George was such a strong, sturdy boy that he nearly always won the games and races the boys would have. He liked to hear stories of soldiers and wars. He would play soldier, and have parades and make-believe battles. His playmates were fond of him because he was always fair in his play. At school his work was good and his copy book was so neat that it has been saved and can be seen to-day.
George’s father died when George was ten years old, but he had a wise mother whom he loved very dearly. There were many things that he could do on the farm to help his mother. He was very proud of his mother’s horses and one day was showing them to his friends. One horse—his mother’s favorite—was a splendid young animal that had never been trained. George’s friends asked if he could ride this horse. George answered that he could. He mounted the horse, but the animal kicked and reared and fell over backward breaking its neck. His friends were alarmed because they knew how much Mrs. Washington thought of this horse, and they begged him not to tell her. But George went straight to her and told her all about it, adding that he was sorry that the beautiful animal was dead. His mother forgave him, but warned him to be more careful in the future.
To-morrow we shall learn more about George Washington.
THE YOUNG MANHOOD OF GEORGE WASHINGTON
Showing Washington’s love for and gentleness towards his mother; also his bravery in time of danger, and his strength to endure hardships.
Yesterday we learned that Washington was a very truthful boy. To-day we will learn how he loved his mother, and grew up to be strong and brave.
He felt that he must take his father’s place and help her with the large farm. Every night he would lead in family prayer just as his father had done, and when visitors came in he was host and entertained them. Once he thought he would like to become a sailor. He lived near the James River and could watch the boats go up and down, and the life of the men on the boats seemed to fascinate him.