his first for knowledge was unslakable. in time, he would travel more extensively and meet a wider range of people than any american his age. his curiosity undimmed by fame or the adulation, washington appears to have gained something from nearly every encounter he had. this was his true education. its benefits magnified by the attention to detail. the death of his fire left young george without a role model. his had his older half brother lawrence to emulate. he was a stylist member in good standing of the military. he was surpassed by only his marital one. marrying into the fairfax clan opened doors to both brothers. the it was the fairfax connection that led the adolescent george beyond the blue ridge. the journey over the mountains in the water logged spring of 1748 reflects an adventurous youth on the cusp of manhood. eager for experience, yet appreciative of comfort. whether it took the form of a good feather bed in remote country lodges or the superiority of sleeping under the straws under a straw mattress crawling w