Harvard Classics

Introductory note on John Greenleaf Whittier (The Ridpath's Library of Universal Literature)

For of all sad words of tongue or pen, the saddest are these: 'It might have been.'" On this theme Whittier based the story of a fair farmer girl and a rich judge. (Volume 42, Harvard Classics)

Whittier died Sept. 17, 1892.

Introductory note on William Harrison (Volume 35, Harvard Classics)

"Such felons as stand mute [do not confess] are pressed to death by huge weights laid upon a board that lieth over their breast and a sharp stone under their backs." Old English punishments, recorded by Holinshed, make startling reading. (Volume 35, Harvard Classics)

Introductory note on George Washington (The Ridpath's Library of Universal Literature)

George Washington retired to private life in 1796, entrusting "the preservation of the Union" to the "love of liberty." His last appeal is a vital message to American citizens, as pertinent today as when he penned it. (Volume 43, Harvard Classics)

George Washington published "Farewell Address," Sept. 15, 1796.

Introductory note on Dante Alighieri (Volume 20, Harvard Classics)

Dante, having journeyed through Hell and Purgatory, comes at last to St. Peter on his throne. St. Peter calls for the aid of St. James and St. John before passing final judgment on Dante's righteousness. (Volume 20, Harvard Classics)

Dante died Sept. 14, 1321.

Introductory note on John Bunyan (Volume 15, Harvard Classics)

From cockfighting, bear baiting, and like sports, the wife of John Bunyan converted him to a life of humility and reverence. While imprisoned for preaching, he used his idle time in writing a fantastic story of a soul's salvation -- probably the most famous allegory ever written. (Volume 15, Harvard Classics)

John Bunyan liberated and pardoned, Sept. 13, 1672.