We like to fancy that we can see the great general going in and out of the front door. He used to wear a three-cornered hat and ruffled shirt bosom, knee-breeches, and low shoes with silver buckles.
This brave and noble commander led his army through many dangers to victory, and he afterward became the first president of the United States. You need not be told that the great general who once lived in the famous old house was George Washington.
After many years the old house became the home of another great and good man. He did not lead armies, nor make laws, nor hold office. And yet few men in our country have been so well known or so well loved.
His poems are read in all parts of the world, and his beautiful thoughts have helped hundreds and hundreds of people to love the right and to hate the wrong.
And now you are eager to speak the name of the great poet who once lived in the famous old house—Henry Wadsworth Longfellow.
[HIAWATHA'S HUNTING]
Then the little Hiawatha
Learned of every bird its language,
Learned their names and all their secrets,—
How they built their nests in summer,
Where they hid themselves in winter,—
Talked with them whene'er he met them,
Called them "Hiawatha's chickens."
Of all beasts he learned the language,
Learned their names and all their secrets,—
How the beavers built their lodges,
Where the squirrels hid their acorns,
How the reindeer ran so swiftly,
Why the rabbit was so timid,—
Talked with them whene'er he met them,
Called them "Hiawatha's brothers."