When England had experienced such success with railways, it was not long before America began building railroads on a large scale. More than three hundred thousand miles of railroads are now in operation in the United States, and many more miles are added each year. The great systems of railways, with their modern improvements for fast travel, are a triumph of skill, energy and enterprise. LESSON LXV GEORGE WASHINGTON _PART II_ The boundary war between France and the British possessions in America had been the cause of the war from 1753 to 1759 in which Washington and thousands of his countrymen did gallant services. It ended with the surrender of Quebec, by which France lost her foothold in the Ohio valley and all the territory east of the Mississippi. Ten years later, the whole aspect had changed. The same country, for which our forefathers in the colonies had sacrificed some of their noblest sons, was now beginning to oppress these very colonies. By unjust taxation, England tried to replenish her treasury, which a protracted war across the seas had made empty. But though the war against the French in the interest of England had cost the colonies in America some of its best blood, it had not been without its salutary lesson. America had learned its own strength as well as the weakness of the British soldiers and her public officials. Washington, above all, knew these facts too well. He was, however, no agitator, and for many reasons was deeply attached to old England. He, therefore, cautioned reserve and forbearance without sacrificing his patriotism. In the meantime the Revolution came to an outbreak. Washington was called upon by his compatriots to lead them on to liberty. After careful examination and due consideration he consented, and Washington took command of the colonial troops in the war against England. "It is my intention," said he, "if needs be, to sacrifice my life, my liberty and all my possessions in this holy cause." Thus, we see him leading the army, animated with the noblest sentiments. General Washington was now forty-three years of age and in the full power of manhood. His personality was distinguished and his bearing serene. He electrified the whole army. The Colonial troops, however, were not at all times equal to 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.