Young Lincoln's Library

St. Nicholas

When Abraham Lincoln was a small boy he had very few books. There was no need for him to consult a list of the hundred best books. His earliest possessions consisted of less than half a dozen volumes—a pioneer's library.

First, of course, was the Bible, a whole library in itself, if properly understood, and containing every sort of literature—stories, poems, dramas, addresses, orations, histories, some simple enough for the youngest child others taxing the wisdom of the learned. Second was "Pilgrim's Progress," with its quaint characters and vivid scenes related in simple, vigorous English. "Aesop's Fables" was a third, and introduced the log-cabin boy to a wonderful range of characters—the gods of mythology, the different ranks and classes of mankind, and every animal under the sun. Fourth was a history of the United States, in which there was the charm of truth and a more modern tone, and from which were learned the lessons of patriotism that Lincoln's manhood put into action. Last came Weems' "Life of Washington," a queer, stilted book, but one full of detail that made Washington seem a living example.

These five books were the beginning of Lincoln's education; and what wise man has outgrown them all?

From the Bible, "Pilgrim's Progress," and "Aesop" the boy Lincoln learned the power and beauty of plain English words, and saw that the grandest thoughts and most poetic imaginings needed only the strong little words of every day. When, therefore, in later life he wished to be sure he understood any matter, it became his custom to translate it into words such as a child can understand.

Read again the Gettysburg address and the second inaugural, and learn how Lincoln could make the homespun words of common use move the hearts of his fellow-men.

St. Nicholas.

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