the
well-drilled English soldiers, and General Washington had a difficult
task before him. But what the Americans lacked in military tactics,
they doubly possessed in enthusiasm and courage.

From Lexington and Boston, Bunker Hill and Concord, through
Connecticut, New York, Philadelphia, Valley Forge, and from Princeton
to Morristown was a wearisome march. Want of provisions for the army
under his command, as well as many other disappointments, might well
have discouraged any but the stoutest heart. General Washington was a
hero, and he trusted in God and the ultimate success of the country's
just cause. When at last the American army was in sorest distress,
there came unexpected help from many quarters.

Such noble and self-sacrificing men as Lafayette, Steuben, Kosciusko,
De Kalb and De Grasse arrived to aid our new republic, and after an
unrelenting war of six long years, British rule was forever banished
from the land.

On the 4th of December, 1782, General Washington took leave of the
continental army. His memorable speech on that occasion is a
masterpiece of unselfish patriotism.

He retired to his home at Mount Vernon, followed by the heartfelt
blessings of a grateful people. His private life was one of regularity
in all his doings. His hospitality was renowned, and Mount Vernon soon
became a much frequented, much beloved place of reunion for many
distinguished visitors.

Not a great many years was Washington permitted to enjoy his
well-merited repose in his country home. The same country of which he
had been the successful liberator, now called upon him to lead and
guide this newly established government. Washington was chosen the
First President of the United States of America in 1789.

It was at this time that he wrote in his diary: "To-day I take leave of
private life and domestic happiness with feelings of regret, and am
preparing to enter upon my official career. I hope I shall be able to
realize the expectations my country has placed in me."

His journey from Mount Vernon to New York became one of triumph. He
was met with the greatest enthusiasm throughout the country wherever he
passed. He took his oath of office in New York City where the
sub-treasury now stands.

Washington was elected a second time for the presidency. His
presidential career was characteristic of the man and the hero.

An equitable and conservative government was administered by him, and
the young republic was