George Mason
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By Fitzhugh Lee (1835-1905) was a Confederate general, governor of
Virginia, diplomat, grandson of Light Horse Harry Lee, and nephew of
Robert E. Lee.
Every fact bearing upon the character and service of the statesmen
whose genius created a model form of human government should receive a
warm greeting from those who are proud of the growth, progress, and
prosperity of the republic. The harmonious working of the component
parts which enter into the life of the country is to-day the result of
the intelligent labors of a small group of men over a hundred years ago.
Like the rays of the sun which give light to the world, a government
which proves capable of maintaining the purpose for which it was
established, and protects the liberties of its citizens, should be
hailed and imitated by mankind in every clime.
The sword of Washington carved success upon the standards of the new
republic. The pen of Jefferson declared in immortal phrase our
independence of Great Britain. The young eagle was pluming for his
flight among the nations of the globe. But how should he so adjust his
wings as to carry with nice balance, upon pinions of freedom, the
glorious mission of establishing a government of the people, to replace
the power of the tyrant?
Among the eminent patriots of those days, whose minds grasped this
great problem, the subject of this book stands out in bold relief. A
most remarkable man was George Mason! His conception of the authority of
the citizens to control the government, and that the government existed
only by their will and consent, was thorough and complete.
