Mr. Weems says: "Little did the old gentleman expect that he was educating a youth who should one day dismember the British Empire, and break his own heart, which truly came to pass; for on hearing that Washington had captured Cornwallis and all his army, he called out to his black servant, 'Come, Joe, carry me to my bed, for it is high time for me to die.'"
VIII.
MILITARY HONORS.
"There is a chance for you, George, in the reorganization of the militia," remarked Lawrence, who was personally interested in a movement to improve the soldiery of Virginia.
"What chance?" George asked.
"For an appointment as my successor. The state of my health makes my resignation necessary, and you are competent to take charge of my district."
"My youth will prevent that."
"Not necessarily. Youth will not weigh so much against you as a competency will do for you. Qualifications for the place is what the authorities will require."
"And their attention will naturally be directed to older men, who are well known," suggested George.