IN the year 1719 an Englishman whose name was Daniel Defoe wrote a very long story, which he called "The Life and Surprising Adventures of Robinson Crusoe." His story was not designed for children, and therefore it contained a great deal of hard reading. There was much in it, however, that was interesting to young people, and from that day to this, the marvelous tale of Robinson Crusoe has been a favorite with boys as well as men. I have rewritten the story in words easy for every child, and have shortened it by leaving out all the dull parts. 

I WISH TO BE A SAILOR 

MY name is Robinson Crusoe. I was born in the old city of York, where there is a broad river, with ships coming and going. 

When I was a little boy, I spent much of my time looking at the river. 

How pleasant was the quiet stream, flowing, always flowing, toward the far-away sea!