ay for a walk, a ride on horseback, or a drive with some members of his
family, and as a result of this, when night comes, sleeps soundly and
arises the next morning as bright and fresh as ever.
This is the first time that a President with a large family has occupied
the White House. Other Presidents have had a few children, but Mr.
Roosevelt took possession with six, a hearty, romping crowd, the
younger members of which thought it great fun to explore the executive
mansion when first they moved in. The President loves his children
dearly, and is not above "playing bear" with the little ones when time
permits and they want some fun.
Of Mrs. Roosevelt it can truthfully be said that she makes a splendid
"first lady in the land." She takes a great interest in all social
functions, and an equal interest in what is best for her boys and girls
and their friends. She is very charitable, and each year contributes
liberally to hundreds of bazaars and fairs held throughout our country.
The oldest child of the President is Miss Alice Lee Roosevelt, named
after her mother, the first wife of the Chief Magistrate. Although but a
step-daughter to the present Mrs. Roosevelt, the two are as intimate and
loving as if of the same flesh and blood. Miss Roosevelt has already
made her debut in Washington society, and assisted at several gatherings
at the White House.
All of the other children were born after Mr. Roosevelt's second
marriage. His oldest son is Theodore Roosevelt, Jr., commonly called by
his chums, Teddy, Jr. He is a lad of sixteen, bright and clever, and has
been attending a college preparatory school at Groton, Massachusetts, as
already mentioned. He loves outdoor games, and is said to possess many
tastes in common with his father.
The other members of the family are, Kermit, fourteen, Ethel Carew,
twelve, Archibald Bullock, nine, and a lively little boy named Quentin,
who is six.
Some time ago a distinguished member of the English Educational
Commission visited this country and made an inspection of our school
system. When asked what had impressed him most deeply, he answered:--
"The children of the President of the United States sitting side by side
with the children of your workingmen in the public schools."
This simple little speech speaks volumes for the good, hard common sense
of our President. He believes thoroughly in our public institutions, and
knows the real value of sending out his boys to fight th
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