le, and already tried and proven? He was chosen
unanimously.

On being elected, Washington rose and thanked Congress for the honor,
adding modestly: "I do not think myself equal to the command I am honored
with." No doubt in the dark days of war to follow he often felt in this
way, but as the task had fallen to him, he determined to do his best and
trust in a higher power for the outcome.

[Illustration: The Washington Elm at Cambridge, under which Washington
took Command of the Army.]

He refused to accept any salary for his services, but said he would keep
an account of his expenses. The idea of gain for himself in the time of
his country's need was far removed from this great man's heart!

On the 21st of June, Washington set out on horseback from Philadelphia, in
company with a small body of horsemen, to take command of the American
army around Boston. This journey, which can now be made by train in a few
hours, took several days.

Soon after starting, Washington was much encouraged, as we have seen in a
preceding chapter, by the news of the brave stand the provincials had made
at the battle of Bunker Hill.

After three days, he reached New York, about four o'clock on Sunday
afternoon, and was given a royal welcome. Nine companies of soldiers on
foot escorted him as he passed through the streets in an open carriage
drawn by two white horses. All along the route the streets were lined with
people who greeted him with cheers.

Continuing his journey, on July 2 he reached the camp in Cambridge, and
there officers and soldiers received him with enthusiasm.

WASHINGTON IN COMMAND OF THE ARMY

Next day under the famous elm still standing near Harvard University,
Washington drew his sword and took command of the American army.

He was then forty-three years old, tall and manly in form, noble and
dignified in bearing. His soldiers looked upon him with pride as he sat
upon his horse, a superb picture of strength and dignity. He wore a
three-cornered hat with the cockade of liberty upon it, and across his
breast a broad band of blue silk. The impression he made was most
pleasing, his courteous and kindly manner winning friends immediately.

Washington at once began the labor of getting his troops ready to fight,
as his army was one only in name. For although the men were brave and
willing, they had never been trained for war, and were not even supplied
with muskets or powder.

Fortunately, the British did not k