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"I cannot tell a lie, I did it with my little hatchet."
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Mason WeemsMason Weems
Mason Weems
Mason Locke Weems, usually referred to as Parson Weems, was an American minister, evangelical bookseller and author who wrote the first biography of George Washington immediately after his death. Some popular stories about Washington thought during the 20th century to be apocryphal can be traced to Weems, including the cherry tree tale. Weems' biography of Washington was a bestseller that depicted
"I cannot tell a lie, I did it with my little hatchet."
"Feeling that the silver chord of life is loosing, and that his spirit is ready to quit her old companion the body, he extends himself on his bed — closes his eyes for the last time, with his own hands — folds his arms decently on his breast, then breathing out "Father of mercies! take me to thyself," — he fell asleep. Swift on angels wings the brightening saint ascended; while voices more than human were heard (in Fancys ear) warbling through the happy regions, and hymning the great procession towards the gates of heaven. His glorious coming was seen far off, and myriads of mighty angels hastened forth, with golden harps, to welcome the honored stranger."
"Even common passions... will put him up to his mettle."