancient days of Rome, a terrible enemy threatened the city. There was no Roman general wise enough to lead the army against the foe. There was just one plain Roman citizen whom the people trusted. They believed that he had the wisdom to save them. This was Cincinnatus the Curly-haired. They sent hasty messengers to bid him come to the aid of Rome.

The messengers found him tilling his land, for he was a farmer. His feet were heavy with damp earth and his clothes covered with soil. He listened to their message, and to the request of the Roman Senate that he should come at once to the aid of his Country.

He called his wife to bring his toga from their hut. After he had wiped off the dust and sweat, he put on his toga and went with the messengers.

So he saved Rome.

Thus it was with Washington.

When the call came for him to save his Country, he left his plantation. So did many farmers and planters; at a moment’s notice they left their farms and plantations, took up their muskets and answered the call of their Country. They became officers in Washington’s Army.

After the war, these officers formed a society, called the Society of the Cincinnati, naming it after the patriotic old Roman farmer.

To it belonged Washington, Hamilton, Lafayette, Kosciuszko, and many other American and foreign officers, who had served with honour in the Continental army. To-day their descendants, one representing each officer, belong to the Society of the Cincinnati.

The French members presented Washington with a magnificent badge of the Order, studded with about two hundred precious stones—diamonds, rubies, emeralds, and amethysts.

Washington himself is called:—

BROTHER JONATHAN

Patriotic and plucky was Connecticut, the State of the Charter Oak. It had been a liberty-loving Colony from the days when its first settlers, with their wives, children, household goods, and cattle, came through the howling Wilderness—literally howling with savage Pequot Indians—and settled on the banks of the beautiful Connecticut River, whose name in the Indian language means Long River.

Those brave settlers came into the Wilderness so that they might have religious and civil Liberty. Almost, their first act was to frame in 1639, a Constitution for their own government. It was the first Constitution in America to make no mention of allegiance to King or Great Britain. It breathed the free spirit of American Independence over a hundred years before the Declaration of Independence.

Is it strange, then, that Jonathan Trumbull, Governor of Connecticut under King George, should have been a Patriot?

He was more than loyal to American freedom. He was Washington’s friend and supporter. He supplied Washington with soldiers and ammunition. He supplied more than half the powder used at Bunker Hill.

There is a tale, that once when Washington was hard put to it for ammunition, and it looked as though the campaign would fail for lack of powder and shot, Washington said to his officers, “We must consult Brother Jonathan.”

Then Washington consulted Governor Trumbull, and got his powder and shot.

After that, whenever a difficulty arose in the Army, the men would say, “We must consult Brother Jonathan.” So the saying became a byword.

Later, people nicknamed the United States, “Brother Jonathan,” just as England is called “John Bull.”

THE BLOODY FOOTPRINTS

It was the terrible winter of 1777. The snow lay thick on the ground, and the cold was piercing. Through the snow, a detachment of Patriot troops was wearily plodding toward winter-quarters at Valley Forge. Half-naked, hungry, and numb with cold, they pushed on.

Presently Washington rode slowly up after them. He was eying the snow intently through which they had marched. There was something on its frozen surface, something red that he had tracked for many miles.

Saluting the commanding officer, Washington drew rein.

“How comes it, sir,” he said, “that I have tracked the march of your troops by the bloodstains of their feet upon the frozen ground? Were there no shoes in the commissary’s stores, that this sad spectacle is to be seen along the public highways?”

“Your Excellency may rest assured,” replied the officer, “that this sight is as painful to my feelings as it can be to yours. But there is no remedy within our reach. When the shoes were issued, the different regiments were served in turn. It was our misfortune to be among the last to be served, and the stores became exhausted before we could obtain even the smallest supply.”

Washington’s lips compressed, while his chest heaved with the powerful emotions that were struggling in his bosom. Then turning toward the troops, with a trembling voice, he exclaimed:—

“Poor fellows!”

Then giving his horse the rein, he rode sadly on.

During this touching interview, every eye had been bent upon him; and as those two words warm from the heart of their beloved commander and full of commiseration for their sufferings, reached the soldiers, there burst gratefully from their lips:—

“God bless your Excellency, your poor soldiers’ friend!”

George Washington Parke Custis (Arranged)

AN APPEAL TO GOD

On a cold wintry journey to Valley Forge, Mrs. Washington rode behind her husband on a pillion. He was on his powerful bay charger, and accompanied by a single aide-de-camp.

On his arrival at Valley Forge, Washington placed her in the small but comfortable house of Isaac Potts, a Quaker preacher.

So in all the trials of that Winter at Valley Forge, Washington had the most earnest sympathies, cheerful spirit, and willing hands of his loving wife to sustain him and share in his cares.

She provided comforts for the sick soldiers. Every day except Sundays, the wives of officers, and other women too, assisted her in knitting socks, patching garments, and making shirts for the poor soldiers.

Every fair day, she might be seen, basket in hand and with a single attendant, going among the huts and giving comfort to the most needy sufferers.

On one occasion, she went to the hut of a dying sergeant, whose young wife was with him. His misery touched the heart of Mrs. Washington, and after she had given him some food prepared with her own hands, she knelt down by his straw bed, and prayed earnestly for him and his wife, in her sweet serious voice.

But it was not only women who prayed in those terrible days at Valley Forge.

The cold and suffering increased. One day Friend Potts was walking by the creek not far from his house, when he heard a solemn voice speaking. He went quietly in its direction, and saw Washington’s horse without a rider tied to a sapling.

He stole nearer, and saw Washington himself, kneeling in a thicket. He was on his knees in prayer to God asking Him for help. Tears were on Washington’s cheeks.

And quietly the Friend stole away. On entering his house, he burst out weeping. When his wife asked him what was the matter, he said:—

“If there is any one on this earth whom the Lord will listen to, it is George Washington. And I feel a presentiment that under such a Commander there can be no doubt of our eventually establishing our Independence, and that God in His providence has willed it so.”

Benson J. Lossing (Arranged)

FRIEND GREENE

It was at the Siege of Boston. The troops of the Colonies were raw and uncouth. They were camping separately. Washington was inspecting their camps for the first time. He saw that their shelters were made of anything the soldiers could lay hands on, turf, bricks, sail-cloth, boards, or brushwood. Each soldier seemed to live and do as he pleased.

But when Washington reached the camp of the Rhode Island troops, he perceived neat tents pitched, soldiers well drilled and equipped, and under perfect discipline. He was pausing to look around him with pleasure and approval, when a young officer, vigorous and finely built, stepped forward to greet him, his frank manly face beaming with a cordial welcome.

The young man was Nathanael Greene, Commander of the Rhode Island troops. It was he who had trained them, after studying the manoeuvres of the British troops in Boston.

Nathanael Greene was born a Friend or Quaker. When a boy, he worked in his father’s forge, and helped on the farm.

He was eager to read. He got together a little library of his own. He studied hard. He liked best to read about military heroes. When he grew older, although he was a Friend, he joined the Rhode Island militia. Later he was appointed Rhode Island’s Commander, and led her troops to Bunker Hill and the Siege of Boston.

Washington liked and trusted him at first sight. Later his confidence became friendship.

At Valley Forge, Nathanael Greene gave up active duty in the field, much to his sorrow and regret, and became Quartermaster-General. He gave up his ambitions, in order to help Washington relieve the sufferings of the troops. As Quartermaster-General, he was soon able to supply them with some blankets, clothes, and food, all of which Congress had failed to deliver.

Later Greene’s reward of faithful service came. Washington appointed him Commander of the Army in the South. It was a post of great danger; but he conducted his military operations with such courage and sagacity that they led on to completed victory for the American arms at Yorktown.

This is what John Fiske says of Nathanael Greene:—

“The intellectual qualities which he showed in his southern campaign were those which have characterized some of the foremost strategists of modern times.... Nor was Greene less notable for the sweetness and purity of his character, than for the scope of his intelligence. From lowly beginnings he had come to be ... the most admired and respected citizen of Rhode Island.”

LIGHT HORSE HARRY

I

The most dashing and romantic young soldier of the Continental Army, was Light Horse Harry. His real name was Henry Lee.

He was a small, alert, young man, mischievous sometimes, but always brave. He was a cavalry-leader. He commanded the famous Legion of Light Horse, which took part in so many heroic battles. He was one of Washington’s most trusted generals.

His charm and dauntlessness delighted Washington, who showed warm interest in his promotion; perhaps this was because Light Horse Harry’s mother had been Washington’s young sweetheart in his schoolboy days. “My lowland beauty,” he had called her. But she had married a Lee, and not Washington.

Light Horse Harry had many adventures as romantic and daring as himself.

II

Light Horse Harry was a favourite at Mount Vernon. He did not stand in any reverential awe of the great Washington.

One day, as they sat at table, Washington mentioned that he wanted a pair of carriage horses, and asked the young man if he knew where they might be bought.

“I have a fine pair, General,” replied he, “but you cannot get them.”

“Why not?”

“Because you will never pay more than half price for anything; and I must have full price for my horses.”

This bantering reply set Mrs. Washington laughing; and her parrot, perched beside her, joined in the laugh.

Washington took this familiar assault upon his dignity with great good humour.

“Ah, Lee, you are a funny fellow!” said he, “See, that bird is laughing at you!”

III

When Washington died, it was Light Horse Harry who was chosen by Congress to deliver the funeral oration before both Houses. It was in this oration that he said those famous words:—

“He survives in our hearts—in the growing knowledge of our children, in the affection of the good throughout the World,— ... first in war, first in peace, and first in the hearts of his countrymen ... pious, just, humane, temperate and sincere, uniform, dignified and commanding ... the purity of his private character gave effulgence to his public virtues.”

Washington Irving and Other Sources (Retold)

CAPTAIN MOLLY

Moll Pitcher, twenty-two years old, was dubbed Captain at the Battle of Monmouth, and very proud she was of the title. Her real name was Molly Hays. She carried drinking-water on the battle-field, to refresh the soldiers; so they nicknamed her Moll Pitcher.

At Monmouth, her husband, a Patriot, belonged to Proctor’s artillery. Moll was with him on the field. Six men, one after another, were killed or wounded at her husband’s gun.

“It’s an unlucky gun,” grumbled the soldiers, “draw it aside and abandon it.”

Just at that moment, while Moll was serving water to the soldiers, her husband received a shot in the head, and fell lifeless under the wheels of that very gun.

Moll threw down her pail of water; and crying, “Lie there, my darling, while I revenge ye!” she grasped the ramrod that the lifeless hand of the poor fellow had let fall, and rammed home the charge.

Then she called to the artillerymen to prime and fire.

It was done. Pushing the sponge into the smoking muzzle of the gun, she performed the duties of an expert artilleryman, while loud shouts from the soldiers passed along the line.

The gun was no longer thought unlucky. The fire of the battery became more vivid than ever.

Moll kept to her post till night closed the action, and the British were driven back by the Patriots, Washington himself leading them to the attack.

It was then that General Greene complimented Moll on her courage and conduct. The next morning he presented her to Washington, who received her graciously, and gave her a piece of gold, assuring her that her services should not be forgotten.

Washington conferred upon her the commission of sergeant, and placed her name on the half-pay list for life.

The French officers, charmed with her bravery, gave her many presents. She would sometimes pass along the French line with her cocked hat, and get it almost filled with crowns.

She was always welcome at Headquarters. She wore a cocked hat and feather, and an artilleryman’s coat over her petticoat.

One day, Washington found her washing clothes, and stopped to chat with her.

“Well, Captain Molly,” he said, “are you not almost tired of this quiet way of life; and longing to be once more on the field of battle?”

“Troth, your Excellency,” replied she, “and ye may say that! for I care not how soon I have another slap at them Red Coats, bad luck to them!”

“But what is to become of your petticoats, in such an event, Captain Molly?”

“Oh, long life to your Excellency!” said she, “and never de ye mind them at all at all! Sure, and it is only in the artillery, your Excellency knows, that I would sarve, and divil a fear but the smoke of the cannon will hide my petticoats!”

George Washington Parke Custis, and Other Sources

THE SOLDIER BARON

While the ragged Patriot Army with Washington starved, froze, and suffered at Valley Forge, there was speeding down from Boston on a fast saddle-horse, a man who was to help them win the war.

His keen hazel eyes looked pleasantly out from under bushy brows. His mouth smiled with good cheer; but he held his head in military fashion. The glittering star of a foreign Order was on his breast, and he carried a letter of recommendation from Benjamin Franklin to George Washington, Commander-in-Chief of the American Army.

He was Baron Steuben, a famous soldier and German hero of the Seven Years’ War. He had offered his services to Washington to train the Army, explaining that he wished to deserve the title of a citizen of America, by fighting for her Liberty.

At his side rode his young and waggish French interpreter in scarlet regimentals faced with blue. His bright eyes were always on the watch for a glimpse of pretty American maidens. Behind the two came their servants with the baggage.

It began to snow heavily. Night fell. They drew rein at an inn. It had a bad name; and it was kept by a Tory.

“I’ve no beds, bread, meat, drink, milk, or eggs for you,” said the sullen Tory landlord.

And neither Steuben’s remonstrances nor oaths could make him change his mind.

Steuben’s blood began to boil. “Bring me my pistol!” he cried in German to his servant.

And the landlord, who was smiling maliciously, suddenly felt a pistol pressed against his breast.

“Can you give us beds?” shouted Steuben.

“Yes!” cried the affrighted man.

“Bread?”

“Yes!”

“Meat—drink—milk—eggs?”

“Yes!—yes!—yes!—yes!”

And the trembling landlord scurried around. The table was quickly laid, and food set out. Then after a substantial supper, a comfortable night and a hearty breakfast, the Baron and his men mounted and were off again.

To cut the story short, he was soon at Valley Forge, serving with Washington, and training the troops. They had had little expert military training before. The Baron drilled the soldiers himself. He took a musket in hand and showed them how to advance, retreat, or charge without falling into disorder.

Not only the soldiers, but the generals, colonels, and captains, watched him eagerly and with enthusiasm. Soon the camp was a bustling military training school. The men almost forgot their sufferings, so intent they were on learning. They worked incessantly and with tremendous energy.

But the Baron made it lively for them, for he had a quick temper. He swore at them in three languages; and, when they did not understand that, he called his aide to help him out in English.

Some of the men had thrown away their bayonets, and some had used them for roasting meat. But the Baron soon drilled them to use bayonets with such good effect that when later a column of them stormed Stony Point they took it in a bayonet charge.

He—the bluff Steuben—never failed in bravery on the battle-field. At Monmouth, while the American troops were fleeing in panic, the Baron kept doggedly on with his face to the foe. Meanwhile, Washington, furious and fiery, rallied the soldiers and led them back to victory. “It was now,” says John Fiske, “that the admirable results of Steuben’s teaching were to be seen. The retreating soldiers immediately wheeled and formed under fire, with as much coolness and precision as they could have shown on parade.”

Bluff, generous, kindly, old Steuben still served the Country after peace and Independence came. Then he settled down on his farm of sixteen thousand acres, the gift to him from the State of New York, in recognition of his patriotic services. “Throughout the war,” says John Fiske, “Steuben proved no less faithful than capable. He came to feel a genuine love for his adopted Country.”

FATHER THADDEUS

“What do you wish to do?” said Washington.

The young Polish officer with a rugged face, held himself erect.

“I come,” answered he, “to fight as a volunteer for American Independence.”

“What can you do?” asked Washington.

“Try me!” said the young Pole, his dark eyes flashing pleasantly.

So Washington tried him.

He was Thaddeus Kosciuszko, born in Lithuania, and a Patriot of unhappy Poland.

Poor Poland! Dismembered, patriotic Poland! Again and again she had been betrayed, and divided by her greedy neighbours, Russia, Prussia, and Austria. But always the fires of Patriotism had burned in the hearts of the Poles, and though they had been forced to bow their necks to their enemies they had never bowed their hearts.

And it was a romantic story that had sent young Kosciuszko post-haste from Poland to America. He was poor but of good blood. He had fallen in love with a beautiful and clever Polish girl. Her father was a haughty, rich State official. He would not give his consent to their marriage. So the young lovers eloped. The father pursued them with his men. Kosciuszko fought like a lion to defend his beloved Ludwika. But her father’s men wounded him so severely that he fell senseless on the field. Then her father carried Ludwika home, and married her to another man.

When Kosciuszko came to his senses, his Love was gone. Her handkerchief stained with his own blood, lay beside him. He took it up reverently and placed it in his bosom.

Thus disappointed in love, he had left Poland and come to America to forget his grief in fighting for Freedom. For Kosciuszko had been a Patriot and a lover of Liberty for all men, since his early boyhood.

Washington placed him on his own staff. Soon he found that the young man had talent, and was an experienced army engineer. He commissioned him Chief Engineer. Kosciuszko rendered great service to America, but his most important work was on the defenses of West Point.

When our War for Independence was over, he returned to Poland. He became her leading Patriot, defending her against the invasions of Russia, Prussia, and Austria. “Father Thaddeus” his men called him, as he led them into battle.

During his famous defense of Warsaw, he was badly wounded on the battle-field, and captured by Cossacks. He was thrown into a Russian prison; and there he was kept until after the death of Catherine the Great.

He was released by the new Czar, who admired him, and wished to give him a brilliant commission in the Russian Army. But Kosciuszko refused his offer, and went into voluntary exile. He still hoped that some day again he might serve Poland.

His wounds were yet unhealed. There was a sabre-cut across his forehead. There were three bayonet-thrusts in his back. A part of his thigh had been torn away by a cannon ball. Around his forehead, he kept a black band tied over the sabre-cut.

He went into exile, and the people of Poland believed that he was dead.

. . . . . . . . . .

It was nearly seventy-five years after that red-letter day in Lithuania, on which Thaddeus Kosciuszko had been born.

It was in 1814, France and Russia were at war. The Russian Army, as it advanced against Paris, was barbarously pillaging the valley of the Seine. The soldiers were burning the cottages of the poor peasants over their heads, and ill-treating the children, women, and aged folk.

Among the Russian troops was a Polish Regiment. And while its soldiers were savagely burning and looting the little houses, an old man with a scar across his forehead, rushed suddenly in among them.

Raging like a lion, he shouted in Polish:—

“When I commanded brave soldiers, they never pillaged—I should have punished them severely! And still more severely would I have punished officers who allowed such disorders as you are all now engaged in!”

“And who are you, my pretty old man,” cried the officers with sneers and laughter, “who are you that you dare to speak to us in such a tone, and with such boldness!”

“I am Kosciuszko,” was the quick reply.

Each man stood fixed to the spot. Each was paralyzed with astonishment.

There, before them with flashing eyes, stood Poland’s hero—the Polish soldiers’ “Father Thaddeus.”

Then the men threw down their arms to the ground. They cast themselves at his feet. They sprinkled dust upon their heads as was their wild custom at home. They crept close to him, hugging his knees and begging for his forgiveness—for the forgiveness of their “Father Thaddeus.”

. . . . . . . . . .

When Kosciuszko died in Switzerland, in 1817, there was found in his bosom next his heart, the blood-stained handkerchief which his lost love Ludwika had dropped beside him, so long before.

To-day, in a little chapel at the foot of the lime-planted Hill, the Lindenhof, there is a bronze urn, in which lies the once brave heart of Thaddeus Kosciuszko.

THE LITTLE FRIEND IN FRONT STREET

He was only a little man in his office on Front Street, Philadelphia.

Only a little man—but how great! Without his help our War for Independence might have been lost. He helped to save the Country not with a sword, but by giving all the means that he had and expecting nothing in return.

This little man—his “little friend in Front Street,” as James Madison called him—was Haym Salomon, a Polish Jew and a Patriot.

Through Robert Morris, who was Superintendent of Finance, during the War for Independence, Haym Salomon loaned money to establish the Government and to pay the soldiers. Without his money, Washington could scarcely have held the Army together. And all the while, the little friend in Front Street was refusing any interest on his loans; and some of these loans were never repaid at all.

And he not only financed the Nation, but generously made personal advances of money without interest to members of the Government, in order that they might keep on in their patriotic work. “When any member was in need, all that was necessary was to call upon Salomon,” said James Madison.

But it was not only by financing our young Nation, that Haym Salomon showed his Patriotism.

He was born in Poland of an intelligent educated family. He knew many languages. He was a friend of Kosciuszko and Pulaski. Because of oppression, he left Poland and came to New York City. He married and settled down to business. He soon found, however, that the Americans were heavily oppressed by England. So he threw himself heart and soul into the cause for Independence.

He became a Patriot. He was arrested by the British, imprisoned, tortured, and condemned to death. He managed to escape, and reached Philadelphia safely. There he opened his broker’s office in Front Street. He became a great financier. Henceforward he unselfishly devoted his brains, his energy, and his wealth to help win the War for Independence and build up our Republic.

FAREWELL! MY GENERAL! FAREWELL!
December 4, 1783

The War for Independence was over.

Thursday the 4th of December was fixed upon for the final leave-taking of Washington with his officers.

This was the most trying event in his whole career, and he summoned all his self-command to meet it with composure.

Knox and Greene, and Hamilton and Steuben, and others assembled in Fraunces Tavern,[4] and waited with fast-beating hearts the arrival of their Chief.

Not a sound broke the silence as he entered, save the clatter of scabbards as the whole group rose to do him reverence. Casting his eye around, he saw the sad and mournful countenances of those who had been his companions-in-arms through the long years of darkness that had passed. Shoulder to shoulder, they had pressed by his side through the smoke of the conflict. He had heard their battle-shout answer his call in the hour of deepest peril, and seen them bear his standard triumphantly on to victory. Brave hearts were they all and true, on whom he had leaned and not in vain.

Advancing slowly to the table, Washington lifted the glass to his lips and said in a voice choked with emotion:—

“With a heart full of gratitude and love, I now take leave of you. I most devoutly wish that your latter days may be as prosperous and happy as your former ones have been glorious and honourable.”

A mournful, profound silence followed this short address, when Knox advanced to say farewell. But neither could utter a word,—Knox reached forth his hand, while Washington, opening his arms, took him to his heart.

In silence, that was more eloquent than all language, each advanced in turn and was clasped in his embrace.

Washington dared not trust himself to speak, and looking a silent farewell, turned to the door. A corps of light infantry was drawn up on either side to receive him, and as he passed slowly through the lines, a gigantic soldier, who had moved beside him in the terrible march on Trenton, stepped from the ranks, and reaching out his arms, exclaimed:—

“Farewell! my dear General, farewell!”

Washington seized his hand in both of his and wrung it convulsively. In a moment all discipline was at an end; and the soldiers broke their order, and rushing around him, seized him by the hands, covering them with tears.

This was too much for even his strong nature, and as he moved away his broad chest heaved, and tears rolled unchecked down his face.

Passing on to Whitehall, he entered a barge, and as it moved out into the bay, he rose and waved a mute adieu to the noble band on shore.

The impressive scene was over.

J. T. Headley (Condensed)

FROM “WASHINGTON’S LEGACY”
OR HIS LETTER TO THE GOVERNORS OF ALL THE STATES

I now make it my earnest prayer that God would have you, and the State over which you preside, in His holy protection; that He would incline the hearts of the Citizens to cultivate a spirit of subordination and obedience to government; to entertain a brotherly affection and love for one another, for their Fellow-citizens of the United States at large, and particularly for their brethren who have served in the field;—and finally that He would most graciously be pleased to dispose us all to do justice, to love mercy, and to demean ourselves with that charity, humility, and pacific temper of mind, which were the characteristics of the Divine Author of our blessed Religion, and without an humble imitation of whose example in these things, we can never hope to be a happy Nation.

George Washington

A KING OF MEN

Hand in hand with ... rare soundness of judgment there went a completeness of moral self-control which was all the more impressive inasmuch as Washington’s was by no means a tame or commonplace nature, such as ordinary power of will would suffice to guide.

He was a man of intense and fiery passions. His anger when once aroused had in it something so terrible, that strong men were cowed by it like frightened children. This prodigious animal nature was habitually curbed by a will of iron and held in the service of a sweet and tender soul, into which no mean or unworthy thought had ever entered.

Whole-souled devotion to public duty, an incorruptible integrity, which no appeal to ambition or vanity could for a moment solicit—these were attributes of Washington, as well marked as his clearness of mind and his strength of purpose.

And it was in no unworthy temple, that Nature had enshrined this great spirit. His lofty stature—exceeding six feet—his grave and handsome face, his noble bearing, and courtly grace of manner, all proclaimed in Washington a king of men.

John Fiske

WHEN WASHINGTON DIED

Crape enshrouded the Standards of France, and the Flags upon the victorious ships of England fell fluttering to half-mast at the tidings of his death.

Chief Justice Fuller

Let his countrymen consecrate the memory of the heroic General, the patriotic Statesman, and the virtuous sage. Let them teach their children never to forget that the fruits of his labours and his example, are their inheritance.

The Senate of the United States, 1799

The following stories about Washington, and the War for Independence, may be found in “Good Stories for Great Holidays”: Three Old Tales (the Cherry-Tree Tale); Young George and the Colt; Washington the Athlete; Washington’s Modesty; Washington at Yorktown; Washington and the Cowards; Betsy Ross and the Flag; A Brave Girl (General Schuyler’s Daughter); A Gunpowder Story (Elizabeth Zane); The Declaration of Independence; Signing of the Declaration of Independence.