Horses were likewise prepared for his guests, whenever they chose to accompany him, or to amuse themselves by excursions into the country.

Returning from his fields, and despatching such business as happened to be on hand, he went again to his study, and continued there till three o'clock, when he was summoned to dinner.

The remainder of the day and the evening were devoted to company, or to recreation in the family circle.

At ten he retired to rest.

From these habits he seldom deviated, unless compelled to do so by particular circumstances.[1] [Footnote 1: Sparks, 389, 390.] This list does not include the item which Washington soon found the greatest of his burdens--letter-writing.