From Lexington and Boston, Bunker Hill and Concord, through Connecticut, New York, Philadelphia, Valley Forge, and from Princeton to Morristown was a wearisome march. Want of provisions for the army under his command, as well as many other disappointments, might well have discouraged any but the stoutest heart. General Washington was a hero, and he trusted in God and the ultimate success of the country's just cause. When at last the American army was in sorest distress, there came unexpected help from many quarters. Such noble and self-sacrificing men as Lafayette, Steuben, Kosciusko, De Kalb and De Grasse arrived to aid our new republic, and after an unrelenting war of six long years, British rule was forever banished from the land. On the 4th of December, 1782, General Washington took leave of the continental army. His memorable speech on that occasion is a masterpiece of unselfish patriotism. He retired to his home at Mount Vernon, followed by the heartfelt blessings of a grateful people. His private life was one of regularity in all his doings. His hospitality was renowned, and Mount Vernon soon became a much frequented, much beloved place of reunion for many distinguished visitors. Not a great many years was Washington permitted to enjoy his well-merited repose in his country home. The same country of which he had been the successful liberator, now called upon him to lead and guide this newly established government. Washington was chosen the First President of the United States of America in 1789. It was at this time that he wrote in his diary: "To-day I take leave of private life and domestic happiness with feelings of regret, and am preparing to enter upon my official career. I hope I shall be able to realize the expectations my country has placed in me." His journey from Mount Vernon to New York became one of triumph. He was met with the greatest enthusiasm throughout the country wherever he passed. He took his oath of office in New York City where the sub-treasury now stands. Washington was elected a second time for the presidency. His presidential career was characteristic of the man and the hero. An equitable and conservative government was administered by him, and the young republic was prosperous and progressive during his two terms of office. Having returned once more to his beloved Virginia home, Washington now spent his declining years in much needed rest and quiet recreation. In the fall of the year 1799 Washington was seized with a malignant fever. The best medical aid proved unavailing, and the Father of our Country died on the 14th day of December. His last words were: "Let me die in peace; I am not afraid to die, it is a debt we all must pay." The exemplary life and the many noble achievements of this truly great man stand almost unique in the history of nations. LESSON LXVI BENJAMIN FRANKLIN