The city of New York was founded by the Dutch in 1621, and called New Amsterdam; but it was given to the Duke of York (afterwards James II.) in 1604, and was henceforth called by his name.

The first congress of the United States was held there in 1789.
Washington is the government capital of the States, and is so called in honour of the distinguished man--the father of the Republic--to whom I have already alluded.

The entrance to the city by the Pennsylvanian avenue is 100 feet wide, and planted with some of the trees.

The president's residence is called the "White House." The chief public offices and halls for the assembly of congress are contained in one building known as the Capitol.

It stands on a hill, and is said to be the finest building in the Union.