“I am glad that thou art happy, but there is no more pleasure for me,” said Wa-nou. A moment after, he showed the young man a shrub that was in full bloom.
“Seest thou that beautiful plant?” said he. “Hast thou any pleasure in beholding it?”
“Yes, great pleasure,” replied the young man.
“To me, it can no longer give pleasure,” said the old man: and then, after embracing the young Englishman with great affection, he concluded with these words: “Begone, hasten to thine own country, that thy father may still have pleasure in beholding the rising sun and the flowers of spring.”
THE BOYHOOD OF WASHINGTON.
Some of the most interesting anecdotes of the early years of Washington, are such as connect him with his mother, or were derived from her narrations. She was a dignified and excellent woman, and is remembered with respect and love, by all who had the honor of her acquaintance.
Her husband died while their children were young. So, she had the sole care of their government and education. For this great charge she was eminently qualified. She was often asked what course she had pursued, in training up her illustrious son. And her reply was, “I only required obedience, diligence, and truth.”
These were the simple rules by which Washington became good and great. They were wrought in with the elements of his character, until his goodness became greatness, and his greatness, goodness. Is there any thing, in these three precepts of obedience, diligence, and truth, which those who read this work are unwilling or careless to observe?