l) c? -^ • « » \ * ■^ V' « * • ®* e> e of age and could come into possession of his estate, and surveying would be work out of doors, which he loved ; l)est also he could earn money for himself. So he stiidied Geometry and Trigonometry, surveyed all the fields around the school-house and his brothers' lands, drawing ma})s and setting l)()undaries with great care. He still made frequent visits to his ])rother at Mount Vernon, and to his friend, George Fairfax, at Bel voir. He had another friend at Belvoir, a strange friend, perhaps, for a boy of sixteen — this was Lord Fairfax, a cousin of William Fairfax, and a man sixty years old. He had once 20 GEORGE WASHINGTON. been a guy young man, a favorite in the fashionable society of London ; but much of his property was lost, the young lady he was to marry chose a wealthier hus])and, and unhappy memories at last drove him from England to America, where he had inherited a great estate, comprising nearly one-fifth of the present State of Virginia. He cared little now for gay society, but liked best the wild, out-door life of a hunter, and it was not strange that he and the shy, bashful boy of sixteen should become great friends. Together they hunted through the great mountain forests, and sitting ])eside their camp fire in the dark still nights, the quiet boy and his gray-haired old friend had many long talks together. Perhaps the old man told his boy-friend of his lonely life, his many dis- appointed hopes, and in turn listened to Washington's boyish ambitions, his longing for a broader life than that of a Virginia planter. Learning of his young friend's wish to l)e a surveyor, and having miles of unexplored land west of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Lord Fairfax commissioned Washington to survey them for him, and in March of 1748, the lad, then just a month past sixteen, started with George Fair- fax to survey the land beyond the Blue Ridge. Through Ashby's gap into the Shenandoah valley they rode, building great fires wherever night found them, and after cooking their suppers, wrap])ed their l)lankets around GEORGE WASHINGTON. 21 them and slept with only the stars above them. Some- times wild storms came up, put out their fires, and left them cold, wet, and hungry. They swam their horses across swift streams, swollen to torrents b}^ the spring rains. They shot deer and wild turkeys, roasting them beside their camp-tire and, sitting on a fallen log, ate with their hunting knives, using chips for plates. Once they camped with a band of Indians and saw them have a o^rand war-dance, and sometimes thev shared the rude cabin of the German settlers ; but more often they made their own camp in the lonely forest. It was a strange experience for the young Virginian, accustomed to a com- fortable home and the life of a gentleman ; but he was earning his own living and gaining health and strength and much useful knowledge beside. He was ])aid in proportion to the amount of his work, and some days he earned as many as twenty dollars. This commission from Lord Fairfax was the beginning of Washington's public life. His work was so well done that the Governor of Virginia appointed him public sur- veyor ; that is, a surveyor whose work is recorded in the Clerk's office of the County, and also makes legal bound- aries for all land bought and sold. Such surveyors must be very accurate, for should the surveyor make mistakes, people who bought the lands would always be having quarrels and law suits over the boundary lines. But years 22 GEORGE WASHINGTON. and years after Washington worked at surveying, a law- yer who had to look uj) a great many land titles said that the only surveys he could depend on were those made by the young Virginian, George Washington. For three years he worked at this business, except during the winter months, spending most of the time among the Indians and backwoodsmen of Western Virginia. People who saw him at this time said he looked very much like an Indian himself, so tall and straight, so grave and silent, and wearing the buck-skin suit of the backwoods settler. His out door life, his daily labor among such wild, rough companions, made him strong and self-reliant far beyond his year^i. Few would have believed the tall, strong, silent surveyor, his face bronzed like an Indian's by the southern suns, to be a young man of only nineteen, ])ut hy such severe training he was being prepared for the work of coming years. Whether surveying among the backwoodsmen or visit- ing at his brother's beautiful home. Mount Vernon, Wash- ington was sure to hear a great deal of talk about the country farther west, especially the Ohio valley. The English had their colonies along the Atlantic Coast, the French had theirs along the St. Lawrence River, the Great Lakes, and through the Mississippi valley. The French built forts and trading posts, the English cleared away the forests and made farms. For a long time the GEORGE WASHINGTON. 23 mountains separated them, but year after year the English crossed the mountains and settled in the fertile valleys beyond. The Indians, roaming over the whole country, found themselves l^etween the two nations, and soon their hunt- ing ground would be gone. The different tribes were always at war with one another, and therefore were glad of the white man's rifle to help them. So some of the Indians sided with the French and some w^ith the English, while others were friendly now to the one nation and now to the other. The French began building forts in the Ohio valley, and the English formed the Ohio Land Company and started settlements in the same valley. Lawrence and Augustine Washington were members of the Ohio Land Company and invested money in the new settlements. Soon there w^ere rumors of war between the two nations and the English Colonies prepared to defend their settlers on the frontier. At that time Virginia extended from Chesapeake Bay to Lake Erie and as far west as they chose to claim, for no western boundary existed. When Virginia prepared for war George Washington, then but nineteen years old, w^as made Adjutant General of the district which included Mount Vernon : and he immediately began studying mili- tary tactics, learning how to drill men and how to handle 24 GEORGE WASHINGTON. bodies of soldiers in l)attle. He also took lessons from an old Dutch soldier in sword exercises. But in the midst of these preparations, Lawrence Wash- ington was taken ill, and his physicians ordered him to the AYest Indies to spend the winter, hoping the warm climate mio^ht restore him to health. Georoe A\^ashino^ton now laid aside all other interests to accompany his invalid brother, and in September, 1751, they sailed for the West Indies. Washington greatly enjoyed his visit, although w^hile there he had smallpox, the scars of which he carried during the remainder of his life. He thought the people of the West Indies very shiftless and extravagant ; he said they would not work and were always in debt. Washington was a very prudent, economical young man. He had little money except what he earned, and it was one of his rules never to spend money until he had earned it ; and he held to this rule all his life. Because he was so careful and correct in money matters many people called him mean and close ; but he cared nothing about that. He l)referred to be economical and scrupulously honest. The climate of the West Indies did not improve the health of Lawrence Washington, and as he grew^ w^eaker he wished to see his wife and daughter again. So he sent his brother George back to Virginia to bring them to him, but before they had time to start he grew so much worse that GEORGE WASHINGTON. 25 he started for home himself, and arrived in July, 1752, at Mount Vernon, where he died very soon after, having lived just long enough to see once more the wife and daughter he loved so well. Lawrence Washington appointed George one of the executors of his will and made him heir to his estates, should his daughter die before she came of age. The manao^ement of his brother's estates was left to George Washington l)y the other executors, and from that time Mount Vernon became his home. Now came stormy days for the young man. The trouble between France and England increased. The French marched into the Ohio valley and commenced building forts. The Governor of Viro^inia decided to send a commissioner to inquire why they were 1)uilding forts on English territory and what they intended to do. It would be no easy task for the commissioner. He must know the country well and be able to deal with the Indians. It would be a hard, rough journe}^ and the man who under- took it must be strong, brave and wise. For this position George Washington was chosen. He was a thorough back- woodsman, and could follow a trail through the dense forests as well as the Indians. They all knew and re- spected him, for he was a level-headed, quick-witted young fellow whom every one trusted. Thus it happened that in October, 1752, Major George Washington, twenty-one WASHINCiTON FALLS INTO TIIK ALLErrHANY KIVKR GEORGE WASHINGTON. 27 years old, started on his perilous journey of over one thousand miles. His company consisted of an interpreter and live hardy frontiersmen. Slowly they journeyed on, now over the lofty mountain ranges through storms of snow and rain, now through muddy swamps and dense forests, swimming their horses across the swollen streams. Often cold, wet and hungry, but never discouraged, they kept bravely on through mud and snow drifts and swollen rivers, until they reached Fort-le-Bouf. Here the French commander re- ceived them politely, read the Governor's letter, drew up a very formal reply, and Major Washington and his men started toward home. Now came a terrible journey. The horses were weak and nearly worn out, the weather grew^ colder and colder and the roads harder to travel. At last Washino-ton decided to take one man with him — leaving the others to follow along with the horses — and take a shorter road which could be travelled only on foot. On the day after Christmas, dressed as an Indian and with his letters and papers strapped in a pack on his back, his gun in his hand, he started for the Ohio River. They expected to find the river frozen over but when they reached it, it was filled with floating masses of ice, whirled swiftly along by the swollen current. With one small hatchet they worked all day constructing a raft, and 28 GEORGE WASHINGTON. just at sunset started to cross the river, but were soon jammed in. the floating blocks of ice and could neither go backward nor forward. Once Washington was jerked from the raft into the icy river, but managed to climb back, wet and chilled, to its frail support. At last the raft drifted against a small island, and here they remained through the night which grew very cold, and Washington's companion had his fingers and some of his toes frozen. In the morning they found the river frozen solid and crossed easily on the ice. After many days of weary travel, they reached Williamsburg and reported to the Governor there. Thus Washington proved to his friends how fearless he was in the midst of danger, how undaunted by the greatest diflSculties. The Governor now sent men to build a fort at the junc- tion of the Alleghany and Monongahela rivers, and several weeks later an English colonel with one hundred and fifty soldiers followed them. Washington accompanied him as second in command, but before reaching the place they met the men returning, having been driven from the spot by a large body of French troops who were now building a fort for themselves in the same place. This fort they called Fort Duquesne ; and on that spot the city of Pittsburg now stands. The English colonel was much disappointed, but Wash- ington did not hesitate. Sending back word to the Gov- GEORGE WASHINGTON. 29 ernor and urging him to send on more troops, he began building a road as he went and at last, reaching a level piece of land at the foot of the Alleghany Mountains, called Great Meadows, he began building a fort. Soon a friendly Indian brought him word that the French were coming to drive him out; but guided by the Indian, with forty soldiers he marched through the forest at night and at sun- rise attacked the French, thus firing the first shot in the seven years' war between France and England. Scatter- ing the French troops and taking over twenty prisoners, he marched quickly back to Great Meadows. But the French at Fort Duquesne soon heard of this and a large body of troops marched to attack him. Washing- ton strengthened his fort as much as possible, but the French force was far superior to his, and after nine hours of severe fighting, he was obliged to surrender. He was allowed to return home with his men after promising to build no more forts west of the mountains for one year. With a heavy heart the young colonel marched his men homeward. It was his first defeat, and he was but twenty- two years old. But defeat is sometimes as necessary as success in developing the greatness of a man's character, and he had learned something of the art of wav. He knew what it meant to be a soldier ; he had heard the whistling of bullets around his head and had learned to lead men in battle. Twentv-one yeai's from the day he marched away 30 GEORGE WASHINGTON. from Great Meadows he drew his sword at the head of the American Army. The Governor now wished him to oriranize a larger com- pany and again attack Fort Duquesne, but experience had taught Washington that it was useless to stait at the liegin- ninof of winter with soldiers who had neither clothes, ammunition nor blankets fit for such an expedition. He urged the Governor to prepare his soldiers, and start in the spring; but there were many others, jealous of the young commander, who advised differently, and at last, tired of trying to make an army with nothing to make it of, Washington resigned his commission in disgust. But now England saw the needs and dangers of her colonies, and in February, 1775, sent Major-General Edward Braddock with two regiments of soldiers from England, with authority to command all the soldiers of the colonies. Here was something grand! The King's soldiers, splendidly dressed and well drilled, under a vet- eran general, were something very difterent from bodies of rasfofed frontiersmen under captains who knew nothino- of war. Washington longed to be one of them, for here was a chance to learn the real art of war. But he held no commission now and had no company to ofter. However, General Braddock soon heard of the young Virginia colonel who had so bravely tried to diivo the French from His Majesty's dominions, and he ottered Washington a position GEORGE WASHINGTON. 31 as aid-de-camp on his military staff, which was gladly accepted, and early in May he joined General Braddock and the campaign began. Braddock had little patience with the ragged, undrilled soldiers of the Colonies, and Washington was learning a good many things about soldiers. He saw that the English regiments, with their fine uniforms and military trainino, were no braver men than the slouchy looking Virginians. Besides they knew nothing of Indian warfare, nor of marching over rough mountains and through dense forests. Slowly, and with all the parade of an old world army, making roads and building bridges as he passed, General Braddock marched along. Washington was sick with fever and unable to sit up much of the time, but he saw ])lainly that Braddock did not understand border warfare. On the 9th of July, though weak from the fever, Wash- ington mounted his horse and joined General Braddock. The army was about to ford the Monongahela River and marched down the bank, with bands playing and colors floating on the warm July air. Braddock thought the sight of his gallant army would strike dismay and terror to the hearts of the French and Indians. In after years Washington said it was the most l)eautiful sight he had ever witnessed. The soldiers marched in regular order, the sun shining brightly on their burnished arms, the river flowing deep and tranquil on their right, the solemn gran- ;;2 GEORGE WASHINGTON. deuroftlie over-shadowing forests on their left. But the beauty of the scene did not blind Washins^ton's eyes to the fatal bhmder they were making. He pointed out the danger of an anil)ush and urged General Braddock to send a scouting party in advance. But Braddock flew into a passion at once: "High times, high times, indeed ! " he exclaimed, " when a Colonel Buckskin would teach a British General how to fight.' On marched the army through dense underbrush, over hills and into hollows, when suddenly a man appeared in their path, waved his hand and disappeared. In an instant a shower of bullets and arrows fell around them and the battle began. The British soldiers formed in a solid square and fired volley after volley into the woods, but could see no foe: From every direction came Indlets and arrows, and half their number lay dead ; then in terror they turned and fled. Slipping behind trees and rocks, the despised Virginians held back the enemy and protected the retreat of the British. Five horses fell under General Braddock, and at last he was fatally wounded. Washing- ton was everywhere, his tall figure towering above the rest. Two horses were shot under him and four bullets pierced his coat, but he seemed to bear a charmed life as he rode back and forth, the only oflicer not wounded of all Braddock's staff". Slowly and sadly the remnant of that gay, proud little GEORGE WASHINGTON. .S3 army retreated, carrying their dying General with them ; and on the foiirtli day of the retreat he died and was buried by the roadside. Washington read the burial service over the grave, for all the chaplains were dead or wounded. So the great expedition of General Braddock ended in gloom and disaster. The Virginians, greatly alarmed, now resolved to increase their army at once, and George Washington was appointed Commander-in-Chief of the Army of Viro-inia. He was now twenty-three years old, and the next three years were, perhaps, the most trying ones of his eventful life. He had seen the order and discipline of English troops and wished to organize his army on the same plan. But the free, independent backwoodsmen did not take kindly to military discipline, and were so poorly paid they could scarcely supply themselves with shoes, stockings, and shirts. Washington was expected to defend the western frontier against the French and Indians who were daily growincr bolder. Without men or money this was an impossible task. Often he was tempted to resign his command, but the poor settlers on the frontier entreated him not to do so. It was a hard school for the young commander, yet the lessons then learned served him well in later years. But brighter days were coming. Mr. Pitt, a famous English statesman, took charoe of 34 GEORGE WASHINGTON. England's aftairs and at once began helping the colonies. English soldiers were sent over, able men were placed in command, Virginia raised two more regiments, .and Wash- ington still held command of the Virginians. Braddock had refused to listen to him, but the new commander coun- selled with him and often gave him the lead. Late in the foil of 1758 the army again marched against Fort Duquesne, the Virginia soldiers under Washington in advance. The French soon saw that this was a different expedition, and after burning Fort Duquesne, left the Ohio valley. The English found only a smoking ruin, but rais- ing the English flag, they soon constructed a larger and better fort, calling it Fort Pitt, and from that beginning grew the beautiful city of Pittsburg, for many years called the "Gateway of the West." The French had left the valley, an army was no longer needed, and Washington, resigning his commission, re- turned to his home at Mount Vernon, which was now really his — his brother Lawrence's daughter having died young — and he once more took up the life of a Virginia planter. Something else had occurred in his life which perhaps made it easy for him to resign his command and retire to the quiet life of a Virginia farmer. While travelling on horseback through the state, he had stopped over night at the house of a friend and there met a beautiful young widow, Martha Custis. It was easy to make excuses for GEORGE WASHINGTON. 35 calling often, and being as diligent in love as in war, in a few weeks he won the lady's promise to be his wife as soon as the war was over. This was in May, 1758. In November the war closed, and on January 6th, 1759, they were married. Washington at once took his wife and her two little children, six and four years old, to his home at Mount Vernon. He was now a very wealthy man for that time. He had large estates and many slaves belonging to him, his wife and her children were wealthy, and he had the care of it all. But these were the happiest days of his life. Thev had no children born to them, bat Washino^ton dearly loved his wife's two little ones and was nearly heart-broken when the daughter died at the age of sixteen. The Custis boy grew up and married ; but soon 3'oung Mr. Custis and his wife died leaving little children, and Washington adopted these as his own. From the day of his marriage until his death, Washing- ton wore a small picture of his wife hung from his neck by a gold chain. In all his letters to her he called her ''My Dear Patsy," and his domestic life was always happy and peaceful. The next sixteen years of his life were quiet and uneventful. Rising at four o'clock and breakfasting at seven, he rode over his estates until dinner time, superintending all the work and improvements. He was a splendid horseman, and loved to break colts as well as 36 GEORGE WASHINGTON. when he was a boy at home. Between dinner and tea time he wrote letters and posted his ])ooks, for he kept a strict book account of everything about his estate, his horses, cattle, crops, slaves, everything bought or sold was written down in its proper place. Everything used upon the farm or in the house was bought in England, and twice a year he sent a list of things to be purchased to his agent in London. All these bills are preserved in his library. It is a wonder how people managed to remember all their wants at one time. All the plows, hoes, spades, medicines, groceries, furni- ture, l)ooks, and clothing for so many people made a long list ; there were all the slaves to be fed and clothed as well as the family, and in making out those bills Washington did not forget to order "Toys for Master Custis," and '^ A fashionably dressed doll-baby for Miss ('ustis, four years old." Washington was also fond of society, often entertain- ing his friends at his l)eautiful home : and the grave, stately Commander and his beautiful wife were welcome visitor' in the cities of Virginia and Maryland. He was fond of hunting, especially fox hunting, and wat always ready for a day's ride after the hounds. The Potomac River afforded excellent fishing and duck-hunting, and during the season he was out early and late shooting. Thus the happy days, full of pleasant work and cheerful GEORGE WASHINGTON. 37 recreation, passed swiftly by until 1765, when the British Parliament passed the Stamp Act and roused the Colonies to fiery indijj^nation. So stronsj was the feelino- acfainst this Act that at last it was repealed, but P^ngland imposed heavy duties on tea, paper, glass, and other articles, until in December, 1773, occurred the famous Boston Tea Party, followed by the seizure and fortification of Boston Xeck by the British. Massachusetts now called a convention of the Colonies, and Goor<)c Washington was one of the delegates from Virginia, riding to Philadelphia in company with Edmund Pendleton and the hery, eloquent Patrick Henry. Soon the news of Concord and Lexington roused every one, and on May 10th the (\)ntinental Congress again met and, after a few days' debate, elected George Washington Commander-in-Chief of the Atnerican Army. It was on the 15th of June, 1775, that he was elected and the next day he accepted the commission on condition that he should receive no pay ])ut bear his own expenses. There was no time to lose, no time to return home and bid good-by to wife and friends, and he knew not whether he would ever see them again. But he wrote a long letter to his "Dear Patsy," telling her of his appointment and of how nuicli rather he would remain at home with her, but duty called, his country commanded, and he must obey or seem a coward. I do not think Martha WASIllNl.TOX KLM, CAMBRIDGK. MASS. Under this tree Washington first took command of the American Army, July 3, 1775. GEORGE WASHINGTON. 39 Washington would have wished him to do otherwise ; she must have been very proud of her brave soldier husband. Washington started for Boston on June 21st, accom- panied by a body of horsemen. When only a few miles on the road they met a messenger bringing news of the Battle of Bunker Hill. " Why did the Provincials retreat?" the messenger was asked. "For want of ammunition," he replied. "Did they stand the tire of the British?" Washington asked. "That they did, sir! And held their own fire in reserve until the enemy were within eight rods." "Then the liberty of the country is safe!" ex- claimed Washington, for he rememl)ered Braddock's splen- did troops, and thought if a body of farmers could meet such an attack, they would make brave soldiers. All along the route people welcomed him, and on the afternoon of July 2nd he rode into Cambridge where the arm}^ was assembled, and on the morning of July 3rd, 1775, took command, and the seven long dreary years of the Revolutionary War l)egan. You can read in history all the incidents of this war. How the brave little Army of America fouo:ht aoainst the well-dressed, well-drilled British Regulars, sometimes win- ning glorious victories and again suftering disastrous defeats. How intrenchments were thrown up on Dor- chester Heights in one night and the British compelled to leave Boston. How in the dead of niaht Wasliing^ton 40 GEORGE WASHINGTON. withdrew his men from Long Island, crossinii' and recross- ing with muffled ojirs until all were away, and the British marching in the next morning found the Lsland, but no American soldiers ; then the perilous crossing of the Delaware and the capture of the Hessians at Trenton ; the terrible winter at Valley Forsre, those darkest days of Washington's life, when his little, ragged, half-starved army left the prints of their bare feet marked in blood upon the frozen ground. Then came the brave young French Marquis de La Fayette, offering life and fortune to the cause of American freedom ; and all the band of heroes who faithful to their loved Commander, gave the best of their lives for freedom and their native land. But, towering above them all upon the pages of History as upon the battlefield, stands the name of Washington. His undaunted courage, his hope- fulness under seemingly hopeless conditions held together and inspired the forlorn little army, when neglected and blamed by Congress and the people. He triumphed alike over foreign foe and treacherous friend. At last came the Battle of Monmouth, when (ieneral Charles Lee, jealous of Washington's greatness, disobeyed orders and refused to attack the British. General La Fayette urged him to attack at once. "You do not know British soldiers," said Lee. "We cannot stand against them. We shall certainly ])e driven back." "We have GEORGE WASHINGTON. 41 beaten British soldiers before, and can do it again," answered La Fayette. But General Lee ordered a retreat, and in des])air La Fayette sent a message to Washington tellinof him to come at once. Avvav went Washino^ton, and soon he met a little fifer ])oy who called out : " They are all coming this way, your honor ! " '' Who are coming, my little man?" asked Washington. "Why our boys, your honor, our boys, and the British are right after them." Away galloped Washington to the top of a hill, where he saw his soldiers retreating. On he went, down the hill, over the bridge, straight up to General Lee, the soldiers cheering as he passed and turning back from their retreat. Looking at General Lee with Hashing eyes, he exclaimed, "What, sir, does this mean?" Frightened and angry, Lee replied that the attack was against his judgment. "You are a poltroon," exclaimed Washington, whatever your opinion may have been, I expect my orders to be obeyed." " The men cannot face the British," answered Lee. "They can and they shall," said Washing- ton, "will you lead this attack, or shall I?" "It is the same to me wherever I command," answered Lee angrily. "Then remain here, and remember I expect you to check the enemy." "Your orders shall be obeyed," said Lee. All day the battle raged, and when night came the British had been driven from the field. Washington directed the men to lie down just where they were and WASHINGTON ON HORSEBACK GEORGE WASHINGTON. 43 in the morning they would renew the attack. But when morning dawned not a red-coat was in sight. Under cover of the darkness they had slipped away. General Lee was tried by courtmartial and suspended from the service, and from that time it was understood who was the head of the American Army. The l^attle of Mon- mouth was the last great battle until the surrender of Yorktown, three years later. Lord Cornwallis commanded the British Army in Vir- ginia, and Sir Henry Clinton, the British Army in New York. The army in New York was better fortified than the army in Virginia. Washington, therefore, unknown to the British, withdrew most of his army from New York and strengthened his forces in Virginia. Slowly but surely they surrounded Yorktown, and Lord Cornwallis, to his great surprise, found himself cut oft* from all sup- plies and all communications with the other army ; and so upon the 19th of October he surrendered to General Washington. How the people rejoiced then, for they knew the long war was nearly ended. Washington now made a short visit to Mount Vernon, the first time he had seen his home since leaving it to attend the Continental Congress in May, 1775. He also visited his mother at Fredericksburg. She asked a great many questions about his health and his family, but said not a word about the great honor and glory he had won. WASIUNUTONS UEADQ'JAKTERS AT NEWBUKGH GEORGE WASHINGTON. 45 To her he was only her boy, not the great Commander-in- Chief, the hero of America. After the battle of Yorktown, Washington made his headquarters at Newburg on the Hudson and here remained until the army was disbanded. When he was about to start for Philadelphia to resign his commission, his officers who had been with him during the long dreary war came to bid him farewell. One by one he took them by the hand and kissed them, but said not a word. Then silently they walked v/ith him from the room and down to the wharf. As he stepped on board the boat, he turned and waved his hat to them. In silence every man returned the salute, their hearts too full of grief for words to be spoken. Washington went to Philadelphia, resigned his commis- sion, and once more became a private citizen. He hastened back to Mount Vernon, where he passed a quiet, happy winter enjoying the society of his wife and her grand- children, whom they had adopted as their own. The next Spring he resumed his old life as a farmer. He enlarged his house, planted trees, and looked after his different estates. No doubt he found much to do after being absent seven years. But while Washington was planting trees and visiting his old friends, the country was drifting to ruin. There was no union between the Colonies, no authority, no government. At last a convention was called to draft a UNITED STATES TREASURY BUILDING, NEW YORIC CITY. On this site in Federal Hall, April 30, 1789, George Washinaton took the oath as the first Presxdem of the United States of America. GEORGE WASHINGTON. ^7 constitution. Washington was chosen a delegate from prginia, and for four months the Convention met day by day, framing the (Constitution by which' our .^reat nation IS now governed. At last it was completed^ and every member signed it = George Washington «rst, as President of the Convention. But more than a year passed before enough States adopted it to make it the law of the land. Now came the question: Who should be the first PresKlcnt of the United States? Everv one named Wash- ington, and though very reluctant to ad led he would much rather pass the remainder of his life quietly at home with his fom.ly. But there was no doubt about the people's choice every vote was cast for Washington. Congress was in session in Federal Hall, in Wall Street New York. At noon, on April 30th, 1780, Washinaton entered the Senate Chamber and was escorted to^the balcony i„ front of the Hall by John Adan.s. Here Robert R. Livingston, Chancellor of the State of New York, pronounced the oath of office, and Washington replied, " I swear, so help me God." and l,ent his sta^tely head to kiss the Bible lying on a stand before hin> Then the Chancellor turned to the crowded street below, waved his hand, and cried; "Long live George Washington, 48 GEORGE WASHINGTON. President of the United States ! " Then how the people shouted, how bells rans: and cannons roared. AVith the good will of all the people, Washington entered upon his duties as President. For eight years he held the office. He called to his Cabinet the wisest men of the nation. Through good and evil report he led his country safely, guarding her from dangers at home and abroad. He still kept his old habits of rising at four and retiring at nine, and his chief recreations were riding and driving. He never lost his love for good horses nor his ability to manage them. ]\Irs. AVashington was a lady, very courteous and kindly in manner, and tilled her position as wife of the tirst Presi- dent with great dignity and sweetness of character. But her heart was in her home at Mount Vernon, and they both longed for the time when they could return to it. After serving eight years, Washington declined another term. For more than twenty years he had really stood at the head of the nation. He had started the country on the road to prosperity and was tired alike of flattery and of censure. Now that his country no longer stood in peril, he would go back to his dearly loved farm. But before he went he wrote his famous " Farewell Address to the People of the United States." The one aim of his life had been to serve his country faithfully, and the address was full of advice, warning, and political wisdom. He attended GEORGE WASHINGTON. 49 the inauguration of the new President, John Adams. As he returned to his own home, the people crowded around him and cheered and cheered. He smiled and waved his hat to them, his hair, grown white in their service, blown about his face by the wind. Upon the threshold he turned and looked long and earnestly at them. His face was very pale and tears stood in his eyes. He waved his hand to them and passed into the house. Once more he returned to the quiet of his home and the society of his family, but he was not allowed to enjoy it long. War was threatened between France and the United States, and President Adams appointed him Commander- in-chief once more. In March, 1797, he had returned to his home; in July, 1798, he was appointed Connnander- in-Chief, and quietly and without complaint took up the burden he had so gladly laid down. But he did not bear it long. On December 12th, 1799, while riding over his farm, he was caught in a storm of sleet and rain and reached home chilled through by the ex- posure. The next day he complained of a sore throat and during the night was seized with a severe chill. Early in the morning of December 14th physicians were called, but could do nothing for him, and between ten and eleven that night, after a day of most acute suffering, he passed away. His body was laid to rest in the family vault at Mount Vernon amid the tears of the whole nation. Beside him 50 GEORGE WASHINGTON. sleeps his ^'Dear Patsy," she who made his home life so peaceful and happy. The old mansion stands to-day as it stood then, and Washington's bedroom and library remain as they were when he last occupied them. The house, tomb, and two hundred acres of the estate were purchased in 1858 by the Ladies Blount Vernon As- sociation, and are preserved as a memorial of their owner. Many monuments have been erected in his honor in different cities, and though one hundred years have passed since a mourning nation laid him to rest in lovely Mount Vernon, yet to this day all boats going up and down the beautiful Potomac River toll their bells softly when pass- ing the tomb of him who was first in war, first in peace, and first in the hearts of his countrymen. "The first, the last, the best ; The Cincinnatus of the West."- But l)est known to the people of his own and other lands as, George Washington, the Father of his Country. THOMAS Jlil-FEKSON THOMAS JEFFERSON, "The Sage of Monticello." In the central part of the "Old Dominion" state, among the foothills on the eastern slope of the Blue Eidge moun- tains, lies Albemarle County, within whose boundaries Thomas Jefferson, third President of the United States, was born, lived, died and was buried. Early in the eighteenth century, Peter Jefferson, a farmer whose ancestors, traditon said, had come from the vicin- ity of Mount Snowdon in Wales, owned an estate or ])lantation near the mouth of the James River, which, in compliment to the traditions of his family, he called Snow^don. Here his wealth s^rew and wishini^ to increase his landed estates also, he moved farther west, and upon the banks of the Rivanna River, a tributary of the James, he patented his title to one thousand acres of river-valley and moun- tain-plateau land. Then, taking with him about thirty slaves from Snowdon, he established his home upon his new possessions. The trails of hostile Indians were still fresh upon the surrounding hills and through the unbroken wilderness 53 54 THOMAS JEFFERSON. where he had chosen his estates, but the brave, hardy pioneer cared little for that, and with the help of his servants soon had part of his new plantation under culti- vation. His manliness, courage and honesty won for him the friendship of the best people of Virginia. The Randolphs, one of the oldest and proudest families of the Old Dom- inion, who boasted of their connection in England with warriors, scholars and even with royalty itself, were special friends of Peter Jefferson, the pioneer farmer. Colonel William Eandolph took out a patent of land adjoining his, and when Peter Jefferson wished a better building site than any upon his own estate, Colonel Ran- dolph sold him four hundred acres for that purpose. Upon this tract of land Peter Jefferson built his house and out-buildino^s includino^ cabins for his nes^roes. When all was completed, he brought home his bride, Jane Ran- dolph, a cousin of his friend and neighbor, the Colonel. Jane Randolph was born in the parish of Shadwell, Lon- don, and in memory of his wife's old home Peter «Tefferson named his new estate Shadwell. Soon after their marriage Albemarle County was set off and the County seat located at Charlottesville, although most of the country was still a wilderness. Peter Jefferson was one of the first justices of the peace for the new county, and was also county surveyor. He THOMAS JEFFERSON. 55 was a slow, grave man, very tall and said to be the strongest man in the state. His wife was man.y years younger than himself, a noble woman, cheerful, sensible fond of music and an excellent housekeeper. On the thirteenth of April, 1743, their first son and third child was born, and when the little boy, who had been named Thomas, was about tvvo years old, the family moved to Tuckahoe, near Richmond. Tuckahoe was the estate of Mrs. Jeft'erson's cousin and Peter's old friend. Colonel Randolph, who died in 1745; and it was in com- pliance with his last request that Peter Jefferson moved to Tuckahoe, as administrator of the estate and guardian of the little son of his old friend. The family remained at Tuckahoe seven years, and here Thomas Jefferson first attended school. In 1752, they returned to the farmhouse at Shadwell and Thomas was sent to a school kept by a Scotch clergyman named Douglass, who gave the boy his first lessons in Latin. He also commenced to take lessons on the violin, and for twelve years practiced three hours daily, until he become the most skilful violinist in the country. This practice he continued until late in life, when a broken wrist compelled him to lay aside his precious violin forever. In those days boys were taught to hunt and fish and use a rifle, almost as soon as they learned to wjJk. Young Thomas spent many hours hunting in the woods surround- 56 THOMAS JEFFERSON. ing his father's estate, and made the acquaintance of many of the Indian chiefs, who still made their home in the wilderness of western Virginia. Throughout his h)ng life he kept the respect and regard of those Indians, whicli he gained when a boy. When Thomas Jefferson was fourteen years old, his father, still in the prime of life, died after a few days of illness. Like most of the early settlers of Virginia, he followed the English custom of leaving the home and large estate of Shadwell to his eldest son Thomas, wdiile to an infant son, named Randolph, he willed the smaller estate on the James River, called Snowdon. Mrs. Jefferson remained in the old farmhouse after her husband's death, surrounded by her faithful servants and caring for her daughters and infant son. But Thomas was sent 1)y his guardian to a private school for boys, about fifteen miles from home. Here he took up the studies necessary to jn'epare him for college and still kept up the daily practice on his violin. At the age of seventeen he went to Williamsburg, then the capital of the Virginia Colony and entered an advanced class in AVilliam and Mary College, the oldest college in the United States with the exception of Harvard. During his first year at college Thomas did not study very hard. He was a tall young fellow, inheriting much of his father's great strength and his fellow students said he was as fleet- THOMAS JEFFERSON. 57 footed as a young deer, seeming never to tire in their long tramps over the hills and through the heavy forests of the Blue Ridge countr}. He was fond of hunting, boating and swimming ; fond of good horses and a graceful, daring rider; a line violinist, a good binger and very fond of society. Welcomed to the highest social rank in Virginia on account of his mother's aristocratic relatives, and with plenty of money and ser- vants at his command, perhaps it is not to be wondered at that the boy's head was slightly turned and his studies somewhat neglected. But this did not last long. He soon saw that enjoyment and good times were a small part of a man's life work, and in sending to his guardian the account of his first year's expenses in college, he blamed himself for his extrava- gance and promised to turn over a new leaf for the next year. This promise he kept. He left society, hung up his precious violin, and during his second year at college, studied fifteen hours a day. His only exercise was a swift run just at twilight, to a particular stone one mile from the town, and then back again. At the end of the year he graduated from William and Mary with high honors, having completed the full course in half the customary time. He still kept handsome, spirited horses and loved to ride 58 THOMAS JEFFERSOK. them, and there is a story that he was so particular in having them cared for that, when his horse was brought to the door, he would not mount until he had first brushed its glossy coat with a fine cambric handkerchief; if any dust or speck of dirt showed on the white cambric, the horse was sent l)ack to the stable and the groom repri- manded. Thomas Jefferson left college with a high reputation for scholarship for one so young, and he did not give up study because college days were over. He entered the law office of George 'Wythe, a distinguished lawyer of Williamsburg, whose acquaintance he had made while at college, and studied law diligently for five years. Part of his time while studying law he spent at quiet Shadwell, looking after his estates and reading Greek and Latin, with occasional visits to the plantations of his neighbors when he journeyed to and from Williamsburg. He was very methodical in his habits and remained so until the close of his long life. He rose regurlarly at five o'clock in winter, and in summer as early as he could see the hands on his bedroom clock. Twilight was his time for exercise. Then he would paddle his canoe along the Rivanna River or, mounted on his favorite horse, take a swift gallop along the country roads. Sometimes he took a ]on(r: walk, climbino^ to the crest of one of the foothills of the mountains on his estate, about THOMAS JEFFERSON. 59 two miles from his home, which he had named "Monticello" ("Little mountain"), and on whose summit he intended to build a stately mansion for himself when he became of age. Here he often sat under an oak tree, looking out over his ])eautiful estate of hill and valley, woodland and fertile fields, through which the river ran, like a shining thread of silver in the green landscape. At home in the evening he found relief from the dry study of " Blackstone " and " Coke " in the strains of sweetest melody drawn from his violin. There were no pianos or organs in the American farmhouses of those days, but Thomas Jefierson was a fine singer, and his sister Jane, three years older than himself, who was his constant companion and to whom he confided all his plans and hopes, had also a sweet voice, and they spent many happy hours singing songs, church hymns and psalms. In April, 1764, Thomas Jefi"erson came of age, and fol- lowing an old English custom, the young heir celebrated his birthday by planting an avenue of locust and sycamore trees, a few of which are still growing over the ruins of the old farmhouse where he was born. Part of the foun- dations and remnants of the great chimneys, with the tew surviving trees, are all that remain to mark the birthplace of this great man ; and the meadow grass grows long and sheep and cattle feed quietly over the spot where, with his sisters, he played and romped in happy childhood. 60 THOMAS JEFFERSON. Thomas Jefferson was now a man, ready to do a man's work in the world. He took up the County offices which were his heritage and became a justice of the peace and a parish vestryman. He also procured an act of the legis- lature by which the channel of the Rivanna River was widened, making it navigable to the James, so that produce could be sent to the seaport markets by boats. He began, also, to make improvements at Monticello, and preparations for the mansion he wished to ])uild there. A young man named Dabney Carr, who was his best college friend and chum, was a frequent visitor at Shad- well, and the two men often climbed to the to[) of Monticello where they sat and talked of what the coming years would bring to them. Their favorite resting place was under the branches of an oak tree, about half way to the summit. Here they arranged a rustic seat and sitting there, talking together in the twilight, they made an agreement that the one who died first should be buried by the other on that spot . It fell to Thomas Jefferson to fulfil this i)romise. In 1765, Dabney C^arr was married to Jefferson's younger sister, Martha; in 1773, he died very suddenly and Jefferson laid him to rest under the oak, the first grave in the little burial place of Monticello. Jefferson then took his widowed sister and her six young children into his household, adopting the children THOMAS JEFFERSON. 61 as his own, and thus proved his loyalty to the friend of his bojdiood. In 1765, soon after his sister Martha married, Jefferson's favorite sister, Jane, died and Shad well no longer seemed like home to the young proprietor. He studied more than ever now and hastened the improvements and building at Monticello. In 1767, he was admitted to the bar and began practice with his old friend, George Wythe, in whose office he had studied. He rose rapidly in his profession during the next seven years, and though never a brilliant orator, his sound sense and thorough knowledge of legal questions won him a large practice. But he never liked the profession, and once defined a lawyer as ''a person whose trade it is to contest everything, concede nothing and talk by the hour." During his years of study in George Wythe's office, Jefferson had made the acquaintance of Patrick Henry and had listened to his fiery eloquence, as he denounced Kinof Geor«:e and the Enoflish Parliament in the House of Burgesses. He also made a trip to Philadelphia to be vaccinated, which was then a new experiment, and visited Xew York, where he met Elbridge Gerry for the first tune. Thus these two young men, who a few 3'ears later were to be among the makers of a great nation, were learning to know^ each other well, and when the great hour came were pre])ared to work together. 62 THOMAS JEFFERSON. In 1769, Jefferson was chosen a representative of Albemarle County in the House of Burgesses, which met at Williamsburg, and here he met Colonel George Wash- ington, Richard Henry Lee, Patrick Henry and many other brave Virginians, who were soon to take an active part in their country's welfare. During the first session of the House which he attended, resolutions condemning the taxation of the Colonies were passed, and when the Governor of Virginia, loyal to the King, hastily dismissed the House without waiting to hear the resolutions read, the members met in the tavern at Williamsburg and formed a non-importation league. Among the signers of the league were George Washington and Thomas Jefferson. Thus did the heart of the Old Dominion beat strong with sympathy for her sister colony, Massachusetts, then bear- ing the heaviest burden of royal oppression. But the four years following Patrick Henry's fiery speech were years of patient endurance and useless endeavor on the part of the Colonies, to be loyal to the Mother Country and to the King. During this period, Jefferson's time was fully occupied with his law practice and he paid little attention to the affairs of public life. He was slowly building the mansion on the summit of Monticello, when in February, 1770, the old farmhouse at Shadwell, where he was born and where his mother, unmarried sister and young brother still lived, THOMAS JEFFERSON. f^<^ caught fire and was burned to the ground. Jefterson was at Williamsburg when the fire occured, and as there was no fire department in that remote village and few^ persons, except the frightened negroes, to help the family, very little was saved from the flames. All Jefferson's books and papers were burned, though the old negro servant who was sent to tell him of the fire assured him that he had " done saved Massa's fiddle." Jefierson now moved into the only finished part of his mansion, a small building with but one room, which later was used as a pavilion or summer-house, and the old farmhouse was never rebuilt. The building of Monticello now w^ent on as rapidly as possible with only dull negro laborers, when all the brick and lumber had to be manufactured on the premises. The window sashes and glass w^ere brought from London in slow sailing vessels, and it is not strange, therefore, that it was many years before the house was wholly completed. Like its owner's character, it grew year by year, as into it he builded his artistic dreams of beautv, his lono-ino- for thorough steadfastness, his romantic ideals, his love for his children and posterity, and a goodly share of his fortune. All that, Monticello represented to Thomas Jeff*erson. While practicing law in AYilliamsburg, Thomas Jefi'erson became acquainted with Mrs. Martha Wajles Skelton, the widowed daughter of John Wayles, a prominent lawyer of \^ t 1 -i ^ ^ ^ ^ i 1 1 ■ i V >f5 lii U jiruiA^ i^-- THOMAS JEFFERSON. 65 Williamsburg. Mrs. Skelton was a tall, graceful woman, a sweet singer and a skilful performer upon the harpsi- chord, an old-fashioned instrument somewhat like the grand piano used at the present time. The harpsichord made a fine accompaniment to the violin, and Jefterson and Mrs. Skelton played and sang together whenever they met, either at her father's house or at the homes of their mutual friends. On New Year's day, 1772, they were married at her father's house, and immediately after the wedding dinner they started to drive to Monticello. It had been storming for several days and nearly two feet of snow had fallen, which was very unusual in that state. This fact obliged them to travel very slowly, and just at sunset they reached the home of a neighbor, eight miles from Monticello. The road through the hills was so badly drifted that they were oblio^ed to leave their carriaije here and finish their iour- ney on horseback. Slowly making their way along the drifted roads, it took them several hours to reach Monticello, wdiere they found no one awaiting them. The servants had given up their coming and gone to their cabins ; there was no light, no fire and nothing to be found in the pantry to eat, but the young couple only laughed over this cool welcome to a bridal party, and building up a fire made themselves at home, until daylight brought the servants to the house. 60 THOMAS JEFFERSON. Their married life, although short, was a very happy one. It is said that Jefferson would accept no office or position, however great, that would separate him from his wife, and her devotion to her husband was equally great. She once said of her husband, who had done a kind act for a friend and received an ungrateful return : " He is so good himself that he cannot understand how bad other people may be." Six children were born to them, five girls and one boy, but only two of them, Martha and Marie, lived to grow up. About a year after their marriage Mrs. Jefferson's ftither died and she inherited an estate fully as large as her husband's. Then, resigning his law practice, Jefferson gave his whole attention, for the next two years, to farming. He kept a farm book, in which he recorded the time when each crop was planted and the date it was har- vested. It is said that every kind of tree and shrub that would endure a Virginia winter was planted by him upon his estate. These were the happiest years of Thomas Jefferson's long life. His thorough knowledge of law and his ability as a writer soon drew Jefferson into public life, while his intense patriotism and love of liberty compelled him to take an active part in the stirring events that preceded the Revolutionary War. He wrote a "Draft of Instructions" for the Virginia delegation to the Continental Congress at THOMAS JEFFERSON. 67 Philadelphia, and in March, 1775, was a member of the convention which met in the church at Richmond, to decide what Virginia would do in the war which they now plainly saw was close at hand. It was at this meeting that Patrick Henry made his famous speech, "Gentlemen may cry. Peace, Peace I — but there is no peace. The war has actually begun ! The next gale that sweeps from the north will bring to our ears the clash of resounding arms ! Our brethren are already in the field ! Why stand we here idle ? What is it the gentlemen wish ? What would they have ? Is life so dear, peace so sweet, as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery? Forbid it. Almighty God! I know not what course others may take ; but as for me, give me liberty, or give me death ! " These bold words made a deep impression on Thomas Jefterson's mind. He now fully realized the struggle before the colonies ; and the next month was heard the sound of the guns at Lexington, where the brave "Minute Men " faced the British red-coats and the first patriot blood stained the soil of the American Colonies. Washington, Jefferson, and Patrick Henry were mem- bers of the committee appointed to make preparations for the coming conflict. On the day Washington received his commission as Commander-in-chief of the Continental armies, on June 20th, 1775, Jefferson took his seat in 68 THOMAS JEFFERSON. Congress. A few hours later came the news of the battle of Bunker Hill, and he saw General Washington ride away on his long journe}^ to Boston to take command of the Army. Congress had been in session about six weeks when Jefferson, the youngest member, took his seat among them. He was thirty years old then, and his fame as a writer had preceded him. Besides the reputation for a masterly pen, he was called the most accomplished gentle- man of his day, being proficient in French, Italian and Spanish. Although the sw^ord had already been drawn against the mother countr}^ very few of the colonists had as yet thought of independence. Justice from the P^nglish gov- ernment was all they asked for, and they hoped to obtain that by force of arms. It was not long, however, before they could see that justice would never be theirs while the}' remained colonies of England. Jefferson himself had no wish to be free from English rule. To one of his Randolph relatives he wrote : "There is not in the British Empire a man who more earnestly loves a union with Great Britain than I do. But I will cease to exist before I yield to a connection on such terms as the British Parliament proposes ; and in this I think I speak the sentiment of America." The 3'ear 1776 stands out, clear and strong, in the THOMAS JEFFERSON. 69 history of the nation ; but it was only the year of effects, the causes had been slowly accumulating through many previous years. Now Washington had driven the British from Boston, and the whole country felt that the time for action had come. Thomas Jefferson was not in Conofress that winter, being kept at Monticello by the illness and death of his mother, but he was not idle. He raised money and supplies for the war in his own county, and wrote many letters and pamphlets urging the necessity of taking some decisive step toward freedom. He returned to Philadelphia in May, and on the seventh of June, Eichard Henry Lee, leading delegate from Virginia, offered resolutions of Independence. Congress deferred the discussion of the resolutions until July, but appointed a committee of five to draft the Declaration. The five persons chosen were Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Koger Sherman and Robert R. Livingston; of these men, Thomas Jefferson, as Chair- man of the Committee, was selected to write out the Declaration. At a little writing desk in the parlor of a small, brick building on Market Street, Philadelphia, he sat, while he drew up that Declaration of American rights, that Charter of American Freedom. After it was written, Adams and Franklin made two or three slio^ht chans^es in the words used ; then it was read to the whole committee and by THOMAS JEFFERSON. 73 Law of Entail (by which all property remained in the possession of the family who owned it, and could not be conveyed by deed to any one). Second, abolition of the Law of Primogeniture, by which all the property owned by a man descended to his eldest son, leaving all younger children without any interest in their father's estate. Third, the restoration of religious freedom. Fourth, the establishment of common schools for rich and poor. The fourth amendment was defeated and Virginia, like the other Southern States, left her poorer population to grow up in ignorance. Jefferson greatly admired the common school system of Massachusetts, and it was a source of sorrow to him all his life that his native state was so far behind New Eno^land in educational advantages. Jefferson also prepared a bill, proposing the gradual abolition of slavery, as had been done in some of the Northern colonies, but this bill drew a storm of opposition upon his head. Some good, however, resulted from it, for not long after, a law was passed forbidding the importation of more slaves into Virginia by land or by sea. Jefierson could see, even in that early day, that slavery was a curse to the nation, and said : "I tremble for my country when I reflect that God is just." In May, 1777, the first and only son was born to Thomas Jefferson and lived only seventeen days. This was a 74 THOMAS JEFFERSON. ofreat grief to him, for he had already buried one child, an infant daucrhter. In 1779, Jetferson was chosen Governor of the State of Virginia, Patrick Henry, the first (rovernor. having served three terms. This period of Jefferson's life was one of great anxiety, suffering and care. The Revolutionary AVar, with its gloomy outlook for the feeble colonies, raged fiercely. British armies invaded Virginia, destroying the homes and sweeping away the property of the people. Monticello was invaded and the family obliged to flee for their lives. Elk Hill, the estate of Mrs. Jefferson, was wholly devas- tated and the slaves carried away. In 1780, Jefferson's term of office expired, and he retired to Alonticello to devote himself to the care of his wife whose health had failed from the effects of those terrible days when, to escape the British army, she had fled from her home in winter, carrying in her arms an infant child, which died soon after from the exposure. On the sixth of September, 1782, ten years after he had taken his bride to Monticello, a new grave was dug in the little home cemetery, under the oaks, and Jefferson laid his dear wife to rest. The horrors of war had been too severe for her gentle nature, to endure, and leaving her husband and three little daughters alone, she sought the Land of Peace beyond the grave. Two THOMAS JEFFERSON. 75 years afterward her youngest daughter was laid beside her. Jefferson never married again. The year after his wife's death he spent at Monticello Avith his motherless little ones and the children of his widowed sister, Martha. The months of anxious watching beside his sick wife and liis ofrief at her death left him broken down in health and feelino; that he was orowimj; old. In November, 1783, Jefferson was again elected to the Continental Congress, and was present when General Washington resii^ned his sword and commission as Commandei-in-Chief of the army. Governor Morris had for some time been advocating a change in the currency of the colonies, and the adoption of the decimal system of notation, with the penny as the unit of measure, instead of the British pounds, shillings and pence. This was objected to, l)ecause dividing the penny would make the money of too little value for convenience ; but in 1784, Jefferson proposed the dollar as the true unit of measure, sub-dividing into dimes, cents and mills, with the higher multiple of the ten-dollar gold piece, or eagle. While to Governor Morris belongs the honor of first suirsfestino; the decimal svstem, Jefferson could riohtfullv claim to be the "Father of the American Dollar.'' Another important change which Jefferson suggested, and afterward completed, was known as the "Ordinance 76 THOMAS JEFFERSON. of the Northwestern Territory." All that tract of country now included in the five great states of Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Michigan and Wisconsin, was claimed as Virginian territory. On March 1, 1784, the Virginia delegates, with Thomas Jefferson at their head, deeded to the ''Colo- nial Confederacy" all that north w^estern territory, with the stipulation that not less than three, nor more than five, states should he formed out of this magnificent addition to the American Commonwealth. Congress accepted the deed and appointed a committee, of which Jefferson Avas chairman, to draft laws for the government of this new territory, and for that of all other lands which might be acquired east of the Mississippi River. The report of this committee, drawn up by Jefferson, provided that each new state should be admitted on terms of equality with the thirteen original colonies, that each should have a republican form of government, and that slavery should not exist in any new state after the year 1800. The last clause roused bitter opposition in Congress and was struck out of the report. Most of the colonies held slaves at that time and were not willing to give up so much of their wealth. It would have been well for the new government, then just starting, had they heeded Jefferson's advice ; but it took seventy years of experience, and the loss of millions of lives and untold millions of THOMAS JEFFERSON. 77 wealth, before the Southern States were convinced of the wisdom of Jefferson's arguments. In May, 1784, Congress appointed Thomas Jelierson minister to France, to join Dr. Franklin and John Adams in making commercial treaties with European nations. Taking his little daughters with him, he sailed at once and remained in Europe for about five years. Although he accomplished little in concluding treaties, Jefierson tried to make his long residence in foreign lands useful to his native country. There was but little manufacturino- of o any kind done in the colonies at that time, and he urged the necessity of establishing factories at home, instead of importing so much from foreign countries. He sent home descriptions of different inventions which he saw from time to time. He wrote of the screw- propellor just invented in Paris, and also of the Watt steam-engine which had just come into use. He tried to interest the Southern States in the culture of olives and suggested that cotton " might become a precious resource " to them. Although admiring and wishing to imitate many of the industries of Europe, Jefferson was a true American. Traveling only taught him greater love for his own country. He disliked royalty and aristocratic forms of government and believed firmly in the common people. He considered America the only true home for Americans, 78 THOMAS JEFFERSON. and thought American children made better citizens if educated at home. He said: "It appears to me that an American, going to Europe for education, loses in his morals, in his health, in his habits and in his happiness.'' His true American spirit refused to honor kings for the title they bore. The only nobility he recognized was the nobility of mind and character. He once said : '* No race of kings has ever presented above one man of common sense in twenty generations. The best thing they can do is to leave things to their ministers. If the kings ever meddle it is to do harm." Jefferson was in France during the French Kevolution. He saw the terrible "bread procession" in Paris, the famous Swiss Guard at the king's palace, the downfall of the Bastilo, and he saw Lafayette bravely lead the ill- fated king and fjueen out on the balcony to quiet the raging mob. But through it all, he remained the calm, conscientious representative of a free government, never disturbed nor ruiHed by the excitement about him. On November 23, 1789, he returned to America and was once more at home on his own estates. His eldest daughter, Martha, w as married that winter to a Randolph, a distant relative of her grandmother, and soon after her wedding Jefferson became the first Secretary of State in President Washington's cabinet. When Jefferson took his place in Washington's cabinet THOMAS JEFFERSON. 71) the new Constitution was just in process of being estab- lished. Alexander Hamilton, as Secretary of the Treasury, was trying to put the credit of the new Government on a sure foundation, and all were doing their utmost to make the government of the United States the best and and most just in the world. Still, our forefathers were only human like ourselves and were sometimes mistaken in their judgment. A Republican form of government was a new experiment ; none had ever succeeded for any length of time, and there were many who honestly believed that it was impossible to have a government "of the people, by the people." They believed that no nation could exist without a kin^ at its head, whose authority should be undisputed ; while others just as honestly believed that a nation could be governed hy laws made and sanctioned by the common people. Both sides were in earnest, both wished only the best welfare of their country, won by so many years of war and suffering. But this difference of opinion caused many earnest arguments and a good deal of hard feeling, just as political discussion does today. Thomas Jefferson was a firm believer in the rights of the common people and in their ability to govern them- selves, under laws made by their chosen representatives. Flis arguments won the day, and to-day we are a people so THOMAS JEFFERSON. free to make our own laws, with no " kings, princes, or potentates " to rule over us. Jefferson believed in a free Democracy, ruled by officers elected by the people, but Hamilton, his chief opponent, believed in a Democracy ruled by a life-long or hereditary ruler. The two men could never agree, and appreciating Hamilton's great service to the country as a financial leader, Jefferson resigned his position upon Washington's re-election and once more retired to Monticello. He was now fifty years old ; his daughters were married and with their families gathered around him, so that he said his life as a farmer was always the happiest and best. He was very fond of children, and during the whole of his long life the halls of stately Monticello rang with their merry voices, as nieces, nephews, children and grand- children found a home and a welcome beneath its hospi- table roof. In 1796, Washington refused to again accept the nomi- nation for President, and John Adams was chosen to succeed him. Thomas Jefferson, having the next larjrest number of votes became Vice-President. As Vice-President he presided over the Senate with grace and dignity, and though differing in politics from President Adams, he did his best to help his old friend throughout the four years of bis administration. But the passage of the "Alien" and "Sedition Acts" THOMAS JEFFERSON. 81 made President Adams very unpopular and, though nom- inated by the Federalists for a second term, he lost the election, while Thomas Jefferson, the Anti-Federalist or Republican nominee, became the third President of the United States. At the close of his tirst term he was unanimously re-elected, and thus served his country as its President for eight years. The administration of President Jefferson is the brightest epoch of our national history. During the first six years, not a cloud arose to darken the prosperity of the people. Simple and unaffected in manner, as he had always been, President Jeff'erson went into office with no more parade and display than he would make in riding over his Monticello estate. His inaugural address delighted his friends and pleased his enemies. Among other things he said : '' Every difference of opinion is not a difference of principle. ^Ve have called by different names brethren of the same principles. We are all Republicans — all Federalists." * In selecting his cabinet Jefferson chose the best men he knew. He said the only questions concerning a candidate should be : "Is he honest? Is he capable? Is he faithful to the Constitution ? " He abolished a multitude of small offices and strove to * The Anti-Federalists were afterwards cuIUmI l)elnucrut^. 82 THOMAS JEFFERSON. conduct public affairs with the strictest economy. He was :il)le to support the irovernment properly, and still devote seven million three hundred thousand dollars yearly to l)aying public debts. He treated the A\'estern Indians fairly, respecting their claims to the land and obtaining it of them by purchase. He discouraged all land speculation, and the pioneers bought their lands direct from govern- ment. But the most brilliant act of his administration was the peaceful and honorable acquisition of Louisiana. This was i)urchased from France for the sum of fifteen million dollars, and the payment of all private claims against France, held by the citizens of the United States. This treaty was signed May 3, 1803, and })laced the Mississippi River under the control of the United States. During the last year of President Jefferson's adminis- tration trouble arose. France and Ensfland had long been at war, and each tried to gain the support of the new nation. Finding that we were determined to remain neutral. Great Britain began those acts which later led to the AVar of 1812. American ships were detained in foreign ports, their crews seized as English deserters, and often their ships and cargoes were lost. To prevent these depredations and retaliate for some of their injuries to us, the Embargo Act was passed, forbid- THOMAS JEFFERSON. * 33 ding American ships to leave American ports. This act created great dissatisfaction an(^ seems to have been the only official act of President Jefferson which did not meet with the approval of the American people. In 1X01), Jeflerson's second term expired, and he was succeeded by one of his warmest of friends, eTames Madison, hy whom the Embargo Act was soon repealed Jefferson still remained a strong force in American politics. He was one of the Makers of America. It has been said of him : " If Jefferson was wrong, America is wrong; if America is right, Jefferson was right." He believed in liberal education, li])eral politics, liberal religion ; in a free press ; in honesty, in popular rule, in govermiient economies ; in no kings, no classes, room for the oppressed; in hostility to monopolies; in foreign friendship without alliances ; he was oi)posed to a great standing army and an expensive navy for the support of which the people must be taxed ; he liad faith in the Tnion and in self-government. At Monticello, surrounded hy children and grand- children, the aged statesman prepared to spend the closing ' years of his long life. He was sixty-six years old when he left the "^Vhite House," and nearly forty years of his life had been given to the service of his country. But he was not allowed to remain in seclusion. To Ids liome came Presidents and statesmen, seeking advice and counsel 84 THOMAS JEFFERSON. from the " Sage of Monticello," whose wisdom had been ripened by age and experience. To President Madison he was a valued friend and counselor. President Monroe came to Monticello to consult him about that "Monroe doctrine," which still makes his name immortal, and of which Jefferson heartily approved. His old friend, John Adams, who had been estranged from him when Jefferson succeeded him in the Presidency, now became reconciled to him, and the two aged states- men, though they never met again, wrote long letters to each another. But the last years of Jefferson's life were especially devoted to the cause of education in his own state and neighborhood. He greatly admired the common-school system of New England and tried to persuade his own state to adopt it. He also tried to introduce into Virginia the "township governments," and considered the "town- meeting" the foundation of good citizenship. But the careless, easy-going Southern people could not be roused to the necessity of bettering their customs, and in such respects they remained many years behind the other divisions of the Union. Jefferson at last succeeded in establishing the University of Virginia at Charlottesville, devoting time, talent, and much of his fortune to the carrvins" out of this, his dearest THOMAS JEFFERSON. 85 wish. He was far in advance of his day in politics, educa- tion and tliou2:ht, and each succeedinij o^eneration will set a higher value on the teachings and example of Thomas Jefferson. lie lived to see his beloved "University" opened in the spring of 1825, with a goodly number of students and an able corps of- professors, most of whom he obtained from Europe. He was very old now, and long years of sacri- fice and the desolation of two wars had left him deeply in debt. Then, in his kindness of heart, he signed a note for a large amount to help an old friend. The friend failed and the payment of the indebtedness left Jefferson bankrupt. But now from all parts of the Union came offers of assistance. The country remembered her debt of grati- tude to this faithful servant, and a popular subscription placed the old statesman l^eyond immediate want. He was greatly pleased Avith this proof of love and remembrance on the part of his countr>'men, and the closing days of his life were serene and untroubled. July 4, 1826, the fiftieth anniversary of the nation's freedom, dawned fair and l)eautiful. Extensive prepara- tions w^ere made all over the land for a great celebration of this semi-centennial birthday of the United States. Thomas Jefferson had been failing in strength for some weeks and knew that but few more days were left to him .S6 THOMAS JEFFERSON. on earth. His only wish was that "it might please God to let him see the sun rise once more on the day of free- dom." When the morning of the Fourth dawned, the friends who stood beside him knew that his hours were nunibered. Over and over he exclaimed: ''Nunc dimittis Domine'' (Lord now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace). When the earlv rays of sunlight shone into the room of tlie dying man, lie lifted his weary head once more from the pillow and smiling said, "It is the Fourth of July,*' then quietly, softly, the gentle soul left the worn, aged bod}', and Thomas Jetferson lived only in the hearts of his countrymen. Far away in Xew England, his old friend and comrade, John Adams, lay also dying. He heard the sound of the cannon and the cheers of the multitude as the '' Glorious Fourth " was welcomed for the fiftieth time, and just as the sun was setting, he, too, closed his eyes to this world, his last words being, " Thomas Jefferson still survives." But he was mistaken. At the rising of the sun Jefferson had })receded him into the Sj^irit AVorld, and the old comrades, united through a long life, in death were not divided. " They strove in such great rivalry Of means, as noblest ends allow% And blood was warm — and zeal was hisrh — THOMAS JEFFERSON. 87 But soon their strife was o'er ; and now Their hatred and their love are lost. Their envy buried in the dust." In the little family cemetery at Monticello, where in youth he had sat planning out the future years with his friend, and where he had laid that friend in final rest under their favorite oak tree ; where mother, sisters, wife and children were quietly sleeping, they laid the body of the '^ Sage of Monticello," marking his grave with a simple obelisk })earing this inscription written bj- himself: " HERE WAS BUPaEI) THOMAS JEFFEKSON AUTHOK OF THE DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE, OF THE Statute of Virgiiiia for Relir/ious Freedom, AND Father of the University of Virginia.'^ JAMKS MAPISON JAMES MADISON. More than two hundred years ago, in those early days of our country's history, which read now like some old time romance or fairy tale ; the days of the Mayflower and brave Miles Standish, of Captain John Smith and the Indian Princess Pocahontas, a list was written in the year 1623 of the names of all the men, women and children in the colony of Virginia. In that list is found the name of Captain Isaac Madison, who, with his little company of pioneer soldiers, fought many a battle wnth their savage Indian neighbors. Thirty years afterward John Madison, a descendant of the brave captain, took out a patent for lands lying between the York and James Rivers, bounded on the east by the waters of Chesapeake Bay. Years passed away, and generation after generation of Madisons took out patents of land from the English gov- ernment and clearing away the forests of Virginia, made fertile plantations and became owners of large estates. Among these pioneers was one named James Madison, who owned a fine estate in Orange County called Montpellier, and who, about the year 1749, was married to Miss 89 ,|,) JAMES MADISON. Nellie Conway, the daughter of a wealthy planter, whose large estate in King George County was called Port Conway. In the winter of 1751, Mrs. Nellie Madison made a long visit to her old home at Port Conway and there, on the l()th of March, 1751, her hrst child was ])orn and named for his father, James Madison. As time passed, other children came to the home of James and Nellie Madison until Montpellier echoed with the merry voices of seven children, four sons and three daughters. The life of these little children of the South was very different from the life of New England boys and girls. The boys of Massachusetts and other Eastern States were sent to school when very young and most of their time, when at home, was employed in doing chores in the winter months and in working in the fields during the summer, while the girls were early taught to sew and knit, to spin and weave and to help in all the household labors. But children in the Southern States knew nothing of the toil, and very little of the privations and hardships of jMoneer life. The climate was much warmer and the winters not so long and cold as in New England ; the fertile soil needed little care to furnish plenty of food, and all the work on the plantation and in the house was per- formed by negro slaves. The children grew up, therefore with the idea that they were not only a privileged class. JAMES MADISON, cji but were expected to become rulers of the common people and must prepare themselves for such a position. This was especially true of the oldest son in a family. The law of primogeniture, by which the eldest son inher- ited the estates and became the head of the family after the death of the father, prevailed in Virginia, and such boys grew up with the feeling that much was expected of them . A historian, writing of that time, says: "This had a strong effect upon the aspirations and lives of the brio-ht boys of that generation, as the roll of the noted men of the early days of the Republic plainly shows. It is remark- able how many of them were sons of Virginia farmers." James Madison was only four years old when the news of Braddock's defeat by the French and Indians brouo-ht terror to the homes of the settlers on the western borders of Virginia, and during the two years following that defeat the people lived in dread of their savage neighl)ors. Mont- pellier was so near the border that war threatened to reach its very doors. Around the fireside and at all neighbor- hood gatherings the people talked of nothing else ; and the children listened eagerly, half pleased and half afraid, to the stories told by negro mammies of Colonel Georo:e Washington, the brave young hero commanding the Vir- ginia riflemen, who were holding back the savage red-skins and protecting the settlements from torch and tomahawk. 92 JAMES MADISON. To the end of his life James Madison remembered those days ; and the child's admiration for the hero deepened as he grew to manhood into respect, affection and veneration for the noble man who was "first in the hearts of his countrymen." There were no schools in Virginia when the father of James Madison w^as a boy, and feeling deeply his own lack of education, he w^as determined that his children should have every possible advantage which they could obtain from the schools then established. Mrs. Madison's educa- tion was much better than her husband's and she taught her son during the early years of childhood. Like most oreat and good men, James Madison learned his earliest lessons at his mother's side and those lessons influenced his whole life. When, in after years, he held the highest office in the nation his respect and veneration for his ao-ed mother was a beautiful example to all American boys. While still very young, little James was sent away from home to attend a school in King and Queen County kept by Mr. Donald Robertson. Here he remained some time and, in addition to the English branches, he began the study of Greek, Latin, French and Spanish. But his parents did not like to have their boy away from them so long and so the Rev. Thomas Martin, an Episcopal clergy- man, came to live in the Madison home and become the JAMES MADISON. 1)3 private teacher of the young heir and his brothers and sisters. James now began preparation for college and, intlaenced by his father's ideas of the great importance of a thorough education, he devoted his whole time to reading and study, neglecting the fishing, hunting, riding and boating which formed the healthy recreations of the young planters of the Old Dominion, and which were just as necessary to the future welfare of the boy as his books and vstudies. In the adjoining county of Albemarle, and just a pleas- ant day's ride from Montpellier, was Shadwell, the home of Thomas Jefferson who, although eight years older than James Madison, was much attached to the bright young boy, and whom the latter looked upon as a model of learn- ing and wisdom and to whom he came for advice and assistance in his studies. ffefferson, however, did not always prove a wise counsellor. Strong in mind and body, with an iron constitution that seemed never to tire, he laid out a course of study for his frail young friend which would have taxed his own great strength ; and in trying to follow the course laid down for him Madison's health began to tail before he went to college. In 1769, James Madison was sent to Princeton College, New Jersey, with a much better preparation than most boys of his day. The year 1769 was, perhaps, the beginning of American 94 JAMES MADISON. history. It was the year in which the Virginia House of Burgesses asserted the exclusive right of the colonies to tax themselves, and declared that Massachusetts was oppressed and that, moreover, the oppression of one colony, was the oppression of all. For this patriotic assertion, (disloyalty, the English Governor called it), the House had been dis- solved by the Governor and the members had re-assembled in the ballroom of the old Raleigh tavern at Williamsburg, where they formed a non-importation league. George Washington and Thomas Jefferson were members of that House of Buro^esses and both sisfned the leag^ue. We may be sure that Jefferson, in his long letters to his young friend at Princeton College, did not neglect to tell him of all these stirring incidents and, although at that time Xew Jersey was the quietest of the English colonies, she was afterwards to have more battles fought upon her soil in the grand struggle for Lil)erty than any other state except New York. At Princeton the young student, fresh from a Southern plantation, made the acquaintance of men, both young and old, from all the other colonies ; men whose lives had been very different from his own, whose ancestors came from different countries and whose habits, manners, and prin- ciples were new and strange to the young Southerner. But he had entered college with good habits, a high purpose, and a stainless moral character which he kept pure and JAMES MADISON. Df, spotless to the end of his long and busy life. He was devout and high-minded, a member of the Established Church of England and fond of reading theology. Had Madison been content to take the resfular college course of study his capable brain could easily have accom- plished the task ; but with the example of Thomas Jefferson ever before him, he took up study after study outside the regular college course. The result was that, when at the end of three years he graduated from Princeton with the degree of Bachelor of Arts, his health was nearly ruined. But he remained at college another year to take a post- graduate course ; then, in 1772, he returned to Montpellier and assisted his father in the management of their estate, and became the teacher of his younger brothers and sisters. The stirring events of that time had roused the interest of the students even in the seclusion of Princeton and Madison, like all young Americans, resented the oppres- sion and tyranny of King George. In a letter written to his father in July, 1770, he said : " We have no public news but the base conduct of the mer- chants of New York, in breaking through their spirited resolutions not to im})ort. Their letter to the merchants of Philadelphia, requesting their concurrence, was lately burned by the students of this place, in the college yard, all of them in their black orowns, with the colles-e bell tolling." 1m; JAMES MADISON. Looking back one hundred and thirty years at that picture of the college boys of Princeton, wearing their black gowns and gathered in the yard, solemnly burning t!ie letter their patriotic spirits condemned, we can see }jlainly the love of liberty, the defiance of tyranny and opi)ression which prompted the act, and it would have been well for them had King George and his ministers heeded the warning. A few years later many of those boys exchanged their black gowns for the Continental uniform, while the Boston school boys who, the winter before had snow-balled the redcoats off their playground, were waiting behind the breastworks of Breed's Hill, with leaden bul- lets instead of snowballs. The four years after James Madison left Princeton were years of patient waiting and steady preparation on the part of the Colonies for the conflict that all could see must come. Y^ounger men were taking an active part in their country's service, and the ties which had bound the older generations to the "mother-country," had little influence with them. British oppression still continued. Boston held her famous Tea Party and was punished by the passage of the Boston Port Bill, which closed the harbors of Massachusetts. The Continental Congress met in Phila- delphia and committees of safety were appointed in the different counties. Among those chosen in Orange JAMES MADISON. 97 County, Virginia, were James Madison, Sr., and James Madison, Jr. Virginia contributed her full share of men and materials to the Continental Army at Boston, and furnished the Commander-in-Chief. The people in Virginia were also kept busy from the beginning to the end of the Revolu- tionary War in protecting their frontier settlements from the Indians, who, instigated by the British, made frequent raids upon the settlers, destroying life and property. Madison wrote : " From the best accounts I can ()l)tain from our frontiers, the savages are determined on the extirpation of the inhabitants and no longer leave them the alternative of death or captivity. It is asserted that there is not an inhabitant for some hundreds of miles back (which have been settled for many years) except those who are in forts, or in some military camp. The Continental Army was steadily increasing in num- bers and improving in training. In speaking of it to a friend, James Madison said : "There will by spring, I ex- pect, be some thousands of well-trained, high-spirited men, ready to meet danger whenever it appears, who are influ- enced by no mercenary princijiles, but l)earing their own expenses, and having the i)rospect of no recompense but the honor and safety of their country." Again, when the news of the blow struck at Lexington and Concord reached him, he wrote : "It is our opinion that i)^ JAMES MADISON. the blow stmck in the Massachusetts colony is a hostile attack on this and eveiy other colony, and a suflScient war- rant to use violence and reprisal in all cases in which it may l)e expedient for our security and safety." James ^ladison was now twenty-three years old, so frail in body that he could take no active part in the war for liberty, but so strong in principles, so fixed in his con- victions of duty, so clear in perception of truth, right, and sound public policy, that he came to be considered one of the wisest statesmen in the legislative councils of his country. The year 1776 brought gloomy prospects for the colo- nies. On New Year's Day the people of Virginia learned what British tyranny and oppression could do. Already the border Indians had been urged to savage warfare by British officers; and on January 1, 1776, without any provocation, save the desire to teach the colonies what the King's vengeance meant, an English fleet bombarded and destroyed Norfolk, the largest and richest town in the Virginia colony. Five thousand people, innocent of any transgression against British authority, were driven from their homes in midwinter, their houses burned, their property confiscated, and the people of the colony were plainly told that all settlements along the coast would soon share the same fate. The Virginians bitterly resented this outrage and with JAMES MADTSON. !)«) sad hearts prepared to resist British authority and oppres- sion. When the April elections took place the people of Orange County sent James Madison as their delegate to the state convention which was held in May at Williams- burg. The burning of Norfolk had prepared the people of Virginia for Independence, just as Lexington, Concord and Bunker Hill had prepared Massachusetts, and the Williams- burg convention, therefore, sent their delegates to Congress with instructions to urge an immediate declaration of Inde- pendence. At the same time Virginia declared herself an independent state. James Madison was a member of the committee appointed to draft a State Constitution. One of the articles of the new constitution proposed l)y him declared that "all men are entitled to the free and full exercise of their religion ;" but this clause was dropped. James Madison, the young- est member, made a deej) and lasting impression upon the older men who made up that convention. Thomas Jeffer- son said of him : " Mr. Madison came into the House in 1776, a new member, and young. In 1777, he became a member of the Council of State, and from there went to Congress. "His discriminating mind and extensive information ren- dered him the first of every assembly of which he became a member. With these powers was united a pure and spot- less virtue which no calumny has ever ventured to assail." ^(„) JAMES MADISON. While Virginia was adopting her constitution and choos- ing Patrick Henry first governor of the State, old Liberty Bell in Philadelphia rang out the Declaration of Inde- pendence, proclaiming Liberty to all the nation. Then followed the long years of war, with all its horrors and suffering, its anxieties and disappointments. Years that tried not only the courage and patience of men but their honor and good sense also. Years when wise coun- sellors were as necessary as trained soldiers, and when the country needed brave statesmen as well as brave generals. Among those who were wise statesmen, James Madison ranked with the highest, although he lost one election to the Legislature of his State by refusing to follow the cus- tom of that time and furnish an unlimited supply of liquor on election day. He was willing to ask men to vote for him, but refused to "treat" any one, saying that "the reputation and success of representative government depends on the purity of popular elections." But in November of the same year he was elected by a large majority a member of the Council of State. Madison's education had much to do with his election to the Council, since no other member understood foreign languages and there were many letters from European nations to be answered, and many foreign military men who sought com- missions in the little army of the new republic. In 1779, James Madison was chosen as a delegate to JAMES MADISON. 101 Congress from Virginia, and on March 26, 1780, he arrived at Philadelphia and took his seat. He was not quite thirty years old, but he had won the confidence of his own state and of the men from other colo- nies who conducted the government. The letters written to Thomas Jefferson by Madison, at this time, describe the many evils and failures of the new government, and show plainly that he was constantly studying, not how to increase his own wealth and importance, but how to remed}^ the mistakes, faihires and disasters he saw around him. The repu])lic was then a new experiment and Madison, with other Inave, strong men of his day, worked con- stantly and faithfully to estalilish that "government of the people, by the people, and for the people,'" which we proudly preserve as oui' most precious heritage. The new republic was greatly in need of money. There was none in the Treasury — in fact there was no Treasury, — and when men were sent to Europe to try to borrow money, the first question asked by the shrewd money- lenders was : " What security can you give ? How do you propose to raise money to pay your national debt? What are your sources of revenue?" To these questions, alas ! there was no answer. Congress now issued Con- tinental money, but it was nearly worthless. Thomas Jefferson loaned the State of Virginia thirteen thousand dollars in gold, and when he received payment in Con- 109 .TAMES MADISON. tinental currpiK^v, the junounl j-iist iKMisfht him an ovpr- coat . The members of Conirress were paid -a salary by their re8])eetive states ])ut the money liad so little value it would not pay their l)()ard ])ills, and James Madison, with the others, was often greatly in need of a little money. Their country's need, however, was greater than their own and they made no complaint. Tt has been said of James Madison that he was never a boy. Perhaps his ill health and delicate frame made him seem old. Although always cheerful and sociable, he was never carried away by fiery enthusiasm like Patrick Henry, never so hot-headed and impetuous as John Adams, and was more even-tempered and impartial than George Wash- ington himself. In those debates in Congress, where so many lost their self-control, he was always cool, calm and courteous, and this ability to " kee}) cool," united with his knowledge of foreign laws, his foresight and intelligence, made him one of the wisest, most useful men in the Con- tinental Congress. There were a great many laws to be made for the new nation. AVhen we think of all the different branches of our great system of government, from township officers to president, of all the foreign nations with whom we have treaties and the necessary laws relating to those treaties, and to our connnerce with the whole world, we can form JAMES MADISON. 103 some idea of the great task the statesmen of oar country found before them after the Declaration of Independence. Alexander Hamilton, Thomas Jefferson, and James Madison laid the foundation on which this great structure of civil government rests. On January 20, 1783, a general treaty of peace was signed at Paris, and the United Colonies were left to adjust themselves on a new basis — that of Freedom. In 1784, Madison's term in Congress expired and he returned to Montpellier. He Avas immediately elected to the Vir- ginia Asseml)ly, and this time he had no need to solicit votes or buy election whiskey. There was no other man in the country so competent to fill the position and he soon became one of the ruling minds in the State Legislature. Patient, courteous, but persistent, he made many reforms in the laws of the Old Dominion ; and in the autumn of 1785, the legislature passed an act "for the establishing of religious freedom." Jefferson was the author of this act and for several years had urged its passage, but to James Madison's untiring zeal was due its final triumph. In February, 1785, the college of William and Mary conferred the degree of Doctor of Laws upon Madison, and during the same year he made a visit to General Washino-- ton at Mt. Vernon. He also visited New York in company with the Marquis La Fayette and with him attended a gathering of the Six Nations at Fort Schuyler, New York. 101 .TAMES MADISON Later in the year La Fayette, aec()mi)aiued by (Teneral Washington, visited Montpellier and the Legishiture of Viroinia at \Villianisl)uro-. In 1786, Madison's term in the Virginia Assembly closed and he was again elected a delegate to Congress, where he took his seat in FehruaiT. 17S7. The I4th of May, 17