Page:The Presidents of the United States, 1789-1914, v. II.djvu/55

From Wikisource
Jump to navigation Jump to search
This page needs to be proofread.

WILLIAM HENRY HARRISON 33 of character which conciliated the affection and respect of all who knew him. William Henry was educated at Hampden Sid ney college, Virginia, and began the study of medi cine, but before he had finished it accounts of the Indian outrages that had been committed on the western frontier raised in him a desire to enter the army for its defence. Robert Morris, who had been appointed his guardian on the death of his father in 1791, endeavored to dissuade him, but his purpose being approved by Washington, who had been his father s friend, he was commissioned ensign in the 1st infantry on August 16, 1791. He joined his regiment at Fort Washington, Ohio, was appointed lieutenant of the 1st sub-legion, to rank from June, 1792, and afterward united with the army under Gen. Anthony Wayne. Being made aide-de-camp to the commanding officer, he took part, in December, 1793, in the expedition that erected Fort Recovery on the battle field where St. Clair had been defeated two years before, and, with others, received thanks by name in general orders for his services. He participated in the en gagements with the Indians that began on June 30, 1794, and on August 19, at a council of war, submitted a plan of march, which was adopted and led to the victory on the Miami on the following day. Lieut. Harrison was specially complimented by