This novel is the first in a series entitled First Light Five. These are our leaders who succeeded George Washington. This theme is based on a military tactic so clearly stated by General Nathan Bedford Forest: Get there firs test with the mostest.
George Washington led off closely followed by Jon Mann. The writer has chosen to present Jons life in fiction. Although we open with Jon and his housekeeper at The Hague, via a flash back we are transported back to his beginnings. Where we learn of his genealogy, family and other facts that molded his character.
Jon raised by parents that were rooted in faith. Who taught and raised Jon in what it meant to be a Christian. Their ever-present guidance by precept and example would serve Jon well throughout his long life. Sociologists tell us a strong father figure is a determining factor in a childs physical, mental and emotional growth. Father Mann wore many hats farmer, a shoemaker by trade; he served as a church deacon, and a selectman.
Jon early on learned a lesson in judgment. Deacon Jon by vent of allowing Jon to chose between the hard physical life of a farmer and the importance of getting an education. Father taught his son a lesson
which would be invaluable in the future.
Jons early education was fundamentally flawed due the fact that he had to large a variety of teachers. Each had a different system or technique. He graduated from Harvard and was hired to be the Latin master at Worcester. Here he read the law under the guidance of a lawyer. After two years of study Jon was admitted to the bar. He married Susan Smith and soon his law practice and his family grew.
Jon served as Circuit Judge for many years, after which, he was elected to attend the first and second Continental Congress. During the Revolutionary War period Jon served in the diplomatic corps. Jon served first in France, then the Netherlands and as Americas first ambassador to Great Britain.
On his second trip abroad Jon took two of his sons. This gave him an excellent opportunity to bond with the boys. Their ship made port at La Courna, Spain. As they traveled to Paris they were exposed to many sights. They learned historical, agricultural and geographical facts on their way to Paris.
On his return Jon was elected as Americas first Vice President. After serving two terms in this post. Jon became our second President. Coincidentally Jon and his successor as president both died on July 4th. This day was the fiftieth anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
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