Here, too, the boyhood of Washington was passed, and therefore it becomes necessary to look about us and see what we can learn of this important period of his life.
We know nothing about his father, except that he was kindly and affectionate, attached to his wife and children, and apparently absorbed in the care of his estates.

On his death the children came wholly under the maternal influence and direction.

Much has been written about the "mother of Washington," but as a matter of fact, although she lived to an advanced age, we know scarcely more about her than we do about her husband.

She was of gentle birth, and possessed a vigorous character and a good deal of business capacity.

The advantages of education were given in but slight measure to the Virginian ladies of her time, and Mrs.Washington offered no exception to the general rule.