From Farm House to the White House - 912 Freedom Library

Farm House to the White House, by William M. Thayer 51
career of her eldest son, till, by his own rare merits, he was raised to the head of a nation, and applauded and
revered by the whole world. It has been said that there never was a great man, the elements of whose greatness
might not be traced to the original characteristics or early influence of his mother. If this be true, how much do
mankind owe to the mother of Washington?"
Irving said: "She proved herself worthy of the trust. Endowed with plain, direct, good sense, thorough
conscientiousness, and prompt decision, she governed her family strictly, but kindly, exacting deference while
she inspired affection. George, being her eldest son, was thought to be her favorite, yet she never gave him
undue preference; and the implicit deference exacted from him in childhood continued to be habitually
observed by him to the day of her death. He inherited from her a high temper and a spirit of command, but her
early precepts and example taught him to restrain and govern that temper, and to square his conduct on the
exact principles of equity and justice.
"Tradition gives an interesting picture of the widow, with her little flock gathered round her, as was her daily
wont, reading to them lessons of religion and morality out of some standard work. Her favorite volume was
Sir Matthew Hale's 'Contemplations, Moral and Divine.' The admirable maxims therein contained for outward
actions, as well as for self-government, sank deep into the mind of George, and doubtless had a great
influence in forming his character. They certainly were exemplified in his conduct throughout life. This
mother's manual, bearing his mother's name, Mary Washington, written with her own hand, was ever
preserved by him with filial care, and may still be seen in the archives of Mount Vernon."
When her son first engaged in the war against the French and Indians, she appeared to be indifferent to the
honor conferred upon him.
"You must go at the call of your country, but I regret that it is necessary, George," she said, when he paid her
his farewell visit. "May the Lord go with you, and preserve you and the country!"
"And may He preserve and bless you, whether He preserves me or not!" answered her son. "The perils of war
render my return uncertain, to say the least; and it is always wise to be prepared for the worst."
"I trust that I am prepared for anything that Providence orders," responded Mrs. Washington, "though it is
with pain that I approach this separation. These trying times require great sacrifices of all, and we must make
them cheerfully."
"Victory would not be far away if all possessed that spirit," answered the young commander. "If there is
patriotism enough in the country to defend our cause, the country will be saved."
That Washington himself was deeply affected by this interview, his own tears, when he bade his mother final
adieu, bore unmistakable witness.
When the news of his crossing the Delaware, at a time of great peril and gloom in the land, was brought to
her, she exclaimed, raising her hand heavenward, "Thank God! thank God for the success!"
There appeared to be no recognition of peculiar wisdom and skill on the part of her son, though the friends
gathered were full of his praise.
"The country is profoundly grateful to your son for his achievements," suggested one; "and the praise of his
countrymen knows no bounds."
"I have no doubt that George deserves well of his country," Mrs. Washington replied, "but, my good sir, here
is too much flattery."