The line "by George Washington" on the title-page of this book is highly misleading. A note in very small type (on the copyright page) makes clear that the text of the book was merely copied out by Washington from a set of rules first written in France on or before 1595 and translated into English in 1640. Washington was not the author of even a single word in the book.

Washington's feelngs notwithstanding to state that his love for Sally Faifax was the cause of the affair resulting in the death of Jumonville is ridiculous. If one is not a bit of a history buff he might find it to be a good read. However, it is littered with errors stated as fact. I doubt not that Mr. Killian did copious research but he took a much to liberal license with the facts. Sure, Washington had many faults, but he deserves better treatment than given in this work! M. W. Askew (mwaskew@msn.com)