^8 A3IERICAN CHARACTER. 



driver is a leading beau, and the keeper of the 

 turnpike gate is a man of consequence. 



In the American character, I have witnessed a 

 singular presentation of lofty independence and 

 imafTected civility. Travel where you will you 

 will never be treated with inattention or rudeness. 

 Men, woraenj and children, are courteous to the 

 passing stranger. Ask as many and what ques- 

 tions you please, and you will be answered to the 

 full extent of their information — but then they will 

 expect reciprocity. You will be assailed by a 

 prying curiosity which investigates your name, 

 your business, and your destination. You will 

 be treated with perfect equality ; and it will be 

 expected from you to listen with patience to tedi- 

 ous narratives and multifarious speculations. 



I never saw the elements of common education 

 more generally diffused, and better understood. 

 Every one can read, and write, and cypher — can 

 read his bible, his catechism, and his psalm book, 

 {n the nooks of the most common log house, you 

 will see such books as the Young Man's Best 

 Companion, Bunj^an's Pilgrim's Progress, Her- 

 vey's Meditations, Robinson Crusoe, and Tom 

 ./ones. The aspirants after higher knowledge are 

 few in number and not very ardent in the pursuit. 

 But I can assure you that many places are hon- 

 ored by the residence of truly scientific men, 1 



