"I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country."

Almost every American of school age or older recalls these famous words, spoken by the courageous young patriot of the American Revolution, Nathan Hale.

Nathan was born on a farm near Coventry, Connecticut, in 1755. His parents were strict Puritans and he learned early in life to control his actions and emotions. As a boy, he demonstrated time after time great courage, great consideration for others, and great love for America, his native land.

From the beginning Nathan was interested in education. He went to school in Coventry and later attended Yale University. Then he became a teacher.

When the colonies decided to fight for independence, Nathan volunteered for service in the Continental Army. He soon became an officer and built up a strong reputation for bravery and daring.

Later Colonel Thomas Knowlton, impressed with Nathan, wanted him to join his regiment of Rangers. The Rangers were helping General George Washington fight the British in the region of New York.

General George Washington needed information about the British on Long Island. He asked Colonel Knowlton to secure a volunteer spy on the British in that area. Nathan, now twenty-one years of age, offered to undertake the dangerous mission.

In carrying out his assignment, Nathan disguised himself as a Dutch schoolmaster. He visited the British camp, talked with enemy soldiers and even sketched enemy defenses, but unfortunately none of his information ever reached Washington.

Finally an innkeeper recognized Nathan, so he decided to return to the American lines. He hailed a ship, but it happened to be a British ship, and he was taken prisoner. There was no chance to escape, and he was swiftly sentenced to be hanged.

This book tells the exciting story of Nathan Hale. It paints a vivid picture of his Puritan background. It portrays his boyhood adventures, and shows how he developed courage to withstand danger, faith in his fellowmen, and love for his native land. All in all it's a story that a child will never forget.

Nathan Hale: Puritan Boy is the twenty-fourth book in this series written by Augusta Stevenson, the favorite storyteller of every American child.

From the dust jacket