by the young as a cold, far-off, statue-like person, admirable rather than imitable, fit for reverence but not for love.
This idea of him has grown up very naturally; for one who attempts to write his life finds so many great things to tell of, that there is little place left for lesser traits and incidents. This very volume, begun with express intent to set forth the private and familiar, not the grand side of Washington's life and character, proved insufficient to contain at once the mere sketch of his doings and the more personal anecdotes and traditions respecting him, which last would make a volume, of themselves. All that could find space are
here, but many were necessarily forced out, lest too voluminous a work should discourage youthful readers. In making selections, anecdotes less known have been preferred; and some of the personal details were taken down from the conversation of contemporaries of Washington, still able, in our day, to enjoy the homage which ever attends his name.