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The Essays are prefaced by a very pleasant and appreciative biographi- cal sketch by MARY UOWITT. r r R i. i s 11 K n R v PHILLIPS, SAMPSON & CO., Boston, And for sale bv all Booksellers in the Tinted SUtt-8. THB LIFE OF GEORGE WASHINGTON, COMMANDER IN CHIEF OF THE American Sirms, THROUGH THS REVOLUTIONARY WAR ; AND THE FIRST PRESIDENT OF THB UNITED STATES. BY AARON BANCROFT D. D. CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH IK WCRCESTI BOSTON: PHILLIPS, SAMPSON, AND COMPANY 1857. f PREFACE. THE following publication onginatea in the author'! wish to place within reach of tho great body of hia countrymen, an authontick biography of General WASHINGTON. Judge Marshall, in his valuable life of this illustri- ous patriot, has embraced not only the settlement and general history of the North American Colonies; but also tho political history of tho United States. Hia work is therefore necessarily too expensive to be ob- tained by all classes of American people. The writer of these memoirs apprehended, that by publishing the life of WASHINGTON in a compressed form, he should enable those of his fellow citizens, who are not in possession of Marshall, to leave to their posterity a memorial of a man, who was pre-eminently distin- guished as a Soldier and Statesman. General WASHINGTON was from his youth de- voted to his country, his character therefore cannot be portrayed, without bringing into view many important publick transactions. The plan of the writer has been to notice no individual or evert, further than was ne- cessary to display the principal character. IT PREFACE. He has made Judge Marshall his leading authority for facts, and has in some measure followed him in the order of events. The histories of the war by Doctors Ramsay and Gordon, and several original writings have been consulted ; but he trusts, that greater liberty hna not been taken with any of them than is fair and ho- nourable. The few facts, which have not before been published, were received immediately from confiden- tial friends of General WASHINGTON, or from gentlemen who, in respectable official situations, wcrti members of his family during his military command. It has been the endeavour of the author to display the character of the man who is the subject of the arork, by exhibiting in a connected view his actions and his writings ; and he has, as far as possible, made this exhibition in the person of General WASHING- TON. lie has not concoived that he was writing for men of erudition, but for the unlettered portion of the m.m- munity ; and he has for their benefit more particularly studied simplicity of style. Should he be so happy as to obtain their approbation, he will receive an ample reward of his labour. He entertains no expectation of acquiring literary fame by this publication ; but he hopes to escape the disgrace of having written a useless bur k. CONTENTS. CHAPTER I. IIi Birth Education Appointed an AdjutE.nl Ge- neral of the Militia H's Embassy to the Ohio ^ Comrniasioned as Lieutenant Colonel of a regular Regiment Surprises detachment of French troops Capitulation of Fort Necessity He is ap- pointed a volunteer ^id de Camp to General BRAD- DOCK His bravery 'P. the action in tvhich that Geno ral fell He is appointed the Colonel of a regiment, and Commander in Chief of the Virginia troops- His efforts to defend the frontiers His exertions in the exjnd :< A"n under General FORBES to gain poa of Vort du Quesne Resigns his commis Page 11 6 CONTENTS. CHAPTER II. Colon.,! WASHINGTON'S Marriage His Management of the Estate of Mount Vernori Appointed a Judge of the County Court, and a member of the Virginia Legislature Chosen a member of the first Congrosa Appointed Commander in Chinf of the American Forces Arrives at Camp Arranges the Army Deficiency of Arms and Ammunition Colonel Ar nold detached to Quebec-Success of American Cruis ers Evils of temporary Enlistments An Attack on the Enemy's Posts meditated Possession taken of the Heights of Dorchester Boston evacuated 40 CHAPTER III. General WASHINGTON marches the Army to New York Fortifications of the City and River- Inde- pendence declared General Howe lands on Stuteii Island Interview between General WASHINGTON and Colonel Patterson State of the British and Ame-i'jan Forces Camp at Brooklyn Battle on Long Island Retreat from it The City and Island of New-York evacuated Manreuvres at White Plains Fort Washington taken General Howe invades New-Jersey Depression of the Americans General WASHINGTON invested with new Powers Success at Trenton, and at Princeton- -New-Jer ey recoveud - - 66 CONTENTS. T CHAPTER IV, General WASHINGTON disposes his small force for the protection of New-Jersey Army Inoculated Abuse of American prisoners The Exchange of General Lee refused Stores at Peck's Kill and Danbury destroyed American Army taxes post at Middlebrook Sir William Howe moves towards the Delaware Returns to Staten Island and embarks his troops He lands at the Head of Elk General WASHINGTON marches to meet him Battle of Bran- dy wine Effect of a Storm British take possession of Philadelphia Mud Island and Red Bank fortified Obstructions in the River Attack on Mud Island Count Donop defeated British surmount the Fortifications of the River Plan to attack Philadel- phia Sir William Howe reconnoitres the American Camp at White Marsh The Army hutted at Val- ley Forge The Privations of the Soldiers during the Winter 118 CHAPTER V. Progress and issue of the Northern Campaign Plan to displace General WASHINGTON His correspon dence on the subject Letter of General Gates Re- monstrance of the Legislature of Pennsylvania against closing the Campaign Observations of the 8 CONTENTS. Commander in Chief upon it Sufferings of the Ar- my for the wart of Provisions and Clothing Mca sures adopted by the Commander in Chief to obtain Supplies Methods taken to recruit the Army Sir Henry Clinton appointed Commander in Chief of the British Forces He evacuates Philadelphia, and marches Ihroiiph New-Jersey to New-York Gene- ral WASHINGTON pursues him liau.e of Monmouth Thanks of Congress to the General ana Army - General Lee censured He demands a Court Mar- tial, and is suspended from his command French Fleet appears on the American Coast Expedition against Rhode Island It fails Disaffection between the American and French Officers Measures of the Commander in Chief to prevent the ill consequen- ces of it Army goes into Winter Quarters in the High Lands --..-.... 143 CHAPTER VI. Pl.-m formed by Congress and the Trench Minister foi the invasion of Canada and Nova Scotia General WASHINGTON'S objections to it Delinquency of the United States to prepare for the approaching cam- paign The exertions of the General His Leltei on the State of the Nation The Remonstrance of Officers belonging to the New-Jersey Brigade to the Legiskture of that State Letters of the Command CONTENTS 9 er in Chief on the Subject Expedition against th Indians under General Sullivan He destroys their Towns The American Army posted for the de- fence of the High Lands on the North River, and for the protection of the Country against the incur- sions of the British Sir Henry Clinton moves up the Hudson, takes possession of Stony and Verplank Points, and fortifies them Arrangements made for Assaulting these posts General Wayne carries Stony Point by Storm The Attac* upon Verplank fails Congress vote their thanks to General WASH INGTON and to the brave Troops employed in this service They vote General Wayne a Medal Evils of short Enlistments Plan of the General's to emedy them The Army in two Divisions erect huts for winter quarters, one near West Point, and the oth- er at Morristown in New- Jersey The troops suffer through the scarcity of Provisions Colonel Wads- worth resigns his Office Confusion in the Commis aary's department The Commander in Chief is ne cessitated to apportion supplies of Meat and Flour upon the Counties of New-Jersey The winter ex cessively cold, and the waters around New- York frozen over ; but the Commander in Chief is too weak to avail himself of this opportunity to Assail ^e Britielr Posts Expedition to Staten Island fcilB 174 10 CONTENTS. CHAPTER VII. Amount of Emission Congress destitute of Means to support the War Supplies apportioned upon the States Exertions of the Commander in Chief Mutiny in a part of the Army The British make an Excursion into New-Jersey The American Troops bravely resist them The Court of France promises a Naval and Land Armament to act ir America Preparation to Co-operate with it A French Squadron arrives on the American Coast Count Rochambeau lands at Newport with five thousand Men The American and French Com- manders meet at Hartford to settle the Plan of the Campaign The Second Division of the French Troops fails General Arnold becomes a Traitor He Corresponds with Major Andre Andre cornea on Shore at West Point Attempts to return to New-York by land He is taken into Custody by three Militia Men A Board of General Officers condemn him He is Executed Letter of General WASHINGTON on the State of the Army Congress idopts a Military Establishment for the War The Army goes into Winter Quarters ... 19fl %'.. *" ' * LIFE * - or * GEORGE WASHINGTON. CHAPTER I. His Birth Education Appointed an Adjutant General of tn militia His emlmssy to the Ohio Commissioned as Lieutenant Colonel of a regular regiment Surprises a detachment of French troops Capitulation of Fort Necessity He is appointed a volun- teer Aid do camp to General Braddock His hravery in the ac- tion in which that General fell He is appointed the Colonel of a re^imnnt, and commander in chief of the V irjfinia troops His efforts to defend the frontiers iJis exertions in the expedition under General Forli.: to gjin possession of Fort du Uuesno Ke- eigns his commission. GEORGE WASHINGTON was born in tho county of Westmoreland, Virginia, on tha *22d day of February, 1732., He was the third son of Mr. Augustine Wash- ington, and the great grandson of. .Mr. John Washing- ton, a gentleman of a family of some distinction in the north of England, who emigrated about the year 1(5.77, and took up the estate on which the subject of these memoirs was bom. At the age of ten years, by the death of his father, he was left in the sole care of a solicitous mother. She gave him a private education. A grammatical knowledge of the English language, matheimUicks, geography, history, natural and moral philosophy, to the exclusion of the learnod languages, formed the course of his youthful studies. The candour and manliness of his disposition were early displayed among his young companions, and tha commanding influence of his character was first di covered by his ascendency over them. !2 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1747 The patrimonial estate of Mr. Washington was small. After the completion of his course with his tu- tor, he was engaged in useful industry ; and tor several years of his minority, employed as a county surveyor In this employment he distinguished himself by hU diligence, and by the neatness and accuracy of his plans. His experience in this business made him well acquainted with the worth of new lands, and aided him afterwards in their selection. The military bias of his mind was early discovered. The war between England and France in 1747, kindled in his young breast that spark, which at a subsequent period burst into a flame ; and at his own importunity, the birth of a midshipman, at the age of fifteen, was obtained in the British navy. His views in this in- stiince were defeated by the anxiety of an affectionate mother. At a time when the militia was to be trained for actual service, at nineteen he was appointed one of tha adjutant generals of Virginia, with the rank of major ; from the execution of the duties of this eommis sion, honourable to his age, he was soon called to higher employments. France at this period unfolded her ambitious design of connecting Canada with Louisiana, and in this way of enclosing the British colonies in North America Her officers were directed to establish a line of posts from the lakes to the Ohio. This tract of country, the English held to be within the boundaries of Virginia Mr. Dinwiddie, then the Lieutenant Governor of the province, alarmed by encroachments, which involved the important interests of the British crown, conceived it proper officially to waiA the French to desist from the prosecution of a scheme, deemed a violation of ex- isting treaties between the two countries. It was difficult to select a proper ager.t to execute this perilous mission. He must pass through an un- Bjcplored wilderness, filled by tribes of Indians ; som 1753.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 13 of which weie doubtful friends, and many the decide*? enemies of the English. The fatigues and danger! which induced other Virginians to decline the com mission of envoy on this occasion, led Mr. WASUIKO TON with ardour to seek the appointment. The very day on wind, he received hia |J.',r commission he commenced his journey from Williamsburg. At Winchester he piocurcd the necessary provisions, baggage, and horses. On the fourteenth of November he reached Will's Creek, the frontier of inhabited Virginia ; here he lured a guide and four other attendants, to accompany him over the Alleghany mountains ; the passage of which was now attended with difficulty and hazard. The weather be- came incessantly stormy, and the snow deep ; and he was unable to arrive at Turtle Creek, on the rnouth of the Monongahela, before the 22d. Hero he was in formed of the death of the French General, and found that his troops had retired to winter quarters. With extreme fatigue he ptirsued his journey ; surveyed the country with the judgment of a soldier, and selected the forks of the Monongahela and' Alleghany rivers, as a place highly expedient for the English to possess and fortify. On this site the French soon after erected Fort du Quesne, whfch, when the British General Forbes gained the possession, he willed Fort Pitt. In this place he spent a few days to conciliate the affections of the Indians of the vicinity. Some of their chiefs, whose fidelity he took the wisest measures to secure, he engaged as guides, with them, ascended the Alleghany river, and at the mouth of French Creek found the first French post. Proceeding up the creek to another fort, he met Monsieur le Gardur de St. Pierre, the commanding officer on the Ohio, and to h : m he delivered Governor Dinwiddie's letter. With- ji three or four days he received an official answer to his communication, and immediately left the place on ois return ; but tha snow being excessively dp, and 14 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1753 his horses growing weak from fatigue, lie became im patient at the slowness of his progress. Leaving there fore hia horses with necessary directions, in the car* of his attendants, he and his guide wrapped themselve* in watch coats, took his important papers, and the ne- scssary provisions in their packs, and with thei r guns in their hands, prosecuted the journey on foot the nearest way through the woods. The next day, De- cember 2(>, as he passed a place called the Murdering town, he fell in with a party of French Indians, which lay in wait for him ; one of them not fifteen steps dis- tant fired, but without effect. This Indian the Major took into custody and detained him till nine o clock in the evening, then dismissed him, and continued his march through the night, that he might be beyond the reach of pursuit, should the Indians in the morning fol- low his track. The second day he reached the river two miles above tho Shannapis, expecting to find it frozen over ; but the ice extended only fifty yards from the shore ; though quantities of it were driving in the channel. A raft was their only means of passing, and they had but one poor hatchet with which to make it. It cost them a hard day's work to form the raft ; the next day they launched it, went on board, and attempt- ed the passage ; but before they were half way over they were enclosed by masses of ice, and threatened with immediate destruction. Mr. WASHINGTON put down his setting pole to stop the raft, that the ice might pass by, but the rapidrty of the current crowded the ice with such force against the pole, tnat it threw him out in ten feet water. But fortunately he saved himself by seizing one of the raft logs. With their ut- most efforts they wore unable to reacn either shore, but with difficulty they landed on an island. The cold was BO severe, that Mr. Gist the guide had hie hands and feet frozen. The next morning, without hazard they passed the river on the ics, anJ were received into tho lodgings of Mr. Frazier, an Indian trader. Here Ma 1754.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. la jor WASHINGTON took a horse, and on the 16th of January, 1754, reached Williamsburg ; and made report of his proceedings. The fatigue and danger of this embassy are not easily conceived by persons in the bosom of civilized life. " From the 1st to the loth of December," sa-'S Major WASHINGTON, " there was but one diiy in which it did not rain or snow incessantly, and through the jvhole Journey there was but one continued series of cold, wet weather." The journal composed for the perusal of Governor Dinwiddie, was published, and the enterprise, judgment, and perseverance displayed in the execution of this service, exalted Mr. WASHING TON in publick opinion; and gave his country an earnest of his future services. The embassy to the Ohio, not having induced tho French to withdraw from that country, the assembly of Virginia adopted measures to maintain the claims of the British crown. They empowered the executive of the colony to raise a regiment to consist of three hundred men. Mr. Fry, a gentleman acquainted with the western country, was appointed to command it, and the commission of Lieut. Colonel was given to Major WASHINGTON. Enterprising and patriotick, Col. WASHINGTON requested and obtained permission to march first, early in April, 17.54, with two companies to the Great Meadows. The reasons which led him to this measure, were to be early in active service, to learn the designs of the enemy, to afford protection to the Englisft settlements, to cultivate the friendship of tho Indians, and to acquire a knowledge of the coun- try, which promised to be the scene of military opera lions. Scarcely had he taken possession of his ground when some friendly Indians informed him that the French had driven away a working party, sent by the Ohio company to erect a fort on ths southeastern branch of tho Ohio, and were themselves building a fo'iress on tho very gi lund, whnh he hid recommend- 16 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [IT.'i ed to the Governor for a military post. They also 5. Colonel WASHINGTON had at this time suc- ceeded to the estate of his eldest brother, on the Poto- mack, called Mount Vernon, in compliment to the British Admiral of that name. On this estate he re- solved to devote his life to agricultural and philosophick pursuits, a resolution that he did not long retain. In the spring, General Braddock, who i-i1^ H commanded two British regiments, and a lloo. . . . , ' tew corps of Provincials, was making prepa- ration for an expedition to the Ohio. He invitee Ct lo nel WASHINGTON to join his arm^ , as his volunteer Aid do camp. The opportunity of making a t-umpaign with a gci.tleman of his professional knowledge and experience was with pleasure embraced. When the General, in April, left Alexandria, Colonel WASHING- TON entered his family, and attended him to Will's 20 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1755 Creek, where fort Cumberland was now erected Here the army remained until the 12th of June, col- lecting horses, wagons, and provisions. Colonel WASHINGTON advised the commander in chief to use as far as possible, pack horses instead of wagons, on ccount of the roughness of the country. Little atten- tion was given to his opinion at the moment, but, after the commencement of the inarch, the measure frcm necessity was partially adopted. Soon after the army left Cumberland, Colonel WASHINGTON was attacked by a violent fever ; refusing to be left behind, he was carried forward in a covered wagon. All the difficulties arising from the state of the roads, whkh had been foreseen by Colonel WASH- INGTON, were, on the march, fully realised. General Braddock now advised with him on the most eligible measures to be adopted to secure the success of the expedition. He earnestly recommended, that the heavy artillery and baggage should be left under the charge of a subaltern officer ; and, that the commander in chief, with the flower of his army, should with the utmost despatch advance to the Ohio, in the expecta- tion of possessing themselves of Fort du Quesne. be- fore the French garrison could be reinforced by the troops tiiat were known to be on their way for that purpose. The general closed with this advice. Twelve hundred men were selected, a few wagons were at- tached to the light artillery, and necessary provisions were placed on pack horses. Of thi.s body General Braddock himself took the command, leaving Colonel iJimbar *.o bring up the other division by slow marches. Gen' ral Bradd they advanced only nineteen miles. The indisposition of Colonel VV/SHINGTON now became so severe, tliat his physicians declared that his life would be the sacri- fice of the continued fatigues of the ma/ch. The General therefore absolutely directed him to remain at Yohogany with a small guard, until Colonel Duiibar came up with him. Colonel WASHINGTON at length consented, on the promise that he should be brought up with the advanced corps, before its arrival at Fort du Quesne. The day preceding the fatal action, lie, n a covered wagon, rejoined the troops, and, in his debilitated state, entered on his duty. General Braddock was warned of the danger, to which the character of his enemy exposed him, and aiivised to employ the ranging companies of Virginia to scour the woods, and prevent ambuscades ; but not looking for an enemy capable of serious opposition, he without caution moved his army in small columns. Within seven miles of du Quesne, he was suddenly attacked by an invisible foe ; the assaulting [ I i y " J ~^ lloo ' P arl }' f French and Indians fighting under cover of the thick wood and high grass, with which the country abounded. Early in the action, the Aids do camp, except Colo- nel WASHINGTON, were killed or disableo, and he per- formed the whole of the dangerous service of carrying the orders of the commander to his respective officers. Of all those, who on this fatal day did duty on horse- oack, he alone escaped without a wound ; although he had two horses shot under him, and four balls through hi* coat. Doctor Craik. the physician who attended liim in his last sickness, was a witness of this scene: " I exper ted," says lie, " every moment to see him fall. His duty and situation exposed him tc every danjrer. Nothing but the superintending care of Pro- vidence could have saved him from the fate of all around him." Afler an action of three hours, the troops broke, and 82 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1755 the efforts of their officers to rally them were fruitless Colonel WASHINGTON assisted to bring General Brad- dock off the field, who was morlallj wounded. He reached fort Cumberland, and there aied, and was bu- ried. During the arducus and dangerous conflicts of this hour, Colonel WASHINGTON exhibited that telf possession and determined couiage, which are essen- tial to the officer. To his quick discernment and Bound judgment, the preservation of the defeated troops was in a great measure attributed 5 and had his advice been previously adopted, probably the disaster would not have happened. As soon as relieved from his at- tention to his unfortunate General, he was despatched to Cumberland, to provide for the retreating army. Colonel Dunbar being joined by them, de- AUGUST, , 1755 stroyed the stores he could not remove, and marched his army to Philadelphia into win- ter quarters. The British troops had not been accustomed to In- dian warfare ; and, on this occasion, Col. WASHING- TON indignantly witnessed their pusillanimity. In an official relation of the engagement, to the Executive of Virginia, he observes, " They were struck with such an inconceivable panick, that nothing but confu- sion and disobedience of orders prevailed among them. The officers in general behaved with incomparable bravery, for which they greatly suffered; there being upwards of sixty killed and wounded ; a large propor- tion of what we had. " The Virginia companies behaved like men, and died like soldiers ; for I believe of three companies on the ground that day, scarce'y thirty men were left alive. Capt. Peronny and a 1 his officers, do^'n to a corporal, were killed. Capt. Poulson had almost as hard a fate, for only one of his escaped. In short, tha dastardly behaviour of the regular troops, so called, exposed those who were inclined to do their duty to ahnos' certain death. And at length, in spi f e of every 1755.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 23 effort to the contrary, they broke and ran as sheep oe fore hounds ; leaving the artillery, ammunition, pro visions, baggage, in short every tiling, a prey to the enemy ; and when we endeavoured to rally them, in hopes of regaining the ground, and what we had left 'jpon it, it was with as little success, as if we had at- tempted to stop the wild bears of the mountains, or the rivulets with our feet ; for they would break by in epite of every effort to prevent it." The assembly of Virginia was in session, when the gloomy intelligence was received, that General Brad- dock was defeated and slain, and that Colonel Durbar had left their frontiers open to the invasion of the eno my. They immediate'ly voted to raise a regiment to consist of sixteen companies. The important transactions in which Colonel WASH- INGTON had been engaged, developed his character, and his reputation rose by every publick trust with which he was invested. He now received a commission ap- pointing him Colonel of this regiment, and Commander in Chief of all the forces raised, and to be raised, in Virginia ; with the privilege to name his field officers. He could, in the existing state of the colony, engage in the military service of his country without an im- peachment of his honour, and with alacrity he accept ed the appointment. 1755. A scene now opened to Colonel WASHING- TON, trying indeed to a Commander of his youth and degree of cxpeiience, but proving an excellent school, in which to form the General of the revolutionary war With &,n incompetent force he was to defend a fron- tier of three hundred and sixty miles. The French on the Ohio, aided by the numcTous Indians, attached to their interests, embraced every favourable opportunity to invade the northern and western borders of Virginia, spreading terrour and desolation in their course ; and having completed their work of slaughter and ruin, they retreated with their plunder over the Allegheny 14 T.IFE OF WASHING.TOW. ^ mountain, before a force could be collected to attack them. Governor Dinwiddie was not himself a soldier, nor did he possess a mind to comprehend the nature pf this mode of warfare. Jealous of his prerogative, and obstinate in his temper, his orders were often in- adequate to their object, or impracticable in their na- ture. The military code of the colony was insuffi cient, which rendered it impossible to bring the mili- tia into the field with the despatch necessary to repel a.n Indian invasion ; and her martial laws did not pos- sess vigour to prevent insubordination in officers, or secure discipline in the permanent troops. The colo- ny was at that time too poor, or too improvident, sea- sonably to lay up magazines for the us of her little army, or to keep money in the military chest for its regular payment. Under all these embarrassments, Colonel WASHING- TON entered on the duties of his commission. Having put the recruitinor service in operation, he visited the line of posts on the frontiers, and established the best regulations their state admitted, to keep the petty gar- risons vigilant and alert. . He had accomplished this necessary business, and nearly completed a journey to Williamsburg, to settle with the Governor the plan of operations ; and to press upon him, and other officers of government, the im- portance of Legislative interference to conciliatf. those Indians who were not already attached to the French , and to adopt effectual means and regulations to sup- port and discipline the troops ; when information readied him of an eruption of the French and Indians on the northern border. In haste he returned o %Vin- chestei, and found the country in the utmost alarm and confusion. The small garrisons conceived themselves to be in danger in their fortresses, and were unable to orotect the open country. The inhabitants on the ex treme frontier, instead of uniting their force for mutual safety, fell back and communicated their fears to more 1750.] LWK OF WASHINGTON. 28 mteriour places. Orders to call the militia into the fild were unavailing ; tlie solicitude and exertion of each individual were directed to the immediate pre- servation of his family and property. The sufferings of his coui.trymen deeply wc-unded the heart of Colo- nel WASHINGTON. Every measure was adopted, that an enterprising spirit could suggest ; and all the means he possessed were judiciously and strenuously exerted for their protection ; but all were ineffectual. He was compelled to be the witness of the calamity of friends, whom he could not relieve ; and of the carnage and ravages of a ferocious enemy, whom he could not clras- tise. Before a force from below could be collected, the invading foe, having glutted their appetite for blood, and loaded themselves with spoil, recrossed the mountain. Three years service affords little else, than a repe tition of scenes of a similar nature ; scenes, which oc- casioned these settlements the utmost horrour and dis- tress, and brought the fortitude and military resources of the Commander to a severe test ; but which, in re- cital, would swell this work beyond the designed bounds. The regiment never consisted of more than one thousand effective men. Colonel WASHINGTON, in addition to the appropriate duty of his commission, was obliged to ciiiperintend the operations of each subor- dinate department, and to attend to the wants of the impoverished inhabitants. During this period, he. unremittingly urged upon the Executive and Legislature of his Province, the insuf- ficiency of the mode adopted to prosecute the war. He earnestlv recommended offensive operations, as the only measure which would effectually relieve the Colony from the heavy loss of inhabitants, and from the expense of money yearly sustained ; and prevent the total depopulation of tho fertile plains beyond tha Blue Ridge. If the necessary co-operation of Great Britain, to enable the colony to drive the enemy from 3 K LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [173ft the Ohio, were unattainable, which would prove a radical cure of the evil, he strongly recommended, that a regular force of two thousand rnen slumld be raised. By this measure he thought the militia, whose ervices were attended with incalculable expense, ana were seldom productive of good, might be relieved from temporary draughts. The feelings and views of Col. WASHINGTON on these subjects, will fully appear by the following extracts from letters which he wrote at the time. In a despatch to the Lieutenant Govern- our, he thus paints the situation of the inhabitants and the troops. " I see their situation, I know their dan- ger, and participate their sufferings, without hav- ing it in my power to give them further relief than uncertain promises. In short, I see inevitable destruc- tion in so clear a light, that, unless vigorous measures are taken by the Assembly, and speedy assistance sent from below, the poor inhabitants, now in forts, must unavoidably fall, while the remainder are flying before the barbarous foe. In fine, the melancholy situation of the people, the little prospect of assistance, the gross and scandalous abuses cast upon the officers in general, which is reflecting on me in particular, for Buffering misconduct of such extraordinary kind, and the distant prospect, if any, of gaining reputation in the service, cause me to lament the hour that gave me a commission, and would induce me at any other time than this of imminent danger, to resign, without one hesitating moment, a command, from which I never expect to reap either honour or benefit ; but, on the contiaiy, have almost an absolute certainty of incur- ing displeasure below, while the murder of helples* families may be laid to my account here. " The supplicating tears of the women, and moving petitions of the men, melt me with such deadly sorrow, that I solemnly declare, if I know my own mind, I could offer myseif a willing sacrifice to the butchering ene jiy, provided tbat would conduce to tiie people's ease * 1756.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 27 The inefficiency of the militia he thus portrayed. " The inhabitants are so sensible of their danger if (eft to the protection of these people, (militia) that not a man will stay at his place. Tnis I have from their own mouths, and the principal inhabitants of Augusta county. The militia are under such bad order and dis- cipline, that they will coive and go when and where (hey please, without regarding time, their officers, or (he safety of the inhabitants. There should be, ac- cording to your honour's orders, one third of the mili- tia of these parts on duty, at a time ; instead of that, scarce one thirtieth is out. They are to be relieved every month, and they are a great part of that time marching to and from their stations ; and they will not wait one day longer than the Ihnited time, whether relieved or not, however urgent the necessity for their continuance may be." " I met with Col. Buchanan, with about thirty men, chiefly officers, to conduct me up Jackson's river, along the range of forts. With this small company of irregulars, with whom order, regularity, circumspec- tion, and vigilance were matters of derision and con- tempt, we set out, and by the protection of providence, reached Augusta court-house in seven days, without meeting the enemy ; otherwise we must have been sacrificed by the indiscretion of these whooping, halloo- ing, gentleman soldiers. This jaunt afforded me greot opportunity of seeing the bad regulation of the militia, the disorderly proceedings of the garrisons, and the unhappy circumstances of the inhabitants. " We are either insensible of danger until it breaks upon our Ueads, or else through mistaken notions o*" economy, evade the expense until the blow is struck,, and then run into an extreme of raising the militia. These, after an age, as it were, is spent in assembling them, come up, make a noise for a time, oppress the inhabitants, and then mturn, leaving the frontiers un guarded as before. This is still our reliance, notwith 28 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1756 Itanding former experience convinces us, if reason did not, that the French and Indians are watching the op- portunity when we shall be lulled into fatal security, and unprepared to resist an attack, to invade the coun try, and by ravaging one part, terrify another ; that they retreat when our militia assemble, and repeat the Btroke as soon as they are dispersed ; that they send down parties in the intermediate time, to discover our motions, procure intelligence, and sometimes to diveit the troops." The expediency of an offensive war, he supported by the following observations. " The certainty of advantage by an offensive scheme of action, renders it beyond any doubt, much prefera- ble to our defensive measures. To prove this to you, Sir, requires, I presume, no arguments. Our scattered force, "so separated and dispersed in weak parties, avails little to stop the secret incursions of the savages. We can only put them to flight, or frighten them to some other part of the country, which answers not the end proposed. Whereas, had we strength enough to in- vade their lands, and assault their towns, we should restrain them from coming abroad and leaving their families exposed. We then should remove the princi- pal cause, and have stronger probability of success ; we should be free from the many alarms, mischiefs, and murders that now attend us ; we should inspirit the hearts of our few Indian friends, and gain more esteem with them. In, short, could Pennsylvania and Mary- land be induced to join us in an expedition of this na- ture, and to petition his Excellency Lord Loudoun for a email train of artillery, with some engineers, we should be able, in all human probability, to subdue the terrour of Fort du Quesne, retrieve our character with the Indians, and restore peace to our unhappy fron tiers." On supposition that the assembly should persist in the scheme of defensive warfare, he presented to tha 1757.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. Governour a plan for his opinion. This was to esta- blish twenty -two forts, reaching from the river Mayo to the Potomack, in a line of three hundred and sixty miles ; and which were to be garrisoned, by a regular force, consisting of two thousand men. The pride of Governour Uinwiddie was offended by these frank communications of a gallant and inde- pendent officer. In uncourtly language he censured advice, which he could not comprehend, and reproach ed this officer with officiousncss and neglect of duty Colonel WASIIIK ;TON felt '.he reprimand as a patriot, the welfare of whose country ever dwelt on his heart ; and, like a soldier, who had an invaluable prize in his own reputation. In the consciousness of having made the highest efforts faithfully to- execute the trust re- posed in him, he thus with spirit replied to the charge, in a letter to a friend. " Whence it arises, or why, 1 am ignorant, but my strongest representations of mat- ters relative to the peace of the frontiers are disregarded as idle and frivolous ; my propositions and measures, as partial and selfish ; and all my sincerest endeavours for the service of mycountry, perverted to the worst purposes. My orders are dark, doubtful, and uncertain. To-day approved, to-morrow condemned ; left to act and proceed at hazard ; accountable for the conse- quences, and blamed without the benefit of defence If you can think my situation capable of exciting the smallest degree of envy, or of affording the least satis- faction, the truth is yet hid from you, and you enter- tain notions very different from the reality of the case. However, I am determined to beai up under all these embarrassments, some lime longer, in the hope of bet- ter regulations under Lord Loudoun, to whom I lori|fc for the future fate of Virginia." To the Governour himself, in answer to a communi- cation from him, w^ich conveyed a censure, he wrote, " I must beg leave, before I conclude, to observe, in iustification of mv own conduct, that it is with pleasurt 3* 30 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1757 I receive reproof when reproof is due, because no per- Bon can be readier to accuse me, than I am to ac- knowledge an errour when I have committed it : nor more desirous of atoning for a crime, when I am sen- Bible of being guilty of one. But, on the other hand, it is with concern I remark, that my best endeavouis lose their reward, and that my conduct, although 1 have uniformly studied to make it as unexceptionable as I could, does not appear to you in a favourable point of light. Otherwise your Honour would not have accused me of loose behaviour and rcrnissness oi duty, in matters, where I think I have rather exceeded than fallen short of it. This, I think, is evidently the case in speaking of Indian affairs at all, after being in- structed in very express terms, ' Not to have any con- cern with, or management of Indian affairs.' This has induced me to forbear mentioning the Indians in my letters to your Honour of late, and to leave the misunderstanding which you speak of, between Mr Alkin and them, to bo related by him." He had been informed by 'letter of a report communi- cated to the Govcrnour, impeaching his veracity and honour. A copy of this letter he enclosed to his Ho- nour, earnestly requesting of him the name of the au tliorof this report. " 1 should taKe it infinitely kind if your Honour would please to inform me, whether a report of this nature was ever made to you, and in that case, who was the author of it ? " It is evident, from a variety of circumstances and especially from the change in your Hoi ovr < r-or...uct towards me, that some person as well incn... ! to de- tract, but better skilled in the ait of detraction than the author of the ab-jve stupid scandal, has made free with my character. For I cannot suppose that malice so absurd, so barefaced, so diametrically opposite to truth, to common policy, and in short to every tiling but villany, as the above is, could impress you with so ill an opinion of my honour and honesty. 1757.J LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 31 " If it be possible that Colonel , for my belief is Btaggered, not being conscious of having given the least cause to any one, much less to that gentleman, to reflect so grossly. I say, if it be possible that could descend so low, as to be the propagator of this Btory, he must either be vastly ignorant of the state of affairs in this country at that time, or else he must suppose that the whole body of inhabitants had com- bined with me in executing the deceitful fraud. Or, why did they, almost to a man, forsake their dwellings in the greatest terrour and confusion ? And while one half of them sought shelter in paltry forts of their own building, the others should flee to the adjacent counties for refuge ; numbers of them even to Carolina, from whence they have never returned ? " These are facts well known ; but not better known, than that these wretched people, while they lay pent up in forts, destitute of the common supports of life, (having, in their precipitate flight, forgotten, or were unable rather to secure any kind of necessaries) did despatch messengers, (tlwnkmg that I had not repre- sented their miseries in the piteous manner they de served) with addresses of their own to your Honour and the Assembly, praying relief. And did I ever send any alarming account, without sending also the original papers, or the copies, which gave rise to it. " That I have foibles, and perhaps many, I shall not deny. 1 should esteem myself, as the world also would, vain and empty, were I to arrogate perfection. " Knowledge in military matters, is to be acquired by practice and experience only, and if I have erred, great allowance should be made for my errours for want of them, unless those errours should appear to bo wilful ; and then I conceive it would be more gene- rous to charge me with my faults, and let me stand or fall according to evidence, than to stigmatize me be- himl my back. " \t is uncertain in what light my services may have 32 LIFE OP WASHINGTON. [1751 appeared to your Honour , but this I know, and it il the highest consolation I am capable of feeling, that no man that ever was employed in a pubiick capacity, has endeavoured to discharge the trust reposed in him with greater honesty, and more zeal for the country's interest, than 1 have done ; but if there is any person living, who can say with justice, that 1 have offered any intentional wrong to the pubiick, I will cheerfully submit to the most ignominious punishment that an injured people ought to indict. On the other hand, it is hard to have my character arraigned, and my ac- tions condemned, without an hearing. " 1 must therefore again beg in more plain, and in very earnest terms to know if has taken the liber ty of representing my conduct to your Honour, with such ungentlemanly freedom as the letter implies ' Your condescension herein will be acknowledged a singular favour." Soon after this transaction, Mr. Dinwiddie left the government, and Mr. Blair, the president of the Coun- cil, became, for a short time, the Executive, between whom and Colonel WASHINGTON perfect confidence and free communication existed. 1757. This year Lord Loudoun succeeded to the civil government of Virginia, and to the chief com- mand of the British troops in North America. Colo- nel WASHINGTON obtained permission to wait upon him the succeeding winter ; to whom he presented an address from his regiment, and communicated from himself a statement of the military- situation of the colony. In this he pointed out the errour of the go- vernment in the management of the war, and particu- larly in their depending on the aid of the militia ; and clearly stated the superiour advantages of offensive perations. Colone. WASHINGTON was sanguine in the expecta- tion, that Lord Loudoun would adopt his darling scheme of an expedition to dispossess the French of Fort du I75.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 3S Quesne ; but his Lordship having determined to di reel his force against Ticonderoga, he was again dis appointed. At the closo of the year 1757, General Abercrombi was appointed to the supreme con mand in America, and General Forbes commissioned as the commands! of the middle district. To the high gratification o( Colonel WASHINGTON, the conquest of du Quesne became a principal object. 1758. Colonel -WASHINGTON, not expecting to be placed on the establishment, had determined to resign his commission ; but he thought the expedition for this purpose presented a fair prospect of distinguished ser vice, and he resolved to engage in it. |p He warmly recommended an early campaign ; for this, among other reasons, seven hundred Indians had. in April, assembled at Winchester, whose patience would be exhausted unless early employed ; and in that event, he observes, " No words can tell how much they will be missed." He was at length ordered to collect the Virginia troops at Winchester, and to hold them in readiness for active service. At this late moment, when the du- ties of the field demanded his attention, he was obliged to make a journey to Williamsburg, to provide arms, clothing, and money for his regiment ; and to obtain for his soldiers, the same pay which the assembly, in their. last session, had vottd to a regiment raised for the present campaign. Early in July the Virginia forces were moved tc Cumberland, and through the month employed it opening a road from that place to Raystown Flying parties of the enemy greatly annoying them in their business, it was contemplated to send a detachment over the mountain, to restrain the French and Indiana r rom this annoyajice ; but Col. WASHINGTON objected jo the measure, because the detachment would be ex Oossd to tlie whole force of the enemy on the Ohio 34 L\FE OF WASHINGTON. [175c, and must be defeated. The plan was in consequence given up ; and by his advice frequent scouts, consist- ing principally of Indians, were substituted. The pre- di ;tion of Colonel WASHINGTON, respecting the body of Indians at Winchester, was verified ; before the campaign opened, their patience was exhausted, and the" -etired to their homes. It was confidently expected thrt the army would march by Braddock's road, which needed only slight repairs ; but on the last of this month, Col. Bouquet by letter, requested an interview with Colonel WASH- INGTON, to consult with him on opening a new route. In reply he wrote, u 1 shall most cheerfully work on any road, pursue any route, or enter on any service that the General or youssclf rnay think me usefully* employed in, or qualified for ; and shall never have a will of my own, when a duty is required of me. But since you desire me to speak my sentiments freely, permit me to observe, that after bavin? conversed with all the guides, and having been informed by others ac quainted with tl*e country, I am convinced that a road to be compared with Gen. Braddock's, or, indeed, that will be fit for transportation, even by pack horses, can not be made. 1 own 1 have no predilection for the route you have in contemplation for me." Notwithstanding every remonstrance, he found Col Bouquet determined to open the new road. That nothing in his power might be omitted to prevent thfl adoption of a scheme, which he thought would proba- bly defeat the expedition, lie addressed a letter to thia omcer, v.'ith the express design that it should be laid before General Forbes, then indisposed ; in which he gave the following reasons for the preference of Brad- dock's road. When individuals of Pennsylvania and Virginia, ho said, were about to establish a trade with the natives on the Ohio, they, under Indian guides, explored the country, and adooted the road by Will's Creek as the 1758.] LfFE OF WASHINGTON. 3* best route. This road had been opened by the Ohio comnany in 175:5, and had been repaired in 1754 by the troops under Ins command, as far as Gist's plantation, beyond the Great Meadows. In 1755 it had been put in good order by General Braddock, and could with little labour be fitted for use. This road, therefore, must be preferable to a new route over ground not more favourable, in respect to forage there could be no material difference. The hills on both routes were barren, and the valleys between them abounded with grass. The objection to Braddock 's road, he observed, on account of high waters, was not founded ; he had ' himself passed with a body of men, the Yohogany, the most rapid stream, and the so-mest filled of any on te road, after thirty days of almost incessant rain, he Mononguhela might be avoided. The defiles on Raystown road were as numerous as on Braddock's, a,nd the saving in distance was inconsiderable. But the insuperable objection to the new route, lie observed, was the time that must be expended in opening it. The distance was Iktle short of an hundred miles, over mountains, almost impassable, and covered with woods and rocks. The most that could be expected, he said, on this route the present season, would be to gain the height of land, there erect fortifications, and wait the return of .spring. This delay must be attended with ruinous consequences to the colonies, which had ex- erted themselves beyond their strength to drive the French from the Ohio the present campaign. In the same letter, he communicated an order of match en Bra8 is to be cut at this advanced season, when we huvj scarcely time left to tread the beaten track, universally confessed to be the best passage through the mountain " If Colonel Bouquet succeeds in this point with the General, all is lost ! All is lost indeed ! Our enterprise if ruined, and we shall be stopped at the Lanrel Hill this winter but not to gather laurels, except of the kind which cover the mountains. The southern In- dians will turn against us, and these colonies will be desolated by snch an accession to the enemy's strength. These must be the consequences of a miscarriage, and a miscarriage the almost necessary consequence of an attempt to march the army by this route." The judgment and advice of Colonel WASHINGTON in this important measure were overruled, and to hi extreme mortification, the new route of the army v.-;i adopted. The disappointment and gloomy prospect which he entertained, are strongly expressed in the' following letter, written from Cumberland, to the Speaker of the House of Burgesses. " We are still encamped here, very sickly '"/T'R' all( ^ dispirited at the prospect before us. That appearance of glory which we once had in view, even that h >pe, that laudable ambition of serving our country, and meriting its applause, are how no more ; all is dwindled into ease, sloth, and fa- {a! inactivity. In a word, all is lost, if the ways of men in power, like certain ways of providence, are not inscrutable. But we, who view the actions of great men at a distance, can only form conjectures agreeably to a limited perception ; and, being ignoraKt of the comprehensive schemes which may be in contempla- tion, might mistake ngrcgiously in judging of things from appearances, or by the lump. Yet every fool will have his notions, will prattle and talk away; ami why may not 1 ? We seem then, in my opinion, to act un- der the guidance of an evil genius. The conduct of our leaders, if not actuated by superiour orders, it 1758 J LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 37 tempered with something 1 do not care to give a name to. Nothing no*v but a miracle can bring this cam- paign to a happy issue." Mentioning the arguments he haa brought against the new road, he proceeds, " But I spoke all unavailing- ly. Tho road was immediately begun, and since then, from one to two thousand men have constantly wrought on it. By the last accounts I have received, they had cut to the foot of Laurel Hill, about thirty-five milos, and I suppose by this timu, fifteen hundred men have taken post about ten miles further, at a place called Loyal Hanna, where our next fort is to be constructed. " We have certain intelligence, that the French strength at Fort du Quesne did not exceed eight hun- dred ni'-'n, the 13th ultimo, including about thiee or four hundred Indians. See how our tim has been Jtaispenj.. Behold how the golden opportunity is lost, perhaps nnver more to be regained ! How is it to be accounted for' Can Geneial Forbes have orders for this < Impossible. Will then our injured country pasa by such -abuses ? I hope not ; rather let a full repre- sentation of the matter go to his Majesty ; let him know how grossly his glory and interests, and the pub- lick money have been prostituted." Col. Grant, with a force of eight hundred men, hav- ing been detached to reconnoitre the country, in the neighbourhood of the Ohio, was about this time de- feated with loss; and himself, and Major Lewis of ColonelWASitiNGTON's regiment, were taken prisoners Three companies of this regiment were on the expo dition, and behaved with great bravery. Of eight officers belonging to these companies, on this service, . five were killed, one wounded, and one tiik^n prisoner Capt. Bullet, who had charge of the baggage, defend ed it with great resolution, and did much to protect the defeated troops ; he fortunately came off the field without a wound. This spirited and soldierly conduct the Britons acknowledged to be highly honourable to 4 33 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 17.5% the troops themselves, and to the Commander, who trained them to the service. General Forbes compli mented Colonel WASHINGTON on the occasion. Colonel WASHINGTON was at this time employed on the new road, in the neighbourhood of Raystown. General Forbes resolved that the main 175S7 ' arm}' should move from this place ; and he called upon the commanding officers of regi- ments to lay before him a plan for its march. Colonel WASHINGTON presented his; it has been preserved, iind is said to display the soundness of his judgment Through a read almost impassable, the army at length reached Loyal Hanna, about ten miles from the toot of Laurel Hill, and forty-five from Fort Cum- berland. At this place Colonel WASHINGTON had pre-^ dieted the expedition would terminate. In a Council of War it was actually resolved to be unadviseable to proceed further this Autumn. To have wintered in this inhospitable wilderness would, perhaps, have been impossible ; but before any disposition of the army was made, intelligence was brought by soma prisoners, that the garrison of Fort du Quesne had not been support- ed from Canada ; that the Indians had deserted it ; and, that it was not in a situation to make resistance. This intelligence induced General Forbes to change his resolution, and lo push on to the Ohio. Cobnel WASHINGTON was ordered to the front to superintend opening the road for the army; which duty he, with extreme fatigue, executed. In slow and laborious marches, General Forbes reached du Quesne, iZjjr*' and found that the French, on the evening preceding his arrival, had set fire to this fort, and had passed in their boats down the river. The success of the campaign was wholly to be at- tributed to the pressure of the English on Canada, which constrained the French Commander in chief to call in, or weaken his outposts , but for this circum- stance, the gloomy predictions of Polonel WASHINSTO" 1768.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON 39 would have been verified, in the failure of the expedi- tion. The Fort being repaired, was called Fort Pitt, in compliment to the preeminent British Minister, undei whose auspices the war was now conducted. Colonel WASHINGTON furnished two hundred men of his regiment to the garrison, and soon after return ed to Williamsburg to take his seat in the House of Burgesses, of which, in his absence he had been chosen a member. His services, while commander of the Virginia forces, were appreciated by his countrymen ; and the British officers with whom he served, bore honourable testimony to his military talents. The soldierlv and gallant behaviour of his regiment in the field, exhibit- ed the best evidence of the address of their commander, in training them to exact discipline, and exciting in them a martial spirit. His officers expressed the great affection and respect, which they entertained for his character, by an unanimous address, presented to him at the close of this campaign ; and the inhabitants of the frontiers placed full confidence in him, even at a time when he was unable to defend them from the slaughter and devastation of the eiMjmy. Colonel WASHIXGTOS now saw the great object at tained, to which for years he had directed his whole mind. The enemy was driven from the Oiiio, and hig country, in a great measure, relieved from the carnage and distress of an Indian war. His health was impair- ed by the arduous services of the campaign ; and iiii private concerns demanded his attention. He there- fore resigned his military commission, and retired lJ the tranaail scenes of domestick lifr io LIFE or WASHINGTON. [1759. CHAPTER II. CVikmel Washington's Marriage H.'s management of the Estate of Mouiit Vernon Appointed a Juilg.> of (lie County Court, and a M'.mlier of the Virginia lx>f Haium Chosen a Member of the first Congress Appointed Commander in Chief of the American Force? Arrives at Camp Arranges the Army Oefieieicy of Arms and Ammunition Colonel Arnold detached to ftitfiuecli Success of American Cruisers Evrrs u( temporary enlistment* An attack on the Enemy's Posts meditated Possession taken ol tlic Heights of Dorchester Boston evacuated. 1759. SOON after the resignation of his military commission, Colonel WASHINGTON married Mrs. Mar- tha Custis, a young and beautiful widow, who possessed an ample fortune, and who. was endowed with those amiable and pleasing accomplishments of mind and manners, which give the best security for happiness in the married state. With her he lived in all the con- fidence, endearment, and felicity which this relation can produce. *n his estate of Mount Vernon, he extensively en- gt ?d in the business of agriculture, and was greatly dis lijuished for the judgment he displayed in the iin- nro -merit of his lands. Every branch of business was .nnducted upo . system, exact method and econo- my were observed throughout every department of his household, the accounts of his overseers he weekly inspected, the divisions of his farm were numbered, the expense of cultivation, and the produce of each lot wore regularly registered ; and, at one view he could di t ermine the profit or loss of any crop, and ascertain I lie respective advantages of particular modes of hus- bandry. He became one of the greatest landholders in North America. Besides othei great and valuable tracts, his Mount Vernon estate consisted of nine thou- sand acres, all under his own management. *On which, in ore year, he raised seven thousand bushels of whsat. 175974.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 41 and ten thousand of Indian corn. His domestick and farming establishments were composed of nearly a thousand persons ; and the woollen and linen cloth necessary -for their use, was chiefly manufactured on the estate.* Order and industry were carried into ail hia con- cerns. The authority he exercised over his slaves was blended with great tenderness and humanity, and their affection and gratitude ensured a prompt and cheerful obedience to his commands. Mount Vernon was evet the seat of hospitality, and here its rights were liberal ly exercised. Colonel WASHINGTON, although exacf in requiring the punctual fulfilment of contracts and engagements, yet was diffusive in offices of humanity, and deeds of charity to those of his vicinity who need- ed his assistance. From the close of the war on the frontiers of Vir ginia, to the commencement of the revolutionary contest, Colonel WASHINGTON acted as a Judge of a County Court, and represented his district in the House of Burgesses of his Province. Although never distinguished as a popular speaker, yet the sound- ness of his judgment, the- wisdom of his counsels, and the uniform propriety of his behaviour, secured him the confidence and esteem of all who were ac- quainted with his character. While a Legislator of Virginia, he took an active part in opposition to the principle assumed by the British Parliament, to tax the American colonies. When it became expedient to train the militia for the defence of those rights, which the cquntry determined never to sacrifice, the independent companies in the Northern part of Virginia chose him their Commander. He was elected a member of the first Congress, which met in Philadelphia in 1774 ; in which bouy he had a distinguished agency in the arrangement of the * See " legacies of WASHINO ON " prinied at Trentm InlSOO. 42 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [177V miliUiry resources of the United Provinces. He wa tho active member of all Committees, to which busi- ness of this nature was entrusted. Ai. ilie commencement of liostilities, Con 1775 ' g ress deemed it necessary to appoint a Com- mander in Chief <>t' the American forces The eminent character of Colonel WASHINGTON point- id him out 'as the best qualified to unite the confidence of the publick, and successfully to conduct the ardu- ous conflicts of the \var. Congress unanimously elect ed him " General and Commander in Chief of the United Colonies, and of all the forces now raised, and to be raised by them." When the President of Con- gress communicated his election, he thus addressed him. " Mr. President, although 1 am truly sensible of the high honour done me in this appointment, yet I feel great distress from a consciousness that my abilities and military experience may not be equal to the ex- tensive trust. However, as the Congress desire it, I will enter upon the momentous duty, and exert every power 1 possess in their service, and fcr the support of the glorious cause. 1 beg they will accept my most cordial thanks for this distinguished testimony of their approbation. " But lest some unlucky event should happen, uu favourable to my reputation, I beg it may be rcmem bered by every gentleman in the room, that 1 this day declare, with the utmost sincerity, I do not think my- self equal to the command I am honoured with. 1 beg leave, Sir, to assure the Congress, that, as no pecunia- ry consideration could have tempted me to accept this arduous employment, at the expense of my domestick ese and happiness, I do not wish to make any profit fiom it. 1 will keep an exact account of my expenses. These, I doubt not, they will discharge, and that is all 1 desire." Congress, when his commission vas , executed. *i:animously and solemnly resolved, to support him 1775] L1FK OF WASHINGTON. 43 with their lives and fortunes, as the general of tlieii army, in defence of the country. General WASHING- TON instantly prepared to enter upon the eventful du- ties of his command. The difficulties which he was to encounter, will clearly appear from a slight view of the state of the country, and of the condition of the army. As a means to repel the encroachments of .the Bri- tish Parliament, the American merchants had generally entered into resolutions, not to import articles of mer- chandise from Great Britain ; and at the commence- ment of the war, the country was, in a great degree, destitute of ammunition, and of every material necessa ry to clothe an army, ind furnish the men with tents. There were no considerable magazines of provisions, and few tools suitable for the work of fortification The men who composed the army were raised by dif ferent States, on short enlistments, and on different establishments ; and they carried into the camp, the feelings and habits formed by their respective pursuits in private life. They were animated by the L>ve of liberty, and possessed the resolution and Dravery of hardy yeomanry ; but they could not easily be brought to submit to the rigid rules of military subordination and discipline. The authority of Congress and of dif- ferent Colonies was blended in all the arrangements of the army. These causes occasioned numerous and com- plicated embarrassments to the Commander in Chief. The appointment of General WASHINGTON was uni- rcrsally approved. On his journey to head quarters, he met \\ 'lh the most respectful Jittention, and receiv- ed the fullest assurances of assistance and support, He was escorted by companies of volunteers ; and, at Springfield, a hundred miles from Boston, a Commit- tee of the Congress of Massachusetts met, and attend- ed him to Cambridge. On his arrival that body presented him an 1775 *"' ac ^ ress > m which they expressed their entire satisfaction with his appointment, and pledged 14 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [177l> the most effectual co-operation with his measures, ir their power. His answer was well calculated to in crease I he attachment to his person, and the confidence in his talents, which tho publick already entertained. " Gentlemen, your kind congratulations on my ap- pointment and arrival, demand my warmest acknow lodgments, and will ever be retained in grateful re- membrance. In exchanging the enjoyment of domes- tick life, for the duties of my present honourable, but arduous situation, I only emulate the virtue and pub- lick spirit of the whole Province of Massachusetts, which, with a firmness and patriotism without an ex- ample, has sacrificed all the comforts of social and po- litical life, in support of the rights of mankind, and the welfare of our common country. My highest ambition is to be the happy instrument of vindicating these rights, and to see this devoted Province again restored to peace, liberty, and safety." The British army, at this time, commanded by Gene- ral Ga^e, was strongly posted in three divisions ; on Bunker's Hill, a mile from the ferry of Charles's River, on Cop's I fill in Boston, and on Roxbury neck. These fortified posts secured the isthmus of Boston, and that of Charlestown, the only avenues by land into those towns. Floating batteries and armed ships, stationed in the waters which surround Boston, supported the positions of the British, and kept open the communica tion between thorn. The American army was posted at Roxbnry, Cam bridge, and on Winter and Prospect Hills, ir front of Bunker's Hill. These positions formed a crescent of tvvolve miles in extent After reconnoitring the situa- tion of the enemy, and examining the state of his own army, the General attempted a better organization of the troops. ' He formed them into three divisions ; the division at Roxbury formed the right wing of the army, and was commanded by General Ward; th>} division on Prospect and Winter Hills composed the 1775.] L17E OF WASHINGTON. 4J. teft wing. and was commanded by General Leo ; and the troops at Cambridge formed the centra, and were commanded by General WASHI.NGTO'N in person. The fortes were deemed incompetent to defend this extend- ed ramp, but the situation of the country did not fa vour a more compact' arrangement ; nor could the neighbouring cuuuiry be otherwise defended from the depredations of the enemy. These positions were secured by lines and forts ; and a few companies of men were posted in the towns around Boston Bay, most exposed to annoyance by British armed vessels. General WASHINGTON found himself embarrassed by the total want of system in every department of the army. In the execution of the duties of his com- mission, it became necessary to open a correspond cnce, not only with the Continental Congress, and with most of the Governments of the Colonies, but also with the Committees of all those towns which furnished supplies for the army. In a letter to Con- gress on this subject, he observes, "I should be extremely deficient of gratitude, as well as justice, if I did not take the first opportunity to acknowledge the readiness and attention which the Congress, and the different Committees have shown, to make every thing as convenient and agreeable aa possible ; but there is a vital and inherent principle of delay, incompatible with military service, in transact- ing business thi ough such various and different chan- nels. I esteem ii my duty, therefore, to represent the [Convenience that must unavoidably ensue from a do- pondcnee on a number of persons for supplies, and Bubmit it to the consideration of Congress, whether the publick service will not be the best promoted by ap- pointing a Commissary General for the purpose." An inquiry into the state of the magazine of powdei Was among the first cares of General WASHINGTON and three hundred and t^ree barrels in store was the 46 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1775 return mack to him. Soon after he discovered, that this return embraced the whole quantity brought into camp, without deducting what had been expended ; and that there remained on hand only sufficient ta furnish the army with nine cartridges a man. While the greatest caution was used to keep this alarming fact a secret, the utmost exertions were employed to obtain a supply of this article of absolute necessity in war. Application was made to all the Colonies, and measures were adopted, to import powder into the country. The immediate danger was soon removed by an arrival of a small quantity sent from Elizabeth- town, in New-Jersey. Under the perplexities which arose from the defect of arms, the want of clothing and magazines, from the want of engineers, and from the confused state of the staff department, the mind of General WASHINGTON was, in some measure, cheered by a view of the men who composed his troops. " It requires," says he, in a letter to '.he President of Con- gress, " no military skill to judge of the difficulty of introducing proper discipline and subordination into an army, while we have the enemy in view, and are daily in expectation of an attack ; but it is of so much im- portance, that every effort will be made that time and circumstances will admit. In the mean time, I have a sincere pleasure in observing that there are materials for a good army ; a great number of able bodied men, active, zealous in the cause, and of unquestionable courage." The details of the departments of the Pay- master, Quartefmastcr, and Commibsary, fell upon General WASHINGTON, and he urged Congress to fill them. Being himself authorised to make the ap- pointments, he called to his assistance the general atari, which is necessary for the regular support and expeditious movements of an army ; and assiduously prosecuted plans to organize and discipline his troops. General Gage had, at his disposal, a force consist ing of eight thousand men, and, by the aid of hit 1775.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 47 hipping, he was enabled to direct it to any point ol the extended lines of the Ame: icans, whose army did not amount to more than fourteen thousand and five hundred men. General WASHINGTON was fully ap- prized of his danger, and early summoned the Gene- ra) officers to deliberate upon the expediency of at- ' tempting to support their present position, or of taking one in their rear more compact. The council with unanimity advised to remain in their present lines. The reasons in support of this opinion were, the imme- diate effect which a retrogra-de movement would have to animate the British, and to depress the American troops ; the unfavourable impression that would be made upon thj pnhlick mind ; the devastation of the fertile country, that must be opened to the enemy, and the difficulty of finding a strong position in the rear. As a precautionary measure, it v;as determined that they would not take possession of the heights of Dor- chester, nor oppose* the attempt of General Gage to gain them. In case of an attack and defeat,, the heights in Cambridge,* and the rear of the lines in Roxbury, were appointed as places of rendezvous. The enemy was watched with vigilant attention ; and any movements which threatened a distant invasion, were communicated to Congress, and to the Execu- tives of the Provinces particularly exposed. The enemy had been taught respect for the Ameri- can army by the battle of Bunker's Hill, and their plans, from that period through the year, were direct- ed to eelf defence. With little interruption, both ar- mies were employed in strengthening their respective lines and p^sts. The few skirmishes which took placo between small parties jeither in their nature nor their consequences merit notice. The mere defence of lines did not satisfy the enter- prizing and patriotick mind of General WASHI^TOK * Judge Marshall denominates these heights, ' Welch Mountains." This name is not known in their Vicinity. <8 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. JHTb With extiome anxiety he noticed the expense of the campaign, without possessing the means of diminish- ing it He Knew that his conntry was destitute of revenue, and apprehended that her resources must soon be ex- hausted. In a few months the army of course would be disbanded, and the enlistment of another he con- ceived to be extremely difficult, if practicable ; power- ful reinforcements to the enemy were, in the Spring, to be expected from England ; and he thought it di ubtful, whether proportionate strength could be col- lected in the Colonies to meet them in the field. He conceived it, therefore, of vast importance to the American cause to subdue the army in Boston, before it could be reinforced. An event of this magnitude wo.uld unite and animate the Colonies, and convince Great Britain, that America was determined in her opposition to the measures of Parliament. Under these impressions he often reconnoitred the enemy, and collected information of their numbers and strength from every possible source. The attempt to dislodge the British he well knew would be attended with ex- treme hazard ,, but it was his opinion, that the proba- bility cf ultimate success, and the great advantages ac- cruing from it, warranted the effort. In a letter to the Genera! Officers, he stated the questions, to which he desir3d them to direct their close attention ; and after sufficient time had been given for deliberation, he called them into council to determine, whether an attack on Boston should be made. The result was an unanimous opinion, " that for the present, at least, the attempt ought not to be made." To ;ontinue tho blockade, and to strengthen their lines, was all that remained in their power. Although the Commander in Chief acquiesced in the decision of the Council, yet it was evident, from his letter to Congress, that he himself felt inclined t risk the attack. Probably this inclination was in 75.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 4* creased by the wishes of Congress, previously jom- mumcalcd to him. The scarcity oftresh provisions in Boston induced the enemy to send small parties to collect the stock along the shores of the continent, within protecting distanca of their armed "vessels. This imposed a heavy tBT den upon the towns on the seaboard, in the defence nf their property ; and tne Governours o<" several of the Colonies were frequent and importunate in their request to General WASHINGTON to detach forces from his army for their protection. He was embarrassed' by repeated requisitions of this nature. To make the required detachments, would expose the main army to inevitable destruction ; and to deny the requests, would occasion dissatisfactions, which endangered a cause that could be supported only by publick opinion. To relieve him from this embarrassment, Congress passed a resolution, " That tlu army before Boston was de- signed only to oppose the eiipmy in that place, and ought not to be weakened by detachments for the av curity of other parts of the country." General WASHING-TOM early guve an example of the humane manner in which lie determined to conduct the war. By the representations of individuals from Nova Scotia, Congress was led to suppose tiiat a small force f-om the American army, aided by those inhabit- ants of that Province who were in the American in- terest, might surprise a British garrison at Fort Cum- berland, at the head of the Bay of Fundy, and possess themselves of valuable military stores, if not retain the country ; the measure was, therefore, recommend- ed by that body to their General. OM examination he found that tho stores wore of no magnitude, and that the CTpedition would expose the friends of America in that Province to inevitable ruin, from the p r>secution of their own Government, and he discountenanced the scheme. The attempt was, however, eventually mado by a few indiscreet individuals, but it failed, and in VOL. I. 5 50 LIFE OF WASHINGTON [177b voh'eu the inhabitants of Nova Scotii, Vvho engaged in it, in the predicted ruin. Some of the American cruisers, actinor without pub- lick orders, brought three of the .principal inhabitants of the Island of St. John into General WASHINGTON'S camp ; he treated them with the greatest tenderness. and permitted them immediately to return to their distressed families. In the course of the Autumn, gradual approaches were made towards the British posts. The army be- ing strengthened by the arrival of Morgan's Riflemen from Virginia, and a number, of regiments from Con- necticut and Ilhode-Island, General WASHINGTON de- tached Colonel Arnold, with a thousand men, S F PT 1775' by the rivers Kennebeck and St. Francis, to co-operate with General Montgomery in Cana- da ; and, if possible, to surprise Quebeck, the capital of that Province. Arnold, and about six hundred of his men, actuated by unconquerable resolution, with inconceivable fatigue reached Quebeck. The situa- tion of the garrison corresponded with the presump- tions On which the expedition was founded ; but a number of circumstances, not open to human foresight, nor controllable by human prudence, rendered it un- successful. Through the season, the highest endeavours of the Commander in Chief were exerted to procure arms and ammunition for his troops, and partial success at tended the measures adopted in every part of the union to accomplish this important purpose. A suc- cessful voyage was also made to Africa, and every pound of gunpowder for sale in the Biitish factories on that coast was obtained in exchange for New- England rum. Capt. Manly, in the privateer Lee, captured j British ordnance ship, laden with military stores, so completely adapted to the wants of the American army, that had Congress made out an in- voice, a better assortment could not have been pro 1775.] LIFE 01' WASHINGTON. 5" cured. Considsrations respecting the re-enlistment of the army lay witli immense weight on the mind ol General WASHINGTON, and he repeatedly invited the attention of Congress to this subject. In September, Congress appointed a Committee of their own bcuy to repair to Head Quarters, to consult with the Com- mander in Chief, and the Executives of the New-Eng- land Provinces, " on the most effectual method of con- tinuing, supporting, and regulating a Continental ar my." The result of their deliberation was, that the new army should consist of twenty thousand three hundred and seventy-two men ; but unhappily, the men were to be enlisted only for one year. The evils resulting from short enlistments were severely felt at the close of the next campaign, even to the utmost hazard of the independence of the country. Various causes operated to lead Congress to the al- most fatal plan of temporary military establishments. Among the most important of these, was a prospect of accommodation with the parent state. Want of ex- perience in the management of war upon an extensive scale was another. The revolutionary conflict placed the people of America in a situation in which all the energies of the human mind are brought into action, and man makes his noblest efforts ; the occasion called upon the publick theatre statesmen and warriours, w,ho, by the wise and honourable execution of the complicat ed duties of their new characters, surprised the world ; still from them errours of inexperience were to be ex- pected. The fear of accumulating expense, which the resources of the country could not discharge, had a leading influence to dete" the American Government from the adoption of permanent military establish- ments ; although the recommendations of Congress, and the regulations of State Conventions had, in the day of enthusiasm, the force of law, yet the ruling power thought it inexpedient to attempt to raise large Bums by direct taxes, at a time wher. the commerce o/ 52 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1775 the country was annihilated, and thfl cultivators of the ground were subjected to heavy services in tba field of war. The only recourse was to a paper me dium, without funds for its redemption, or lor the sup- port of its credit, and therefore of necessity subject to depreciation, and, in its nature, capable of only a tem- porary currency ; Congress, therefore, was justly afraid of the expense of a permanent army. Jea- lousy toward a standing army had a powerful in- fluence upon the military arrangements of Ameri- ca ; this jealous spirit early insinuated itself into the Legislative bodies of the Colonies, and was dis- played in many of their measures. It appears in the address presented by the Provincial Assembly of New-York to General WASHINGTON, while on his journey to the American camp. " We have the fullest assurance, say they, that whenever this important contest shall be decided, by that fondest wish of each American soul, an accommodation with our Mother Country, you will cheerfully resign the important de- posite committed into your hands, and reassume the character of our worthiest citizen." Congress, as a body, unquestionably felt this jealousy, and was afraid to trust a standing army with tlie power necessary to conduct the svar, lest, at its successful termination, this army should become the master of the country for whose liberties it had fought. The plan of temporary enlistments was adopted by Congress, in the confident persuasion, that draughts on everv occasion might be made from the militia, to oppose any force Britain could bring into the field ; and that the native pa- triotism and bravery of the Americans would prove superiour to the mechanics 1 movements of disciplined troops There being no magazines of arms in the country, the soldiers of the first campaign were of necessity permitted to bring their own muskets into service, although their different length and size occasioned ITS.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 53 much inconvenience. By the regulation of Congress for the new enlistment, the soldiers, who chose not to serve another campaign, were not permitted to carry home their arms ; but they were to receive payment for them by appraisement. Every soldier who enlist- ed was to find a gun, or pay a dollar to the Govern- ment for the use of one during the campaign. Every soldier, who found himself a blanket was to. receive two dollars. As it was impracticable to clothe the army in uniforms, clothes of different colours were provided, the price of which was to be deducted from llic wages of the men. As soon as the plan of the new army was settled, General WASHINGTON adopted measures to carry it into execution. In general orders he directec, that all officers, who intended to decline the service of their country at the expiration of their present engage- ments, should in writing make known their inten- tion to their respective Colonels ; which was to be communicated to the General Officers commanding Brigades. " Those brave men, and true patriots, who resolved to continue to serve and defend their bre- thren, privileges, and property," were called upon in the same manner to make known their intentions, and to consider themselves as engaged to the last of De- cember, 177G, unless sooner discharged by Congress. The period of patri'itiek enthusiasm hr.d, in some measure, passed away ; numbers of officers consented conditionally to remain in the army, and many made no communication on the subject. Immediate deci- sion was necessary; pnd, in new orders, the Com- mander in Chief solemnly called upon them OCT. 30. for a direct and unconditional answer to his inquiry. " The times," he observed, " and the importance of the great 'cause we are engaged in, alia A- no room for hesitation and delay. When life, liberty, and property are at stake ; when our country NS in danger of being a melancaoly acene of bloodshed 64 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1775 and desolation ; when our towns are laid in ashes ; in- nocent women and children driven from their peaceful habitations, exposed to the rigours of an inclement season, to depend, perhaps, on the hand of charity for support ; when calamities like these are staring us in the face, and a brutal e lemy are threatening us. and ev< ry thing we hold dear, with destruction from foreign troops ; it little becomes the character of a sol dier to shrink from danger, and condition for new terms. It is the General's intention to indulge both officers ana soldiers, who compose the new army, with furloughs for a reasonable time ; but this must be done in such a manner as not to injure the service, or weaken the army too much at once." The troops were assured that clothes, on reasonable terms, were provided " for those brave soldiers, who intended to continue in l\i a . army another year." With great difficulty the arrangement of officers was com- pleted, and recruiting orders were imme- Nov. 12. diaiely issued. Recruiting officers were di- rected to " be careful not to enlist any per- son suspected of being unfriendly to the liberties r>f America, or any abandoned vagabond, io whom all causes and countries are equal, and alike indif.erent. The rights of mankind and the freedom of America would have numbers sufficient to support them, with- out sesorting to such wretched assistance. Let those, who wish to put shackles upon freemen, fill their ranks with, and place their confidence in, such miscreants." To aid the cause, popular songs were composed and circulated through the camp, calculated to inspire the soldiery with the love of country, and to induce them to engage anow in the publick service. But unfortunately, the army at this time was badly sup- plied with clothing, provisions, and fuel, and the conse- quent sufferings of the soldiers, operating upon Uieii strong desire to visit their homes, pre-venttd their en- listment in the expected numbers. On the last dav ol 1776.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 55 December, when the first term of service expired, only nine thousand six hundred and fifty men had enlisted for the new army, and many of these were of necessity permitted to be absent on furlough. It was found im- possible to retain the old troops a single day after their times expired. General WASHINGTON called upon the Governments of the neighbouring Provinces for do tachments of militia to man his lines, and he was high ly gratified by the prompt compliance with his demand In a letter to Congress he writes, " The militia that are come in, both from this Province and New-Hamp- shire, are very fine looking men, and go through their duty with great alacrity. The despatch made, both by the people in marching, and by the Legislative powers in complying with my requisition, has given me infinite satisfaction." In the space of time, between that of disbanding the old army, and of an effective force from the new re- cruits, the lines were often in a defenceless state ; the enemy must have known the fact ; and no adequate reason- can be assigned, why an attack was not made. " It is not," says General WASHINGTON, in Aj, ' his communications to Congress, " in the pages of history to famish a case like ours. To maintain a post, within musket shot of the enemy, for six months together, vithout ammunition, and, at the same time, to disband one army and recruit another, within that distance of twenty odd British regiments, Is more, probably, than ever was attempted. But if we succeed as well in the last, as we have heretofore in the first, I shall think it the most fortunate event of my whole life." To defend the American linos w;th an incompetent number of troops, with defective arms, and without an adequate supply of ammunition ; to disband one army and recruit another in tl-e face of eight thousand Bri- tish soldiers, v; ill be v'ewod as * hazardous measure, ind will be supposed, with lha organization and disci- *6 LIFE OK WASHINGTON. [1770 /line of tire men, to have employed every active power of the General ; yet this did not satisfy liis mind. He knew, that Congress, with anxious solicitude contem- ' plated mom decisive measures, and that the cowitry looked for events of greater niaj>'".itude. The publick was ignorant of his actual situation, ano conceived his means for offensive operations to he much greater, than in reality they were; and from him expected the capture or expulsion of the British army in Boston. He feit the importance of securing the confidence of his coun- trymen by some bri-lliant action, and was fully sensible that his own reputation was liable to sutler, if he con- fined himself solely to measures of defence. To pub- lish to his anxious country, in his vindication, the state of his army, would be to acquaint the enemy with his weakness, and to involve his destruction. The firmness and patriotism of General WASHING- TON, \yere displayed in making the good of his country an object of higher consideration, than the applause of those, who were incayable of forming a correct opinion of the propriety of his measures. On this, and on many other occasions during the war, he withstood the voice of the populace, rejected the entreaties of the eanguine. and refused to adopt the plans of the jash, that he might ultimately secure the great object of contention. While he resolutely rejected every measure, that in his calm and deliberate judgment, he did not approve, he daily pondered upon the practicability of a success- ful attack upon Boston. As a preparatory step, ho took possession of Plowed Hill. Cobble Hill,c.nd Lech- mere'e Pojr t, and upon them erected fortifications. These posts brought him within half a mile of the enemy's works on Bunker's Hill ; and, by his artilbry, he drove the British floating oatteries fr m their sta- tions in Charles's River. He erected floating batteries, jo watch the movements of his enemy, and to aid in any offensive operations, that circumstances might 1776.J LIFE OF WASHINGTON tn warrant. He took the opinion of his General Officer* a. second time respecting the meditated attack ; they again unanimously gave their opinion in opposition tc the measure, and this opif.ion was immediately com- municated to Congress. Congress appeared still to favour the attempt, and, that an apprehension of dan gei to the town of Boston, might not have an undue influence upon the operations of the army, resolved, " That if General WASHINGTON and his DEC. 1775. Council of war should be of opinion, that a successful attacK might be made on the troops in Boston, he should make it in any manner he might think expedient, notwithstanding the town, and property therein, might thereby be destroyed." General Howe had, in October, succeeded General Gage in tlie command of the British army, and through the winter confined himself to measures of defence. The inability of the American General to accom- plish the great object of the campaign, repeatedly pointed out by Congress, was a source of extreme mortification ; but he indulged the hope of success in some military operations during the winter, that would correspond wit li the high expectations of his country, and procure him honour in his exalted station of Com niander in Chief of the American armies. In his re- ply to the President of Congress, on the re '^' ^' ception of the resolution, authorizing an at tack on the fortified posts in Boston, he ob served, " The resolution leh'.tive to the troops in Bos ton, I beg the favour of you, Sir, to assure Congress shall be attempted to be put in execution the first mo- ment 1 see a probability of success, and in such a way as a Council of officers shall think .uost likely to pro- duce it ; but if this, should not happen as soon as you may expect, or my wishes prompt to, I request that Congress will be pleased to revert to my situation, and do me the justice to believe that circumstances, and not want of inclination, are the cause of delay." 68 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1776 Early in January, he accordingly summoned a Council of war, at which Mr. John Adams, then a Member of Congress, and Mr. James Warren, Presi dent of the Provincial Congress of Mas'sachusetts, were present ; in which it was resolved, " That a vigorous attempt ought to be made on the ministerial troops in Boston, before they can be reinforced in the Spring, if the means can be provided, and a favourable opportunity shall offer." It was also advised, " That thirteen regiments of militia should be asked for, from Massachusetts and the neighbouring Colonies, in or- der to put them in a condition to make the attempt. The militia to assemble the first of February, and to continue, if necessary, until the first of March." The reinforcements thus obtained, amounted to between four and five thousand men ; but thus far the winter proved unusually mild, and the waters about Boston were not frozen. The General, in his official commu- nication to the National Legislature, says, " Congress in my last, would discover my motives for strengthen- ing these lines with the militia bui whether, as the weather turns out exceeding mild, insomuch as to promise nothing favourable from ice, and there is no appearance of powder, I shall be able to attempt any thing decisive, time only can determine. No person on earth wishes more earnestly to destroy the nest in Boston than 1 do ; no person would be willing to go greater lengths than I shall to accomplish it, if it shall be thought adviseable ; but if we have neither powder to bombard with, nor ice to pass on, we shall be in no better situation than we have been in all the year : we shall be worse, because their works arc stronger." While anxiously waiting to embrace any faveurable opportunity that might present to annoy the enemy General WASHINGTON seriously meditated upon the importance of establishing a permanent army. Hia experience enabled him to anticipate the evils that laust ensue at the expiration of the period for which J776] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 59 Jie present troops were engaged, and he bent the whole force of his mind to induce Congress seasonably to adopt measures to prevent them. In a letter to the President of Congress, dated February 9, he entered thus fully into the subject. " The disadvantages attending the limited enlist- ment of troops, are too apparent to those who are ey witnesses of them, to render any animadversions neces- ea-y ; but to gentlemen at a distance, whose attention is engrossed by a thousand important objects, the case may be otherwise. " That this cause precipitated the fate of the braVe, and much to be lamented General Montgomery, and brought on the defeat which followed thepeup-m, I have not the most distant doubt for, had he not been apprehensive of the troops leaving him at so important a crisis, but continued the blockade of Quebeck, a ca- pitulation, (from the best accounts I have been able to collect) must inevitably have followed. And, that we were not at one time obliged to dispute these lines, un- der disadvantageous circumstances, (proceeding from the same cause, to wit, the troops disbanding them- selves before the militia could be got in) is to me a matter of wonder and astonishment ; and proves that General Howe was either unacquainted witli our situa- tion, or restrained by his instructions from putting any thing to a hazard till his reinforcements should arrive. " The instance of General Montgomery, (I mention it because it is a striking one ; for a number of others might be adduced) proves, that instead of having men to take advantage of circumstances, you are in a man- ner compelled, right or wrong, to make circumstances yield to a secondary consideration. Since the first of December, I have been devising every means in my power to secure these encampments ; and though 1 am sensible that we never have, since that period, been *ble to act upon the offensive, and at times not in 80 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1778 sondition to defend, yet the cost of marching home one let of men, bringing in another, the havock and waste occasioned by the first, the repairs necessary for the second, with a thousand incidental charges and incon veniences which have arisen, arid which it is scarce possible to recollect or describe, amount to near as muclras trie keeping up a respectable body of troops the whole time, ready for any emergency, would have done. To this may be added, that you never can hav9 a well disciplined army. " To bring men well acquainted with the duties of rsoldier, requires time. To bring theui under proper discipline and subordination, not only requires time, but is a work of great difficulty ; and in this army, where there is so little distinction between, the officers and soldiers, requires an uncommon degree of atten- tion. To expect then, the same service from law and undisciplined reciuits, as from veteran soldiers, is to expect what never diJ, arid perhaps never will nappen. Men who are familiarized to danger, meet it without shrinking ; whereas, those who have never seen ser- vice, often apprehend danger where no danger is. TJiree tilings prompt men to a regular discharge of their duty in time of action natural bravery, hope of reward, and fear of punishment. The two first are common to the untutored and the disciplined soldier ; but the latter most obviously distinguishes the one from the other. A coward, when taught to Believe, that if he break his ranks and ?.'>\ expense in providing for every fresh set, when we find it next to impossible to procure such articles aa are absolutely necessary in the first instance. To this may be added, the seasoning which new recruits must have to a camp, and the loss consequent thereupon. But this is not all : men, engaged for a short, limited timo only, have the officers too much in theif' power : for to obtain a degree of popularity, in order to induce a second enlistment, a kind of familiarity takes place, which brings on a relaxation of discipline, unlicensed furloughs, and other indulgences, incompatible with order and good government ; by which means, the latter part of the time for which the soldier was en- gaged, is spent in undoing, what you were aiming to inculcate in the first. " To go into an enumeration of all the evils we have experienced in this late great change of the ar my, and the expenses incidental to it to say. nothing of the hazard we have run, and must rim, beiwce'i'the discharging of one army and the enlistment of another, unless an enormous expense of militia be incurred would greatly exceed the bounds of a letter. What I have already taken the liberty of saying, will serve to convey a general idea of the matter ; and therbfore I shall, with all due deference, take the liberty to give it as mj 1 opinion, that if the Congress have any reason to v>elieve tliat there will be occasion for troops another year, and consequently of another enlistment, they would save money, and have infinitely better troops, if they were, even at a bounty t>f twenty, thirty, or more dollars, to engage the men already enlisted, ;ill January next ; and such others as may be wanted to complete the establishment, for, and during the wai I will not undertake to say. that the men can be had vpon these terms ; but I am satisfied that it will never do to let the matter alone, as it was last year, tilJ the iime of service v/as near expiring. The hazard is too trreat in the first place ; in the next, the trouble and VOL. I. 6 82 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. |1776 perplexity of v'.isbanding one army and raising another at the same instant, and in such a critical situation a the last was, is scarcely in the po\ver of words to de- ecribe, and such as no man, who has experienced it once, will ever undergo again." Unhappily, the reasons which first induced Congress to adopt the plan of' short enlistments, still had influ- ence on that body, and on many of the general officers of the army ; nof were they convinced of their errour, but by the mosOdistressing experience. The ice now became sufficiently strong FKB. 14. for General WASHINGTON to march his forces^ upon it, into Boston ; and he was himself inclined to risk a general assault upon the British posts, although he had not powder to make any extensive use of his artillery ; but his general of fleers in Council voted against the attempt, with whose decision he reluctantly acquiesced. In his communication of their opinion to Congress, he ob- served-, " Perhaps the irksomeness of my situation may have given different ideas to me, Irom those which influence the judgment of the gintleme.i whom I consulted, and might have inclined me to put more to ha/ard than was consistent with prudence. If it had this effect, I am not sensible of it, as I endeavoured to give the subject all the consideration a matter cf such importance required. True it is, and I cannot helo acknowledging, that I have many disagreeable sensa- tions on account of rny situation ; for, to have the eyes of the whole continent fixed on me, with anxious ex- pectation of hearing of some great event, and to be re- strained in every military operation, for the want of the necessary means to carry it on, is not very pleasing ; especially, as the means used to conceal my weakness from the enemy, conceal it also from my friends, and add co their wonder." By the last of February, the stock of powder wa sonsidsrably increased, and the regular army amount- 1776] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 63 ed t~ 14,000 \.\en, which was reinforced by G,000 of the miUtii of Massachusetts. General WASHINGTON nofl resolved to take possession of the Heights of Dorches- ter, in the prospect that this movement would bring on a general engagement with the enemy, under fa- vourable circumstancaa ; or, should this expectation fail, from this potion he would be enabled to annoy the ships in the harbour, and the troops in the town Possessing these heights, he might erect works upon the points of land nearest to the southerly part of Bos- ton, which would command the harbour and a great part of the town, as well as the beach from which an embarcation must be made, in case the enemy was dis posed to evacuate the place. To mask the design, a severe cannonade and bom- bardment were opened on the British works and lines, for several nights in succession. As soon as the firing began on the night of the 4th of March, a strong db- tachment marched from Iloxbury, over the neck, and, without discovery, took possession of the heights. General Ward, who ommanded the division of the army in Roxbury, had, fortunately, provided fascines before the resolution passed to lortify the place ; these were of great use, as the ground was deeply frozen ; and, in the course of the night, the party I y uncom- mon exertions erected works which defended them against the shot of the enemy. On the next morning, the British manifested surprise and consternation at sight of the American fortifications. Mutual firings took place, but with little effect ; and the Americana laboured indefatigably to complete their works. On the contingence of an attack upon Dorchester Heights, by a strong force, it had been resolved, that four thousand of the American troops, in boats, should cross Charles river, protected by three floating batte- ries, and attempt to carry the British posts in Boston, and open the communication by the neck to the Ameri- can forces in Iloxburv C4 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [I77b Admiral Shuldham informed General Howe, thai the Americans must be dislodged, or he could not re- main with his fleet in Boston harbour. In pursuance of this intimation, on the afternoon of the 5th, a de- tachment consisting of three thousand men fell down to Castle Island, now Fort Independence, a position which would facilitate the attack on the next morning but a violent storm, during the night, deranged the plan, and before the British were again in readiness to make the attempt, the American works became too formidable to be assaulted. General WASHINGTON, on this occasion, indulged a confident expectation of the success of his plans ; and wisned the meditated attack upon Dorchester to be made, in the sanguine hope, that the complete con- quest of the British troops in Boston would be its ulti- mate effect ; but the storm frustrated his prospects. The safety of the British fleet and army, rendered Ihe evacuation of Boston a necessary measure ; and .he arrangements of the enemy for this purpose, were Boon communicated to General WASHINGTON. A pa per, under the signature of four of the Selectmen, was sent out by a flag, containing a proposal, purporting to be made by General Howe, that on condition his army was periratted to embark without molestation, the town should be left without injury. The letter was directed to the Commander in Chief, but it did not bear the signature of General Howe, nor bino. him to the observance of the condition. General WASHING- TON did not, therefore, officially notice it ; but he di- rected the American officer, to whom it was delivered, to return an answer to the Selectmen, informing them that their letter had been communicated to his Gene ral, and assigning the reasons why it had not been of- ficially noticed ; but both the commanders appear to have tacitly complied with the conditions. The Bri tish army was not annoyed in the preparations to leave their post, nor was Nook's point fortified. On the 17th, 1776.J LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 63 the town was evacuated, and left in a better stato than was expected ; the houses were not damaged in any great degree ; but the British left few publick stores of value. Although Halifax was mentioned, as the destined place of the British armament, yet General WASHING TC'.N apprehended that New-York was their object On this supposition, he detached several brigades of his army to that city, before the evacuation of Boston General Howe remained a number of days in Nan tasket Road, and the Commander in Chief, when ho entered Boston, as a measure of security, fortified Fort Hill. The issue of the campaign was highly gratifying to all classes ; and the gratulation of his fellow-citizens upon the repossession of the metropolis of Massachu- setts, was more pleasing to the Commander in Chief than would have been the honours of a triumph. Con gress, to express the publick approbation of the milita ry achievements of their General, resolved, " That the thanks of Congress, 'in their own name, and in the name of the thirteen United Colonies, be presented to his Excellency General WASHINGTON, and the officers and soldiers under his command, for their wiae and spirited conduct in the siege and acquisition of Boston, and thct a medal of gold be struck, in commemora- tion of this great event, and presented to his Ex cellency." In his letter, informing Congress that he had exe cuted their order, and communicated to the army th vote of thanks, he observes, " They were indeed, a* first, a band of undisciplined husbandmen, but it ia, under God, to their bravery and attention to their dutv, that I am indebted for that, success which has procured me the only reward I wish to reco ve, the affection and esteem of my countrymen." 96 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [I77tx CHAPTER. III. General Washington marches the army to New- York Fortifica- tions of the City anil I? ver Independence declared General Howe lands on Stuten Isl.ml Interview bet wren General Wash- ington and Colonel Patterson State of the Bril i.l anil American Forces Camp at Brooklyn Battle on Long Islnnd Retreat from it The City and Island of New- York evacuated Manoeu- vres at White Plains Fort Washington taken General Howe invades New-Jersey Depression of the Americans General Washington invested with new Powers Succe'ss at Trenton, and at Princeton New-Jersey rf covered. 1776. As soon as the necessary arrangements were made in Boston, in the persuasion t.jat the Hudson would be- the scene of the next campaign, General WASHINGTON marched the main body of his army to New- York, where he arrived himself the 14th of April. The situation of New-York was highly favourable for an invading army, supported by a superiour naval force. The Sound, the North and East rivers, opened a direct access to any point on Long Island, York Island, or on the continent bordering upon those waters. To the effectual defence of the city, the passage up the rivers must, be obstructed by forts and other impediments ; and an army wJs necessary, of force sufficient to mar the posts and linos of defence, and to meet the invading foe in the field. Aware of these facts. General WASH- INGTON doubted the practicability of a successful de fence of New- York. But the importance of the placf., and the difficulty which he had already experienced in dislodging an army from a fortified town, open to the protection and supplies of a fleet, inclined him to make the attempt. His own disposition to the measure was strengthened by the wishes of Congress, the opinion of his general officers, and by the expectation of his eountry. The resolution being formed, he called into action, all the resources in his power, to effect it. His iir?t care was to nut an end to the intercourse, which 177C j LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 67 to this time had been continued, between the tf direction had been common with Amtassadors and Plenipotentiaries, in cases of lis- pute about rank and precedency ; that General WASK- irtGT )N had himself, the last, year, directed a letter in the following manner, " 'i lie Hon. William Howe ;" that Lord and General Howe held his rerson and character in the highest respect, and did not mean to derogate from his rank ; and, that the et ceteras iir.- plicJ every thing which ought to follow." -He then laid the letter which had been before sent, on the table. The General, declining its reception, observed, "that a letter, directed to a publick character, should have an address descriptive of that character, or it might b> considered as a private letter. It was true that tins 72 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [776 ct ceteras implied every thing, they also implied any thing. Tin letter alluded to, was in answer to one received from General Howe, under the like address; which being received bv the officer on duty, he did not think proper to return-; ami therefore answered in the same mode of address ; and that he should abso- lutely decline any lettes relating to his publick station, directed to -him as a private person." Colonel Patterson then said, that General Howe would not urge his delicacy farther, and repeated his assertion-, that no failure of respect was intended. Some general conversation then passed, respecting the treatment of prisoners, when the Colonel proceeded to observe, that the goodness of the King had induced him to appoint Lord ami General Howe his commis- sioners, to accommodate the dispute that had unhappi- ly arisen ; that their powers were very extensive, and they would be highly gratified in effecting the accom- modation ; and he wished lire visit might be consider- ed as the introduction to negotiation. General WASHINGTON replied, that Congress had not invested him with powers to negotiate ; but he would observe, that from what had transpired, it ap- peared that Lord and General Howe were only em- powered to grant pardons : that they who had com- mitted no faults, wanted no pardon ; and that the .Americans were only defending what they thought their indubitable rights. Colonel Patterson rejoined, that this would open a wide field of argument, and af- ter expressing his fears, that an adherence to forms might obstruct business of tl>e greatest moment, took bis leave. The highest courtesy was observed in this conference : the address of Colonel Patterson was manly and polished ; the American General fully sup- ported the dignity of his character and station , and the scene was highly interesting to spectators The Commander in Chief expected no salutary eon- icquenccs to result from .the agency of the British 1776.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 73 commissioners. He apprehended, that their attempts at negotiation were calculated only to divide and weaken the continent ; and he feared, that their mea- sures woulti operate to relax the exertions of the United States to meet the conflicts of the field. In a private letter to a conlidential friend, as early as May, he la- mented the etiects of this nature, which had actually been produced. " Many members of Congress," he wrote, "in short the representatives of whole provinces, fi.ro still feciling themselves on the dainty food of recon- oliation ; and although they will not allow that the expectation of it has any influence on their judgments, so- far as respects preparations for defence, it is but loo obvious that it has an operation upon every part of their conduct, and is a clog upon all their proceedings. It is not in the nature of things to be otherwise ; for HO man who entertains a hope of seeing this dispute speedily and equitably adjusted by commissioners, will go to the same expense, and incur the same hazards, to prepare for the worst event, that he will who believes that he must conquer or submit unconditionally , and tako the consequences, such as confiscation and hanging." General Howe commanded a force of twen- AUG. 8. ty-four thousand men, well disciplined, and abundantly supplied with every tiling neces- sary to take the field ; he daily expected to be rein- forced by a second detachment of German troops ; aud he was supported by a fleet judiciously- fitted to ii. destined service. To oppose this formidable enemy General WASHINGTON had under his direction seven- teen thousand two hundred and twenty-five men ; of these three thousand six hundred and sixty-eight wero in the hospital. His effective force was disposed in New-York, on Long and Governour's Islands, and at Paulus Hook ; and he informed Congress, that, in case of an attack, he could promise himself only the addition of one small battalion. Some of the posts occupied by the army were fifteen miles distant from others, and VOL. I. 7 74 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1770 navigable waters intervened. " These things," ob- served the General, " are melancholy, but they are nevertheless true. I hope for better. Under 'every disadvantage, my utmost exertions shall be employed, to bring about the great end we have in view ; and so far as I can judge from the professions and apparent disposition of my troops, I shall have their support. The superiority of the enemy, and the expected attack d:> not seem to have depressed their spirits. These considerations lead me to think, that though the ap- peal may not terminate so happily as I could wish, yet the enemy will not succeed in their views without considerable loss% Any advantage they may gain, will, I trust, cost them dear.'' Before serious hostilities commenced, thn American army was reinforced by several regiments. of perma- nent troops, and by detachments of militia, which made the whole number amount to twenty-seven thousand ; but the men were not accustomed to the life of the carnp ; they were much exposed from the want of tents, and one quarter of the whole army were taken from duty by sickness. While -waiting the tardy movements of the enemy, General WASHINGTON, apprised of the impressions that would be made by the event of the first encounter, ex- erted himself to the utmost to bring his inexperienced troops un-der subordination, and to excite in their mili- tary ardour, without which he crfuld have no hope of successful warfare. In general orders, he called upon officers to be cool in action, and upon the soldiery to be obedient to orders, and to be firm and courageous. Ho directed, that any soldier, who deserted -his ranka in time of battle, should be immediately shot down. He desired commanders of corps to report to him every instance of dialing! ished bravery in the soldiery, with promise of reward. He edeavouned,by the love of liberty, of country, and of posterity, to animate his army to do their duty. " The time," he observed, 1776.J LIFE OF WASHINGTON 75 "is now at hand, which must probably determine whether Americans are to be free men or slaves . whether they are to have any property they can call their own ; whether their houses and farms are to be pillaged and destroyed, and themselves consigned to a state of wretchedness, from which no human efforts wiil deliver them. The fate of -unborn millions will now depend, under God, on thj courage and conduct of this army. Our cruel and unrelenting enemy leaves us only the choice of a brave resistance, or the most abject submission. We have to resolve to conquer, or to die. Our own, our country's honour call upon us for a vigorous and manly exertion ; and if we now shamefully fail, we shall become infamous to the whole world. Let us then rely on the goodness of our cause, and on the aid of the Supreme Being, in whose hand victory is, to animate and encourage us to great and noble actions. The eyes of all our countrymen are now upon us, and we shall have their blessing and praises, if happily we are. the instruments of saving them from the tyranny meditated against them. Let us therefore animate and encourage each other, and show the whole world, that a freeman, contending for liberty on his own ground, is superiour to any slavish mercenary on earth." In the communication to his army of the JULY 21 success of the Americans at Fort Moultrie, near Charleston, he thus laboured to excite them to emulate the bravery of their countrymen in South Carolina. " This_ glorious example of our troops, under ha like circumstances with ourselves, the General hopes, will animate every officer and soldier to imitate, and even to outdo them, when the enemy shall make the same attempt on us. With such a bright example be- fore us, of what can be done by brave men, fighting in defence of their country, we shall be loaded with a double share of shame and infamy, if we do not acquit 76 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [177b ourselves with courage, and manifest a determined resolution to conquer or die. With the hope and con- ridenee that this army will have an equal share of honour and success, the General most earnestly ex- horts everj- officer and soldier to pay the utmost atten- tion to his arias and health ; to have the former in tha brst order for action, and by cleanliness anJ care to preserve the latter ; to bo exact in their discipline obedient to their superiours, and vigilant on duty. With such preparations and a suitable spirit, there can be no doubt but, by the. Messing of heaven, wo shall re- pel our cruel invaders;, preserve our country, and gain the greatest honour." In'the immediate view of the arduous conflict, the General once more endeavoured to inspire his army with the heroism necessary successfully to sustain it. " The enemy's whole reinforcement is now arrived," said he, " so that an attack must, and soon will be made. The General therefore again repeats his ear- nest request, that every officer and soldier will have his arms and ammnnition in good order ; keep within his quarters and encampment, as innch as possible ; be ready for action at a moment's call ; and when called to it, remember, that liberty, property, life, and honour arc all at stake ; that upon their courage and conduct, rest the hopes of their bleeding and insulted country ; that their wives, children, and parents, expec^ safety from them alone , and that we have every reason to believe that heaven will crown with success so just a cause. " The enemy will endeavour to intimiclate by show and appearance ; but remem'oer, they have been re pulsed on various occasions, by a few brave Ameri- cans. Their cause is bad ; their men are conscious of it ; and if opposed with firmness and coolness on theii first onset, with our advantage of works, and know ledge of the ground, the victory most assuredly is ours. Every good soldier will be silent and attentive, wait 1776.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON 77 for orders, and reserve his fire until he is sure of doing execution ; of this the officers are to be particularly careful." The possession of Long Isiand is essential to the defence of New- York. It had been determined in a Council of war, to fortify a camp at Brooklyn, front ing- New- York ; and stretching across that end of Long Island, from East river to Gowan's cove. The rear of this encampment was defended by batteries on Red Hook and Governour's Island, and by works on East River, which secured the communication with the city. In front of the encampment, ran a range of hills from east to west across the island. These were covered with wood, and were steep, but could any where be ascended by infantry. Over this range were three passes, leading by three roads to Brooklyn ferry. A strong detachment of the American army was posted on Long Island, under the command of General Greene, who made himself intimately acquainted with the passes on the hills ; but unfortunately becoming sick, General Sullivan succeeded him in this command only a few days before active operations commenced. The main body of the Americar army remained on York Island. A flying camp, composed of militia, was formed at Amboy, to preveitt the depredations of the enemy in New- Jersey ; and a force was stationed near New Rochelle, and at East and West Chester on the Sound, to check the progress of the enemy, should they attempt to land above King's bridge, and enclose the Americans on York Island. The head quarters oi' General WASHINGTON were in the city, but he was daily over at Brooklyn to inspect the state of that camp, and to make the best arrangements circumstance* would admit. An immediate attack being expected on Long Isl- and, General Sullivan was reinforced, and directed tarefully to watch the passes. On the 26th the main body of the British troops T8 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [J77b with * large detachment of Germans^ landed undex cover of the ships, on the south western extremity of Long Island. A regiment of militia stationed on the coast, retreated before them to the heights. A large reinforcement was sent to the cam]) at Brooklyn, and the command of the post given to General Putnam, who was particular'y charged to guard the woods, and to hold himself constantly prepared to meet the assault of the enemy. On the same day, the British, in three divisions, took post upon the south skirt of the wood ; General Grant upon their left, near the coast ; the German General de Heister in the centre at Flatbush ; and General Clinton upon their right at Flatland. The range of hills only now separated the two armies, and the dif- ferent posts of the British were distant from the American camp, from four to six miles. Upon their left, a road to Brooklyn lay along the coast by Gowan's cove, before General Grant's division. From Flatbush a direct road .ran to the American camp, in which the Germans might proceed. General Clinton might either unite with the Germans, or take a more eastern route, and fall into the Jamaica road by the way of Bediord. These three roads unite near Brooklyn. On the pass at Flatbush, the Americans had thrown up a small redoubt, mounted it with artillery, and manned it with a body of troops. Major General Sul livan continued to command on the heights. In the evening, General Clinton, without AUG 26. beat of drum, inarched with the infantry of his division, a party of light horse, and four- teen field pieces, to gain the defile on the Jamaica road. A few hours before day, he surprised an Ameri can party stationed here to give the alarm of an ap- proaching enemy, and undiscovered by Sullivan seizeq the pass At day light he passed the heights, and descended into the plain on the side of Brooklyn Early in the morning, General de Heisier, at Flatbueih, /77G.] LIFE OF WASHIISGTON 78 Itu! General Grant upon the west coast, opened a can- nonade upon the American troops, and began to ascend the hill ; but they moved very slowly, as their object was to draw the attention of the American commander from his left, and give General Clinton opportunity to gain the rea'r of the American troops stationed on the heights. General Putnam, in the apprehension that the serious att ick would be made by de Heister and Grant, sent detachments to reinforce General Sullivan and Lord Sterling at the defiles, through which those divisions of the enemy were approaching. When General Clinton had passed the left flank of the Ameri- cans, about eight o'clock in the morning of the 27th, de Heister and Grant vigorously ascended the hill ; the troops which opposed them, bravely maintained their ground, until they learned their perilous situation from the British columns, which were gaming their rear. As soon as the American left discovered the progress of General Clinton, they attempted to return to the camp at Brooklyn ; but their flight was stopped by the front of the British column. In the mean time, the Germans pushed forward from Flatbush, and the troops in the American centre, under the immediate com- mand of General Sullivan, having also discovered that their flank was turned, and that the enemy was gain- ing their rear, in haste retreated towards Brooklyn Clinton's columns continuing to advance, intercepted them, they were attacked in front and rear, and alter nately driven by the British on the Germans, and by the Germans on the British. Desperate as their situa ti -i was, some regiments broke through the enemy 't columns and regained the fortified camp ; but most of the detachments upon t) e American left and centre were either killed or taken prisoners. The detachment on the American right, undor Lcrd Sterling, behaved well, and maintained a severe con flict with General Grant for six hours, until the van o/ 80 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1770 General Clinton's division, having crossed the whola island, gained their rear. Lord Sterling perceived his danger, and four, j that his troops could be saved only by an immediate retreat ovef a creek near the cove He gave orders to this purpose ; and, to facilitate their execution, he in person attacked Lord Cornwall's, who, by this time having gained the coast, had posted a small corps in a house, just above the p'ace where the American troops must pass the creek. The attack was bravely made with four hundred men, who, in the opinion of their commander, were upon the point of dislodging Cornwallis ; but his Lordship being rein forced from his own column, and General Grant at- tacking Loru Sterling in the rear, this brave band was overpowered by numbers, and those who survived were compelled to surrender themselves prisoners of war ; but this spirited assault gave opportunity for a large proportion of the detachment to escape. The loss of the Americans on this occasion, for the number engaged, was great; General WASHINGTON stated it at a thousand men ; but his returns probably included only the regular regiments. General Howe, in an official letter, made the prisoners amount to one thousand and ninety-seven. Among these were Major General Sullivan, and Brigadier Generals Sterling and Woodhull. The amount of the killed was never with precision ascertained. Numbers were supposed to have been drowned in the creek, and some to have perished in the mud on the marsh. The British loss acknow- edged by General Howe, was twenty-one officers, and three .mndred and forty-six privates killed, wounded, and taken. General WASHINGTON passed over to Brooklyn in the beat of the action ; but unable to rescue his men fron. their perilous situation, was constrained to be the inactive spectator of the slaughter o r his best troops. At the close of the day, the British approached in (ront ot the Amencan works, and it has been said, that 177(5.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 8t the troops, m their ardour, exhibited a strong inclina- tion to storm the lines : but General Howe, remem- bering Bunker Hill, prudently restrained them from the assault. Determining to carry the American works by regu lar approaches, the British commander broke ground, on the night of tho adlh, within six hundred yards of a redoubt. General WASHINGTON was fully sensible of the dan- ger that awaited him. The success of the enemy by regular approaches was certain. His troops were with- out tents, and had already suffered extremely by heavy rains. The movements of the British fleet indicated an intention to force a passage into the East, river, and cut off the retreat of the troops to the city. Should tney accomplish this, the situation of the army on Long Island would be desperate. An immediate re- treat to the city was therefore thought expedient. The measure was happily accomplished, on the night of tho &)th, with all the stores, and military apparatus, except a few pieces of heavy artillery, which the soft- ness of the ground rendered it impossible to move. This important retreat was made with so much si- lence and address, that the enemy did not perceive it, although so near that the noise of their intrenching tools was distinctly heard by the Americans. A heavy fog hung over Long Island until late in the morning of the 30th, which hid the movements of the Ameri- can army from General Howe. When it cleared, the rear guard was seen crossing East river, out of reach of the Brit is i fire. The General in person in- spected the details of this critical retreat ; and for the fifty-eight hours, which preceded its completion, in Mb own language, he was " hardly off his horse, and rfSver closed his eyes." He did not leave the island before the covering party marched from the lines. The attempt, to defem" Long Island has by many been considered, as an errour in the military opera 8'J LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1776 tions of the American General. But before his judg ment, in this instance, is condemned, the reasons which led to if. ought tc be weighed. Its possession waa highly important to cither army ; its situation render- ed its defence, in a good degree, probable ; the range of hills was favourable to the obstruction of an invad- ing enemy ; and a fortified camp in the rear opening a communication with the city, and supported by bat- teries on Gorernour's Island and the East river, ren- dered a retreat practicable, when circumstances should make it necessary. There was then a fair prospect of defending the island ; at least of detaining the enemy so long in the effort to gain possession of it, as to waste the campaign in the contention. The disastrous con- sequences of this measure, are not to be attributed to any defect in the original plan, but to the neglect of the commanding officer on the island in guarding the pass on the road from Jamaica to Bedford. Unfortu- nately this officer was changed at the time, when hos- tilities were about to commence ; and the General, who directed the disposition of the troops on the day of the action, was imperfectly acquainted with the passes in the mountains. General WASHINGTON, by written instructiens, directed this officer " Particularly to guard the defiles in the woods, and to render the approach of the enemy through them as difficult as possible." This order was not fully executed. It ap- pears, that General Sullivan was not apprized of the. march of the British detachment from Flatbush to Flatland, on the evening of the 2(>th, and a guard on the Jamaica road did not seasonably discover the ap- proach of the enemy to give informption. General Howe, in his official letter, mentioned, that an American patroling party was taken on this road ; and Genei^ WASHINGTON in a letter to a friend wrote, " This mkB FortuHC happened in a great measure, by two detach- ments of our people, who we-e posted in two roads leading through a wood to intercept the enemy in their 1776.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON &J march, suffering a surprise, and making a precipitate retreat." It should also be recollected, that the plans of the Commander in Chief, were laid in the expectation of a much larger force, than in -tho- event he realized. The regiments were not complete ; and he was abs> lutejy destitute of cavalry. There was not a single company of horse on Long Island to watch the mo- tions of the enemy, and give information of their movements. This furnishes some apology for the ig- norance of the commanding officer on Long Island, respecting the manoeuvre of the enemy. The defeat of the 27th made a most unfavourable impression upon the army. A great proportion of the troops lost their confidence in their office) s, and in themselves. Before this unfortunate event, they met the enemy in the spirit of freemen, fighting for their highest interests, and under the persuasion, that their thorough use of arms, rendered them equal to live dis- ciplined battalions which they were to oppose. But, on Ihis -occasion, by evolutions, which the}' did not .comprehend, they found themselves encompassed with difficulties, from which their utmost exertions could not extricate, and involved in dangers, from which their bravery could not deliver them ; and entertaining a high opinion of the adroitness of the enemy, in every movement, they apprehended a fatal snare. These melancholy facts were thus narrated by-Gene ral WASHINGTON, in his letter to Congress. " Our situation is truly distressing. The check our detach- ment sustained on the 527th ultimo, has dispirited too great a proportion of our troops, and filled their minds with apprehension and despair. The militia, instead of calling forth their utmost efforts to a brave and manly opposition, in order to repair our losses, are dis roayed, intractable, and impatient to return. Great numbers of them have gone off in some instances, almost by whole regiments by half ones, and by com- 64 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1770 ponies at a time. This circumstance, of itself, inde pendent of others, when fronted by a well appointed enemy, superiour in number to our whole collected force, would be sufficiently disagreeable : but when their example has infected another part of the army ; when their want of discipline, and refusal of almost every kind of restraint and government, have produced a like conduct, but too common to the whole, and an entire disregard of that order and subordination neces- sary to the well doing of au army, and which had been inculcated before, as well as the nature of our military establishment would admit of, our condition is still more a.larming ; and with the deepest concern I am obliged to confess my want of confidence in the gene- rality of the troops." The British General being in possession of Long Island, prepared to attack New-York. The body of the fleet lay at anchor near Governour's Island ; but particular ships passed up the East river, without sus- taining injury from the American batteries ; others, sailing round Long Island into the Sound, passed up to the higher part of York Island. By these move- ments, the bituation of the American army became critical. It was uncertain whether the attack would bo made upon the linns, or whether General Howe would land his troops above King's bridge, and en- close the Americans. To guard against the danger which threatened hjm, the Commander in Chief or- dered the stores, that were not of present necessity, to be removed above King's bridge, and assembled a Council to determine upon the expediency SEPT. 7. of retreating from the city. The majority of his general officers voted against the imme- diate evacuation of New- York. The plan recommend- ed was to station the army in the best manner, to de- fend the points menaced with attack, that the enemy might waste the residue of the season in the struggle lo possess York Island. The belief that Congress de- 1776.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 8ft sired that New-York should he maintained to extromi- tj, probably had influence on this Council. In com- municating the adopted plan to that body, General WASHINGTON clearly indicated an opinion, that an immediate evacuation of New- York was expedient. Speaking of the enemy, he observed, ' It is now extremely obvious, from all intelligence, from their movements, and every other circumstance, that having landed their whole army on Long Island, (except about four thousand en Stateri Island) they mean to enclose us on the Island of New-York, by taking post in our rear, while the shipping effectually secure the front ; and thus, either by cutting off our commu nication with the country, eblige us to fight them on their own terms, or surrender at discretion, or, by a brilliant stroke, endeavour to cut this army in pieces and secure the collection of arms and stores, which they well know we shall not be able soon to replace. " Having, therefore, their system unfolded to us, it became an important consideration, how it would be most successfully opposed. On.every side there is a choice of difficulties ; and every measure, on our part (however painful the reflection be from experience; to be formed with some apprehension that all our troops will not do their duty. In deliberating on this great question, it was impossible to forget, that history, our own experience, the advice of our ablest friends in Europe, the fears of the enemy, and even the declara- tions of Congress, demonstrate, that on our side, the war should be defensive (it has ever been cal.'ed a war of posts) that we should on all occasions avoid a general action, nor put any thing to the risk, unlesi compelled by a necessity into which we ought never to be drawn. " It was concludedvto arrange the army under thiee divisions ; five thousand to remain for tne defence of the city ; nine thousand to King's bridge and its de- pendences, as well to possess and secure those posts; VOL. I. 8 ~i-- 86 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. as to be ready to attack the enemy who are moving eastward on Long: Island, if they should attempt to land on this side ; the remainder to occupy the intei mediate space, and support either ; that the sick should be immediately removed to Orangetown, and barracks prepared at King's bridge with all possible expedition to cover the troops. " There were some general officers, in whose judg ment and opinion, much conhdtnce Ls to be reposed, that were for a total and immediate removal from the city, urging the great danger of one part of the army being cut off before the other can support it, the ex- tremities being at least sixteen mile* apart ; that our army, when collected, is inferiour to the enemy ; that they can move with their whole force to any point of attack, and consequently must succeed by weight of numbers, if they have only a part to oppose them; that, by removing from hence, we ueprive the enemy of the advantage of their ships, which will make at least otic half of the force to attack the town ; that we should keep the enemy at bay, put nothing to the hazard, but at all events, keep tne army together, which may be recruited another year ; that the unspent stores will also be preserved ; and, in this case, the heavy artillery can alao be secured." In the full expectation that a retreat from York Island would soon become necessary, the General as- siduously continued the removal of the stores and heavy baggage to a place of safety. Tho General officers became alarmed at SEPT. 12. the danger of tho army, and, in a second Council, determined to remove it from New-York. On the fourteenth, several British ships passed up the East river, and large Bodies of troops were moved to Montezore's Island with tho apparent intention to lani' either upon the continent above King's bridge, and wholly to enclose the Americans, or upon tin 1776.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 8T plains of Haerlem on York Islend, to break the line of communication between the different divisions of their army, and attack them in situations, in which they would be unable to support each othrr. The next morning General Clinton landed- under cover of fiva men of war, with four thousand men, three miles above the city of New-York. The American line* at this place were SEPT. 14. capable of defence, but the men posted in them, on the firing of the ships, without waiting for the attack of the enemy, abandoned them. As soon as the cannonading began, two brigades were detached from the main body to support the troops in the breast works, the fugitives communicated to them their paiiic.i, and General WASHINGTON, in riding to the scene of action, met his troops retreating in the utmost confusion, disregarding the efforts of their Generals to stop them. While the Commander in Chief was, with some effect, exerting himself to rally them, a very small body of the enemy appeared ba sight, on which the men again broke, and a most das- tardly route ensued. At this unfortunate moment, and only at this moment through his whole life, General WASHINGTON appears to have lost his fortitude. All the shameful and disastrous consequences of the de- fection of his army, rushed upon his- mind, and bore down his spirits. In a paroxysm of despair, he turned his horse towards the enemy, seemingly with the in- tention to avoid the disgrace of the day by the sacri- fice of his life : his aids seized the horse's bridle, and, with friendly violence, rescued him from the destruc- tion that awaited him. In consequence of the failure of the troops upon the lines, the evacuation of New- York was necessarily made in haste. It was happily accomplished with the loss of very few men ; but most of the heavy artillery, many of the tents, and a great part of the stores, which had not been previously removed, were unavoidably left behind 88 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1770. The American arrny having been driven from New- fork, the British General stationed a detachme.it to guard the city ; and posted his main army in front of the American lines on the north end of York island. Their right extended to the East, and their left to tho North river ; and both their flanks were covered by ships of war. The island at Bloomingdals, the place of the British encampment, is two miles wide. The strongest post of the Americans was at King's bridge, which secured their communication with the country. M'Gowan's pass, and Morn's heights were also rendered defensible ; and within a mile and a half of the enemy, a detachment was posted in a fortified camp, on the heights of Haerlem. The Com- mander in Chief was pleased with this deposition ot' his army ; he thought it must lead to those frequent skirmishes, which would insensibly wear off the de- pression occasioned by the late defeat, and restore to his men confidence in themselves. He indulged the hope thai by these services, the discipline would ba in- troduced into the army, absolutely necessary to suc- cessful war, when every individual does his aj*f>ro- priate duty, confiding for his security in the skill of his General, and in the united efforts of his fellow soldiers. The very day after the retreat from the SEPT. 16. city, a party of the enemy appeared in tne piain between the two hostile camps. The General rode to the outpost to embrace the opportuni- ty to attack them. Lieutenant Colonel Kuowlton, of Connecticut, a brave officer, who had been skirmish- ing with the party, stated their number at three hun dred. The General detached Colonel Knowlton and Major Leitch, of Virginia, to gain their rear, while he occupied their attention by movements indicating a design to attack them in front. Colonel Knowltop and Major Leitch, after leading their corps into action in a most soidier-like manner, were both suon 'ur^agnt 1776.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 89 off the field mortally wounded ; yet the men under their Captains, bravely continued the attack, and drove an enemy, superiour in numbers, from their position. The Americans had iifty men killed and wounded, and the British twice that number. This skirmish, trifling -in itself, was improved to valuable purposes. The Commander in Chief in gene- ral orders, applauded the braver" of officers and rnen ; contrasted it with the cowardly behaviour of the troops the day before ; called upon the whole army to emu- late this honourable example ; and from the issue of this conflict, pointed out what brave men might effect, when fighting in the best of causes. 1 no parole next day was Leitch. In filling the vacancy occasioned by the death of the Colonel, the General mentioned that the officer succeeded " the gallant and brave Colo- nel Knowlton, who would have been an honour to any country, and who had fallen gloriously fighting et his post." The success of this rencounter had a general effect upon the spirits of the army. In addition to the arduous duties of this campaign, which were sufficient to employ the time, and test the talents of the greatest military character ; the state of the army furnished a weighty subject of attention to General WASHINGTON. He dwelt upon the gloomy prospects of the succeeding winter. The clothing of the men was suited only to the warm season, and their time of enlistment expired with the year. The con- sequent distresses in all their magnitude rose to his mind, and in the following letter, he endeavoured to impress Congress with a lively sense of the situation of the army ; and to call forth their highest endea- vours to arrest the approaching evUs. " From the hours allotted to sleep, I will borrow a *ew moments to convey my thoughts on sundry im- portant matters, to Congress. I shall ofier them with the sincerity 'vhich ought to characterize p man of .candour ; and with the freedom which may bo used in 8 W LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1770 giving useful information, without incurring the im- putation of presumption. " We arc now, as it were, upon the ere of another dissolution of our army. The remembrance of the difficulties which happened upon that occasion last year ; the consequences which might have followed the change, if proper advantage had l>eer. taken by the enemy ; added to a knowledge of the present temper and situation of the troops, reflect but a very gloomy prospect upon the appearance of things now, and sa- tisiy me, beyond the possibility of doub 4 , that unless Borne speedy and effectual measures are adopted by Congress, our cause will be lost. " It is in vain to expect that any, or more than a trifling part, of this army will engage again in the service, on the encouragement offered by Congress. When men find that their townsmen and companions are receiving twenty, thirty, and more dollars, for a few mouths' service (which is truly the case)- this can not be expected without using compulsion ; and to force them into the service would answer no valuable purpose. When men are irritated, and their passions inflamed, they fly hastily and cheerfully to arms ; but after the rirst emotions are over, to expect among such people as compose the bulk of an army, that they are influenced by any other principles than those of inte- rest, is to look for what never did, and I fear never will, happen ; the Congress will deceive themselves, therefore, if they expect it. " A soldier, reasoned with upon the goodness of the cause he is engaged in, and the inestimable rights he is contending for, hears you with patience, and ac- knowledges the truth of your obsei-vations ; but ndds that it is of no more consequence to him than to others. The officer makes you the same reply, with this further remark, that his pay will not support him, and he cannot ruin himself and family to serve Ida country when every member in the community is 1776.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 91 equally benefited and interested by his labours. The few, therefore, who act upon principles of disinterest edness, arc, comparatively speaking, no more than a dnp in the ocean. It becomes evidently clear then, that, as this contest is not likely to be the work of a day ; as the war must be carried on systematically, and to do it you must have good officers ; there is, in my judgment, no other possible means to obtain thorn, but by establishing your army upon a perma- nent footing, and giving your officers good pay ; this will induce gentlemen, and men of character to engage, and until the bulk of your officers are composed of such persons as are actuated by principles of honour and a spirit of enterprise, you have little to expect from them. They ought to have such allowances, as will enable them to live like, and support the charac- ters of gentlemen ; and not to be driven by a scanty pittance to the low and dirty arts which many of them practice, to filch the publick of more than the differ- ence of pay would amount to, upon an ample allow- ance. Besides, something is due to the ma4i who puts his life in your hands, hazards his health, and forsakes the sweets of domestick enjoyments. Why a captain in the continental service should receive no more than five shillings currency per day, for performing the same duties that .an officer of the same rank in the British service receives ten shillings sterling for, I never could conceive ; especially when the latter is provided with every thing necessary he requires upon the best terms, and the former can scarcely procure them at any rate. There is nothing that gives a man consequence, and renders him fit for command, like a support that renders him inHependent of every body but the state he serves. " With respect to the men, nothing but a good boun- ty can obtain them upon a permanent establishment, and for no shorter time than the continuance of the war, ought they to be engaged ; as facts incontestably !W LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [177t> prove, that the difficulty and cost of enlistments in- crease with time. When the army \vas first raised at Cambridge, I am persuaded the men might have been got without a bounty for the war ; after that, they be- gan to see that the contest was not likely to end so speedily as was imagined, and to feel their .conse- quence by remarking, that to get their militia in, in the course of last year, many towns were induced to give them a bounty. Foreseeing the evils resulting from this, and the destructive consequences which would unavoidably follow short enlistments, I took the liberty in a long letter, to recommend the enlistments for and during the war, assigning such reasons for it, as ex- perience has since convinced me were well founded At that time, twenty dollars would, I am persuaded, have engaged the men for this term : but it will not do to look back, and if the piesent opportunity be slipped, I am persuaded that twelve months more will increase our difficulties four-fold. I shall therefore take the liberty of giving it as my opinion, that a good bounty be immediately offered, aided by the proffer of at least a hundred, or a hundred and fifty acres of land, and a suit of clothes, and a blanket to each non-com missioned officer and soldier, as I have good authority for saying, that however high the men's pay may ap- pear, it is barely sufficient, in the present scarcity and clearness of all kinds of goods, to keep them in clothes, much less to afford support to their families. If this encouragement then be given to the men, and such pay allowed to the officers, as will induce gentlemen of liberal character and liberal sentiments to engage, and proper care and caution be usert in the nomination (having more regard to the character of persons, than the number of men they can enlist) we should in a little time have, an army able to cope with any that can be opposed to it, as there are excellent materials to form one out of ; but while the only merit an officci possesses is his ability to raise men ; while those me a 177fi.i LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 93 cons.der and treat him as an equal, and in the charac- ter of an officer, regard him no more than a broom- stick, being mixed together as one common herd ; no order nor discipline can prevail, nor will the officer ever meet with that respect which is essentially ne eessary to due subordination. " To place uny dependence upon militia, is assured- ly resting upon a broken staff. Men just dragged from the tender scenes of domestick life ; unaccustomed to the din of arms ; totally unacquainted with every kind of military skill ; which, being followed by a want of confidence in themselves, when opposed to troops regu- larly trained, disciplined, and appointed, superiour in knowledge, and superiour in arms, makes them timid and ready to fly frc:n their own shadows. Besides, the sudden change in their manner of living, particularly in their lodging, brings on sickness in many, impa- tience in all ; and such an unconquerable desire of re- turning to their respective homes, that it not only pro- duces shameful and scandalous desertions among them- selves, but infuses the like spirit in others. Again, men accustomed to unbounded freedom, and no con- trol, cannot brook the restraint which is indispensably necessary to the good order and government of an army ; without which, licentiousness and every kind of disorder triumphantly reign. To bring men to a proper degree of subordination, is not the work of a day, a month, or a year ; and unhappily for us, and the cause wo are engaged in, the little discipline? I have been la>oaring to establish in the army under my immediate command, is in a manner done away by having such a mixture of troops, as have been called together within these few months. " Relaxed and unfit as our rules and regulations sf war are for the government of an army, the militia, (those property so called, for of these we have two sorts, the six months' men, and those sent in as a tempo- ary aid) do not think themselves subject to them, and D4 LiFE OF WASHINGTON. 1.1770 therefore take liberties which the soldier is punished for. This creates jealousy, jealousy begets dissatis faction, and these by degrees ripen into mutiny , keeping the whole army in a confused and disordered state ; rendering the time of those, who wish to sea regularity and good order prevail, more unhappy thaw words can describe ; besides this, such repeated changes take place, that all arrangement, is set at nought ; and the constant fluctuation of things de- rarges every plan, as fast as it is adopted. " These, sir, Congress may be assured are but a small part of the inconveniences which might be enu- merated and attributed to militia : but there is one which merits particular attention, and that is the ex- pense. Certain I am, that it would be cheaper to keep fifty, or a hundred thousand men in constant pay, than to depend upon half the number, and supply the other half occasionally by militia. The time the latter is in pay, before and after they are in camp, as- sembling and marching, the waste of ammunition ; l.ho consumption of stores which, in spite of every resolution and requisition of Congress, they must be furnished \vith, or sent home , iJded to other incident- al expenses consequent upon their coming, and con- duct in camp, surpass all idea ; and destroy every kind of regularity and economy, which you could establish amorjg fixed and settled troops ; and will, in rny opi nion, prove (if the same be adhered to) the ruin of our cause. " The jealousies of a standing army, and the evils to be apprehended from one, are remote ; and in my judgment, situated and circumstanced as we are. not at all to be d/eaded ; but the consequence of wanting one, according to my ideas, formed upon thb present view of things, is certain and inevitable ruin ; for if 1 were called upon to declare upon oath, whether thr militia have been more serviceable or hurtful on the whole, I should subscribe to the latter. I do not meal 1776.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON 95 by this, however, to arraign the conduct of Congress ; in so doing, 1 should equally condemn my own mea- Bures, if not my juJginer t ; but experience, which ia the best criterion to work by, so fully, clearly, and de- cisively, reprobates the practice of trusting to miiitia, that no man who regards order, regularity, and econo my, or who has any regard for his own honour, charac ter, or peace of mind, will risk them upon militia." " Before I knew of the late resolutions of Congress which you did me the honour to enclose in your letter of the 24th, and before I was favoured with the visit of your committee, I took the liberty of giving you my sentiments on several points which seemed to be of importance. " I have no doubt but that the committee will make such report of the state and condition of tho army as will induce Congress to believe that nothing but the moat vigorous exertions can put matters upon such a footing, as to give this continent a fair prospect of sue- ' cess. Give me leave to say, sir, I say H with due deference and respect, (and my knowledge of the facts, added to tfie importance of the cause, and the stake I hold in it, must justify the freedom) that your affairs are in a more unpropitious way than you seem to ap prehend. " Your army, as mentioned in my last, is upon the eve of its political dissolution. True it is, you have voted a larger one in lieu of it ; but, the season ia late, and there is a material difference between voting bat- talions and raising men. In the latter there are more difficulties than Congress seem aware of, which rnake it my duty (as I Lave been informed of tho prevailing sentiments of this army) to Inform them, that, unless the pay of the officers, (especially that of the field offi- cers) be raised, the chief part of those that are worth etaining will leave the service at the expiration of the 96 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1776 present term , as the soldiers will also, if some greater encouragement, be not offered them, than twenty dol- lars, and one hundred acres of land. " Nothing less, in my opinion, than a suit of clot hog annually giv :n to each non-commissioned officer and soldier, in addition to the pay and bounty, will avail ; and I question whether that will do, as the enemy from the information of one John Marsh, who, with six othc-, was taken by our guards, are giving ten pounds bouii-y for recruits, and have got a battalion under Major Rodgers, ncaily completed upon Long Island. " Nor will less pay, according to n;y judgment, than I have taken the liberty of mentioning in the enclosed estimate, retain such officers as we could wish to have continued ; the difference per month in each battalion would amount to bette. than one hundred pounds ; to this may be added the pay of the staff' officers ; for it is presumable they will also require an augmentation, but being few in number, the sum will not be greatly increased by them-, and consequently is a matter of no great moment ; but it is a matter of no small impor- tance to make the several offices desirable. When the pay and establishment of an officer once become ob- jects of interested attention, the sloth, negligence, and even disobedience of orders, which at this time but too generally prevail, will be purged off. But while the service is viewed with indifference ; while the officer conceives that he is rather conferring than receiving an obligation ; there will be a total relaxation of ail order and discipline, and every thing will move heavi- iy on, to the great detriment of the service, and inex- pressible trouble and vexation to the General. " The critical situation of our affairs at this time will justify my saying, that no time is to be lost in making fruitless experiments. An unavailing trial of a month, to get an army, upon the terms proposed, may render' it impracticable to do it at all, and prove fatal to ur cause, as I am not sure whether anv rub* 1776.J LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 0* in the way of our enlistments or unfavourable turn in our affairs, may not prove the means of the enemy's recruiting men faster than we do. To this may be added the inextricable difficulty of forming one corps out of another, ind arranging matters witli any degree of order, in the face of an enemy who are watching for advantages. " At Cambridge last year, where the officers (and more than a sufficiency of them) were all upon , the spot, we found it a work of such extreme difficulty to know their sentiments (each having some terms to propose) that I despaired, once, of getting the arrange- ment completed, and do suppose that at least a hun- dred alterations took place before matters were finally adjusted ; what must it be then under the present regulation, where the officer is to negotiate this mat- ter with the state he comes from, distant, perhaps, two or. three hundred miles ; some of whom, without any license from me, set out to make personal applica- tion, the moment the resolution 'got to their hands ? What kind of officers these are, I leave Congress to judge. " If an officer of reputation (for none other should be applied to) be asked to stay, what answer can he give ? But in the first place, that he does not know whether it be at his option to do so ; no provision be- ing made in the resolution of Congress, even recom- mendatory of this measure, consequently, that it rests with the state he comes from, (surrounded, perhaps, with a variety of applications, and influenced perhaps with local attachments) lo determine whether he can i>e provided for, or not. In the next place, if he be an officer of merit, and knows that the state he comes from is to furnish more battalions than it at present has in the service, he will scarcely, after two years faithful services, think of continuing in the rank ha now bears, when new creations are to bs made and VOL. I. 9 18 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. t i776. men appointed to offices (no ways superiour in merit, and ignorant of service perhaps) over his head. " A Committee sent to the army from each state may, upon the spot, fix things with a degree of pro- priety and certainty, and is the only method I can see, of bringing measures to a decision with respect to the officers of the army ; but what can be done in the mean time towards the arrangement in the country, I know not. In the one case, you run the hazard of losing your officers ; in the other of encountering de- lay ; unless some method could be devised of forward- ing both at the same instant. " Upon the present plan, 1 plainly foresee an inter- vention of time between the old and new army, which must be filled with militia, if to be had, with whom no man, who has any regard for his own reputation, can undertake to be answerable' for consequences. I shall also be mistaken in my conjectures, if we do not lose the most valuable officers in this army, under the present mode of appointing them ; consequently, if we have an army at all, it will be composed of mate- rials not only entirely raw, but if uncommon pains be not taken, entirely unfit ; and I see such a distrust and jealousy of military power, that the Commander in Chief has not an opportunity, even by recommenda- tion, to give the least assurances of reward for the most essential services. " In a word, such a cloud of perplexing circum- stances appears before me, without one flattering hope that I am thoroughly convinced, unless the most vigo- rous and decisive exertions be immediately adopted to remedy these evils, that the certain and absolute Icsa f our liberties will be the inevitable consequence ; as one unhappy stroke will throw a powerful weight into the ocale against us, and enable General Howe to re- truit his army as fast as we shall ours ; numbers being disposed, and many actually doing so already. Some 177G.J LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 9& of the most probable remedies, and such as expenenc* has brought to my more intimate knowledge, I have taken the liberty to point out , the rest 1 beg leave tc submit to the consideration of Congress; 4< . ask pardon for taking up so much of their tim with my opinions, but 1 should betray that trust which they and my country have reposed in me, were I to be silent upon matters so extremely interesting." General Howe too well understood the duty of a commander to attempt to storm the strong camp of his opponent. He adopted the plan of transporting hia army above King's bridge and forming an encamp- ment in rear of General WASHINGTON'S lines. This manoeuvre, he expected, wouid either occasion the American Commander hastily to abandon his encamp- ment, or oblige him to hazard a general engagement under circumstances which would render a defeat ab- solute ruin To facilitate this design, he fortified M'Gowan's hill for the defence of the city. Three frigates passed up the North river without injury from the fire of Forts Washington and Lee, and without impediment from the chevauxdefrise that had been sunk in the river. The great body of troops OCT 19. on York Island was embarked in flat bot- tomed boats, conveyed through Hurl Gate, and landed a'. Frog's Neck, near West Chester. Gen'.ral WASHINGTON fully comprehended the plan of the Rritish Commander, and immediately adopted measures to defeat it. The bridges were removed from the only road, in which the British columns could march from Frog's Neck to the American encampment, the ground being rough and in many places intersect- ed by stone walls. The road itself was broken up, guns were mounted upon heights the most favourable to annoy approaching troops, and detachments were sent out to act in front of the enemy, and to check hij progress. As General Howe prosecuted his scheme, it became evident to the American General Oilicer* 100 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1776 that a change of position was necessary to save their army from destruction. General Lee about this time joined this army, and urged the immediate execution of the measure. The advice of his officers according with his own judgment, the Commander in Chief moved the army from York Island, and stretched it along the North river towards the White Plains, until its left was extended above the enemy's right. It was, however, determined to maintain Forts Washington and Lee. The resolution of Congress of the llth of Oc- tober, requesting General WASHINGTON in every possi- ble way to obstruct the navigation of the river, had great influence on this decision. The removal of the stores was a heavy task to the men from the want of teams. General Howe moved his army to New- OCT. 18. Rochelle. Several sharp skirmishes ensued, in which the American troops behaved well. Both afmios mamEUvred for several days to obtain possession of the high grounds of the White Plains. General WASHINGTON narrowly watched the move- ments of his enemy, and to secure a communication with the country, and to cover the removal of his heavy baggage, he disposed his forces upon the differ- ent heights from Voluntine's Hill, near King's bridge, to the White Plains, firming a chain of fortified posts, twelve or thirteen miles in extent. He now fronted the British line of march, the river Brunx running be- tween the two armies. During these operations severe skirmishes took place between advanced corps, and a bold, attempt was made to cut. 'off a British regiment, which partia.ly succeeded. The enterprise of the Ame- rican commander rendered General Howe extremely cautious; his movements were made in closr? order, and in his encampments every corps was strongly secured. The sick and the stores having been re- OCT. 25. moved to places of safety, General WASH- INGTON drew in his outposts, and took pos- session of the hills on the east side of the Brunx in 17761 UFE OF WASHINGTON. 101 front of the British army. A detachment was posted on a hill a mile from the main body, on the west sida of the . river, to cover the right wing ; and entrench- ments were formed, as time permitted, to render the lines more defensible. The manoeuvres of General Howe indicated OCT. 28 the intention to attack the American camp , he reconnoitred their position, and with little effect opened a heavy cannonade upon it. He detach- ed a large corps over the Brunx to drive the Americans from the hill on their right, and thereby open the way for an assault upon the right and centre of the main body The charge was sustained with spirit ; but final- ly the Americans were overpowered by numbers, and driven from this position. The loss of the Americans in the gallant conflict, in killed, wounded, and taken, was between three and four hundred ; that of the Bri- tish was not less. The day was so far spent in the struggle, that General Howe deferred the attack upon the lines until next morning, and the whole British army lay through the night upon their arms, in face of the American encampment. General WASHINGTON spent the time in making preparation for the oxpected as- sault ; he drew his right wing bac'k into stronger ground, and strengtnened his left in its former position. The succeeding day the cautious Howe again recon- noitred the American camp, and determined to suspend the attack until the arrival of a reinforcement from the city. This additional force reached him on the afternoon of the 30th, and preparations were made for the attack ; but a violent rain prevented the execution of the design. The movements of the enemy manifest- Nov. 1. in? the design to turn the right flank of the Americans, and gain possession of the high ground in their r~ar, General WASHINGTON, hav- ing secured his heavy baggage and stores, at night withdrew his army from its present position, and form 102 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1776. ed it upon the heights of Newcastle, about five miles from the White Plains, and secured the bridge ove- Croton river. General Howe deemed the new encampment too strong to be forced, and marehod oft' his army to other operations. The immediate object of General Howe Nov. 5. in leaving the White Plains, was to invest Forts Washington and Lee. The posses ion of these fortresses would secure the free naviga tion of the North river, and facilitate the invasion of JSey^-Jersey. The American Commander conformed his movements to those of his enemy. He ordered all che troops raifed on the vest side of the Hudson to crosfc that river under the command of General Green, intending himself to cross, as soon as the plans of Geiieral Howe should be more fully disclosed. Gene- ral Lee remained with the troops raised east of the Hudson, who was ordered to join Green's division, whenever the enemy should enter New-Jersey. Gene- ral WASHINGTON informing Congress of his new ar- rangements, observed, " I cannot indulge the idea that General Howe, supposing him to be going to New- York, means to close the campaign, arid to sit down without attempting sometlHng more. I think it high- ly probable, and almost certain, that lie will make a descent with a part of his troops into the Jerseys, and as soon as I am satisfied that the present manoeuvre is real, and not a feint, I shall use all the means in my power to forward a part of our force to counteract his designs. " I expect the enemy will bend their force against Fort Washington, and invest it immediately. From some advice, it is an object that will attract their ear- liest attention." He wrote to Governour Livingston, informing him of the movements of the enemy, and advising him to Void the militia in their full strength, in constant readi 1776.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON- 103 ness to defend their country. Ho also urged him to remove or destroy the stock and provisions on the sea- coast, lest these should fall into the hands of the Bri- tish. He directed General Green to keep his eye on Mount Washington, to send oft' from his division all stores not of immediate necessity, and to establish his magazines at Princeton, or some distant place of safety. While the British forces were marching to King's bridge, three ships of war sailed up the Hudson, with- out injury from the American batteries, or from the obstructions that had been sunk in the channel 01" the river. This fact convinced the General, that it was inexpedient long-er to attempt the defence of Mount Washington. He accordingly again wrote to Nov. 8. General Green, " If we cannot prevent -ves- sels from passing up, and the enemy are pos- sessed of the surrounding country, what valuable pur- pose can it answer to attempt to hold a post, from which the expected benefit cannot be derived ? I am, therefore, inclined to think it will not be prudent to hazard the men and stores at Mount Washington ; but as you are on the spot, I leave it to you to give such orders respecting the evacuation of the place, as you may think most adviseable, and so far revoke the orders given Colonel Magaw to defend it to the last." In the presumption, that the works were too strong to be carried by storm, and that regular approaches by ar- tillery would give opportunity to draw off the garrison, when their circumstances should become desperate, General Green did not carry these discretionary or- ders into effect. He was induced to this delay, that he might, as long as possible, retain the passage of the river, and prevent the depression, which the evacua- tion of an important post might produce on the army and on the country. General Howe being in rcadin ^ss for the Nov. 15. assault, summoned the garrison to surrender. Colonel Magaw, the commanding officer, in 104 LIFE OF WASHINGTON [I77b spirited language, replied, that he shourd defend hi* works to extremity. He immediately communicated the summons to General Green, and through him to the Commander in Chief, then at Hackensack. The General rode to Fort Lee. at which place he took boat, lat 3 al night, for Mount Washington ; but, on the river, nt'it Generals Putnam and Green returning from a visit to the garrison, who informed him that the men were 'n high spirits, and would make a brave defence, and he returned with them to Fort Lee. f \L .'.l.v succeeding morning the enemy made the assault in four separate divisions. The Hessians, commanded by General Knyphausen, moved down from King's bridge to attack the north side of the fort : they were gallantly opposed, and repeatedly repulsed by Colonel Rawlings's regiment of riflemen posted on a hill back of the works. Lord Percy, accompanied by General Howe, assaulted the works on tho south General Mathews crossed the North river, a^d landed within the second Jine of defence, while a considera- ble part of the garrison were in the first, fighting with Lord Percy. Colonel Cadwaliader, the commander at this post, fearing an attack on his rear, retreated in confusion towards the fort ; btrt the fourth British column crossing the North river at this moment, with- in the lines, intercepted a part of Cadwaliader 's troops, and made them prisoners. In the mean time, Kny- phausen had overcome the obstinate resistance of Colo- nel Rawlings, and gained the summit of the hill. The whole garrison now entered the fort or retreated un- der its guns. The enemy having surmounted the outworks, agaia summoned the garrison to surrender. His ammuni- tion beirg nearly expended, and Ins force incompetent to repel the numbers which were ready on every side to assail him, Colonel Magaw surrendered himself and his garrison, consisting of two thousand men. prisoner* af war. The oemv lost in l^ assault about eight 1776.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 105. hundred men, mostly Germans. Soon after the second summons, General WASHINGTON found means to send a billet to Colonel Magaw, requesting him to defend himself until the evening, and he would take measures to bring him off; but the situation of the garrison was too desperate, and the negotiation had proceeded too far to make the attempt. The conquest of Mount Washington made the evacuation of Fort Lee necessary. Orders were therefore issued to remove the ammunition and stores in it ; but before much progress had been made in this business, Lord Cornwallis crossed the Hud- Nov. 18. son with a number of battalions, with the intention to enclose the garrison between the Hackensack and North rivers. This movement made a precipitate retreat indispensable, which was happily effected with little loss of men ; but a greater part of the artillery, stores, and baggage, was left for the enemy. The loss at Mount Washington was heavy. The regiments captured in it were some of the best troops in the army. The tents, camp-kettles, and stores, lost at this place and at Fort Lee, could not during the campaign be replaced, and for the want of them the men suffered extremely. This loss was unnecessarily sustained. Those posts ought, unquestionably, to have been evacuated before General Howe was in a situation to invest them. When the British General gained possession of the country above those positions, they became in a great degree useless to the Ameri- cans. This opinion is clearly expressed in the letter of General WASHINGTON to General Green. The errour to be attributed to the Commander in Chief, consisted in submitting the measure of evacuation to the discretion of a subaltern officer, instead of abso- lutely directing it, in the exercise of powers vested in him. After the disastrous event had taken place, he possessed too much magnanimity to exculpate himself }>y criminating General Gresn. 106 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [177fc The American force was daily diminished f>y the or piration of the soldiers' term of enlistment, and by the desertion of the miliiia. When General Howe in force crossed into N-. T 29. New-Jersey, General WASHINGTON posted the army under his immediate command, consisting of only three thousand men, along the Haekensack ; but was unable seriously to oppose the enemy in its passage. The country behind linn waa level ; he was without entrenching tools, anJ without tents ; his troops were miserably clothed, and the sea- son was becoming inclement. The firm mind of Ge- neral WASHINGTO.N sunk not under these depressing circumstances. Although no bright prospect present- ed itself to his contemplation, yet he exerted himself to increast his effective force, and to make the best disposal of that under his direction. He ordered Ge- neral Schnyler to send to his aid the troops, belonging to Pennsylvania and Jersey, which had been attached to the Northern army ; but their term of service ex- pired before they reached his encampment, and they brought him no effectual support.. He ordered Gene- ral Lee to cross the Hudson, and join him with those of his troops, whos-e time of service was not expiring ; but General Lee loitered upon the East side of the river, and discovered an ardent inclination to retain a separate command in the rea.' of the enemy. WASH- INGTON in repeated messages informed Lee, that his joining was of absolute necessity, that the people of Jersey expected security from the American army; and if disappointed, they would yield no support to a for'.e, that did not protect them ; and cautioned him to lake his route so high in the country, as to avoid the danger of being intercepted by the enemy. These or ders General Lee executed in a reluctant and tardy manner, am' soon after he entered New-Jersey, caro lessly taking his quarters for a night in a house three miles from his force, lie was surprised and taken 177G.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 107 prisoner by a detachment of British dragoons. Gene- ral WASHINGTON also renewed his letters to Congress, and to the Executives of the neighbouring States, urging them to bring the whole strength of the mili- tia into the field, to enable him to check the progress of the invading foe. To back these requests, lie di- rected General Mitllinto repair to Philadelphia, Gene- ral Armstrong to the interiour of Pennsylvania, and Colonel Reed, his Adjutant General, to the distant counties of New-Jersey. The known influence of these gentlemen in those places, united tc the exertions of the constituted authorities, would, the General hoped, bring a powerful reinforce ment to his armv All these efforts were foi the present time ineffectual. As General Howe advanced, the American army retreated towards the Delaware. It frequently hap- pened, that the front guaH of the British entered one end of a village, as the rear of the Americans quitted the othnr. Whenever it could be done with safety, General Washington made a stand, to show the sem- blance of an army, and to retard the progress of the enemy. At Brunswick, Lord and General Howe, Commis- eionera, issued a proclamation, commanding all persona in arms against the King, peaceably to return to their homes, and all civil officers to desist from their trea- sonable practices ; and offering a full pardon to all persons, who should in sixty days appear before ap- pointed officers of the crown, and subscribe a declara- tion of their submission to royal authority. This was the most gloomy period of the revo- DEC. lutionary war. It was the crisis of the struggle of the United States for Independence. The American army, reduced in numbers, depressed by de feat, and exhausted by fatigue, naked, barefoot, and destitute of tents, and even of utensils, with which to dress their scanty provisions, was fleeing before a triumphant army, well appointed and abundantly sup- JOS LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [177* plied. A general spirit of despondency through New Jersey was the consequence of this disastrous state of publick affairs. No city or town indeed, in its corpo- rate capacity submitted to the British government. A few characters of distinction maintained their political integrity ; and nearly a thousand of the militia of the state bravely kept the field in defence of their country. But most of the families of fortune and influence, dis- covered an inclination to return to their allegiance to the king. Many of tl>e yeomanry claimed the bene- fits of the Commissioners' proclamation ; and the great body of them were too much taken up with the Security of their families and their property, to make any exertion in the publick cause. In this worst of times Congress stood unmoved. Their measures exhibited no symptoms of confusion or dismay, the publick danger only roused them to more vigorous exertions, that they might give a firmer tone to the publick mind, and animate the citizens of United America to a manly defence of their Inde- pendence. Beneath this cloud of adversity, General WASHING- TON shone, perhaps with a brighter lustre, than in the day of his highest prosperity. Not dismayed by all the difficulties which encompassed him, he accommo- dated his measures to his situation, and still made the good of his country the object of his unwearied pur- suit. He ever wore the countenance of composure and confidence ; by his own example inspiring his lit- tle band with firmness to struggle with adverse for tune. . As the British advanced upon him, he retreated, and having previously broken down the bridges on the Jer- sey shore, he crossed the Delaware, and se DEC. 8. cured the boats upon the river for a distance of seventy miles. The van of the enemy appeared upon the left bank of the Delaware, while Ihe rear of the American army was upon its passage. 177G j LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 109 After an unsuccessful attempt to procure boats to past* the Delaware, General Howe rantoned his army in New-Jersey, intending to wait until the frost of winter should famish him with an easy passage upon Ihe ice to Philadelphia. He stationed four thousand men along the Delaware at Trenton, Bordentown, the White Horse, and Burlington. And the residue of his force, he posted between the Delaware and the Hack ensack. General WASHINGTON ordered the American galleys to keep the river, narrowly to watch the enemy, and to give the earliest notice of their movements. He posted hir troops upon the south side of the Delaware, in situations the most favourable to guard the fords and terries ; and he gave written instructions to the commanding officer of each detachment, directing what passes he should defend, if driven from his post, on his retreat to the heights of Germantown. While waiting for reinforcements he kept a steady eye on the enemy, and used every means in his power to gain correct information of their plans. This moment of inaction he also embraced, to lay before Congress his reiterated remonstrances against the fatal system of short enlistments. He hoped that experience, by its severe chastisement, would produce the conviction upon that body, which his arguments and persuasions had uot fully effected. He urged Congress to establish corps DEC 20. of cavalry, artillerists, and engineers, and pressed upon them tho necessity of esta- olishing additional regiments of infantry. He knew that objections to these measures would arise, on ac- count of the expense, and from tlw consideration, that the old battalions were not yet filled ; these he obviated hv observing, that " moro men would in this way on thft wltolc be raised, and that our funds were not tUa only object now to be taken into consideration. We find," he added, " that the enemy arc daily gathcr- VOL. I 10 110 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1770 ng strength from the disaffected. This strength, lik? a snowball by rolling, will increase, unless some means can be devised to check, effectually, the progress of the enemy's arms : militia may possibly do it for a tittle while ; but in a little while also, the militia of these states, which have frequently been called upon, will not tarn out at call ; or if they do, it will be with eo much reluctance and sloth, as to amount to the same thing : instance New-Jersey ! witness Pennsyl- vania ' could any thing but the river Delaware have saved Philadelphia ? could any thing (the exigency of the case indeed may justify it) be more destructive to the recruiting service, than giving ten dollars boun ty, for six weeks' service of the militia, who come in, you cannot tell how, go, you cannot tell when, and act, you cannot tell where consume your provisions, exhaust your stores, and .cave you at last, at a critical moment. These are the men I am to depend upon ten days hence. This is the basis on which yonr cause will, and must for ever depend, till you get a large standing army, sufficient of itself to oppose the enemy." With deference he suggested to Congress the expe diency of enlarging his own powers, that he might execute important measures, without consulting with them, and possibly, by the delay, missing the favoura- ble moment of action. " It may be said," he observed, " that this is an application for powers that are too dangerous to be entrusted. I can only add, that despe rate diseases require desperate remedies, and with truth declare, that I have no lust after power, bat wish with as much fervency as any man upon the wide ex- tended continent, for an opportunity of turning the rword into a ploughsliare. But my feelings as an offi- cer and a man, have been such as to force me to say, that no person ever had a greater choice of difficulties to contend with than I have." Having recop-imendcd undry otl>er measures, and mentioned several ar- 1776.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON 111 Tangcments which he had adopted beyond Hie spirit of his commission, he concluded with the following observations. " It may be thought that I am going a good deal out of the line of rny duty to adopt these measures, or to advise thus freely. A character to lose, an estate to forfeit, the inestimable blessings of liberty at stake and a life devoted, must be my apology." These weighty representations wore not fruitless- Congress, by a resolution, invested thei ' DEC. 27. General with almost unlimited powers to manage the war. The united exertions of civil and military officers had by this time brought a considerable body of militia into the field. General Sullivan too, on whom the command of General Lee's divisioii devolved upon his capture, promptly obeyed the orders of the Com- mander in Chief, and at this period joined him ; and General Heath was marching a detachment from Peck's Kill. The army, with these reinforcements, amounted to seven thousand men, and General WASH I.NGTON determined to recommence active operations. General Maxwell had already been sent into New- Jersey, to take the command of three regiments of regular forces, and about eight hundred of the militia. His orders were to give the inhabitants all possible support, and to prevent the disaffected from going into the British lines to make their submission, to harass the marches of the enemy, and to give early intelli gence of their mo*, ements, particularly of those to wards Princeton and Trenton. These measurts were preparatory to more enter prising and bold operations. General WASHINGTON had noticed the loose and uncovered state of the win- ter quarters of the British army ; and he contemplated the preservation of Philadelphia, and the recovery of New-Jersey, by sweeping, at one stroke, all the I5i itisf-, 114 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [177* cantonments upon the Delaware. The present posi tion of his forces favoured the execution of his plan. The troops under the immediate command of Gtsne ral WASHINGTON, consisting of about two thousand and four hundred men, were ordered to cross the rivei at M'Konkey't ferry, nine miles above Trenton, to at- tar k that post. Genera! Irvine was> directed to cross with his di/ision at Trenton ferry, to secure the bridge below tin; town, and prevent tle retreat of the enemy Uiat way. General Cadwullader received orders to pass the river at Bristol ferry, and assault the post at Burlington. Tire njglit of the twenty-fifth was assign- ed for the execution of this daring scheme. It proved to be severely cold and so much ice was made in the river, that General Irvine and General CadwaMader, afi.er Iraving strenuously exerted themselves, found it impracticable to pass their divisions, and their part of the plan totally failed. The Commander in Chief vras more fortunate. With difficulty he crossed the river, but was delayed in point of time. He expected to have reached Tren- ton at the dawn of day, and it was three o'clock in the morning before he had passed the troops and artillery over the river, and four before he commenced his line of march. Being now distant nine miles from the British encampment, tire attempt t.> surprise it wa* given up. He formed his little army into two divi- sions, one of which was directed to proceed by the river road into the west end of Trenton, and the ether by the Pennington road which leads into the north end of the town. The distance being equal, the Gene- ral supposed that each division wo aid arrive at tho scene of art ion about the same time ; and therefore he .ordered each to atffick the moment of its arrival, arid drvirg hi the piquet guard, to press after it into the tov n. The General accompanying the division on the P nnington road, reached the outpost of tht 177C.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 113 enemy precisely at eight o'clock, and in three minutes after, had the satisfaction to hear the firing of his men on the other road. The brave Colonel Rawle, the commanding officer paraded his forces for the defence of his post. He was by the first fire mortally wounded, and his men in apparent dismay, attempted to file off towards Prince- ton. General WASHINGTON perceiving their intention, moved a part of his troops into this road in their frontj and defeated the design. Their artillery being seized, and the Americans pressing upon them, they surren- dered. Twenty of the Germans were killed, and one thousand made prisoners. By the failure of General Irvins, a small body of the enemy stationed in the lowei .part of the town escaped over the bridge to Bor- denton. Of the American troops, two privates were killed, and two frozen to death, one officer and three or four privates were wounded. Could the other divisions have crossed the Dela- ware, General WASHINGTON'S plan in its full extent would probably have succeeded. Not thinking it pru- dent to hazard the fruits of this gallant stroke by more daring attempts, the General the same day, recrossed the Delaware with his prisoners, with six pieces of ar- tillery, a thousand stand of arms, and some militaijr stores. General Howe was astonished at this display of en terprise and vigour. He found the American Com- mander, a formidable enemy under circumstanceo of the greatest depression, and although in the depth of winter, determined to recommence active ope rations. In pursuance of this resolution, ho called in his outposts and assembled a powerful force at Prince- ton. Having allowed his men two or three days' rest, General WASHINGTON again passed into New-Jersey, and concentrated his forces, amounting to five thou- sand, at Trenton. He pushed a small detachment to 10" :i. LIKE OF WASHINGTON. [1777 Maidenhead, about half way between Tronton and Princeton, to watch the movement of the enemy, and delay their inarch, Should they advance upon him On the next morning, Lord Cornwallis moved I-?-'-, ' towards the American General with a supe- ri:>nr f orce, and reached Trenton at foiu o'clock ~>f the a.'temoon. General WASHINGTON drew uji his men behind AsHiimpinck creek, which runa Ih >ugh the town. A cannonade was opened on both Eiues. His Lordship attempted at several places to cross the creek ; but finding the passes guarded, he halted his troops, and kindled his fires. Early in the evening General WASHINGTON -assem bled his officers in Council, and stated to them the critical situation of the army. " In the morning," he observed, " we certainly shall be attacked by a supe- riour force, defeat must operate our absolute destruc tion, a retreat across the Delaware is extremely ha- zardous, if practicable, on account of the ice. In either case, the advantages of our late success will be sacrificed. .New-Jorsey must again be resigned to the enemy, and 3 train of depressing and disastrous con sequences will ensue." He then proposed to their consideration the expediency of the following measure " Shall we silently quit our present position, by a cir- cuitous route, gain the rear of the enemy at Princeton, and there avail ourselves of favourable circumstances? By this measure we shall avoid the appearance of a retreat, we shall assume the aspect of vigorous opera- tion, inspirit the publick mind, and subserve the inte- rests of our country." . The plan was unanimously approved, and measures were instantly adopted for its execution ; the baggage was silently removed to Burlington ; the fires weie re- newed, and ordered to be kept up through the night guards were posted at the bridge and fords of the creek, and directed to go the usual rounds. At one clock at night, the army moved upon the left flank 1777] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. lfc> of the enemy, and unperceived gained their rear. The weather, which for several days had been warm, suddenly changed to a severe frost ; and the roads, which had been deep and muddy, immediately became hard, and marching upon them, easy. About sunrise the American van met the advance of three Biitish regiments, which had the preceding right encamped at Princeton, and were on their way lo join Lord Cornwallis. A severe skirmish took place between this advanc?d corps and General Mer- cer, who commanded the militia in front of the Ame- rican line. The militia at length gave way, and in the effort to rally them, General Mercer was mortally wounded. General WASHINGTON advanced at the head of those troops which had signalized themselves at Trenton, and exposed himself to the hottest fire of the enemy. His men bravely supported him, and the British in their turn were repulsed, and the different regiments separated. That in the rear, retreated with little loss to Brunswick. Colonel Mawhood in the van, with a part of his men, forced his way through the Americans, and reached Trenton. More than a hundred of the British were left on the field of battle, and three hundred of them were made prisoners. Be- sides General Mercer, whose death was greatly la- mented, the Americans in this action lost two Colonels, two Captains, five other officers, and nearly a hun- dred privates. On the return of day, Lord Cornwallis found that he had been out-generalled. Comprehending the de- sign of WASHINGTON, he broke up his encampment and with the utmost expedition retraced his steps, for the preservation of the stores in his rear ; and he way close upon the Americans, as they marched ou\ of Princeton. It had been the intention of General WASHINGTON to proceed to Brunswick, where the British had large magazines, and where was their military chest, which IU, LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1777 at tills time, as it afterwards appeared, contained seventy thousand pounds sterling. But many of his soldiers had not slept for forty-eight hours, none of them fjr the last twenty-four, and they were exhaust- ed by excessive duty. They were closely pursued by a superiour force, which must be up with them before the stores at Brunswick could be destroyed, should tht.y meet with serious opposition at that place. Ge neral WASHINGTON therefore relinquished this part of his- plan, and prudently led his army to a place of se- curity, to give them the rest which they greatly needed. The successes of the American arms at Trenton, and at Princeton, were followed by important conse quences. The affairs of the United States, before these events, appeared to be desperate. Two thou- sand of the regular troops had a right, on the first of January, to demand their discharge. The recruiting service was at an end, and general despondency pre- vailed. The triumphs of the British through the pre- vious parts of the campaign produced a common ap- prehension, in the citizens of the middle states, that any further struggle would be useless ; and that Ame- rica must eventually return to her allegiance to Great Britain. Many individuals made their peace with the Commissioners, and took protection from the officers of the crown ; and more discovered the inclination to do it, when opportunity should present. General Howe supposed New-Jersey restored to the British government, and thought the war drawing to a close. But these successes were considered as sreat victories, and produced consequent effects upon th > pubhckmind. The chaiacter of the Commander in Chief propor- tionably rose in the estimation of the great mass of American people, who now respected themselves, and confided in their persevering efforts to secure the great object of contention, the independence of theii country. 1777.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. HT Other causes had a powerful operation upon the m'm-'.s of the yeomanry of New-Jorsey. The British joaunan.lers tolerated, or at least neglected to restrain, gross licentiousness in their army. The inhabitants of the state, which they boasted was restored to the bosom of the parent country, were treated not as re claimed friends, but as conquered enemies. The sol- diery were guilty of every species of rapine, snd with little discrimination between those who had opposed or supported the measures of Britain The abuse was not limited to the plundering of property. Every in dignity was offered to the persons of the inhabitants, oot excepting those outrages to the female sex, which are felt by ingrnuous minds with the keenest anguish, and excite noble spirits to desperate resistance. These aggravated abuses roused the people of New-Jersey to repel that army, to which they had voluntarily sub- mitted, in the expectation of protection and secufity. At the dawn of success upon the American arms, thej- rose in small bands to oppose their invaders. They scoured the country, cut off every soldier who strag- gled from his corps ; and in many instances repelled the foraging parties of the enemy. The enterprising manoeuvres of the American Ge- neral, and the returning spirit of the Jersey yeoman- ry, rendered General Howe, now Sir William, very cautious and circumspect. He contracted his canton- ments for winter quarters, and concentrated his force in New-Jersey, at Brunswick, and Arnboy. By this time, the period of service of the Conti- nental battalions had expired, and the recruits for the new army were not yet in camp. Offensive operations, therefore, were of necessity suspended by the Ameri- can General ; but, with the small forces at his disposal, he straitenrd the enemy's quarters, and circumscribed >heir foraging excursions. At Christmas the power of the British was extend* ed over the whole of New-Jersey, and their command IIS LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1770 era boasted, that a corporal's gtuxrd might in safety pa fade in every part of the province. Before the expira- tion of January, they possessed but tivo posts in the state, and these were in the neighbourhood of their shipping. The power of their arms extended not be- yond the reach of the guns of their fortifications. Every load of forage, and every pound of provision, ob- tained from the inhabitants, was procured by the bayo- nets of large detachments, and at the price of blood CHAPTER IV. General Washington disposes his small force for the protection ot New-Jersey Army Inoculated Abuse of American prisoners The Exchange of General Lee refused Stores at Peck's Kill and Danhury destroyed American Army take? post at Middiebrook -i-Sir William Howe moves towards the Uilawaro Returns to prisoners, and stated, as a mark of British cla- Vul. I. 11 m LIFE OF WASHINGTON. ;7777. mency, that the cord was not applied to those of whos imprisonment complaint was made. To this abusive communication, General WASHINGTON replied in a mariner worthy his character, and which reply, he ob- served, was " to close their correspondence, perhaps for ever." He concluded witii saying, " if your officers, our prisoners, receive from me a treatment different from what I wished to show them, they and you will remembei the occasion of it." Accordingly all the British officers in his power were put into close jail, and the soldiers were confined in places of security. Directions were particularly given to subaltern agents, to explain to the sufferers the causes which led to this severity of treatment. When Howe succeeded to the command of the Bri- tish army, he admitted American officers to their pa- role, and consented to an exchange of prisoners ; and General WASHINGTON gladly resumed his former hu- mane treatment of captives. The capture of General Lee furnished another cause of irritation on this subject. He had been a British officer, and had engaged in the American service be- fore the acceptance of the resignation of his commis- sion. Sir William Howe for this reason pretended to view him as a traitor, and at first refused to admit him to his parole, or to consider him as a subject of ex- change. Congress directed the Commander in Chief to propose to Sir William Howe to exchange six field officers for General Lee. In case the proposal was re- jected that body resolved, that these officers should be closely confined, and in every respect receive the treatment thtit General Lee did. The proposition not being acceded to, the resolution of Congress was car- ried into effect, by tlie Executives of the States, in whose custody the selected field officers were, with a degree of severity which the treatment of Genera) Lee did not warrant. The general okuv of retaliation, adopted by Congreai 1777.J LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 1*3 for abuses offered to Americans in tf e power of the British, the sound judgment of General WASHINGTON conceived to be unjust and impolitiok, and his humane heart recoiled at its execution. Some of the resolu- tions of that honourable body, on this subject, ha thought exposed his own honour to impeachment bv Sir William Howe. Against those resolutions, he pointedly remonstrated, and detailed the evils they were calculated to produce to the nation, and to the Americans, prisoners waih the British. His representa- tions through a long period, had not their due effect but eventually Congress was constrained to adopt thft measures he recommended. Resolving never himself to aggravate the miserien of war, by wanton deeds of cruelty, General WASH- INGTON was disposed to adopt and execute those laws of retaliation, which would constrain the enemy to con- duct their military operations in the spirit of humanity. Repeated and heavy complaints were made of the cruel treatment which the American prisoners received in New-York ; and the sickly and debilitated state of those, who were sent out to be exchanged, confirmed the truth of the charge. Many of them fainted and died before they reached head quarters. General Howe demanded that all prisoners, delivered at the lines to an American officer, should be accounted for in the cartel, and British soldiers returned to the full amount. General WASHINGTON absolutely refused to reckon those who died on their way to the American camp ; and he unweariedly exerted himself to correct the abuse to American prisoners. In the beginning if April this year, he wrote Sir William Howe, " It is a fact not to be questioned, that the usage of our pri soners while in your possession, the privates at least, was such as could not be justified. This was pro- jlaimed by the concurrent -testimony of all who came out, their appearance sanctified the assertion, and melancholy experience, in the speedy death of a large 124 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [177> part of them, stamped it with infallible certainty." These measures induced the enemy to a more humane treatment of their prisoners ; but disputes on the sub- ject prevented the establishment of a regular cartel until a late period of the war. In March the enemy sent out two detachments to destroy 4he American stores at Peck's Kill on the North River, and at Danbury in Connecticut. Both succeeded in their attempt ; and although the stores destroyed did not equal in quantity the report on which the expeditions were planned, yet their loss was sensibly felt by the Americans in the-active season of the cam- paign. In the near approach of active operations. Congress resolved that a camp should be formed on the western side of Philadelphia. General WASHINGTON had al- ready adopted his plan for the campaign, and request- ed that this camp, if formed, should consist wholly of militia. In the expectation that Sir William Howe would either attempt to gain possession of the High lands on North river, and co-operate with General Bur- goyne from Canada ; or rene-w the plan of the last campaign, to march through New-Jersey for Philadel- phia, the General determined to post his army upon the strong ground in New-Jersey, north of the mad through Brunswick, to Philadelphia. In this position he might protect Philadelphia, and a great part of Nnw-Jersey. The situation was also favourable to defend the passes and forts on the North river. To this post he wished to collect a force sufficient to re- pel an assault from General Howe. In the location of his army, the General had another object of mag- nitude upon his mind. In his opinion it was un<^r- tain whether General Burgoyne would by sea join Sir William Howe, or retaining a separate command, at- tempt the conquest of Ticondcroga, and an impression upon the Hudson. Which of these measures would be pursued, he could no* determine, until the plans of 1777.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 12o the enemy were unfolded. To guard againut both, he ordered the troops raised north of the Hudson to be divided between Ticonderoga and Peck's Kill, and those south including North-Carolina to be stationed in New-Jersey. The troops of South-Carolina and Georgia were left for their own defence. By this dis- position of his forces, the General was in a situation to reinforce Ticonderoga from Peck's Kill, should Bur- goyne attack that post, or reinforce his own army from those posts, should Burgoyne^join Sir William Howe. In pursuance of this plan, o the last of May, the winter encampment at Morristown was broken up, and a camp formed at M-iddlebrook, about ten miles from Brunswick. The position naturally strong, was strengthened by entrenchments. The weak state of the American army required for its safety every ad- vantage of ground, as well as the utmost caution of the General. On the 20th of May, the troops in New Jersey, exclusive of cavalry and artillery, amounted only to eight thousand three hundred and seventy- eight men, of whom more than two thousand were sick. The troops of North- Carolina had not then joined the army, and about five hundred of the militia of Jersey were not included in the estimate. Thia force was in numbers much inferiour to the army com- manded by Si r William Howe, and many of the Ame- ricans were recruits, w^ho had never faced an enemy. Sir William having collected his force at Brunswick, about the middle of June, marched in two columns towards the Delaware. By this movement, he expect ed to induce General WASHINGTON to quii his fortified camp to oppose the enemy's passage of the river, and that a general' engagemo.it would, in consequence, take place on ground favourable to the British com- mander. General WASHINGTON was not ensnared by this stratagem. In a letter written at the moment, hia apprehensions of this manoeuvre are thus conveyed- " The views of the enemy must be to destroy thw at 11* 12C LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [ITT? my and get possession of Philadelphia. I am, how- ever, clearly of opinion that, they will 'lot move that way, untH they have endeavoured to give a severe blow to this army. The risk would be too great to at- tempt to cross a river ; when they must expect to meet a f jrmidable opposition in front, and would have such a force as ours in the rear. They might possibly be successful, but the probability would be infinitely against them. . Should they be imprudent enough tp make the attempt, I shall keep close upon their heels, and will do every thing in my power to make the pro- ject fatal to them." " But besides the argument in favour of their intend- ing, in the first place, a stroke at this army, drawn from the policy of the measure, every appearance con- tributes to confirm the opinion. Had their design been for the Delaware, in the first instance, they would orobably have made a secret, rapid march for it, and not have halted so as to awaken our attention, and give us time to prepare for obstructing them. Instead of that, they have only advanced to a position neces- sary to facilitate an attack on our right, the part in which we are most exposed. In addition to this 1 cir- cumstance, they have come out as light as possible ; leaving all their baggage, provisions, boats, and bridges at Brunswick. This plainly contradicts the idea oi beir intending to push for th Delaware." When the British army was collected at Brunswick, General WASHINGTON knowing that the High .'.vnds on the Hudson were not exposed, while the e'jemy held that position, ordered a large detachment from Peck's Kill to MicWlebrook, and he determined to de- fend himself IT, this post. Finding that his opponent could not be manoeuvred out of his fortified camp, the British commander drew back his troops to Staten Island, with n the west side of th-*t river, and from the heights in- lade the British wo"ks on that side, while the Com- mander in Chief, vith the main body of the army, should attack fourteen redoubts, and tne lines of tn 140 LIFK OF. WASHINGTON. [177? enemy extending from llin Delaware to the SchuylkiJ^ which constituted their defence in front. The sound mind of General WASHINGTON was not so much dazzled by a prospect of the brilliance and fame which the" success of tins enterprise would throw around himself, and his army, as to engage in the des- perate attempt. Nor was he disposed to sacrifice the se. .ety of hid country, upon the altar of publick opinion. He gave the following reasons for rejecting the plan , that the army in 1'hilad :lphia was in number at least equal to his own ; it could not reasonably be expected, that the several corps engaged, could co-operate in thai joint and prompt manner, which was necessary to suc- cess ; in all probability the movement of General Green could not be made in the face of a vigilant ene- my without discovery, which was essential if the se- veral divisions were in the onset successful, the re- doubts taken, the lines surmounted, and the British army driven within the city, the assault then must be extremely hazardous ; an artillery superiour to their own, would be planted to play upon tle front of the assailing columns, and the brick houses would be lined with a formidable infantry, to thin their Hanks ; a de- feat, which, calculating upon the scale of probability must be expected, would ruin the army, and open the country to the depredation of the enemy ; the hardy enterprises and stubborn conflicts of two campaigns, had given the British general only the command of two. or three towns, protected in a great measure by Jie shipping, why then forego the advantage of con- fining the British army in narrow quarters, to ;>lace the stores ii> camp, and the very independence of America at risk upon this forlorn hope. The General was supported in his opinion by those offcers in whosa judgment he placed the most confidence, and he dis- regarded the clamours of ignorance and rashness. On the 4th of December, Sir William Howe march- lid his whole army out of Philadelphia to White Marsh 1777 ] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 141 the encampment of General WASHINGTON". He took a position on Chestnut Hill in front of the American right wing. Mr. Stedman, a British historian, of the revolutionary war, who at this time was with Sir Will iain, states his force at fourteen thousand men. The Continental troops at White Marsh amounted to about twelve thousand, anr 1 the militia to three. The ground of the Americans was strong, but BO fortifications had been erected. Never before had General WASHINGTON met his enemy in this manner, with a superiority of numbers. He wished to be attacked, but was not dis- posed to relinquish the advantage of ground. The British Commander spent the 6th in recon- noitring the American right. At night he marched to their left on the hill, which here approached nearer to their camp, and took a good position within a mile of it. The next day ho advanced further to the American left, and in doing it approached still nearer this wing. General WASHINGTON made some changes in the disposition of his troops to oppose with a greater force the attack he confidently expected on his left. Momentarily expecting the assault, he rode through each brigade of the army, with perfect composure, giv- ing his orders, animating his men to do their duty to their country, and exhorting them to depend principally en the bayonet. During these manoeuvres, some sharp skirmishing took place. At evening the disposition of General Howe indicated the design to attack the next morning. The American Commander impatiently waited the assault, promising himself some compensa- tion for the disasters of the campaign in the issue of this battle. But his hopes were disappointed. On the afternoon of the eighth, Sir William returned to Phi- ladelphia, with such rapidity as nut to be overtaken by the American light troops, which were sent cut to ha rass his rear. Sir William Howe mov<>e Ameri- can Coast Ex|K)dition against Rhode-Island It fails- Uisalfec- tion helween the American and French Officers Measures of the Commander in Chief to prevent the ill Consequence" of it Array goes into Winter Quarters in the High Lands. 1777. DURING these transactions in the middle States, the northern campaign had terminated in tii captuie of General Burgovne and army. That de- 144 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1777 partment had ever been considered as a separate com- mand, and more particularly under the direction of Cons' ress. Bnt the opinion of the Commander iiv Chief hf.d been consulted in many of its transactions, and moat of its details had passed through his hands Through him that army had been supplied with the greater part of its artillery, ammunition, and ro- visions. Upon the loss of Ticonderoga, and the disastrous i:\ents which followed it, he exerted himself to stop the career of General Burgoyae, although by this ei eitiort, he weakened himself in his conflict with Sir William Howe. Without waiting for the order of Congress, in his own name he called out the militia of New-England, and directed General Lincoln to com- mand them. Strong detachments were sent to the northward from his own army. General Arnold, who had already greatly distinguished himself in the field, was sent at the head of these reinforcements, in the expectation that his influence would do much to re- animate the northern forces and inspirit them to rioble exertions. Soon after Colonel Morgan with his regi- ment, the best partisan corps in the American army, was also detached to that service. General WASH- INGTON encouraged General Schuyler to look forward to brighter fortune. " The evacuation of Ticondero- ga and Mcunt Independence," said he, in a letter to that General, " is an event of chagrin and surprise, not apprehended, nor within the compass of my rea soning. This stroke is severe indeed, and haa dis- tressed us much. But notwithstanding things at pre- sent wear a dark and gloomy aspect, 1 hope a spirited opposition will check the progress of General Bur- goyne's arms, and that the confidence derived from success will hurry him into measures, that will in their consequences he favourable to us. We should never despair. Our situation has before been unpro- mising, but has changed for the better, so I trust it 1777.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 145 will again. If new difficulties arise, we must only put forth new exertions, and proportion our efforts to the exigency of tlte times." When informed by General Schuyler, that Burgoyne had divided his force to act in different quarters, General WASHINGTON foresaw the conseqticnces, and advised to the measures that proved fatal to that commander. " Although our af- fairs;" replied he to General Schuyler, " have some days past worn a dark and gloomy aspect, I yet look forward to a fortunate and happy issue. I trust Gene- ral Burgoyne's army will sooner or later, experience an effectual check ; and, as I suggested before, that tlte success he had will precipitate his ruin. From your account he appears to be pursuing tha* line of conduct, which of a!l others is most favourable to us I mean acting by detachments. This conduct wil certainly give room for enterprise on our part, and ex pose his parties to great hazard. Could we be so hap py as to cut one of them off, though it should not ex ceed four, five, or syc Hundred men, it would inspirit the people, and do away much of their present anxiety. In such an event, they would lose sight of past rain- fortunes ; and. urged at the same time by a regard to their own security, they would fly to arms and afford every aid in their power." The community was not intimately acquainted with the state of things in the northern department. In consequence, strong prejudices were excited against General Schuyler. On account of this popular preju- dice, Congress conceived it prudent to change the General of this army, and the Commander in Chief was requested to nominate a successor to Gene raj Schayler. Through delicacy he declined this nomi nation ; but never did the semblance of envy at the good fortune of General Gates, n-ho n Congress appointed, appear in any part of General WASIIINO- TON'S conduct. His patriotism induced him to aid thi subordinate General by every means in his power, and VOL. I. 13 146 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. " [1777 the successes of the northern army filled his heart with unassembled joy This magnanimity was not in every instance repaid. The brilliant issue of the northern campaign in 1777, east a glory around General Gates, and exalted his mili- tary reputation. During his separate command, some partsof his conduct did not correspond with the ingenu- ousness and delicacy with which he had been treated by the Commander in Chief. After the action of the 19th of September, when it -was ascertained that Ge- neral Gates's force was superiour to that of the British General, and was increasing, General WASHINGTON apprehended that General Gates might return him Colonel Morgan's corps, whose services he greatly needed while the enemy was marching through Penn- sylvania. But unwilling absolutely to order the re- turn of Morgan, lie stated that General Howe was pressing him with a superiour force, and left General Gates to act in the concern according to his discretion. General Gates retained the corps, and mentioned as his reason, " Since tlie action of the 19th the ene- my have kept the ground they occupied on the morn- ing of that day and fortified their camp. The ad- vance sentries of my piquets are posted withiu shot, and opposite those of the enemy. Neither side has given ground an inch. In this situation your Excel- lency would not wish me to part with the corps, tlie army of General Burgoyne is most afraid of." He neglected to inform the Commander in Chief of hki subsequent successes over the enemy. When the intelligence of the surrender of the British aimy reached head quarters, the Commander in Chief despatched Colonel Hamilton, one of his aids, la Gene- eral Gates, to state his own critical situation, ai.d make known his earnest wishes, that reinforcements should be forwarded to him with the utmost expedition. Colo- nel Hamilton found that General Gat.es had retained Cour Brigades at Albany with a design to attajzii 1 icon- 1777.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 141 derogra in the course of the next winter. With difficulty and delay he obtained an order to move three Brigades. Colonel Hamilton was also charged with a similar message to General Putnam in the High Lands, and directed to accelerate the movement of reinforcements from that post. But General Putnam in view of an r.ttcmpt upon New-York discovered a disposition to retain under his command that portion of the northern army which had been sent to the High Lands. Colonel Hamilton was obliged to borrow money of Ger.:;ral Clinton, Governour of the state of New-York, to fit the troops of General Putnam to begin their march. These obstructions and delays in the execution of* General WASHINGTON'S orders, prevented his being reinforced in season to attack Lord Cornwallis, while in New-Jersey, and probably occasioned the loss of Fort Mifflin and Rod Bank. The different termination of the campaigns of 1777 at the North, and in the Middle states, furnished the ignorant and factious part of the community with an opportunity to clamour against the Commander in Chief. Their murmurs emboldened several members of Congress, and individual gentlemen in different parts of the United States, to adopt measures to sup- plant General WASHINGTON, and to raiee Genera- Grates to the supreme command of the American ar .ales. In the prosecution of this scheme, pieces artfully written, were published in Newspapers in different places, tending to lessen the militarycharaeter of Ge- neral WASHINGTON, and to prepare the pubUck for the contemplated change in the head of the military de partment. Generals Gates and Mifflin, and Brigadier Conway, entered into the intrigue. Conway was an Irishman, who had been in tlyj service of France, and on the recommendation of Mr. Silas Deane was com missioned by Congress. The influence of the party ui Congress opposed to General WASHINGTON, appears 143 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1777 by a number of the publick transactions of thai body A board of war was instituted and General Gate* placed at its head, Conway was raised over every other Brigadier, and appointed inspector of the army. These machinations to tarnish the character of the Commander in Chief were known to him, but he si- lently nol iced their operation. The good of his coun- try was with him paramount to all other considera- tions, and he stifled his just indignation and left his reputation to rest on his own merits, lest the open dU scnsion of live civil and military ministers of the revo lution should endanger the publick interest. At length, the presumption of his enemies, forced him into an expression of his feelings on the subject. The following correspondences give a general view of the progress of their measures Mr. Lawrens, Presidr-ni of Congress, in a private letter communi- cated to the General information of IH anonymous compl.iirit laid before him, in his official capacity, con- taining high charges against General WASHINGTON, to which he rep-lied : " i cannot sufficiently express the obligation I feel towards you, for your friendship and politeness upon an occasion in which I am so deeply interested. I was not unapprized that a malignant faction had been for some time forming, to my prejudice, which, conscious as I am of having ever done all in my power to an- swer the important purposes of the trust repos 'd in me, could not but give mo some pain on a personal ac- count ; but my chief concern arises from an appre- hension of the dangerous consequences, which intes- tine dissensions may produce to the common cause. " As 1 have no ot her view than to promote the pub- lick good, and am unambitious of honours not founded on the approbation of rny country, 1 would not desire in the least degree to suppress a free spirit of inquiry into any part of my conduct, that even faction itself may deem reprehensible. The anonymous papei 777.] LIFE OP WASHINGTON. 14D banded you. exhibits many serious charges, and it is uiv wisn that it may be submitted to Congress. This I am more inclined to, as the suppression, or conceal- ment, maj possibly involve you in embarrassments hereafter, since it is uncertain how many, or who, may be privy to the contents. ." My enemies take an ungenerous advantage of mo. They know the delicacy of my situation, and that mo- tives of policy deprive me of the defence I might otherwise make against their insidious attacks. They know I cannot combat their insinuations, however in- jurious, without disclosing secrets, it is of the utmost moment to conceal. But why should I expect to be exempt from censure, the unfailing lot of an elevated station ? Merit and talents, which I cannot pretend to rival, have ever been subject to it. My heart tells me it has been my unremitted aim to do the best, which circumstances would permit ; yet I may iiave been very often mistaken in n,y judgment of the means, and may, in many instances, deserve the imputation of errour." To a friend in New-England, who expressed by let- ter his anxiety in consequence of a report that he vas about to resign his commission, he wrote : " I can assure you that no person ever heard me drop an expression that had a tendency to resignation. The same principles that led me to embark in the op- position to the arbitrary claims of Great Britain, ope- rate with additional force at this day ; nor is it rny de- sire to withdraw my services while they are consider- ed of importance in the present contest ; but to report a design of this kind, is among the arts, which those who are endeavouring to effect a change, are prac- tising to bring it to pass. I have said, and I still do say, that there is not an officer in the service of the United States, that would return to the sweets of do- mestick life with more heartfe.t joy than 1 pnould. But I would h?ve this declaration accompanied by 13* 150 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [177? these mnth lenta, that while the publick are satisfied with my endeavours, I mean iv>t to sari .k from tho cause : but the moment her voice, nut that of faction, calls upon me to resign, 1 shall do it with as much pleasure as ever the weai ed traveller retired to rest." His friend Mr. Patrick Henry, then Governour of Virginia, informed him of the intrigues that were go- ing on in his native state. To which he replied : " The anonymous letter with which you were pleased to favour me, was written by ******** go far as I can judge from the similitude of hands. " My caution to avoid any thing that could injure the service, prevented me from communicating, ex- cept to a very few of my friends, the intrigues of a faction which 1 knew was formed against rne, since it might serve to publish our internal dissensions, but their own restless y.eal to advance their views has too clearly betrayed them, and made concealment on my pnrt fruitless. 1 cannot precisely mark the extent of their views, but it appeared in general, that General Gates was to be exalted on the ruin of my reputation an-1 influence. This 1 am authorized to say from un- deniable facts in my p/ossession, from publications the evident scope of whicli could not be mistaken, and from private detractions industriously circulated. *********~* > it. is commonly supposed, bore the scccml part in the cabal : and General C.rnway, 1 know, was a very active and malignant partisan ; but I have good reason to be- Have that their machinations have recoiled most sensi- bly upon themselves.'' General Gates learning that a passage >n a lettM from Hrigadier Conway to him had been communi- cated to the Commander in Chief, wrote the follow- ing letter, as extraoj liiiary for the manner of its con- vtyance, as for the matter it contains. " I shall not attempt to describe, what, as a private gentleman, 1 cannot he) <- . m I viewed in the light of a stranger to you) was a corre- spondent of yours, much less did 1 suspect that 1 was the subject of your confidential letters. Pardon me then for adding, that, so (ar from conceiving that the safety of the States can be ailected, or in the smallest degree injured, by. a discovery of this kind, or that I should be called upon in such solemn terms to point out the author, that 1 considered the information aa coming from yourself, and given with a friendly view to forewarn and consequently forearm me, against a se cret enemy, or in other words, a dangerous incendiary, in which character, soonej- or later, this country will know General Conway. But, in this, as weil as othor matters of late, 1 have found myself mistaken." In the active period of the last campaign, the Penn sylvanians had been deficient in the support given to General WASHINGTON, yet sore at the loss of their Capital, and at the depredation of the enemy in their towns, they murmured that he had not defended them against Sir William Howe, although his force was greatly inferiour to that of the enemy. General Mif- flin was then a member of the Legislature of that State. This Legislature beincr informed that the American army was moving into winter quarters, pre- sented a remonstrance to Congress against the mea sure, in which unequivocal complaints were contained against the Commander in Chief. This remonstrance vas presented at the very tiirie the discover/ wa* 154 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. il777 made, that the last rations in the Commissary's stores were issued to the soldiery. General WASHINGTON expressed the feelings of his patriotick and noble mind on this complaint, in a letter addressed to the President of Congress, and written in language which he used on no other occasion. " Full as 1 was in my representations of the matters in the Commissary's department yesterday, fresh and more powerful reasons oblige me to add, that I am now convinced beyond a doubt, that unless some great and capital change suddenly takes place in that line, this army must inevitably be reduced to one or other of these three things, to starve, dissolve, or disperse in order to obtain subsistence. Rest assured, sir, that this is not an exaggerated picture, and that I have abundant reason to suppose what I say. " Saturday afternoon, receiving information that Hie enemy, in force, had left the city and'were advancing towards Derby with apparent design to forage, and draw subsistence from that part of the country, I or- dered the troops to be in readiness that I might give every opposition in my power ; when, to my great mortification, I was not only informed, but convinced, . that the men were unable to stir on account of a want of provisions ; and that a dangerous mutiny, begun the night before, and which with difficulty was suppressed by the spirited exertions of pome officers, was still much to be apprehended from the want of this article "This brought foilfh the only commissary in the purchasing line in this camp, and with him, this me- lancholy and alarming truth, that he had not a single hoof of any kind to slaughter, and not more than twenty-five barrels of flour ! From hence, form an opinion of our situation, when I add, that he could not tell when to expect p.ny. " All i could do under these circumstances, was to eend out a few light parties to watch and harass the nemy, whilst other parties were instar.tly detached 1777.} LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 13& different ways to collect, if possible, as much provision as would satisfy the present pressing wants of the sol- diery ; but will tins ans\v<-r ? No, sir, three or tout days of bad weather would prove our destruction What '.hen is to become of the army this winter ? And if we are now as often without provisions as with them, what is to become of us in the spring, when our force will be collected with the aid. peihnps of militia, to take advantage of an early campaign before the enemy can be reinforced : These are considerations of great magnitude, meriting the closest attention, and will, when my own reputation is go intimately connected with, and to be affected by the event, justify my saying, that the present commissaries are by no moans equal to the execution of their office, or that the disaffection of the people is past all belief. The misfortune, however, does in my opinion, proceed from both causes, and though I have been tender heretofore of giving any opinion, or of lodging complaints, as the change in that department took place contrary to my judgment, and the consequences thereof were predict- ed ; yet finding that the inactivity of the army, whe- ther for want of provisions, clothes, or other essentials, is charged to my account, not only by the common vulgar, but by those in power, it is time to speak plain, n exculpation of myself. With truth then I can de- clare, that no man, in my opinion, ever had his mea- sures more impeded than 1 have, by every department of the army. Since the month of July, wo have had tio assistance from the Quarter Master General ; and to want v of assistance from this department, the Com- missary General charges great part of his deficiency. To this I arn to add, that notwithstanding it is a standing order (and often repeated) that the troops shall -always have two days' provision by them, that thev ini^lit be ready at any sudden call ; yet warceiy any opportunity has ever offered of taking advantage '. f the enemy, that has not b^en either to- 156 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1777 tally obstructed, or greatly impeded on this account ami this, the great and crying evil, is lot all ; soap, vinegar, and other articles allowed by Congress, we see none ot, nor have we seen them, 1 believe, since the little of Crandywine. The first, indeed, we have now little occasion for ; few men having more than one shirt, many only tha moiety of one, and some none at all. in addition to which, as a proof of the little benefit from a Clothier General, and, at the same time, as a further proof of the inability of an army under the circumstances of this, to perform the com- mon duties of soldiers (besides a number of men con- fined to hospitals for want of shoes, and others in fanners' houses on the same account) we have, by a field return this day made, no less than two thousand eight hundred and ninety-eight men, now in camp, un- fit for duty, because they are barefoot, and otherwise naked. By the same return, it appears, that, our whole strength in continental troops (including the eastern brigades which have joined us since the surrender of General Burgoyne) exclusive of the Maryland troops sent to Wilmington, amounts to no more than eight thousand two hundred in carnp, fit for duly ; notwith- standing which, and that since the fourth instant, our number fit for duty, from the hardships and exposures they have undergone, particularly from the Want of blankets, have decreased near two thousand men we find, gentlemen, \vithout knowing whether the "my was really going into winter quarters or not, (for I am sure no resolution of mine would warrant the r r mon- strance) reprobating the measure as much as if thej thought the soldiers were made of stocks, or stones, and equally insensible of frost and snow ; and more- over, as if they conceived it easily practicable for an inferiour arri'y, under the disadvantages I have de- scribed ours to be, which is by no means exaggerated, to confine a superiour one, in all respects well ap- pointed, and provided for a winter's campaign, withia 1777.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 157 he city of Philadelphia, and to cover from depred*. lion and waste, the states of Pennsylvania, Jersey, &c. But .vhat makes this matter still more extraordinary in my eyes is, that these very gentlemen, who wera well apprized of the nakedness of the troops, from ocular demonstration, who thought their own soldien worse cldd than ours, and advised me. near a month ago, to postpone the execution of a plan I was about to adopt, in consequence of a resolve of Congress, for seizing clothes, under strons assurances, that an emple supply would be collected in ten days, agreeably to a decree of the state, not one article of which, bye the bye, is yet come to hand, shouid think a winter's cam- paign, and the covering these states from the invasion of an enemy, so easy and practicable a business. I can assure those gentlemen, that it is a much easier and less distressing thing to draw remonstrances in a comfortable room, by a good fire side, than to occupy a cold bleak hill, and sleep under frost and snow without clothes or blankets : however, although they seem to have little feeling for the naked and distressed soldiers, I feel superabundantly for them, and f-om my soul, pity those miseries which it is not in my pow ;r either to rellave or to prevent." All these efforts to displace the Commander in Chief were unavailing, and served oily to expose their au- thors to the resentment of the community. He waa too well established in the confidence of the army, and of the great body of the nation, to be moved from his elevated, but arduous trust. Even the victorious troops, which served under Ger.iral Gates, indignantly noticed the attempt to raise him to the place of their beloved General. The resentment of the main arrny against those, who were known to be the active ene- mies of General WASHINGTON, was so great, that none of them dared appear in camp : G'eneral Conway found it necessary to resign his commission. H afterwards fought a duel with General Cadwallader VOL. I. 14 158 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1773, and thinking himself to be mortally wounded wrote General WASHINGTON the following letter. " I find myself just able to hold the pen daring a few minutes, and take this opportunity to express rny sin cere griaf for Iiaving done, written, or said, any thing disagreeable to your Excellency. My career will soon be over ; therefore, justice and truth prompt me to de- clare my last sentiments. You are, in iny eyes, the great and good man. May you long enjoy the love, veneration, and esteem of these states, \\Lose lioertie* you have asserted by your virtues." 1773. The sufferings of the army during this winter for provision and clothing were extren.o. The depart- ments of the Commissary General ana Quarter Master General were not yet well arranged. The deprecia- tion of the paper currency embarrassed all purchases, and this embarrassment was increased by the injudi- cious attempt to regulate by law the prices of articles of consumption and traffick. T''e enemy possessed a number of the trading towns of the United States, and the commerce of th. others was interrupted by their ships, of war. These causes combined, produced a famine in camp, and rendered a great part of the army incapable of service for the want of clothing. Al- though ths Commander in Chief applied all the means in his po'vcr to remedy these evils, yet from them, ho apprehended the dissolution of the army In Decem- ber he issued a proclamation, calling upon all the far- riers within seventy miles of Head Quarters, to thresh out one half of their grain by the lot of February ; and the other half by the 1st of March, on penalty of hav ing it all seized as straw. Detachments wore also sent out to collect all animals fit for slaughter, leaving only a competence for the use of the inhabitants. But notwithstanding all this vigilance and exertion, the supplies were inadequate. Early in February, the country in the neighbourhood of camp became exhaust- ed, and the Commissaries communicated to the Gene- 1778.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 159 ral, that it would be impossible for them to supply the army beyond the first of March. General WASHING- TON looked towards New-England as the only effectual source of necessary supplies. He act Drdingly address- ed letters to the Exec-itives of these states, painting in glowing colour?, the condition of the army, arid urging these constituted authorities, by every motive of patriotism and honour, to forward provisions to hia camp. These applications were ultimately successful ; but before relief in this wry could bf, afforded, the scarcity was so great, as to threaten the total destruc tion of the aimy. The soldiers were at times without meat, for two, three, and in one instance, for five days Tlw- distress of the army for the want of clothing was almost as irreat as that for want of provisions. Of more than seventeen thousand men in camp, the effectives amounted to only five thousand and twelve in February, three thousand nine hundred and eighty- nine were unfit for duty by nakedness. The insufh" ciency of the clothes of those, who were called effec- tives, exposed '.hem to colds and other consequent in- dispositions, and the hospitals were filled with . the sick. General WASHINGTON happily possessed those com- manding and conciliatory talents, which strongly at- tached the soldiery to his person, and by the influence of hia character he stifled every appearance of mu- tiny. In general orders he soothed the minds of hia tTDops, and in their imaginations lessened those evils, which in his addresses to Congress and to the State Governments, he was labouring to remove. Very few of the native Americans deserted from the arm}' daring this winter ; but many of the foreigners left their standard?, and some of them fled with their ^rma to the British camp. Had Sir William Howe marched out of his winter quarters and assaulted the American camp, the want of provision and clothing would have compelled the 160 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1778. irmj, without serious contention, to disperse. But that cautious commander was restrained from tha enterprise, from a regard to the health and safety of his own troops Perhaps he did not fully know the condition of the American soldiery While General WASHINGTON was actively employ- ed in supplying his troops, his mind was deeply en- giged on a plan to recruit the army for the approach' Lig campaign. From jealousy of a standing army, or in the pros- pect of redress of grievances by the British govern- ment, Congress depending on annual enlistments, and on tha aid of the militia, had neglected to enlist men for the war, until the depreciation of the paper cur- rency, the hardships and privations of the soldiers, and the hi rh bounty p 'd for short periodsof service, render- ed the measure ii practicable. General WASH-.NGTUN importuned Conj ess and. the governments of the respective States not to rely on foreign aid, but de- pending on the strength and resources of the country, to make the necessnry exertions seasonably to meet the .operations of the British General. lie ;rave an exact account to each State of its troops on the continental establishment, and urged them respectively to supply their denciency. The serious difficulties respecting Jie army induced Congress to depute a Committee of their own body to the camp, to consult with the General, and report to them such plans as the publick interest required. Thii committee repaired to Head Quarters in January. The General, having taken the advice of his officers, pre- sented to them a memorial staling the difficulties that existed in the .army, and pointing out the remedies In these remedies was included tnat honourable pro- vision for officers, which wou'.d make their commis- sions valuable, and secure the prompt execution of duty, through fear of censure, and from an apprehen ion of the loss of employment. I778.J LIFE OF WASHINGTON 161 The representations of General WAsmNGTON pro duced, in a good degree, their ert'ect. The division of power in t.lie subordinate departments of the army which had destroyed all responsibility, and created endless confusion, was removed. General Green was appointed Quarter Master General, and Colonel Wadsworth Commissary General. These officers had a controlling power over their deputies, and under their management these departments were greatly im- proved. The movements of the army were from this period made with facility, and the soldiers never after wards suffered privations like those of this winter. The alliance of France with America, and lbn sub sequent co-operation of that power with the United States, rendered Philadelphia a dangerous post for the British. Before the campaign opened, Sir William Howe resigned the command of the British MAY 20. army, and Sir Henry Clinton with his com- mission as Commander in Chief, received or- ders to evacuate that city. General WASHINGTON early penetrated this intention, and made his arrangements to meet it. He was uncertain whether the evacuation would be made by water, or whether Sir Henry would march his army through Jersey to New-York. As circumstances strengthened the probability that the British commander would attempt a passage through New-Jersey, General WASHINGTON detached General Maxwell with the Jersey brigade over the Delaware to take post on Mount Holly, and with the assistance of the Jersey militia, to obstruct the progress of ,he enemy. He was directed to fell trees, to break up bridges, and to Jiang upon the flanks of the Britisj army. When it was fully ascertained that Sir JUNE 17. Henry Clinton was crossing the Delaware, General WASHINGTON required the opinion of his officers respecting measures proper to Ue pur sued. General Lee, who, having been exchange^ 14* 162 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1776 had now joined the arinv, was decidedly against a gf noral action, and he discountenanced even a partial at- tack, on the supposition that it would probably bring on a general engagement. In this opinion, the officers aliaost unanimously concurred. Of seventeen Gene- rals, who composed the military Council, on this occa- sion, General Wayne arid General Oadwuilador only *vere decidedly in favour of an engagement. General Green ga\e it as his opinion that the country should be defended, and that if this led to an engagement, he would not shun it. Although many of their stores were taken dowathe river in the shipping, yet the British army was ei.rum bered with an immense quantity of baggage ; and their line of march extended twelve miles. The weather being intensely hot, their movements were very slow ; in seven days, they, inarched only forty miles. On the 24th, General Clinton reached Allenton, and it was yet uncertain whether he would take the road to Amboy, or to Sandy Hook. General WASHINGTON therefore kept up/in the High Lands o r . New- Jersey, above the enemy. In this situation, he had it in his power to fight or not, as circumstances should dictate. By the slow movoment of the enemy r he was inclined to think that Sir Henry wished for an engagement Colonel Morgan, with his regiment consisting of six Hundred men, was detached to gain the right Hank of the enemy, and ordered to annoy him in every possi- ble way. General Cadwallader, with Jackson's regi- ment, and a small corps of militia, was ordered to harass his rear. The British army at this time was calculated at sen thousand men, and the American army consisted of between ten and eleven thousand. Although the late Council decided by a large majority against a general engagement, yet General WASHINGTON inclined to me n.oabure He again summoned his officers, and cok their opinion, " whether it was advJHeable to sebk 1778.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 163 a general action ? If adviseable, is it best to attack with the whole army, to bring on a general engage ment by a partial attack, or to take a position that shall oblige the enemy to make an assault upon us?" The Counci] again determined againrt a general en gagemeni ; but advised to strengthen the detachments on the wings of the enemy. General Scott was, in consequence, detached with fifteen hundred men o this service. Having a force rather superiour to the British, Ge- neral WASHINGTON conceived that the favourable op- portunity to attack the enemy, ought not to be lost, and on his own responsibility, resolved to hazard a general engagement. Having learned that Sir Henry Clinton JUNE 25. was moving towards Momnouth Court House, he detached Brigadier Wayne with a thou- sand men to reinforce the troops in advance. He offer- ed the command of the whole force in front to Gene- ral Lee ; but he, being opposed even to partial actions with the enemy, declined the service. The Marquis La Fayette joyfully accepted the command, which his senior Major General had declined. The orders jrivnn to the Marquis were similar to those which had before been given to the officers on the lines, to gain the real and right flank of the enemy, arid give him all possi- ble annoyance. The Commander in Chief put the main army in motion, that lie might be in a Equation 1o support his parties in advance. By these mo'C- ments General Le3 perceived that more importance thaii he had imagined was given to the division in front, and he now importunately requested the com mand, which before he had declined. To gratify him without mortifying he Marquis, he was detached with two additional brigades to act in tront, and the O'-m- mand of the whole, consisting of five thousand men, of course devolved on nim. He was ordered to keep If,4 LIFE OF WASHINGTON [177* tils detachments constantly on their tuns and ever in a situation to attack. Sir Henry Clinton perceiving the approach of a powerful force, changed the position of his army, and placed his best troops in therea>. On ihut Mrmmouth Court House. He could not l>e attained in this position with the probability of success, and he was within .twelve miles of strong ground, where he could not be assailed. General WASHINGTON there- fore resolved to attack him as soon as he should move from his present encampment. About five in thu morning, the Command JUNE 28. er in Chief was informed that the front ol the Biitish army was in motion ho imme- diately despatched an Aid de Camp to G -neral Lee with orders to move on anil attack the rear of the ene- my, " unless there should be powerful reasons to the contrary." assuring him that the main body should seasonably move to support him~ From the movements of the American army, Sir Hinry expected an attack. Early on the morning <>f the '/2Hth, General Knyphausen marched with -ill the baggage of the British army. The grenadiers, light infantry, and chasseurs, unencumbered, remained on the ground under the command of Lord Ccrnwallis, and with this division was Sir Henry. Hav'ng allowed time for General Knyphausen to move out of his way, Lord Cornwallis about eight o'clock took up his li:ic of march, ai.d descended from the heights of Freehold into a plain of about three miles extent. General Lee made his disposition to execute the orders of the Commander in Chief. Passing the heights of Freehold, he enCered the plain, and ordered General Wayne to attack the rear of the covering party of the enemy in such a manner as to halt them ; r.-hne he himself by a. shortei road should gain then 1778.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. J6& front, with the design to c*it them off from the main body of their arTny. In the mean time General Clintcn perceiving that strong columns of Americans were hanging upon both his flanks, and supposing that their object was to at- tack his baggage now passing through defiles, resolved to halt Lord Cornwallis's division and attack the Ame- ricans in his rear, with the expectation, that General WASHINGTON by this manoeuvre would be induced to recall his detachments in advance. This movement was made at the moment Lee was reconnoitring their covering party. He found this corps much stronger than he had supposed it to be, and the ground he thought unfavourable for an a' tack. In his rear was a morass which could be passed only by a neck of hard land, which rendered it difficult for reinforce ments to reach him, and would impede his retreat should lie be repulsed. He was finally induced by a movement of General Scott, to cross the ravine and regain the heights of Freehold. During these manoeuvres, some skirmishing took place. As soon as General WASHINGTON heard the firing, he directed the troops under his immediate command, to throw off their pac'is and march rapidly to the support of the division in front. General Lee gave no information of his retrograde manoeuvre to the Commander in Chief. As General WASHINGTON was approaching the scene of action in advance of his troops, he met, to his .surprise arid mortification, tlu corps of General Lee retreating before the enemy, without having made- anv serious efforts to maintain their ground. He found General Lee in the rear of his division, whom he addressed with warmth, and in language disapproving his retreat.. He immediately ordered two regiments to form on ground favourable to check the advancing enemy. He asked General Lee, will you command on this ground ? Consenting, &e was ordered to arrange the remainder cf his division IW> LIFE OF WASHINGTON. and to take measures to slop the advance of the Bri- tish. " Your orders," Lee replied, "-snail he obeyed, and I will not be the first to leave the field." The Commander in Chief returned to the main body and formed it for action. The division of Lee now bravely sustained a severe conflict with the van of the British, and when forced from the ground, Lee brought hit troops oft' in order, and formed them in rear of Eng- lish Town. The check the enemy received, enabled General WASHINGTON to form the left wing and second line of the army on an eminence. Lord Sterling, who com- manded this wing, planted a battery of cannon and played with erFect upo~ the British column, which had passed the morass and was pressing on to charge the Arner'cans. At the same timo a body of infantry waa brought into action. The advance of the enemy wa<3 by these measures stopped. General Green, who on this day commanded the right wing of the American army, had left the direct road near English Town and moved upon the right, as a security to this flank of the army, and had rather passed the ground on which the action began. Learn ng the situation of General WASHINGTON, he brought up his division, and took an advantageous position on the right. The enemy now attempted to turn the left flank of the Americans, but. were repulsed by parlies of infan try. They then assailed the right wing, a:id here *oo they failed. General Green had posted a body :f troops with artillery on commanding ground in his front, which severely galled the enemy. At this pe- riod General Wayne advanced with a strong corps of infantry, and in a close and well directed fire etlacked them in front. They gave way and fell behind the ravine to the ground, on which the Commander in Chief met General Lee in the morning. On this ground the British formed in a strong position. Both 1773.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON 167 flanks were covered by woods and morasses, and theij ll'ont could be attacked c.ily through a narrow pass. General WASHINGTON, even under these circuin- Btances, determined to renew the engagement. In pursuance of this resolution, he ordered Brigadier Poor to gain the right flank of the British, and Briga- dier Woodford their left. The artillery was directed to play upon them in front. Before these orders could be effectually carried into execution, the day was fully spent. The General therefore determined to defer the attack until the next morning. He ordered the troops to retain their respective positions, and to lay on their arms. Tne General in the course of the day had shunned no danger, and he slept in his cloak amidst his soldiers on the field of battle. At midnight, the British moved off their ground with such silence, that General Poor although very near did not perceive it. General WASHINGTON knew that the British army would reach liigh and unassaila- ble ground before he could come up with them, and therefore discontinued the pursuit. He despatched small parties of light troops to protect the country from depredation and to encourage desertion. The main body of his army he marched to cover the im- portant passes in the high lands on the Hudson. General WASHINGTON was satisfied with the be- haviour of his army on this day. In his official com- munication to Congress he mentioned that after the troops had recovered from the surmise of the unex peeled retreat of the morning, their conduct cculd not have been surpassed. ' General Wayne was noticed with great commendation, and the artillery corps \va. aid to have highly distinguished itself. In the battle of Monmoulh, eight officers and rixty-one privates of the Americans were killed ; and about" one hundred and sixty wounded. Among tho killed were Lieutenant Colonel Bonner of Pennsvlva- uia and Major Dickinson of Virginia, officers of merit, 168 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [177-S whose fall was muck lamented. The A i: cr'cans bu- ried about three hundred of the Briush, who had been found on the Sold , although Sir Henry Clinton, in his official letter, stated his loss in killed and missing at four officers and one hundred and eighty-four privates, and his wounded at sixteen officers and one hundred and fifi y-four privates. Among the slain was the Honourable Colonel Monckton, an officer of celetrity. The day had been excessively hot, and numbers, both British and Americans, were found among the dead without wounds, who had fallen victims to the heat. The Americans made absut a hundred prisoners, and nearlv a tlmusmd privates, mcstjy Germans, de- serted the British standard, on the march through Congress highly approved of the conduct of the Commander in Chief in bringing on the action of the 28th, and was gratified with its issue. In a resolution which passed that body unanimously, their thanks were given to. General WASHINGTON " for the activity with which he moved from the ca.np at Valley Forge, in pursuit of the enemy ; for his distinguished exertions in forming the line of battle ; and f'>r his great; good conduct in the action." He was requested " to sig- nify the thanks cf Congress to the officers and men under his command, who distinguished themselves by their conduct and valour in the battle." Although the Commander in Chief disapproved of the retreat, yet could the proud spirit of General Leo have patiently borne what he considered as a reprimand CE the field of battle, it is probable that an explanation mutually satisfactory might have taken place. Ge- neial WASHINGTON continued him in command on the day of action, after his retreat, and discovered no disposition to take publick notice of it. But the irri- table and lofty spirit of Lee urged him to write tho next day two offensive letters to General WASHINGTON, m which, a'ssuininir the language of a superiour, lie 1778.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 109 demanded satisfaction for the insult offered him on the field of battle. On deliberation, t.ie Commander in Chief informed him " that lie should have an opportu- nity to justify himself to the army, to America, and the world, or of convincing them that he had been guilty of breach of orders and misconduct before the enemy." General Lee. expressing his desire for a Court Martial in preference to a Court of Inquiry, was arrested upon the following charges, 1. For disobedience of orders in not attacking the ene- my on the 2dth of June agreeably to repeated in- structiv/ns. 2 For misbehaviour before the enemy on the same day, by making an unnecessary, disorderly, and shameful retreat. 3. For disrespect to the Commander in Chief, in two letters. Tiie high colouring of the second charge was in con sequence of complaints entered by Generals Wayne and Scott, against General Lee, which on investiga- tion appeared to have been founded in their misappre- hending his movements. Lord Sterling presided at the court, which found him guilty of ail the charges, but softened the language of the second, and found him guilty of misbehavkur, by making an unnecessa- ry, and in some tew instances, a disorderly retreat. The court sentenced him to be suspended from his command for one year. Congress, with some hesitation, almost unanimously approved the sentence The suspension of Gen"ral Lee was higWy satisfac- tory to the army. They keenly resented his abuse to the Commander in Chief, and his continuance in jom- mission probably would have produced great incon- venience. Scarcely had Sir Henry Clinton reached New- York, when a French fleet appeared oft' the Chesapeak, un i*er the command of Count d'Estaing. He had been VOL. 1. 15 170 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [I77b eighty-seven days in crossing the Atlantick. Had his passage been an ordinary one, he would have found Lord Howe in the Delaware, and tne capture or de- struction of thu British fleet in that river, and proba- bly of the army, in Philadelphia, must have boon the consequence. Count d'Estaing being disappointed at the Delaware, sailed along the coast to Sandy Hook General WASHINGTON moved his army la the White Plains, thai he might be in a situation to co-operate with the French Admiral against New-York. In the mean time, Sir Henry Clinton employed his whole force to strengthen his lines. The French Ad- miral finding an attack upon New-York impracticable, a conjoint expedition was planned against Rhode- Island. At the critical moment when the success of the united action of the French and American army was reduced to a moral certainty, Count d'Estaing sailed out of the harbour of Newport to fight Lord Howe Being overtaken by a violent storm, his fleet was greatly damaged, and he thought it adviscable to repair to Boston harbour to refit. In conseqi cnce of the harbour of Newport being opened to the British, General Sullivan, the com- manding officer upon Rhode-Island, was compelled to retreat. He and his general officers had remonstrated against Count d'Estaing leaving Newport, arid in the moment of disappointment and irritation at the failure of the expedition, General Sullivan in or dors, used expressions which were construed into a Bevere reflection upon the French Admiral and other marine -officers, and which they resented. General WASHINGTON, alarmed at the probable con- sequences of a misunderstanding and jealousy between the French and Americans, so soon after the alliance was formed, and in the Very commencement of theil united operations, immediately adopted measures to prevent them. In letters to Generals Heath and SuU' 1778.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON 17V ran. he communicated the mode of conduct which ho wished mi.rh' in this delicate transaction be pursued. To Heath, who commanded in Boston, he expressed his apprehension that resentment of the conduct of the- Count ii!i, except the possession of New- York by tht British. This fact is impressively stated by General WASH INOTON, in a letter written to a friend. " It is not a little pleasing, nor less wonderful to contemplate, that ailer two years manoeuvring, and undergoing the strangest vicissitudes, both armies are brought back to the very point they set out from, and the offending par- ty in the beginning is now reduced to the use of the pickaxe and the spade for defence. The hand of pro- vidence has been so conspicuous in all this, that ha must be worse than an infidel that lacks faith, and more tlian wicked that has not gratitude to acknow- ledge his obligation*." It* 174 LIFK OF WASHINGTON. [1779 CHAPTER VI. Plan formed bj Congress and tlie FrRnch Minister for the Invasion of Canada and Nova-Soil ia General Washington's objections toil Tardiness of the United States to prepare for the approach- ing Campaign The exertions of the General His Letter on the State of the Notion The Remonstrance of Officers belonging to the New-Jersey Hrigadc Letters of the Commander in Cnifif on the Subject Expedition against the Indians under General Sul- livan He destroys thotr Towns The American Army posted for the Defence of the High Lands on the North River, and for the protection of tlx) Country against the Incursions of the Bri- tish Sir Henry Clinton moves up the Hudson, takes Possession of Stony and Verplank Points, and fortifies them Arrangements made for assanltiiigt1ie.se Posts General Wayne carries Stony Point by Storm The Attark upo!! Verplank fails -Congress vote their thanks to General Washington and to the brave Troops employed in this service They vole Genera! Wayne a Mfcdal Kvils of short Enlistments Plan oftlie General's to remedy thr.ni The Army in two divisions erect huts for Winter Cluarters, The Troop* suffer th.ough the scarcity of Provisions Colonel VVadsworth resigns UU Office Confusion in the Commissary's Department Tlie Commander in Chief apportions supplies of Meal and Flour upon the Countjes of New-Jersey Tlie Winter .\c.;ssivi Iv cidd, iiiul the Witters around New- York frozen over E.\|>cdition to Statcn Island fails. 1770. THE emancipation of Cajiada had ever been an important object with Congress. By its incorpora- tion witli the revolted colonies, the boundaries of the United States would bo greatly enlarged, and the coun- try delivered from the destruction and terrour of war from the northern tribes of Indians. In the winter of 1777 8, an expedition for this pur- pose had been settled with the Marquis de la Fayette, and in its prosecution he repaired to Ticondero./a. Wanting then the means to accomplish the design, it was relinquished. During tlie succeeding autumn the scheme was resumed under the auspices of the French Minister. The pl'in embraced the conquest of Canada, Nova Scotia, and all their dependencies- It was to be carried into effect by the joint operations of distinct detachments of Americans, acting in dill'erent points, 1779.J LIFE OF WASHINGTON. ITS and all co-operating with a French fleet and army on the river Saiiit Lawrence. This lofty scheme of military operations had been adopted in Congress without consulting with the Com- mander in Chief, or any American officer. It was to be communicated to the French Court by the Marquis de la Fayette, and his influence, with that of the French Minister, was to be employed to induce his government to adopt their part of the expedition. In October the plan was communicated to General WASHINGTON, he was desired to give Congress his opinion upon it, and to enclose it with his comments to the Marquis. The General had already revolved in his mind an expedition against the British posts in Upper Canada, with the intention to be prosecuted the next season, on the contingence that the British army should be withdrawn from the United States. Struck with the extravagance of the plan of Congress, instead of com- plying with their requisition, he wrote to tltem, stating in strong terms his objections to the scheme. He mentioned the impolicy of entering into any engage- ments with the Court of France to execute a combined system of operation, without a moral certainty of be- ing able to execute the part assigned to America. It was, the General observed, morally certain in his mind, that if the English should maintain their posts on the continent, it would be impracticable to furnish the men, or the necessary stores and provisions for the expedition. " II' I rightly understand the plan," he re- marked, " it requires for its execution, twelve thou- sand and six hundred rank and file. Besides these, to open passages through a wilderness, for the march of the several bodies of troops, to provide the means of long and difficult transportation by land and water, to establish posts of communication for the security of our convoys, to build and man vessels of force neces- sary for acquiring a superiority on the lakes ; thew 176 L Fh OF WASHINGTON, and ninny other purposes peculiar to these enterprises, will require a much larger pmport ion. of artificers, and persons to le employed in manual an(F laborious offices than are usual in military operations." The aggregate number, he obf~-""d, requisite for the contemplated expedition, addexi co the force necessary to be kept in the field to restrain depredation from the British posts at New -York, would make nearlv double the men ne- cessary, to any number, which with all their eftorts, the JJnited States were ever yet able to raise. The experience of the General tauirhl him, that it would be as difficult to furnish the necessary supplies of provisions as to raise the men. " The scene of our operations has hitherto been in the heart oi' the coun- try, fur-ushiuir our resources, which of course facilitat- ed tl" drawing them out. We shall then be carrying on the war at nn immense distance, in a country wild e.nd uncultivated, incapable of affording any aid, and great part ot it hostile. We cannot, in this case, depend on temporary ami occasional supplies, as we have been ac- customed ; bul must have ample magazines laid up be- fore-hand. The labour and expense in forming these, and transporting the necessary stores of every kind for the use of the troops, will be i'ncreased to a degree that can be more easily conceived than described The transportation must be a great part of the way through deserts airordin<_ r no other forage than herb- asro ; and from this circumstance our principal provi- sions, of the flesh kind, must be snited, which would greatly increase tho difficulty, both of providing and transporting." Supplies upon this scale, ho conceived, greatly exceeded the resources of the country, and in policy and honour, Congress could not promise to fur- nish them. Serious doubts resit d. upon the mind of the General, whether France would execute the part of the Canada xpeditioa assigned to he 1 The superiority of the British fleet was evident /lie Court of London would 1779.] L1JFE OF WASHINGTON. 17? be made acquainted with the scheme, and a sivperiour British fleet might prevent the Frencii squadron, d* tached on this service, from entering the rivr St Lawrence, or destroy it after its entrance, or the Kri tish garrisons in Canada might be reinforced, and ren ' dered superiour to the assailing armament. In an expedition consisting of several distinct parts, General WASHINGTON thought it unreasonable to ex- pectthat exact co-operation among the different detach- ments which would be necessary for mutual support ; of consequence, the divisions might be defeated in de tail, and after all the expense, the expedition miscarry. The consequences of a failure, which were much to be deprecated, would be the misapplication of the Fronch force ; the ruin of t.ke detachments employed in the expedition, and jealousy and disaffection between France and the United States. The letter of the Commander in Chief, Congress re ferred to a Committee. In their report, this Commit- tee admit his objections to be weighty, but still advise to the prosecution of the plan. Congress accepted the report, and again requested the General to write fully on the subject to the Marquis, and to Dr. Franklin, then the American Minister at the Court <. f Versailles. Congress probably felt themselves aJready pledged by their conversatioa with the Marquis and the French Minister, and possibly they thought th recruit the army did not pass until the 2l!d of January 177!), and the requisition upon the several states was not made until the !!th of March. The dissensions which at this time existed in Con- gress, the speculations that prevailed through the country in consequence of the depreciation of paper money, ami the apparent reluctance among all classes of citizens to make sacrifices for the publick interest, greatly alarmed General WASHINGTON. His appre- hensions are fully disclosed in the annexed letter writ- ten at the time to a confidential friend of distinguished reputation in the political world. " 1 am particularly desirous of a free communication of sentiments with you at this time, because 1 view things very differently, I fear, from what people in general do, who seem to think the contest at an end, and that to make money and get places are the only things new remaining to be done. I have seen with- out despondency, even for a moment, the hours which America has styled her gloomy ones ; but I have be held no day since the commencement of hostilities, when I have thought her liberties in such imminent danger as at present Friends and foes seem now to combine to pull down the goodly fabrick we have hi- therto been raising, at the expense of so mucli time, blood, and treasure ; and unless the bodies politick will exert themselves to bring things back to first princi- ples, correct abuses, and punish our internal foes, ine- vitable ruin must follow, indeed we seem to be verg- ing so fast to destruction that I am filled with sensa tions to which I have been a stranger until within these three months. Our enemy behold with exulta 1779.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 181 tion and joy how effectually we labour for their bene- fit ; aad from being in a state of absolute despair and on the point of evacuating America, are now on tip- toe. Nothing, therefore, in rny judgment, can save u* but a total reformation in our own conduct, or some de cisive turn of affairs in Europe. The former, alas ! to our shanr) be it spoken, is less likely to happen than the latter, as it is HOW consistent with the views of the speculators, various tribes of money-makers, and stock- jobbers of all denominations, to continue the war, for their own private emolument, without considering that this avarice and thirst for gain must plunge every thing, including themselves, in one common ruin. " Were I to indulge my present feelings, and give a loose to that freedom of expression which my unre- served friendship would prompt to, I should say a great deal on this subject. But letters are liable to so many accidents, and the sentiments of men in office are sought after by the enemy with so much c.vidity, and besides conveying useful knowledge (if they get into their hands) for the superstructure of their plans, are so often perverted to the worst of purposes, that I shall be somewhat reserved, notwithstanding this letter goes by a private hand to Mount Vernon. I cannot refrain lamenting, however, in the most poignant terms, the fatal policy too prevalent in most of the Btates, of employing their ablest men at home, in posts of honour or profit, before the great national interest is fixed upon a solid basis. " To me it appears no unjust simile, to compare the affairs of this great continent to the mechanism of a clock, each state representing some one or other of the small parts of it, vhich they are endeavouring to put in fine ordor, without considering how useless and un- availing their labour is, unless the great wneel, or spring, which is to set the whole in nli'tion, is also well attended to :nd kept in good order. 1 allude to Vol. I. 1(5 18'y the love of country fron< the prosecution of the rash measure they had adopted " There is nothing," proceeds the letter, " which has happened in course of the war, that has given me so much pain as the remonstrance you mention fjom the officers of the first Jersey regiment. I cannot but consider it as a hasty and imprudent step, which on more cool consideration they will themselves Condemn. I am very sensible of the inconveniences under which the officers of the army labour, and I hope they do me the justice to believe, that my endeavours to procure them relief are incessant. There is more difficulty however, in satisfying their wishes than perhaps they are aware of. Our resources have been hitherto very limited. The situation of our money is no small em- barrassment ; for which, though there are remedies \hey cannot be the work of a moment. Government is not insensible of the merits and sacrifices of the offi- cers, nor, I am persuaded, unwilling to make a com pensation ; but it is a truth, of which a little observa tion must convince us, that it is very much straitened in the means. Great allowances ought to be made on this account, for any delay, and seeming backwardness which may appear. Some of the States indeed have done as generously as it is at this juncture in their power, and if others have been less expeditious, it ought to be ascribed to some peculiar cause, which a little time, aided by example, will remove. The pa- tience and perseverance of the army have been, under verv disadvantage, such as to do fhnm th highest Iri4 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [177S> honour, both at home and abroad, and have inspired me with an unlimited confidence in their virtue, which has consoled me amidst every perplexity and reveise of fortune, to which our affairs in a struggle of this na- ture, were necessarily exposed. Now that we have made so great a progress to the attainment of the end we have in view, so tliat we cannot fail without a most shameful desertion of our own interests, any thing like a change of conduct would imply a very unhappy change of principles, and a forgetfulness as well of what we owe to ourselves as to our country. Did I suppose it possible this could be the case, even in a single regiment of the army, I should be mortified and chagrined beyond expression. I should feel it as a wound given to my own honour, which I consider aa embarked with that of the army at large. But this I believe to be impossible. Any corps that was about to set an example of the kind, would weigh well the con- sequences ; and no officer of common discernment and sensibility would hazard them. If they should stand alone in it, independent of other consequences, what would be tlreir feelings on reflecting that they had held themselves out to the world in a point of li^'ht inferi- our to the rest of the army. Or if their example should be followed, and become general, how could they con- sole themselves for having been the foremost in bring- ing ruin and disgrace upon their country. They *ould remember that the army would share a double portion of the general infamy and distress, and that the character of an American officer would become as de- 'jjicable, as it is now glorious. " I confess the appearances in the present instance aro disagreeable ; but 1 am convinced they seem to mean more than they really do. The Jersey officers have not been outdone by any others in the qualities, cither of citizens or soWiers ; and 1 am confident, no part of them would seriously intend any thing that would lie a stai^ on their former reputation. The jrep 1779.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON 185 tlcmen cannot be in earnest ; they have only reasoned wrong about the means of obtaining a good end, and on consideration, I hope and flatter myself they will renounce what must appear improper. At the open- ing of a campaign, when under inarching orders for an important service, their own honour, duty to the publick, and to themselves, and a regard to military propriety, will not suffer them to persist in a measure, which would be a violation of them all. It will even wound their delicacy, coolly to reflect, that they have hazarded a step which has an air of dictating terms to their country, by taking advantage of the necessity of the moment. " The declaration they have made to the state, at so critical a time, that unless they obtain relief in the short period of three days, they must be considered out of the service, has very much that aspect ; and the seeming relaxation of continuing until the state can have a reasonable time to provide other officers, will be thought only a superficial veil. I am now to re- quest that you will convey my sentiments to the gen- tlemen concerned, and endeavour to make them sensi- ble tha*. they are in an-errour. The service fbr which the regiment was intended, will not admit of delay. It must at all events march on Monday morning, in the first place to this camp, and further directions will be given when it arrives. I am sure I shall not be mistaken in expecting a psompt and cheerful obedi- ence." This letter made a deep impression upon the minds of the officers, but did not fully produce the desired effect. In an address to the Commander in Chief, they expressed their unhappiness, that any act of their* should occasion him pain ; but in justification of th measure they had adopted, they pleaded that their state government had paid no attention to their repeated petitions, that they were themselves loaded with debts, Mid tiiat their families were starving " At 186 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [177b said they : ' we have lost all confidence in our Legisla- ture. Reason and experience tbrbid that we should have any. Few of us have private fortunes ; many have families who are already suffering every tiling lhat can be received from an ungrateful country. Are we then to suffer all the inconveniences, fatigues, and dangers, of a military life, while our wives and our children arc perishing for want of common necessaries ut home ; and that without the most distant pr ispect of reward, for our pay is only nominal ? We are sensi- ble that your Excellency cannot wish nor desire this Irorn us. " We are sorry that you should imagine we meant to disobey orders. It was and still is our determination to march with our regiment, and to do the duty of offi cers, until the Legislature shall have a reasonable time to appoint others, but no longer. s " We beg leave to assure your Excellency >hat wo have the highest sense of your ability and virtue, that executing your orders has ever given us pleasure : we love the service, and we love our country ; but when that country gets so lost to virtue and justice as to forgetitu support its servants, it then becomes their duty to retire irom its service." This attempt in the officers to justify their conduct' placed General WASHINGTON in a very critical and delicate situation. Severe measures, he apprehended, would probably drive the whole Jersey brigade from the service ; and to assume the exercise of the powers of Commander in Chief, and then recede without pro ducing the effect, must hazard his "own authority, and injure the discipline of the army. Under these embar- rassing circumstances, he prudently resolved to take no further notice of this address, than to notify the officers, through General Maxwell, that while they con tinued to do their .duty, he should only regret the step they had taken, and hope that they themselves would oerceive its impropriety. 1779.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. Ift7 This alarming transaction, the General communi- cated to Congress, and at the same time reminded them of his repeated and urgent entreaties in belialf of his officers. Some general provision for them he now re- commended as a measure of absolute necessity. " The distresses in some corps,'' he observed," are so great, either where they were not until lately attached to any particular state, or where the state has been less pro- vident, that officers have solicited even to be supplied with the clothing destined for the common soldiers, course and unsuitable as it was. 1 had not power to comply with the request. '* The patience of men animated by a sense of duty and honour, will support them to a certain point, be- yond which it will not go. I doubt not Congress will be sensible of the danger of an extreme in this respect, and will pardon my anxiety to obviate it." The regiment marched agreeably to orders, and the officers withdrew their remonstrance-. The Legisla- ture took measures for their relief, and they continued Ln the service. The situation of the hostile armies not favouring active opera( .ens, General WASHINGTON planned an expedition into the Indian country. His experience while he commanded the troops of Virginia in the French war, convinced him, that the only effectual method to defend the frontiers from the destructive invasion of Indian foes, is to carry the war into their own country. To retaliate, in some moasure, the cruelties the Indians had inflicted on the Americans, and to deter them from their repetition, General Sul iivai ,-the commanding officer, was ordered, on this occasion, to exercise a degree of severity, which, in thf. usual operations of war, was abhorrent to the hii mane disposition of the Commander in Chief. In the course of the s'iminer months, General Sullivan sue- cessfully prosecuted the plan, and destroyed the Indiaji 188 LIFE OF WASHliNoTON. n77e states were to be raised and broughl to head quarters by the middle of January of each year, that time might be given in some measure to dis cipline them before the campaign opened. " The plan I would propose," says the General in the address, "is that each state be informed by Con- gress annually of the real deficiency of its troops, and called upon to make it up, or such less specifick number as Congress may think proper, by a draught. That the men draughted join the ariny by the first of January the succeeding year. That from the time tho draughts join the army, the officers of the states from which they come, be authorized and directed to use their endeavours to enlist them for the war, under the bounties granted to the officers themselves and the re- cruits, by tTie act of the 23d of January last, viz. ten dollars to the officer for each recruit, and two hundred to the recruits themselves. That all state, county, and town bounties to draughts, if practicable, be eu- tirely abolished, on account of the uneasiness and disorders they create among the soldiery, the deser- tions they produce, and for other reasons which will readily occur. That on or before the first of October annually, an abstract, or return, similar to the present one, be transmitted to Congress, to enable them to make their requisitions to each state with certainty and precision. This I would propose as a general plan to be pursued ; and I im persuaded that this or one nearly similar to it, will be found the best now in our power, as it will be attended with least expense to the publick, .will place the service on the footing of order and certainty, and will be the only one that can ad- vance the general interest to any great extent." This j'ldicious plan was never carried into effect Congress did not make the requisition until February and the states were not called upon to bring their re- cruits into the field before the first of April. Thirteen sovereign states exercising their respective indepcnd I77tl LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 19S er.t authorities to form a federal army, were always tardy in time and deficient in the number of men. On the approach of the inclement season, the army again built themselves huts for winter quarters. Posi tions were chosen the most favourable for the defence of the American posts, and for covering the country. The army was formed into two divisions. One of these erected huts near West Point, and the other at Morristown in New-Jersey. The head quarters of the Commander in Chief were with the last division. Great distress was felt this winter on account of the deranged state of the American finances. General Green and Colonel Wadsworth, gentlemen in every respect qualified for the duties of their respective sta* tions, were yet at the head of the Quarter Master and Commissary departments, but the credit of the country was fallen, they had not the means to make prompt payment for articles of supply ; and they found it impossible to lay up large magazines of provisions, and extremely difficult to obtain supplies to satisfy the temporary wants of the army. The evil was increased by a new arrangement intro- duced by Congress into the Commissary department. A fixed salary in the depreciated currency of the coun- try was given to the Commissary General, and he was authorized to appoint a certain number of deputies, whose stipends were also established, and to whom no emolument of office was allowed. Deputies compe- tent to the business could not be obtained upon the terms established by Congress, confusion and de- rangement ensued through the whole department, and in consequence Colonel Wadsworth was constrained to resign his office. Before the month of January expired, the soldiera tvere put upon allowance, and before its close, the tvhole stock of provision in store was exhausted, and there was neither meat nor flour to be distributed tf the troops. To prevent the dissolution of tho army VOL I i" 194 I IFE OF WASHINGTON. [173O the Commander in Chief was reluctantly driven to very vigorous measures. He apportioned upon each county in the state of New-Jersey a quantity of meat and flour, according to the ability of each, to be brought into camp in the course of six days. At the s.v.iie time he wrote to the magistrates, stating the ab- solute necessity of the measure, and informing them, that unless the inhabitants voluntarily complied with the requisition, the exigency of the case would force him ^p obtain it by military exaction. To the honour of the inhabitants of New-Jersey, harassed as their country had been, the full quantity of provision re quired was cheerfully and seasonably afforded. To Congress General WASHINGTON expressed his sense of the heroick patience with which the troops bore the privations of clothing and provisions through this winter of unusual severity. The extent of these privations will be seen in an extract of a letter written by the Commander in Chief to his friend General Schuyler. " Since the date of my last we have had the virtue and patience of the army put to the severest trial. Sometimes it has been five or six days together with- out bread ; at other times, as many days without meat ; and once or twice, two or three days, without either. I hardly thought it possible at .one period, that we should be able to keep it together, nor could it hav* been done, but for the exertions of the magistrates in tho several counties of this State, on whom I was obliged to call, expose our situation to them, and in olain terms declare that we were reduced to the alter- native of disbanding or catering for ourselves, unless the inhabitants would afford us their aid. I allotted to each county a certain proportion of flour or grain, and a certain number of cattle, to be delivered on ecru in days, and for the honour of the magistrates, and good disposition of the people, I must add, that my reqv si- Uona were punctually complied with, and in mi. ay 1780 ] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 195 conntius exceeded. Nothing but this great exertion could ha ve saved the army from dissolution or starving,, as we were bereft of every hope from the commissa- ries. At one "time, the soldiers eat every kind of horse food but hay. Buck wheat, common wheat, rye, and Indian corn, composed the meal which made their bread. As an army they bore it with the most heroick patience ; but sufferings like these ac- companied with the want of clothes, blankets, &.c. will produce frequent desertion in all armies, anjl so it happened with us, though it did not excite a single mutiny." The frost of this winter was excessive. For six weeks together, the waters about New- York were covered with ice, of sufficient thickness to admit the passage of large armies with wagons and the heaviest pieces of artillery. The city, of consequence, in many places, became assailable. The vigilant and ac- tive mind of General WASHINGTON, with mortification, saw an opportunity to attack his enemy which he was unable to embrace. The British force in New-York, in numbers, exceeded his own, and the want of clothing and provision rendered it impossible to move hi* troops upon an extensive enterprise. An attempt I* urprise a post on Staten Island failed. L.JFE OF WASHINGTON. CHAPTER VII. unonnt of Paper Emission Conj-esa destitute of Mesng to sun- jiort the VVtr Supplies apportioned upon the Slates Exertion! of the Commander in Chief Mutiny in a part of the Army The British make an Excursion into New-Jersey The Ameri- can Troops bravely resist them The Court of France promises a Naval and Land Armament to act in America Preparation to co-operate with it A French Squadron arrives on the Ameri- rican Coast Count Rochamheau lands at Newport with five thousand Men The American and French Commanders meet at Hartford to settle the Plan of the Campaign The Second t)ivi- sion of the French Troops fails- General Arnold becomes a Traitor He Corresponds with Major Andre Andre comes on Shore at West Point Attempts to return-to New-York by land He is taken intu Custody by three Militia Men A Board of General Officers condemn him He is executed Letter of Gene- ral Washington on tlTe Stitn of tho Army Congress adopts a Military Establish :x;iit for the War The Army goes ''v*o Vin- ter Quarters. 1780. Two bundled millions of dollars in paper currency wore at this time in circulation, upon the credit of the United States. Congress had the pre- ceding year solemnly pledged the faith of government no.t to emit more than this sum. The National Trea- sury was empty. The requisitions of Congress for money by taxes, assessed by the authority of the States, were slowly complied with, and the supplies of money, in this way obtained, bore no proportion to the ex- penses of the war. A novel state of things was in consequence intro- duced. Congress, the head of the Nation, had no command of the resources of the country. The power cf taxation, and of every coercive measure of govern- ment, rested with the State Sovereignties. The only power left with the National Council was, to apportion supplies of provision for the army, as well as recruiti of men, upon the several States. The military establishment f< r 1780, consisted of thirty -five thousand, two hui idred and eleven men Nt J LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 197 portion of these was to be raised by the authority of Congress, but in the whole transaction an absolute de- pendence was placed on the agency of the States. Up- on the States also spccifick articles of provision, spirits, and forage, were apportioned for the subsistence of the army. Congress gave assurances that accurate ac- counts should be kept, and resolved, " That any State which shall have taken the necessary measures ibr fur- nishing its quota, and have given notice thereof to Con- gress, shall be authorized to prohibit at.y Continental Quarter Master, or Commissary from purchasing within its limits." General WASHINGTON greatly lamented the neces sity of managing the war by State authorities. He freely suggested to Congress the defects of their sys- tem, defects which would prevent the attainment of competent and seasonable supplies for the troops The estimate, he observed, in all articles was below the ordinary demand, the time of reception was left in a vague manner ; and no provision was made for ex- traordinary exigencies. No means were adopted to obtain for the use of the army any surplus of produce, which' a particular State might conveniently supply, beyond its apportionment ; but a State under this pre- dicament was authorized to prohibit the National Com- missary from purchasing such surplusage, whatever might be the publick wants. To a friend in Congress, he in a private letter thus freely expressed his opinion. " Certain I am, that unless Congress speaks in a Tnore decisive tone ; unless they are vested with pow- ers by the several States, competent to the great pur- poses of the war, or assume them as matter of right and they, and the States respectively act with more energy than they hitherto have done ; that our cause is lost. We can no longer drudge on in the old way. By ill timing the adoption of measures, by delays in .he execution of them, or bv unwarrantable j'salous'es, we incur enormous expenses, and derive no benefit 198 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [17tiO from ti.em. One State will comply with a requisition from Congress, another neglects to do it, and a thiid rxecutes it by halves ; and all differ in the manner, the matter, or BO much in point of time, that we are always working up hill ; and, while such a system as the present one, or rather want of one prevails, we evei shall be unable to apply our strength or resources to airy advantage. " This, my dear sir. is plain language to a member ^of Congress, but '. is the language of truth and friendship. It is the result of long thinking, close ap- plication, and strict observation. I see one head gra- dually changing into thirteen. I see one army branch- ing into thirteen ; and instead of looking up to Con- gress as the supreme controlling power of the United States, considering themselves as dependent on their respective States. In a word, I see the power of Con gross declining too fast for the consequence and respect which are due to them as the great representative body of America, and am fearful of the consequences." Although General WASHINGTON had weighty objec- tions to the plan of Congress, he exerted himself to cirry it into effect. His personal influence was great- - than that of any other man in the union, and this new order of things required its full exercise. He wrote to the Executives and Legislatures of the seve- ral States, stating the critical situation of publick affairs, pointing out the fatal consequences that must ft. \v from the inattention and neglect of those who aj nc possessed the power of coertion,and urging them by all the motives of patriotism and self-interest to comply with the requisitions of Congress. But each of the States felt its own burdens, and was dilatory in its efforts to promote a general interest. A system, which in its execution required the conjoint agency of thirteen Sovereignties, was too complex foi the prompt operations of a. military body. la the course of tue winter forage had failed, ind 1780.] LIFt JF WASHINGTON. 199 many of the horses attached to the army had died, of were rendered unfit for use. General WASHINGTON therefore struggled with almost insuperable difficulties in supplying the army. Ho possessed no means to transport provisions from a distance but by impress- ment, and to this painful and oppressive mode, he was obliged frequently to recur. The unbounded confi- dence placed in his patriotism, wisdom, and prudence, enabled him to carry these measures into effect, amcng a people tenacious of individual rights, and jealous of JIP encroachment of power. The pay of the officers of the army had scarcely more than a nominal value. They were unable to support the appearance of gentlemen, or to furnish themselves with the conveniences which their situa tion required. The pride essential to the soldier was deeply wounded, general dissatisfaction manifested it- self, and increased the perplexities of the Commander in Chief. The officers of whole lines belonging to some of the States in a body, gave notice that on a certain day, they should resign their commissions, un- less provision was made for their honourable support. The animated representation of the danger of this rash measure to that country in whose service they had heroically suffered, induced them to proffer their ser- vices as volunteers Uiitil their successors should bo appointed. This, their General without hesitation re jected, an? the officers reluctantly consented to re- main in the army. A statement of the great difficulties which the Gene ral encountered, led Congress to depute a Committee of their body to camp, to consult with him upon mea- sures necessary to be adopted to remove the grievan- ces of the army. This Committee reported, " That the army was in paid for five months : that it seldom had more than six days provision in advance, and was on several occasions for several successive days, with- out meat ; that the army was destitute of forage ; that 200 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1780 the medical department had neither susrar, tea, choco- late, wine, or spirituous liquors of-*ny kind ; '.hat every department of the army was without money, and had not even the shadow of credit left ; that the patience of the soldiers, borne down by the pressure of compli- cated sufferings, was on the point of being exhausted." Congress possessed not. the means to apply adequate remedies to these threatening evils. They passed a resolution, which was all they could do, "That Con- gress will make good to the line of the army, and to the independent corps thereof, the deficiencies of their original pay, which had been occasioned by the depre- ciation of the continental currency ; and that money or other articles heretofore received, should be consi- dered as advanced on account, to be comprehended in the settlement finally to be made." This resolution was published in general orders, and produced a good effect ; but did not remove the complaints of officers or men. The promise of future compensation from a country, whose neglect was conceived to be the source of ail their sufferings, they deemed a. feeble basis of de- pendence, at the moment they were severely pressed by privations of every kind. Murmurs at length broke out into actual MARCH "25. mutiny. Two of tho Connecticut regi- ments paraded under arms announcing the intention to return home, or by their arms to obtain subsistence. The other regiments from Connecticut although they did not join in the revolt, exhib ted no inclination to aid in suppressing the mutineers nut by the -spirited and prudent exertions of the officers, the ringleaders were secured, and the regiments brought back to their duty. Tho perplexities of a.^erieral, who commands an army in this situation,' are not to be described. When the officers represented to the soldiery the greatness of the cause in which they were erga?ed, and stated the late resolution 'of Congress in their favour, they 1780.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 201 answered, that for five months they had received no pay, and that the depreciated state of the currency would render their pay of no value when received ; they wanted present relief, and not promises of distan'. compensation ; their sufferings were too great to be supported ; and they must have immediate and sub- stantial recompense for their services. To the com- plaints of the army were joined murmurs of the inhabit- ants of New-Jersey, on account of the frequent requi sitions unavoidably made upon them. These disaftections were carried to New-York with the customary exaggerations of rumour. General Knyplviusen, the commanding officer at that post, sup- posing the American citizens and soldi* rs ripe for re- volt, passed over into New-Jersey with five thousand men, to avail himself of favourable events, JUNE 6. and probably with the in 1 jntion to drive General WASHINGTON from his camp at Morristown. , He took the road to Springfield, and the behaviour of the Americans soon convinced him, he had been deceived in t.he report of iheir disaffected and mutinous disposition. The troops detached from the army to oppose his progress, fought with obstinata bravery ; and the inhabitants seizing their arms wit} alacrity, emulated the spirit and persevering courage of the regular soldier. The enemy finding he must encounter serious opposition, halted at. Connecticut farms, consigned most of the buildings of that village to the flames, and then retreated to Elizabeth Point, opposite to Staten Island. While General Knyphausen lay at Elizabeth Point, Sir Henry Clinton, with four thousand men, returned from the conquest of Charleston, South-Carolina, and joined him at that place. On the 23d of June Sir Henry moved by different routes, five thousand in- fantry, and a large body of cavalry, with twenty pieces of artillery, Awards Springfield. General WASHING CON supposed th^t his determined object was the da 802 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1780 rtruction of the American camp and stores at Morris- town. The effective force at this time under his im mediate command amounted to little more than three thousand men. Not being able to contend with the enemy, but with the advantage of ground, he made th best disposition of his small foice to defend his post, and detached General Green with a thousand men to guard the 'defiles ou the road, and particularly to dis pute the enemy's passage of the bridge near Spring field. This service was performed with great military judgment, and with the spirit and efficacy of disci- plined courage. When overpowered by numbers, Ge- neral Green drew up his brave band on the heights back of 'Springfield. Sir Henry Clinton was not dis- posed to attack him in his strong position, nor to en- counter the danger of proceeding to Morri^town, and leaving Green in his rear ; he therefore relinquished tHe object of his expedition, and, burning the town of Springfield, returned to New-York. General WASHINGTON keenly felt this insult offered to his country, and was deeply mortified at his inabili- ty to repel it. In a letter to a friend he observed, " You but too well know, and will regret with me the cause which justifies this insulting mano3uvre on the part of the enemy. It deeply affects the honour of the States, a vindication of which could not be attempted in our present circumstances, without most intimately hazarding their security ; at least so far as it may de- pend on the security of the army. Their character, their interest, their all that is dear, call upon them, in the most pressing manner to place the army immedi- ately on a respectable footing." Late in the spring the Marquis La Fayette returned from France with the pleasing intelligence that his government had resolved to assist the United States, by employing, this year, a respectable land and naval force in America. This grateful information re-animated the publick I780.J LIFE Ol WASHINGTON. i>U3 mind, and gave a new stimulus to the agency t>f Con- gress, and of the governments of the several states; that preparation might be made to co-operate with th.3 French armament on its arrival. This event excited anew in the breast of the Com- mander in Chief the mingled emotions of ambition and oatriotism. His country having solicited foreign aid, he felt the disgrace she must suffer, should the allies tind her in a situation not to second their friendly as- sistance. He anticipated the deep wound that would be inflicted on his own feelings, should the French, Commanders find him the nominal head of a naked, destitute, and inefficient army. To prevent the evila that were apprehended, he addressed a circular letter to the governments of the states, urging them ta ex- ertions proportionate to the present prospect of their country, and painting to their view the picture of dis- honour and ruin that must arise frcm the neglect to improve this prosperous tide in their affairs. Vigorous measures were in consequence adopted by Congress and by the states to recruit the army, to lay up magazines, and to enable their General to com- ply with the reasonable expectations of their allies; but the agency of different bodies was necessary to carry these publick measures into effect, and their operation was dilatory. On the 20th of June General WASHINGTON informed Congress that the army was yet destitute of many essential articles of clothing. " For the. troops," lie observed, " to be without clothing at anytime is highly injurious to the service, and distressing to our feelings ; but the want will be more peculiarly mortifying when they come to act with our allies. Tf it be possible I have no doubt im- mediate measures will be taken to relieve 'their dis- tresses. " It is also most sincerely to be wished that there would be some supplies of clothing furnished to the officers. There are a great many whose condition a 201 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1780 ti'l miserable. This is, in some instances, the case with the whole lines of states It would be well for ' their own sakes, and for the publick" good, if thev ' could be furnished. They will, not be able, when our friends come to co-operate with us, to go on a common routii!3 of duty ; and if they should, they must, from their appearance, be held in low estimation." Ir the nuar prospect of the arrival o c the French Armaments, the embarrassments of General WASHING- TON increased. His army was not yet in a situation io co-operate with the allies, and he became extreme- ly anxious to know the force on which he might ab- solutely depend. He wished to attack New-York if the means were in his power. But to concert an at- tack upon this post with the French commanders, and in the event be unable to execute his part of the en- gagement, fie knew would dishonour the American arms, and expose the French marine force employed in the service, to destruction. Should prudence forbid an attempt upon New-York, his force might bo com- petent to assail some other British post, and it was highly expedient that the plan should be ripened, and all measures prepared for immediate action, the Mo- ment the French detachments should reach the conti- nent. The anxiety of the Commander hi Chief on this subject was disclosed in the folio wing letter to Congress. " The season is come when we have every rejison to expect the arrival of the fleet, and yet for want of this point of primary consequence, it is impos- sible for me to form a system of co-operation. I have no basis to act upon ; and of course, were this generous succour of our ally now to arrive, 1 should find myself in the most awkward, embarrassing, and painful situation. The General, and the Admiral, from the relation in which I stand, as soon as they ap- proach our coast, will require of me a plan nf the measures to be pursued, and there ought of right to be one prepared ; but circumstanced as I am, 1 can- 1760.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 20& not even give them conjectures. From these con- siderations, I have suggested to the Committee, by a letter I had the honour of addressing them yesterday, the indispensable necessity of their writing again to the states, urging them to give immediate and precise information of the measure they have taken, and of the result. The interest^of the states, the honour and reputation of our councils, the justice and gratitudedue to our allies, all require that I should without delay be enabled to ascertain, and inform them what we can or cannot undertake. There is a point which ought now to be determined, ori the success of which all our future operations may depend, on which for want of knowing our prospects, I can make no decision, for fear of involving the fleet and army of our allies in cir- cumstances which would expose them, if not second- ed by us, to material inconvenience and hazard. 1 shall be compelled to suspend it, and the delay may be fatal to our hopes." Congress had assured tho French Minister thai they would bring this campaign twenty-five thousand men into the field ; that to these such detachments of militia should be added as to make a force competent, when supported by a naval armament, to attack any of the British posts. They had also engaged to lay up magazines of provisions adequate to the demands of the armies of the Uni>.dd States, and of any divi- sion of French troops, acting in concert with them. On this account the deficiencies of the army lay with, the more galling weight upon the mind of General WASHINGTON. While he was revolving this important subject, Sir Henry Clinton and Admiral Arbuthnot returned from South-Carolina to New- York, whose garrison now consisted of eleven thousand regular troops. The prospect of successful operations against this post was Vy the event greatly diminished. In the absence of the British armament it had been proposed by the VOL. I. 18 806 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [I7,:0 American Comn.ander, that the French fleet should, as soon as it reached the American coast, block up the harbour of New-York, and co-operate with the army in the attack upon that place. But in this change of* circumstances, he conceived it adviseable that the French squadron should enter the harbour of New- port, land their troops, and there wait until a plan of joint operation should be formed. At length the first division of French JULY 10. troops reached the American shorf, consist- ing of between five and six thousand men, with a large train of battering and field artillery. These forces were commanded by Count de Rochambeau, whose government had placed him under the command of General WASHINT.TON. The Count brought infor- mation, that a second division would follow him aa soon as transports could be fitted to bring them. The principal French and American officers assidu- ously cultivated a mutual affection between the two armies; and the Commander in Chief recommended to the officers of the United States to ingraft on the American cockade, a while relief, as an emblem of the alliance of the two powers. At the arrival of the French, the Americans were unprepared to act with thepi, nor did the American General know what force would ultimately be brought into the field. But it became necessary for him to make arrangements with the French commanders for offensive operations against the enemy, on the arrival of the reinforcements. In this weighty transaction, ho consulted the honour and interest of the United States, rather than the existing condition of his army. Confiding in the successful efforts that his country- men would, on this occasion make, he communicated to Count de Rochambeau, his intention to com/>ly With the engagements into which Congress had enter- id with the -Court of Versailles. The solicitude of the General on this subject, ap 1780.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 20> pears in the following communication, wlucfi at the time he made to the President of Congress " Pressed on all sides by a choice of difficulties, in a moment which required decision, ' have adopted that line of conduct which comported with the dignity and faith of Congress ; the reputation of these States., and the honour of our arms. I have sent on definitive pro- posals of co-operation to the French General and Ad- miral. Neither the period of the season, nor a re- gard to decency would permit delay. The- die is cast : and it remains with the States, either to fulfil their engagements, preserve their credit, and support their independence, or to involve us in disgrace and defeat. Notwithstanding the failure pointed out by the Committee, I shall proceed, on the supposition that they will, ultimately consult their own interest and honour, and not to suffer us to fail for the want of means whu:h it is evidently in their power to afford. What has been done, and is doing by some of the States, confirms the opinion I have entertained of suf ficient resources in the country. Of the disposition of the people to submit tr any arrangements for bring- ing them forth, I see no reasonable ground to doubt. If we fail for the want of proper exertions in any of the governments, I trust the responsibility will fall where it ought ; and that I shall stand justified to Congress, iny country, and the world." The plan of joint operation was formed upon the presumption, that the French would maintain a naval superiority in the American sea. But, soon after the arrival of the French, the British on this station, were reinforced by a squadron superiour to that which con- voyed the troops of His Most Christian Majesty. Sir Henry Clinton and Admiral Greaves c6ntemplated an attack upon the French in their new station, and after great delay, six thousand troops of the flower of their army were embarked, and supported by the fleet, sail- ed to Huntingdon Bay. TCu* the commanders her 208 LtFE OF WASHINGTON. [1780 learning the improved state of the fortifications at Newport, laid aside the expedition. During these movements, General WASHINGTON collected his force and crossed the North River, with the intention to at- tack New-York, should the British General proceed in his attempt against the French. He confidently ex- pected in this case to establish himself in some com- manding position, which would not only compel Ge- neral Clinton to abandon his enterprise, but also facili- tate the Success of Jus operations against the city. Tne return of Sir Henry induced the American Ge- neral to recross into New-Jersey, and to post his army at Orangetown. To expedite the meditated operation against New-York, ho also took possession of ground about Dobb's ferry, ten miles above King's bridge, and erected works to command the river. The offensive measures to be pursued by the allies were suspended upon the event of the French naval force in America being reinforced. General WASH- INGTON exerted himself to be in the best state of pre- paration, to embrace any opportunity that might pre- sent to annoy the enemy. At this critical moment, Congress, against the re monstrance of the Commander in Chief, and all his General Officers, introduced those essential changes in the Quarter Master General's department, which induced General Green to resign the office of Quarter Master. Colonel Pickering was appointed his succes- sor, who, in the full exercise of a mind, judicious, ac- tive, and indefatigable, found it impossible to execute the business of the department on the plan of Congress. The stores of the Commissary failing, General WASHINGTON was obliged to open and exhaust the magazines of West Point, and to forage upon the al ready distressed inhabitants of the country, in the neighbourhood of his camp. These deficiencies at the moment that brilliant achievements were general- ly expected, gave a presage of disappointment. 1780.J LIFE OF WASHINGTON. a09 The socond French armament was daily expected, h.nd General WASHINGTON had ordered a large body of militia into the field ; but the difficulty of procur- ing subsistence led him to countermand the order for their march to camp, although their aid would be es- eential in the event of active operations. The American and French Commandera SEPT. 21. met at Hartford to complete the general system of subsequent operations, and they greed to direct their offensive measures against the British post in New- York. While expectations of immediate and effectual aid from France were entertained thr jugh the United States, information was brought, that the second armament destined for America was blocked up in the harbour of Bresi f and would not this season reach the American Continent. The flattering prospect of ter- minating the war by the conquest of the British posts in a moment vanished ; and elevated views of brilliant success were succeeded by disappointment and cha- grin. General WASHINGTON himself had admitted the persuasion, that the campaign would end in a de- cisive manner ; and he felt the deepest mortification at its failure. " We are," he observed in a letter to a friend, " now drawing to a close an inactive campaign, the beginning of which appeared pregnant with events of a very favourable complexion. I hoped, but I hoped in vain, that a prospect was opening which would enable me to fix a period to my military pursuits, and restore me to domestick life The favourable disposition >f Spain, the promised succour from France, the com biued force in the West Indies, ths declaration ol Russia, (acceded to by other powers of Europe, hu nuiating to the naval pride and power of Great Bri- tain) the superiority of France and Spain by sea in Europe, the Irish claims and Eng'ish disturbances, formed in the aggregate, an opinion in my breast which is not very susceptible of peaceful dreams, that 810 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1760 the hour of deliverance was not far distant : for tha\ however unwilling Great Britain might be to yield the point, it would not be in her power to continue the contest But alas ! These prospects, flattering as they were, have proved delusory ; and I see nothing before us but accumu'ating distress. We have been half ot our .time without provisions, and are likely to continue o. We have no magazines, nor money to form them. We have lived upon expedients, until we can live no onger. In a word, the history of the war is a histo ry of false hopes and temporary devices, instead of system and. economy. It is in vain, however, to look back, nor is it our business to do so Our case is not desperate, if virtue exists in the people, and there is wisdom among our rulers. But to suppose that this great revolution can be accomplished by a temporary army ; that this army will be subsisted by state sup- plies, and that taxation alone is adequate to our wants, is in my opinion absurd, and as unreasonable as to ex pcct an inversion of the order of nature to accommo- date itself to our views. If it were necessary, it would be easily proved to any person of a moderate understanding, that an annual army, or any army raised on the spur of the occasion, besides being un- qualified for the end designed, is, in various ways,, which could be enumerated, ten times more expensive than a permanent body of men under good organiza tion and military discipline ; whicji never was, nor ever will be the case with new troops. A thousand arguments, resulting from experience and the nature cf things might also be adduced to prove that the army, if it is to depend on atate supplies must disband or starve ; and that taxation alone, (especially at tail late hour) cannot furnish the means to carry on the war. Is it not time to retract from errour, and bene- fit from experience ? or do we want further proof of the ruinous system, we have pertinaciously adhered 1780.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 211 At the time, the country was exhausting its re- sources, and Genera] WASHINGTON, under innumera- ble embarrassments exerting every power to obtain an honourable peace, treason entered the strong hold ot independence, and planned the destruction of the in- fant states of America. General Arnold early ard warmly embraced the American cause. His enter- prising spirit, his invincible fortitude, his heroick and persevering ardour in battle, had ejcalted his mili- tary character in his own country and in Europe. Being incapacitated for the duties of the field, by the wounds he received before Quebeck, and at Saratoga, he was appointed Commandant in Philadelphia, when the British evacuated that city. In this flattering command, he adopted a style of living above his means, and soon found himself loaded with debt. To relieve himself lie entered into various schemes of speculation, and was unsuccessful in all. Hollow at heart, he had recourse to fraud and peculation. These practices rendered him odious to the citizens, and gave offence t government. At length formal complaints were lodged against him ; and Congress ordered his trial by a Court Martial. By this Court he was found guilty, and sentenced to be reprimanded by the Com- mander in Chief. The sentence was approved by Congress, and carried into execution by General WASHINGTON. In the gold that was to reward his treason, Arnold expected relief from his pecuniary em- barrassments ; and his implacable spirit sought its re- venge of his country by betraying into the hand of her enemy the post that had been called the G ibraltar of America. West I'oint was the first post in importance within the United States. Its great natural strength had been increased by every expense and labour of fortification ; and it was an object on which General WASHINOTO* perpetually keri his eye. This fortress Arnold select- ed to give consequence to his aposlacy. liy the sor 212 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [178r> render of this into the hands of the British commander he expected to ensure a high price for his treason, and, at the same moment, to inflict a mortal wound upon his country. His measures were artfully adopted to accomplish his perfidious purpose. He obtained a letter forn a member of Congress to General WASH- ism s, recommending him to the command of this important post. He induced General Schuyler to mention to the Commander in Chief, his desire to re join the army, and ,.is inclination to do garrison du..y At the time General WASHINGTON was moving down to New- York, when Sir Henry Clinton had em- barked a large body of troops, with the design to attack the French at Newport, he offered the command of the left wing of the army to General Arnold, who de- clined on the plea that his wound unfitted him for the active duties of the field ; but he intimated a desire to command at West Point. Knowing his amb =t ion for military fame, the General was surprised that Arnold declined this favourable opportunity to distinguish himself; but the purity of his own mind forbade him to suspect an officer of treason, whose blood had been freely shed in the cause of his country, and he grati- fied him with the solicited command. Under fictitious names, and in the disguise of mer- cantile business, Arnold had already opened a corre- spondence with Sir Henry Clinton through Major Andre, Adjutant General of the British arrny. To him the British General committed the maturing of Arnold's treason, and to facilitate measures for its exe- cution, the Vulture sloop of war conveyed him up the Nori'.i river. Under a pass for John Anderson, Andr came on shore in the night, and had a personal inter- view with Arnold without the American works. The morning opened upon them before their business was accomplished. Arnold told Andre that his return on board the Vulture by daylight was impracticable, and that he must be concealed until *Ue n ixt night. Fol 1780.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 215 this purpose lie was conducted within an American post, and spent the day with Arnold. In the course ot the day a gun was brought to bear on the Vulture, which obliged her to shift her station ; and at night the boatmen on this account refused to carry Andr6 on board the sloop. The return to New -York by land, was the only il- ternative left. To render the attempt the more safe, Major Andre laid aside his uniform, which he had yet worn under a surtout, and in a plain coat, on horse- back, began his journey. He was furnished with a passport signed by Arnold, in which permission was granted to John Anderson " to go to the lines of White Plains, or lower if he thought proper, he being on publick service." Alone, and without having excited suspicion, he passed the American guards, and was silently congratulating himself that he had passed all danger, when his imaginary security was disturbed by three militia men, who were scouring the country be- tween the outposts of the hostile armies. They sud dealy seized the bridle of his horse, and challenged his business in that place. The surprise of the mo- ment put him off his guard, and instead of showing his pass, he hastily asked the men, " where do you be- long?" they answered, "to below," meaning New-York. The Major instantly replied, " so do I." He declared himself to be a British officer, and pressed for permis- sion to proceed on the urgent business on which he was employed. The mistake was soon apparent, and he offered the men a purse of gold ad a valuable gold watch, for permission to pass ; and on condition that they would accompany him to the city, he promised them present reward and future promotion. But the patriotism of these yeomen could not be bribed. They proceeded to search Andre, and found secreted in hia ooots, in the hand v nting of Arnold, exact re- turns of the state of the forceb, ordnance, and defence* 214 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. R780 of West Point, with critical remarks on the works, and ether important papers. They conducted their prison- er to Lieutenant Colonel Jameson, who commanded the troops on the lines. Their names were John Paulding, David Williams, and Isaac Van Vert. Con gress eventually settled on each of them an annual pension of two hundred dollars daring life ; and pre- sented each with a silver med.tl, on one side of which was a shield with the i?iscription " Fidelity ;' and on the other the motto " Amor Patrite." Andre- still passed as John Anderson, and requested permission to write to General Arnold to inform him that Anderson was detained. The Colonel thought- lessly permitted the letter to be sent. Colonel Jame- son forwarded to General WASHINGTON the papers found on the prisoner, and a statement of the manner in which he was taken. The General was then on his return from Hartford, and the express unfortunately took a road different from that on which he was tra- velling, and passed him This occasioned so great loss of time, that Arnold having received Andre's letter, made his escape on board the Vulture, before the or- der for his iirr'Lst arrived at West Point. As soon as Andre thought that time had been given for Arnold to make his escape, he threw off the dis- guise which was abhorrent to his nature, and assumed his appropriate character of ingenuousness and honour. The express which conveyed the intelligence of his capture, was charged with a letter from him to Ge- neral WASHINGTON, in which, he declared ) is tame and rank, stated that he had, by order of his General, Sir Henry Clinton, corresponded with Arnold, that his intention was to have met him on neutral ground, and that against his stipulation he had b -,n brought within an American post. Attempting tu make his escape from it he had been betrayed into the vile con- d lion of an enemy in disguise, and he requested that i his fate might be, a decency of treatment 1780.) LIFE OF WASHINGTON 215 might be observed, which would mark, that though unfortunate he was branded with nothing that was dis- honourable, and that lie was involuntarily an impostor. The decorous and manly deportment of Andre greatly interested in his favour the American army and nation. He was endowed with properties to conciliate general esteem. His character is thus beautifully painted by tho late General Hamilton, who without envy might have contemplated his eminent qualities, for they were not equal to his own. " There was something singu- larly interesting in the character of Andre. To an ex- cellent understanding, well improved by education and travel, he united a peculiar elegance of mind and man- ners, and the advantages of a pleasing person. It is said that he possessed a pretty taste for the fine arts, and had himself attained some proficiency in poetry, musick, and painting. His knowledge appeared with- out oste.itation, and embellished by a diffidence that rarely accompanies so many talents and accomplish- ments, which left you to suppose more than appeared. His sentiments were elevated and inspired esteem, they had a softness tint conciliated affection. His elo cution was handsome, his address easy, polite, and in- sinuating. By his merit he had acquired the unlimited confidence of his General, and ws making rapid pro- gress in military rank and reputation. But in the height of his career, flushed with new hopes from the execution of a project the most beneficial to his party that could bo devised, he is at once precipitated fram the summit of prosperity, sees all the expectations of his ambition blasted, and himself ru'ned. Thcchaiac ter I have given of him is drawn partly from what 1 saw of him myself, and partly from information. 1 nm aware that a man of real merit is never seea in so fa- vourable a light as through the medium of adversity. The clouds that surround him are so many shades that set off his good qualities. Misfortune cuts down little vanities, that in prosperous times serve as so man* 216 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1780 spots in his virtues ; and gives a tone to humanity that makes his worth more amiable. " His spectators, who enjoy a happier lot, are less prone to detract from it through envy ; and are much disposed by compassion/ to give the credit he deserves, and perhaps even to magnify it." General WASHINGTON referred the case of Major Andre to a Board of fourteen General officers. Of this Board General Green was President, and the fo- reign Generals La Fayette and Steuben were members. They were to determine in what character he was to be considered, and what punishment ought to be in- flicted. This Board treated their prisoner jvith the ut- most delicacy and tenderness. They desired him to answer no question that embarrassed his feelings, But, concerned only for his honour, he frankly con- fessed he did not come on shore under the sanction of a flag, and stated so fully all facts respecting himself, that it became unnecessary to examine a single wit- ness ; but he cautiously guarded against communica- tions which would involve the guilt of others. The Board reported the important facts in the case, and gave it as their opinion that Andre was a Spy, and that agreeably to the laws and usages of nations, he ought to suffer death. His execution took place next day. Andre was reconciled to death, bnt not to the mode of dying, which the laws of war had assigned to per- sons in his situation. He wished to die as a soldier, not as a criminal. In language, which proved him possessed of the nicest feelings of heroism and honour, he wrote to General WASHISGTON, soliciting that he might not die on a gibbet : hat the stern maxims of justice foibarde a compliance with the request, although the sensibility of the General was wounded by a refu L Major Andre walked with composure to the place f execution between two American officers. When 1780.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. he beheld the instrument of nis fate, he asked with some emotion, " must I die in this manner ?" " It LJ unavoidable,' 1 was tlie answer. He replied," I am it conciled to my fate, but not to the mode ;" but imme diately added, " it will be but a momentary pang.' With a countenance of serenity and magnanimitr which mel'cd the heart of every spectator, he mount ed the oart. Being asked at the fatal moment if h wial ed to say any thing, only that " you will witness to t"'ie world, that 1 die like a brave man." Never, perhaps, did an execution of this kind more deeply interest the finer feelings of human nature. The General officers, who reported his case, lament- ed the necessity they were under to advise that as a spy he should be hung ; and the heart of Genera] WASHINGTON was wrung with anguisn when he sign- ed his death warrant. But the fatal wound that would have been inflicted on the country, had Arnold's trea- son succeeded, made the sacrifice necessary for the publick safety. The American officers universally discovered a sympathy for the unfortunate sufferer, and the sensibility of the puMick was greatly excited on the occasion. Great, but unavailing endeavours had beed used by Sir Henry Clinton to save Major Andre. Even Ar- nold had the presumption to write a threatening letter to General WASHINGTON on the subject. The Gene- ral deigned not to answer his letter, but he conveyed to him his wife, and his baggage. The merits and the fate of Andre gave a darker shade to the bareness and treachery of Arnold, and he became an object of pub- lick detestation and abhorrence. " Andre," observed General WASHINGTON in a letter to a friend, " lias met his fate with that fortitude which was to be expected from an accomplished man and gallant officer ; but I am mistaken if ul this time Arnold is undergoing the torments of a mental ho!l. He wants foeling: from orne traits of his character, which have lately com* VOL. 1 W 218 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1780 to my knowledge, ne seems to have been so hackney* ed in crime, so lost to all sense of honour and shtme, that while his faculties still enable him to continue his sordid pursuits, there will be no time for remorse."* Arnold published at New- York, an address to the inhabitants of America, and a proclamation to tho offi- cers and soldiers of the American army. In these publications, he attempted to sow the seeds of disaffec- tion to the government among the citizens, and u> al- lure, ny the prospect of emolument and promotion, numbers from the army to the British standard ; but these publications met with universal indignation and contempt. During the whole period of the revolution- ary war, the infamous Arnold was the only American officer who deserted his banners, and turned his sword against tho bosom of his country. On the discovery of the defection of Arnold, Gen- eral WASHINGTON strengthened the garrison of West Point, and moved the army to a position to support it, should Sir Henry Clinton make an attempt to carry the post. But although he had acquired a correct knowledge of its works, and was assisted by the ad- vice of Arnold, he was not inclined to hazard the as- sault unaided by plot and stratagem. The state of the army lay perpetually upon tho mind of the Commander in Chief. Not wholly dis couraged by former unsuccessful attempts to persuadw Congress to adopt a permanent military establishment, he embraced the inactive period of this campaign once mor^ to address that honourable body on thia important subject. * Colonel Hamilton in a private letter to a friend unfolded the practices to which General WASHINGTON here alludes. " This man (Arnold) is iu every sense despicable. In addition to the scene of knavery and prostitution during his command in Philadelphia, which the late seizure of his papers has un- folded, the history of his command at West Point is a history of little as well as g-eat villanies. He practised every dirty Brt of peculation and even stooped to connexions with tie sut- lers of the garrison to defraud the publick." 1780.' LIP'E OF WASHINGTON. 219 His letter was dated,as early as August, while ex- erting himself to be in readiness to co-operate with the French troops, and ho observed, "But while we are meditating offensive operations which may either not be undertaken at all, or being undertaken may fail, I am persuaded Congress are not inattentive to the present state of the army, and will view in the same light with me the necessity of pro- viding in time against a period (the first of January) when one half of our present force will dissolve. The shadow of an army that will remain, will have every motive, except mere patriotism, to abnndon the service, without the hope, which has hitherto supported them of a change for the belter. This is almost extinguish- ed now, and certainiy will not outlive the campaign, unless it finds something more to rest upon. This is a truth of which every opcctator of the distress of the a/my cannot help being convinced. Those at a dis- tance may speculate differently ; but on the spot an opinion to the contrary, judging human nature on the usual scale, would be chimerical. " The honourable the Committee of Congress, who have seen and heard for themselves, will add their tes- timony to miiifi; and the wisdom and justice of Con- gress cannot fail to give it the most, serious attention. To me h, will appear miraculous, if our affairs can maintain themselves much longer in their present train. If either the temper or resources of the coun- try will not admit of an alteration, we may expect oon to be reduced to the humiliating condition of Bcoing the cause of America, in America, upheld by foreign arms. The generosity of our allies has a claim to all our confidence, and all our gratitude; but it is neither for the honour of America, nor for th interest of the common cause, to leave the work en- lirely to them." After assigning his reasons for the opinion thai Great Britain would continue the war he proceed*, 820 LIFE Of WASHINGTON. [1786 " Tlie inference from these reflections is, that wt cannot count upon a speedy end to the war ; ami thai it is the true policy of America not to content herself with temporary expedients, but to endeavour, if possi- ble, to give consistency and validity to her measures. An essential step to this will be immediately to devise a plan and put it in execution, for providing men in I me to replace those who will leave us at the end of the year, and for subsisting and for making a reasona- ble allowance to the officers and s^ldicra. " The plan for this purpose ought to be of general operation, and such as will execute itself. Experience has shown that a peremptory draught will be the only effectual one. If a draught for the war or for three years can be effected, it ought to Le made on every ac- count ; a shorter period than a year is inadmissible. " To one who has been witness to the evils brought upon us by short, enlistments, the system appears tc have been pernicious beyond description ; and a crowd of raolives present themselves to dictate a change. It may easily be shown that all the misfortunes we have mot with in the military, line are to be attributed to this cause. " Had we formed a permanent army in the begin- ning, which, by the continuance of the same men in ervice, had been capable of discipline, we nevsr should have had to retreat with a handful of mer acrosa the Delaware, in 1?7<>, trembling for the state of Ame- rica, which nothing but the infatuation of the enemy could have saved ; we should riot have remained all tno. sucoet'din.ir winter at their merry, with sometime! tcarruly a sulricivnt body of men to mount the ordi- nary guards, liable at every moment to be dissipated; if they had only thought proper to niareh against us ; we shoi.M not have been under the necessity of fight- ing at Braadywim, with an unequal number of raw troops, and afterwards o' seeing Philadelphia fail a orey to a victorious army ; we should nt have been at tftiU.] LIFE Or' WASHINGTON. 221 Valley Forge with less thaii half the force of the ene- my, dusiituif of every thing, in a situation neither to resist nor to retire ; we should not have seen New- York left with a handful of men, yet an over-match for the main urmy of these states, while the principal part of their force wan detaciied for the reduction of two of them ; we should not have found oiirseh -js thin rprmg so weak as to be iiiBulled by live thousand men, unable to protect our baggage and magazines, their security depending on a good countenance, and a want of enterprise in the enemy ; we should not have been thi greatest part of the war inferiour to the enemy, indebted for our safety to their inactivity, enduring frequently the mortification of seeing inviting oppor- tunities to ruin them, pass unimproved for want ot a force which the country was completely able to afford; to see the country ravaged, our towns burnt, the in- habitants plundered, abused, murdered with impunity from the same ca^jse. " There IB ev j-y reason to believe the war has been protracted on this account. Our opposition being less, made the successes of the enemy greater. The fluc- tuation of the army kept alive the;; hopes; and at every period of the dissolution of a considerable part of it, they kave flattered themselves with some du- cisive advantages. Had we kept a permanent army on foot, the enemy could have had nothing to hope for, and would, in all probability, have listened to termi long since. If the army is left in its present situation, it mustcontinuean encouragement to the efforts of tn enemy ; if it is put in a respectable one, it must havo a contrary effect, and nothing i believe will tend more to give us peace the ensuing winter. It will be an interesting winter. Many circumstances will contri- bute to a negotiation. An army on foot, not only for another campaign, but for many campaigns, would Je- termine the enemy to pacifick measures, and enable in Vi insist upon favourable* terms in forcible language. 22 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1780 An army insignificant in numbers, dissatisfied, crum- bling to pieces, would be the strongest temptation they eoulc. have to try the experiment a little longer. It u an oid maxim, that the surest way to make a good peace, is to be prepared for war." Congress having at length resolved to new model the army, determined upon the number of regiments of infantry and cavalry, which shou'u compose theii military establishment, and apportioned upon the seve- ral states their respective quotas. The states were re- quired to raise their men for the war, and to have them in the field by the first of the next January : but provision was made, that if any state should find it impracticable to raise its quota by the first of De- cember, this state might supply the deficiency by men engaged to serve for a perjod not short of one year. This arrangement of Congress was submr.ted to the Commander in Chief, and his opinion desired upon it. He in a respectful manner stated his objections to the plan. The number of men contemplated was, he conceived, too small, and he proposed that tne number of privates in each regiment should bo increased. In- stead of distinct regiments of cavalry, he recommend ed Jegionary corps, that the horse might always be upported by the infantry attached to them. He de- plored the necessity of a dependence on state agency to recruit and support the army, and lamented tk<< Congress had made provision for the deficiency of any tato to procure men for the war, to be supplied by temporary draughts ; because, he conceived that the rtates upon the urgent requisition of Congress, would have brought their respective quotas into the field for the war ; but the provision for deficiency being made, their exertions would be weak, and tho alternative generally embraced. He warmly recommended ho- nourable provision for the officers. The repeated remonstrances of General WASHING- TON, supported bv the chastisements of experience, LIFE OF WASHINGTON. * finally induced Congress to lay aside their jealousy of a standing army, and to adopt a military establish ment for tne war. The expected superiority of the French at sea ft.il ing, the residue of the campaign passed away without any remarkable event. The hostile armies merely watched each other's motions, until the inclemency of the season forced them into winter quarters. The Pennsylvania line wintered at Morristown ; the Jersey line about Pompton on the confines of New-York and New-Jersey ; and the troops belonging to the New- England Si ales at West Point and its vicinity, on both sides of the North river. The New- fork line had prw viously been stationed at Albany, to oppose any inva ion that might be made from Canada, and here ft re nained through the winter. ** or *OLVI THH Ip LIFE OF GEORGE WASHINGTON, XH CHIEF OF THE THROUGH TIIS REVOLUTIONARY WAR ; AND THE FIRST PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES. BY AARON BANCROFT D. D. f iSTCR OF A CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH IN WCRCEST1 TWO VOLUMES 1IN ONE. BOSTON: PHILLIPS, SAMPSON, AND COMPANY 1857. I CONTENTS, CHAPTER VIII. Arnold is appointed a Brigadier in the British service, and invades Virginia Plan to capture him Mutiny in the American camp Violence of the Pennsylva- nia Line Order restored Weak state of the Ar my The French Court grants a Loan to the Unite* States Exertion of the States to enable the Gene ral to open the Campaign The French Troops march to the American Camp Plan to surprise the British Post at King's Bridge Expedition to Vir- ginia Count de Grasse arrives in the Chesapeake Yorktown besieged British Redoubts stormed The British make a Sortie Lord Cornwallis at- tempts to escape He capitulates and surrenders his Posts Indecisive Action between the French and English Fleets Sir Henry, too late, embaiks his Troops for Yorktown Thanks of Congress to the American and French Commanders, and to the Army General St. Clair despatched to Carolina The other Corps of th Army return to the Neigh- bourhood of New- York, and go into Winter Quar- ter* ............. 7 CHAPTER IX. 'reparations for another Campaign Sir Guy Carlo- ton arrives at New-York, and announces the vote of Parliament to acknowledge American Independ- ence Arrny anxious for their pay Anonymout CONTENTS Address exciting them to a Revolt Gener INGTON convenes and addresses the Officers The*' resolutions Preliminary articles of peace received Cessation of Hostilities proclaimed General WASHINGTON addresses a Circular Letter to the EA-. ccutives of the several States Army disbanded New Levies of Pennsylvania revolt The Com- mander in Chief enters New- York Takes leaves of his Officers Resigns his Commission to the Presi- dent of Congress Retires to Mount Vcrnon 26 CHAPTER X. % General WASHINGTON in Retirement His Pursuits Votes of Congress and of the Legislature of Vir ginia respecting him His Visitors and correspond- ents- His Plans to improve the Navigation of the Potornack and James' Rivers Declines the grant of Virginia- -His Advice to the Cincinnati State of Publick Affairs National Convention General WASHINGTON its President Federal Constitution recommended and adopted General WASHINGTON requested to consent to administer the Government lie is chosen President of the United States Seta out for the Seat of Government Attention shown him on his Journey His reception at New- York 56 CHAPTER XI. Inauguration of the President His Address to Con- gress Answers of the two Houses The Arrange- merits of his Household His regulations for Visit- ors The Reasons of their adoption The Relations of the United States **ith Foreign Poweis Con CONTENTS. * giess establishes the Departments of the Govern ment The President fills them He visits New- England His Reception Addresses to him His Answers Negotiations with the Indians Treaty w'th the Creeks War with the Wabash and Mia- mis Tribes General Harmar's Expedition St. Clair defeated General Wayne victorious and makes a Treaty with them Second Session of Con- gress Fiscal Arrangements of the Secretary of the Treasury Indisposition of the Piesident He visits Mount Vernon Meets Congress at Philadel- phia His Tour to the Southern States Second Congress The President refuses his Signature to the Representative Bill Contemplates retiring to Private Life Consents to be a Candidate for the Second Presidency --------- 87 CHAPTER XII. General WASHINGTON re-elected President State of Parties Division in the Cabinet The President endeavours to promote union Influence of the French Revolution Measures to secure the Neu- trality of the United States in the War between France arnandcra, and to the Army General St.. Clair despatched toCtiroii.'.^ The other corps of the Army return to the Neighbourhood o. New- York, ami go into Winter Quarters. 1781. ARNOLD, having been appointed a Brigadit General in the British army, was with about sixteen bundled men detached to invade Virginia. With his armed ships he sailed up James' river, and at Rich- mond and other places destroyed publick and private property to a great amount, lie at length indicated a design to establish a permanent post at Portsmouth. The French fleet since its arrival on the American coast had been blocked up in the harbour of Newport,, and the land forses had remained inactive in that town But about this time the British blockading squadron Buffered by a violent, storm, and a temporary superiority was given to the French. General WASHINGTON thought that a fair opportu 8 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [I78i nity presented to strike a decisive blow at the British detachment in Virginia, and to obtain the person of Arnold. In pursuance of this scheme, the General detached the Marquis La Fayette to Virginia with twelve hundred of the American infant! y : at the same timo he requested the co-operation of the French from Rhodw Island. The commanding oflicers gladly em- braced tire opportunity to engage in active services, that might prove advantageous to their American al- lies. On the death of Admiral Ternay. at Newport, the command of the fleet devolved on Destonches. In compliance with the request of General WASHINGTON, he sailed with his whole squadron for the MARCH 8. ^, , , . Chesapeak, having eleven hundred land troops on board. The British Admiral Arbutlmot hav- ing repaired the damages sustained by the storm, im- mediately followed the French, and on the 2f>th an action took place between the two hostile fleets. The battle ended without loss to either fleet, but the fruits of victory were on the side of the English. The joint expedition was frustrated, the French returned to New- port, and Arnold was rescued from the fate which he merited. The winter of 178 J in a degree renewed the privations and sufferings of the American army. The men were badly clothed and scantily fed ; and they had served almost a year without pay. "Without murmuring they long endured their accumulated distresses. But the foititude of the firmest men maybe worn down. Dis heartened by their sufferings, despairing of relief, and dissatisfied, that their country did not make more ef- fectual exertions for their support, the spirit of mutiny broke out with alarming appearances. The Pennsylvania line stationed at Morristowri, with the exception of th'ee regiments, revolted. On a con- certed signal, the hon-commissioned officers and pri- vates turned out with thfiir arms, and announced the 1781.1 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 9 design of marching to the seat of Congress, there to demand a redress of their intolerable grievances. The mutiny defied opposition. In the attempt to quell it, >ne ctficer was killed, and several dangerously wound- ed. General Wayne, in a threatening attitude, drew hia pistol, the mutineers presented their bayonets to his breast and said, " General, we love and respect you, but if you lire, you are a dead man. We are not going to the enorny, on the contrary if they were now to come out, vou should see us right under your orders with as much alacrity as ever ; but we will no longer be amus- ed, we are determirted on obtaining what is our jusl due." Thirteen hundred of them, under officers of their own election, marched in order for Princeton with their arms and six field pieces. They committed no othir act of violence, than to demand of the inha bitants provisions for their necessary support. Congress sent a Committee of their own body to confer with them. They demanded, the redress of their grievances as the basis of accommodation. Sir Henry Clinton sent out agents to invite them to his standard, promising them more advantageous terms than those demanded of Congress. They with indig nation rejected his proposals, and delivered over his emissaries to General Wayne, who hanged them as spies. President Reed offered the mutineers a purse of a hundred guineas as a reward for the surrender of the British emissaries. This they refused, declaring that " what they had done was only a duty they owed their country, and they neither desired, nor would re- ceive any reward but the approbation of that country, for which they had so often fought and bled." The Council of Pennsylvania appoin f ed Mr. Reed, their President, and General Potter, a Committee to compromise with the soldiery, to whom the gentlemen from Congress transferred their powers. The Com- mittee felt themsolves compelled to yield more to the demands of these soldiers in a state of mutiny, than 10 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. would have retained them quietly in their ranks, had the government of Pennsylvania seasonably attended to their pressing wants. Most ot' the artillerists, and many of the infantry were discharged, because their time of service was vaguely expressed in the orders under which they had enlisted. The residue received furloughs for forty days ; and the whole line was, for this period, absolutely dissolved. The evil did not rest with the troops of Pennsylva- nia. Some of the Jersey brigade at Pompton caught their complaining spirit, and imitated their mutinous example. The mutineers were mostly foreigners, and they made the same claims upon the country, which had been granted to the Pennsylvania line. The former instance of mutiny had taken place at a distance from head quarters, and General WASHING- TON, upon serious deliberation, haC resolved, not to hazard his authority as Commander in Chief, in tho attempt to bring t.he revolters to order by the influence of his personal character ; but to leave the delicate transaction with the civil government of the state , and he was satisfied with the result. But he perceived the importance of arresting the progress of a spirit, which threatened the dissolution of his army. Relying on the firmness and patriotism of the New-England battalions, which were composed almost exclusively of native Americans, he detei mined to reduce the Jersey revollers to unconditional subjection. General Howe was detached on this service, which he .prompt- ly performed. Two or three of the ringleaders were executed on the spot, and complete subordination was restored in the brigade. The mutiny was suppressed, but causes of unoasi ness remained, and these were not confined to the army. The money received into the national treasury from taxes imposed by state authorities, bore no pro- portion to the publick expense. The magazines were exhausted, and the states were so deficient in fur 1781.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 1 nishing provisions for the army, that supplies of every description were of necessity obtained by impressment Publick credit being gone, the certificates of property in this manner taken, were considered jjf little value, and general uneasiness and murmuring ensued. Those evils threatened the destruction of the army, and the loss of the American cause, unless a vital remedy wa speedily applied to the publick disease. The Court of London became intimately acquainted with the interiour situation of the United States, and in consequence entertained sanguine expectations of a complete conquest of the States south of the Hudson The letters of Lord George Germaine to Sir He\ry Clinton, which were written at this period, urged him in the strongest language, to embrace the favourable opportunity to disperse the remnant of General WASH- INGTON'S army, and to push his conquest of the revoked colonies. The spring of 1781 opened a gloomy prospect to the Commander in Chief. Congress had made a requi- sition upon the several states for an army consisting of thirty-seven thousand men. In May, the states, from New-Jersey to New-Hampshire inclusive, had not in the field more than seven thousand infantry. The men were generally new recruits, and time had not been given to discipline them. The cavalry and ar- tillery, at no period during the ".ampaign, amounted to one thousand men. Supplies of provisions were greatly deficient, and the soldiers were almost naked, the clothing for the arir.y, expected from Europe, not having arrived. The Quarter Master's department had neither funds nor credit, and the transportation of stores could be made only by impressments, aided by a military force. Measures of this violent naturo ex- cited great uneasiness among the inhabitants ; and General WASHINGTON expected that actual resistance would be made to them. These difficulties had been foreseen by the Commander in Chief, and he had made 12 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1781 every possible exertion to obviate them. He bad re- peatedly made known the urgent wants of the army to Congress and to the states, and had sent officers of the greatest influence into the respective governments to enforce his statements. The mind of General WASHINGTON sunk not under his embarrassments. He had fully reflected upon the dangers incident to his situation, and his resolution rose to meet them. While pondering upon his despe- rate prospects, he received the grateful intelligence, that the government of France had loaned the United States six millions of livres, a part of which sum was advanced in arms aitd clothing for the army ; and a pait paid to the draughts of General WASHINGTON. Information was also gi v en, that this government had resolved to employ a respectable fleet in the American seas the next summer. The plan of vigorous operations was resumed, and it 'vas determined by General WASHINGTON and the French commanders, that New-York should be the first object of their attack. On this occasion the Com- mander in Chief addressed letters to the Executives of the New-England states, and of New-Jersey, ear- nestly calling upon them to rill up their battalions, and to furnish their quotas of provision. The near prospect of terminating the war animated these States to unusual exertions. The number of men indeed fell short of the requisition of Congress ; but effectual measures were adopted to supply the army with provisions. Under the system of state re- quisition; meat, spirit, and salt were drawn from New England. A convention of delegates from these states met at Providence and adopted a system of monthly supplies, through the campaign. As soon as this plan could be carried into operation, the supplies of these articles were regular and competent. Requisitions of flour were made from New- York, New-Jersey, and Pennsylvania. New-York and New f781.] LIFE OF "WASHINGTON 13 Jersey, having been much exhausted by the depreda- tions of the enemy, and by the necessary impressments of the American army, the chief dependence for this essential article was placed on Pennsylvania. The Legislature of the state was not vigorous in its raea- sures, and a scarcity of flour was apprehended. At this period, Mr. Robert Morris'of Philadelphia, a member of Congress from that state, a merchant of much intelligence and enterprise, was entrusted with the management of the finances of the United States To him the Legislature of Pennsylvania transferred the taxes appropriated to furnish the requisitions of Congress upon that state ; and he in consequence contracted to supply the national requisition. By his' personal agency and credit, he established tem- porary funds, amply supplied the army with flour, and furnished the Quarter Master General with 'he means effectually to execute the duties of his department Through the campaign the movements of the array were made with facility and expedition. In June, the French troops inarched from Newport to the Head Quarters of the American army. As they approached the North river, General WASHINGTON laiOTON were not full ; it was known that the garrison at New-York had received a very considerable reinforcement ; and the French marine officers appeared not ardent in the plan to attack the 'harbour of this city. For these considerations General WASHINGTON de termined to relinquish the attempt on New-York, and to march to Virginia to lay siege to the post of Lord Cornwallis at Yorktown. Having resolved on this plan, he in a private manner adopted measures for its execution. The defence of West Point and of the other posts on the Hudson was committed to General Heath, and a large portion of the troops raised in the Northern States was for this service left under his command. General WASHINGTON resolved in person to conduct the Virginia expedition. The troops under Count Ro ehambeau, and strong detachments from the American army, amounting to more than two thousand men, and consisting of the light infantry, Lamb's artillery and several other corps were destined for this expedition. By the 25th of August the whole body, American and French, had crossed the North river. An intercepted letter of Genera. WASHINGTON'S, in 16 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1781 which he communicated, as the result of a consulta- . lion with U>e French commanders, the design to at tack New-York, had excited the apprehensions of the British General for the safety of that city. This ap prehension was kept alive, ami th real object of the Americans concealed, by preparations for an encamp- ment in New-Jersey opposite to Staten Island, by the rout of tl*e American army, and other appearances in- dicating an intention to besiege Neiv-York ; and the troops had passed the Delaware out of reach of annoy- ance, before Sir Henry suspected their destination. General WASHINGTON pressed forward with the ut- most expedition, and at Cliester he received SEPT. 3. the important intelligence, tlvat Count de Grasse had arrived with his fleet in the eau, Chatelleux, Du Portail, and Knox, proceeded to Virginia. They reached Williamsburg the 14th of September, and immediately repaired on board the Ville de Paris, to settle with Count de Grasse the plan of operation. The Count afterwards wrote General WASHINGTON, that, judging his confined situation to foe unfavourable for a naval engagement, he should sail to meet the English at sea or to block them up in the harbour of'New-York. General WASH- INGTON apprehending that the successful issue of the expedition, which lie had conceived morally certain, miirht by this measure be defeated, sent a despatch by the Marquis La Fayette to the Count, to dissuade him from it. The Count consented to conform himself ta the wishes of the American General, and remained at anchor in the bay of the Chesapeak. The whole body of American and French troops reached Williansburg by the 26th of September Af SEPT. 15. 1781.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 17 this place the allied forces were joined by a dotach- Baent of the militia of Virginia, under the command of Governour Nelson. Preparations were soon made to besiege Yorktown. The rivers, York and James, form a long and nar- row peninsula, and Lord Cornwallis had chosen a po- sition on the south side of York river as a military post, and had strongly fortified it. Opposite to York- town on the north shore is Gloucester Point, which projects into the river, and at this place reduces its width to one mile. This point his Lordship a' a o pos sessed, and fortified. Between these post? the river is deep, and ships of the line may here ride in safety. The communication between Yorktown and Glouces- ter Point was defended by batteries on shore, and by several armed ships in the river. The body of the British army was encamped about Yorktown, within a range of redoubts and field works, erected to com- mand the peninsula, which at this place is not more than eight miles wide, and to impede the approach of an assaulting enemy. Colonel Tarleton with six or seven hundred men defended Gloucester. On the 28th, the main body of the allied army moved down towards Yorktown, driving before them troops of horse, and the piquets of the enemy. The columns, as they reached the ground assigned them, encamped for the night and lay upon their arms. The next day Was employed in reconnoitring the enemy's position, m which service Colonel Scammel, an officer of merit, was mortally wounded, and taken prisoner. A force consisting of about two thousand French and Ameri- cans, under the command of the French General de Choise, was stationed on the north side of the riverj to watch and restrain the enemy in Gloucester. The French and Americans were employed until the 6th of October, in conveying t^eir artillery and tores from the landing place to camp. On the night nf that day, they broke ground within six hundred Vol.Il. 2* 18 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1781 yards of the British lines ; and the first parallel WM completed with little loss. On the !)lh and 10th, guns were inounte.-l on the works, and the batteries began to play, with visible emjet, on the lines of the enemy. Many of their guns were soon silenced, and their works damaged. By the llth, the ensi:iy scarcely returned a shot. The shells and red hot balls of the besieger* reached the British shipping in the river, and set. the Charon frigate of forty-four guns, and several large transports on lire, which were entirely consumed. A spirit if emulation animated the troops of both nations, and the sieje was prosecuted with vigour and effect. On the night of the llth, the second parallel was be- gun within three hundred yards of the British lines. The working parties were not discovered until day- light, when the trenches were in a situation to cover the men. Three days were spent in completing the batteries of this parallel, which time the British inde fatigably employed upon their lines. They opened new emorasures, and their fire was more destructive than at any previous period of the siege. Two redoubts in particular, advanced in front of the British lines, and which flanked the second parallel of the Americans, gave great annoyance ; and it was deemed necessary to carry them by storm. To prevent national jealousy, and to keep alive the spirit of emulation, the attack of one was assigned to the American troops, and that of the other to the French. The Marquis La Fayette commanded the American detachment consisting of light infantry, which was designed to act against the redoubt near the river, and the Baron de Viominel, with the grena- diers and chasseurs of his nation, was ordered to storm the redoubt nearer to the British right. Colonel Hanii) ton, who through this campaign commanded a bat- talion of light iufantry, led the advanced corps of the Americans to the assault, while Colonel La.urens turned the redoubt and attacked in the rear, to pre 1781.] LIFE OF WASHINGTOiN. 19 vent, the retreat of the garrison. Without giving time for the abattis to be removed, and without firing a gun, the Americans gallantly assaulted, anu instantly car- ried the works. Their loss was one sergeant and eight privates killed ; and six officers, and twenty-six rank and fila wounded. The garri.'Oki war commanded by a Major, and consisted of about fifty men. Of thesOj eight privates were killed, a few individuals escaped, and the residue were made prisoners.* The redoubt attacked by the French was garrisoned by one hundred and twenty men, it made more res-.st- ance and was overcome at the loss of near one hundred men. Of the garrison eighteen were killed, and three officers and about forty privates were made prisoners. The Commander in Chief was highly pleased with the gallantry of the attacking troops on this occasion. In general orders he congratulated the army on the success oi'the enterprise, and thanked the troops for their cool and intrepid conduct. " The General ro fleets," conclude the. orders, " with the highest degree of pleasure, on the confidence which the troops of the two nations must hereafter have in each other. As- sured of mutual support, he is convinced there is no danger, which they will not cheerfully encounter, no * Tliis event look place soon after the wanton slaughter ol the men in Fort Griswold in Connecticut by the British. " The irritation of this recent carnage had not o far subdued the humanity of the American character as to induce retaliation. Not a man was killed except in action. 'Incapable,' said Colonel Hamilton in his report, 'of imitating 1 examples of bar- barity, and forgetting recent provocation, tiie soldiery spared every man that ceased to resist.' Mr. Gordon, in his History of the American War, states, the orders given by La Fayctte, with the approbation of WASHINGTON, to have directed, that every man in the redoubt, after its surrender, should be put lo the sword. These sanguinary orders, so repugnant to the character of the Commander in Chief, and of La Fayette, were never given. There is no trace ot them among the papers of General WASHINGTON ; snd Colonel Hamilton, who took a part in the enterprise, which assures his perfect knowledge . of every material occurrence, has uublickly contradicted tin statement." Judge Marshall 20 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1781 difficulty which they will not bravely overcome." The redoubts were the same night included within lht> second parallel. Lord Cornwallis well knew that the fire of the se cond parallel would soon render his works untenable, and determined to attempt to destroy it. The sortie appointed for this service consisted of three hundred and fifty men, and was commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Abercrombie. Witli great impetuosity, he at- tacked two batteries that were in the gr3atest forward . ness and carried them ; but the guards from OCT 15 the trenches advancing, he was compelled to retreat without having effected his purpose. A few pieces of cannon were hastily spiked ; but they were soon again rendered fit for use. The service was honourable for the ofh'cers and men engaged, but the Bicge was not protracted. By the afternoon of the IGtli the British works sunk under the fire of the batteries of the second parallel; in the whole front attacked, they could not show a single gun, and their sheils were nearly expended. In this extremity his Lordship adopted the desperate reso- lution to attempt an escape. Leaving the sick and wounded in his posts, he determined with his efficient force to cross over to Gloucester, disperse the troops under De Choise, mount his troops upon horses that might be found in the country, direct his course to the fords of the Great rivers, and make his way to New-York. For this purpose boats were collected, and other necessary measures taken On the night of the Kith the first ernbarcation arrived in safety at Gloucester, but at the moment the boats were return- ing, a violent storm arose, which forced them down the river. At day-light the storm subsided, and the boats were sent to bring back the soldiers to Yorktown, which with little loss, was accomplished in the course of the forenoon. On the morning of the 17th, the fire of the Amer' 1781.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. Jrt can battnries became intolerable, which soon, by its reiterated effects, rendered the British post untenable Lord Cornwallis, perceiving further resistance to be unavailing, about ten o'clock beat a parley, and pro- posed a cessation of hostilities for twenty-four hours, that Commissioners might meet to settle the terins or which the posts oi York and Gloucester should be sur- rendered. General WASHINGTON, in his answer, de- c.'ared his " ardent desire to spare the effusion of'blood, nno resolved that a marble column should be erected at York- tcwn in Virginia, bearing emblems of the alliance be Uveen the United States and his Most Christian Majesty, and inscribed with a succint narrative of the surrender of the British army under the command of Earl Cornwallis. Two stands of colours taken from the royal troops, were presented to General WASH INGTON, two field pieces to Count Rochambeau ; and application was made to the French Court that Count de Grasse might be permitted to accept a testimonial of the approbation of Congress, similar to that which Rochambeau had received. To the Commander in Chief the most affectionate and respectful addresses were presented by the govern ments of the states, by the authorities of cities, and by the corporations of literary institutions. The decided superiority of the allies in naval and land forces, General WASHINGTON wished to direct to the conquest of the British posts at Carolina and Geor gia. He addressed a letter to Count de Grasse on thia subject, requestinj: his co-operation in measures di- rected to these objects. But the Count declined, de- claring that the service of his King demanded hi* immediate return to the West Indies. - Orders were of course issued for the disposition of * VOL. II. 3 86 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1781 the allied armie* for the approaching winter. Major General St. Clair was detached with two brigades to South Carolina to reinforce General Green. The French forces remained in Virginia. The Eastern troops embarked early in November for the Head of Elk, under the command of General Lincoln, who was ordered to march them from the place of their landing into New-Jersey and New- York, and to canton them for the winter in those states. Count de Grasse with his fleet sailed for the West Indies, and General WASH XGTON proceeded to Philadelphia. CHAPTER IX. Preparations for another Campaign Sir Guy Carloton arrive* at New- York and announces the votoof Parliament to acknowledge Aincric.ui lndc|x:ii'lence Army anxious for their Pay Anony- mous Address exciting them to a Revolt General Washington convenes and addresses the Officers Thcii resolutions rre- liminary Articles of Peace received Cessation of Hostilities proclaimed General Washington addresses a Circular Letter to the Executives of the Several State* Army disbanded New Levies of Pennsylvania revolt The Commander in Chief enter* New- York Takes leave of his Officers Resigns his Commis- sion to the President of Congress Retires to Mount Vernon. 1. THE brilliant issue of the last campaign did not relax the vigilance of General WASHINGTON. He deemed it true policy to call forth all the resources of the country, that the United States might be prepared for the conflicts of another year, or, might take a com- manding attitude in a negotiation for peace. From Mount Vernon, on his way to' the scat of government, he wrote General Green,"! shall attempt to stimulate . Congress to the best improvement of our late success, by taking the most vigorous and effectual measures to be ready for an early and decisive campaign the nxt vear. My greatest fear is that, viewing this stroke in a point of light which may too much magnify its inv portance, they may think our work too nearly closed, and fall into a late of languor and relaxation. Tt /785J.J LIFE OF WASHINGTON 23 prevent tins errour, 1 shall employ every means in my power, and, if unhappily we sink into this fatal mistake, no part of the blame shall I } mine." He reached Philadelphia the 27th of November, and on tht next day had an audience of Congress. The President informed him that a committee war appointed tr> arrange the military establishment of the ~.ext year, and taut he was requested to remain in Pmladelphia to assist in this important business. At the consulta- tions of this Committee, the Secretary of War, the Minister of Finance, and the Secretary of Foreign Ad'airs assisted. The arrangements were made with despatch, and on the .lUth of December, Congress passed the resolves for the requisitions of men and money for the year 1782 upon the several states ; and the personal influence of the Commander in Chief was on this occasion used, to persuade the state govern- ments seasonably to comply with the resolutions of Congress. 1782. The first intelligence from the British govern- ment, after the surrender of Earl Cornwallis, indicated a design to continue the American war ; but early in May, Sir Guy Carlton arrived at New-York, to super sede Sir Henry Clinton as Commander in Chief of the British army ; and he and Admiral Digby were ap- pointed Commissioners to treat with the United States upon terms of peace. He communicated to General WASHINGTON a vote of the British Parliament against the prosecution of the American war ; and a bill au thorising the King to conclude a peace or truce with the recoiled provinces of North America. Sir Guy pro- fessed his pacifick disposition, and proposed that hostili- ties should cease, as these would produce individual distress without national advantage. This bill, when Sir Guy left England had not passed into a law, and therefore was not a proper basis of negotiation ; and the Commander in Chief continued his defensive pre- parations 28 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1782 In August Sir Guy officially informed Genera. WASHINGTON, that negotiations for a general peace had commenced at Paris ; and that his Britannicb Majesty had directed his Ministei to propose the In dependence of the United States as a preliminary. The deficiency of the states in paying their respec live requisitions of money into the national treasury ubjected the Minister of Finance to extreme difficul- ty ; but by anticipating the publick revenue, and by exerting, to the utmost, his personal influence, he was enabled barely to support the army. Neither Officers nor men received any pay. In September Congress contemplated the reduction of their military establish- ment. By this measure many of the officers would be discharged. In a confidential letter to the Secretary of War, the Commander in Chief expressed a full persuasion, that the gentlemen would gladly retire to private life, could they be reinstated in a situation as favourable as that which they quitted for the service of their country ; but added he, " I cannot help fearing the result of the measure, when I see such a number of men goaded by a thou- sand stings of reflection on the past, and of anticipa- tion on the future, about to be turned into the world, soured by penury, and what they call the ingratitude of the publick ; involved in debts without one farthing of money to carry them home, after having spent the flower of their days, and many of them, their patri- monies in establishing the freeJom and independence of their country ; and having suffered every thing which human nature is capable of enduring on this side of death. I repeat it, when I reflect on these ir- ritable circumstances, unattended by one thing to sooth their feelings, or brighten the gloomy prospect, I cannot avoid apprehending that a train of evils wil follow of a very serious and distressing nature. " I wish not to heighten the shades of the pioture to far as the real 'ife would justify me in doing, or 1 IV <2.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 2S wiuld give anecdotes of patriotism and distresa which ha/e scarcely ever been paralleled, never surpassed ih the. history of mankind. But you may rely upon it, the patience and lung-suffering of this army are almost exhausted, and there never was so great a spirit ;f discontent as at this instant. While in the field, I think it may be kept from breaking out into acts of outrage ; but when we rotiro into winter quarters, (unless the storm be previously dissipated) I cannot be at ease respecting the consequences. It is -ligb time for a peace." Although the military services of the field did not require the presence of the Commander in Chief, yet he was induced on account of the irritable state of the army to remain the whole season in camp. The disquietude of the army arose more from an ap- prehension, that their country would ultimately fail in the compensation promised them, than from the defi- ciency of prompt payment. In October 1780, Congress had passed a resolution, granting half pay to the officers for life ; but they had no funds to pledge for the fulfilment of these engage- ments. Publick opinion seemed to be opposed to the measure, and the pointed opposition by a number of the members of the National Legislature, rendered it doubtful whether a future Congress would feel them- selves bound by that resolution. This doubt was strengthened by the consideration that, since the pas- sage of the resolution, the articles of confederation had been adopted, and by these the concurrence of nine states, in Congress assembled, is necessary to the ap- propriation of publick money. Could absolute confi ience he placed in the honour and faith of the National Council, still they must depend on state sovereignties for the ways and means to execute their promises. The country had been greatly deficient to the army, in the time of war, when their services were absolute- ly necessary. Wo - |ld this country, amidst thn sncurity VOL. II 3 * 30 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1783 and tranquillity of peace, be more just ? As the pros- pects of immediate peace brightened, the attention of the officers became the more engaged to secure a com- pensation for those services which were the means to establish the independence of their country. In De rember they presented a memorial to Congress, stit:n that many of them had expended their private fortunes, and most of them the prime of life in the service) of their country, and petitioning that a gross sum might be granted them for the money actually due, and as a commutation for half pay. They chose a committee of officers to present their petition to Congress, and to attend its passage through that honourable body. At this period, Congress was much divided in opi nion upon the most important publick questions. State jealousies and interests arose in opposition to the en gagcments of the Nation ; and although part of Coil gress, respectable for number and weight of character, acknowledged the merit of the military, and were in- clined to do them justice, yet in March, the 1783. committee at the seat of government wrote the officers in camp, that no decisive measures were taken upon their petition. At this time, the intelli- gence arrived that the provisioned articles of peace be- tweenthe United States and Great Britain were signed. The army viewed the moment as the crisis of their desti- ny. They recollected their past sacrifices, they feh their present wants, and anticipated future sufferings. Resenting the ingratitude of their country, and appre he-id ing that it would ultimately be unjust, an irrita- ble s^ate of mind ensued, which threatened violences that would tarnish the glory of their own services, and commit tjie peace of their country. On the 10th of March, an anonymous paper was imitated, requesting a meeting at eleven o'clock, on the next day. at the public building, of the general and fielrf officers, of an o'.ficer from each company, ai.J & delegate from the medical staff to ' consider their laie 1783.] UFE OF WASHINGTON. 31 letter from their representatives in Philadelphia, and what measures (if any) should be adopted to obtain that redress of grievances which they seemed to have elicited in vain." On the same day, the following publication, artful- ly addressed to the passions of the officers, and admi- rably calculated to stimulate them to adopt the despe- rate measure it recommended, was circulated through the camp. " To the Officers of the Army. " GENTLEMEN, " A fellow soldier, whose interest and affections bind him strongly to you, whose past sufferings have been as great, and whose future fortune may be as despe- rate as yours would besr leave to address you. " Age has its claims, and rank is not without its pre- tensions to advise ; but though unsupported by both, he flatters himself, that the plain language of since- rity and experience will neither be unheard nor un- regarded. " Like many of you, he loved private life, and left it with regret. He left it, determined to retire from the field, with the necessity that called him to it, and not until then not until the enemies of his country, the slaves of power, and the hirelings of injustice, were compelled to abandon their schemes, and acknowledge America, as terrible in arms, as she had been humble in remonstrance. With this object in view, he has long shared in your toils and mingled in yonr dangers. He has felt the cold hand of poverty without a mur- mur, and has seen the insolence of wealth without a igh but, too much under the direction of his wishes, and sometimes weak enough to mistake desire for opinion, he has until lately, very lately, believed in th justice of his country. He hoped that as the cloud* f adversity scattered, and as the eunshine of peace and better fortune broke in upon us, the coldness r.nd K verity of government ",vould relax, and that more 52 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [173* than Justice, that gratitude would blaze forth upon Ihoae hands which had upheld her in the darkest stages of her passage, from impending servitude to acknowledged independence. IJrt faith has its limits as well as temper, and there are points beyord which neit icr can be stretched, without sinking into coward- ice, or plunging into credulity This, my friends, I conceive to be your situation hurried to the very verge of both, another step would ruin you fir ever to be tame ard unprovoked when injuries press hard upon you, is more than weakness ; but to look up for kinder usage, without one mai>ly effort of your own, would fix your character, and show the world how richly you deserve those chains you broke To guard aguinst this evil, let us take a review of the ground upon which we now stand, and from thence carry our thoughts forward for a moment, into the unexplored field of expedient. " \ller a pursuit of seven long years, the object for whii^h we set out is at length brought within our reach yes, my friends, that suffering courage of yours was active once it has conducted the United States of America through a doubtful and a bloody war. It has placed her in the chair of independency, and peace re- turns again to bless whom ? A country willing to redress your wrongs, cherish your worth, and reward your services ? A country courting your return to private life, with tears of gratitude, and smiles of ad- miration, longing to divide with you that independen- cy which your gallantry has given, and those rk- lies which your wounds have preserved ? Is this the case < Or is it rather a country that tramples upon your rights, disdains your cries, and insults your distresses ? Have you not more than once suggested your wishes, and made known your wants to Congress ? Wants and wishes which gratitude and policy should have antici- pated rather than evaded ; and have you not lately in the meek lan/juago of entreating memorials, begged 1783.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. S3 from their justice, what you could no longer expe^ from their favour ? How have you been answered ? Let the letter which you are called to consider to-raor row reply. " If this, then, be yonr treatment while the swords you wear are necessary for the dt fence of America, what have you to expect from peace, when vour voice shall sink, and your streugth dissipate by divi- won ? When those very swords, the instruments and companions of your glory shall be taken from your sides, and no remaining mark of mtlitary distinction left but your wants, infirmities, and scars ? Can you then consent to be the only sufferers by this revolu- tion, and retiring from the field, grow old in poverty, wretchedness, and contempt ? Can you consent to wade through the vile mire of dependency, and owe the miserable remnant of that life to charily, which has hitherto been spent in honour ? If you can go and carry with you the jest of lories and the scorn of whigs the ridicule, and what is worse, the pity of the world. Go, starve, and be forgotten ! Bt if your spirit should revolt at this ; if you have sense enough to discover, and spirit enough to oppose tyranny, un- der whatever garb it may assume ; whether it be the plain coat of republicanism, or the splendid robe of royalty; if you have not yet learned to disci iminate between a people and a cause, between men and prin- ciples awake ; attend to your situation, and redress yourselves. If the present moment be lost, every fu- ture effort is in vain ; and your threats then, will be as empty as your entreaties now. "I would advise you, therefore, to come to some final opinion upon what you canbe;ir, and what you will suffer. If your determination be in any proportion to your wrongs, carry your appeal from the justice to the fears of government. Change the milk and water style of your last memorial ; assume a bolder tone- decent, but lively, spirited, and determined, atd suspectthe man !M LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1783 who would advise to mare moderation and longer Forbearance l-.ot two or three men who can feel as well as write, be appointed to draw up your last re- monstrance ; for I would no longer give it the sueinor, soil., unsuccessful epithet of memorial. Let it be re- presented in 1'iivgiiage that will neitlier dilx>nour you by its rudeness, nor betray you by its fears, what has been promised by Congress, and what lias been per- formed h<>w long, and how patiently you have suffer- ed how little you have asked, and how much of that little lw.9 been denied. Tell tlusm that though you wore the first, ainl would wish to be the last to en- counter drtnirer, though despair itself can never drive you into dishonour, it m*y drive you front tne fie-ld ; that t.lve wound often irritated, and never healed, may at length become incurable; ami that the slightest mark of indignity from Congress now must operate like the grave, and part you for ever : that in any political event, lle army lias- its alternative. If peace, that no- thing sliall separate you- from your arms but death: if war, that courting the auspices, and inviting tlic di- rection of your illustrious leader, you will retire to some unsettled country, smile in. your turn, and mock when their fear cometh on. But let it represent also, that should they comply with the request of your late memorial, rt would- make you mon happy, and them more respectable. That while war should continue, you would follow their standard into the field, and whan it came to an end you would withdraw into the shade* of private life, and give the world another sub- ject of wonder and applause ; an army victorious over UP enemies victorious over itself." The reluctance which Congress manifested to com- pentale the army for seven years' glorious service, ex- cited i temper too favourable to the purposes of the writer of this intemperate address. Probably the in flueno- of General WASHINGTON alone could havo ar ted he rit'ng temuest : ana hit firmness and pru ITSq LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 35 dcnce were equal to the occasion. Silence in him would have encouraged the desperate to the prosecu- tion of the most rash design ; and strong and vioient measures would have enkindled the smothered spark into a destructive flame. Noticing in general orders the anonymous publication, he expressed his confidence that the judgment and patriotism of the army would for- bid their " attention to such an irregular invitation, but his own duty," he added, " as well as the reputa- tion and the trne interest of the army required his dis- approbation of such disorderly proceedings. At the same time, he requested the general and Held officers, with one officer from each company, and a proper re p/esentation from the staff of the army, to assemble at twelve on Saturday the loth, at the new building, to hear the report of the committee deputed by the army to Congress. After mature deliberation, they wiil de- vise what further measures ought to -be adopted as most rational and best calculated to obtain the just and important object in view." The senior officer in rank was directed "to preside, and to report the result of their deliberations to the Commander in Chief. The next day a second anonymous address was pub- lished. The writer affected to consider the orders of the General as countenancing the convention, recom- mended in the first publication. On the loth the officers met agreeably to orders, and General Gates took the chair. The Commander in Chief then addressed them. " GENTLEMEN, " By an anonymous summons an attempt has been made to convene you together. How inconsistent with the rules of propriety, how unrnilitary, and how subversive of all order and discipline, let the good sense of the army decide. " In the moment of this summons, another anony- nn us production was sent into circuration, addressed more to the feelings and passion* than to the judg- 36 LIFE O*' WASHINGTON. [1783 ment of the army. The author of the piece is enti tied to much credit for the goodness of his- pen ; and I could wish he had as much credit for the rectitude of his heart ; for, as men see through different opticks, and are induced by the reflecting faculties of the mind, to use different means to attain the same end, UHJ au- thor of the address should have had more charity than to mark for suspicion the man who should recommend moderation and longer forbearance ; or in other words, who should not think as he thinks, and act as he ad vises. But lie had another plan in view, in which can- dour and liberality of sentiment, regard to justice and love of country, htve no part ; and he was right to in- sinuate the darkest suspicion to eflfcct the blackest design. That the address was drawn with great art, and is designed to answer the nvost insidious purposes ; lhat it is calculated to impress the mind with an idea of premeditated injustice in the sovereign power of tie United States, and rouse all those resentments which must unavoidably flow front such a belief; tliat the secret mover of this scheme, whoever he may be, intended to take advantage of f he passions, while they were warmed by the recollection of past distress- es, without giving time for cool, deliberative thinking, and that composure of mind which is so necessary to give dignity and stability to measures, is rendered too obvious, by the mode of conducting the business, to need other proof than a reference to the proceedings, " Tims much, gentlemen, I have thought it incum- bent on me to observe to you, to show upon what prin- ciples I opposed the irregular and hasty meeting which was proposed to have been held on Tuesday last, and not because I wanted a disposition to give you every opportunity, consistent with your own honour, and the dignity of the army, to make known your grievances. If my conduct heretofore has not evinced to you, that I have been a faithful friend to the army, my declara- tion of it at this time would be equally unavailing and i;83.J LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 37 improper. But as 1 was among the first who embark- ed in the cause of our common country ; as I have ne- ver left your side one moment, -but when called from you on pu'blick -duty ; us I have 'been the constant com- panion and witness of your distresses, and not among the last to feel and acknowledge your merits : as I have ever considered my own military reputation as inseparably connected with that of the army ; as my heart has eve-r expanded with joy when I iiav^ licard- its praises, and my indignation has arisen wli-'ii the mouth of detraction has been opened against it ; it can scarcely be supposed at this last stage of the war, that I am indifferent to its interests. But how are they to be promoted ? The way is plain, says the anonymous addresser! If war continue, remove into the unsettled Country ; there establish yourselves, and leave an un- grateful country to defend itself; but who ire they to defend ? Our wives, our children, our taims and other (woperty which we leave behind us : Or in this state of hostile separation, are we to take the two first, (the latter cannot be removed) to perish in a wilderness with hunger, cold, and nakedness ? " If peace takes place, never sheath your swords," says he, " until you ha'"e obtained full and ample jus- tice." This dreadful alternative of either deserting our country in the extremest hour of her distress, or turning OUT arms against it. which is the apparent ob ject, unless Congress can be compelled into infant compliance, has something so shocking in % that hu- manity revolts at the idea. My God! What can this writer have in view, by recommending such measures: Can he be a friend to the army ? Can he be a friend to this country ? Rather is he not an insidious foe ; gome emissary, perhaps, from New-York, plotting the ruin of both, by sowing the seeds of discord and sepa- ration between the civil and military powers of the continent ? And what a compliment does he pay to our understandings, when he recommends measures, in ei- VOL IT. 4 3S LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 1.1783 their alternative, impracticable in their nature ? But here, gentlemen. I will drop the curtain, because it would be as imprudent in me to assign my reason! for this opinion,, as it would be insulting to your con ception to suppose you stood in need of them. A mo- ment's reflection will convince every dispassionate tnind of the physical impossibility of carrying either proposal into execution. There might, gentlemen, be an impropriety in my taking notice, in this address to you, of an anonymous production ; but the manner in which that performauce has been introduced to the ar- my ; the effect it was intended to have, together with some other circumstances, will amply justify my obser- vation on the tendency of that writing. "With respect to the advice given by the author, to suspect the man who shall recommend moderate mea- sures and longer forbearance, 1 spurn it, as every man who regards that liberty and reveres, that justice for which we contend, undoubtedly must ; for, if men are to be precluded from offering their sentiments on a matter which may involve the most serious and alarm- ing consequences that can invite the consideration of mankind, reason is of no use to us. The freedom of speech may be taken- away, and dumb and silent we may be led, like sheep to the slaughter. I cannot ir justice to my own belief, and what I have great rea- son to conceive is the intention of Congress, conclude thL'' address, without giving it as my decided opinion, that that honourable body entertain exalted sentiments of the services of the army, and from a full conviction of its merits and sufferings, will do it complete jus- tice. That their endeavours to discover and establish funds for this purpose have been unwearied, and will not cease until they have succeeded, I have not a doubt. " Bat like all other large bodies, where there is a va- riety of different interests to reconcile, their determi nations are slow. Why then should we distrust them And in consequence of thai Distrust, adopt measure! 783.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 30 which may cast a shade over that glory which lias "been ID justly acquired, and tarnish the reputation of an trmy which is celebrated through all Europe for its trtitude and patriotism? And for what is this done ? To bring the obiect we seek nearer ? No ; most cer luinly, in iny opinion, it will cast it at a greater dis tance. For myself, (and I take no merit in giving the assurance, being induced to it from principles of gra titude, veracity, and justice, and a grateful sense of the confidence you have ever placed in me) a recollection of the cheerful assistance and prompt obedience 1 hatfe experienced from yon, under every vicissitude of for tune, and the sincere affection I feel for an army 'have so long had the honour to command, \vill oblige me to declare in this publick and solemn manner, that in the attainment of -complete justice for all your toils and dangers, and in the gratification of every wish, so far as may be done consistestly with the great duty 1 owe my country, and those powers we arc bound to re- spect, you may freely command my services to the utmost extent of my abilities. " While I give you these assurances, and pledge myself in the most unequivocal manner, to exert what- ever abilities I am possessed of in your favour, let me entreat you, gentlemen, on your part, not to take any measures, which viewed in the calm light of reason, will lessen the dignity, and sully the glory you have hitherto maintained : lot me request you to rely on the plighted faith of your country, and place a fuil confidence in the purity of the intentions of Congress ; that previous to your dissolution as an army, they will cause all your accounts to be fairly liquidated, as di- rected in the resolutions which were published to you two days ago ; and that they will adopt the most ef- fectual measures in their power to render ample justice to you for your faithful and meritorious services. And let me conjure you, in the name of our common coau try, as vou naiue your own sjred honour: u you 40 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [I7&S respect the rights of humanity ; and as you regard the military anxl mtioiial character of America ; to express your utmost borrour and detestation of the man who wishes, under any specious pretences, to overturn the liberties of our country ; and who wickedly attempts to open the floodgates of civil discord, and deluge our rising empire in blood. " By thus determining, and thus acting, you wil 1 firsue the plain: and direct road to the attainment ot your wishes; yon will defeat the insidious designs of our enemies, who are compelled to resort from open force to tgs ; and yot* will by the dignity of your conduct afford occasion for posterity to say, when speaking of the glorious example yoa lave exhibited to imrtkiitd -Irad this dy been wanting, the world had never seen- the List stage of perfection to which human nattire is capable of attaining." In the judgment, honour, and friendship of their Ge- aeral, the officers placed unbounded confidence ; aad his recommendations carried ii resistible weight. The most desperate had not the hardihood to oppose his ad- vice. General Knox moved, and Brigadier General Putnam seconded a resolution, " assuring him that the officers reciprocated his affectionate expressions with the greatest sincerity of which the human heart ia capable," which passed unanimously. On motion of General Putnam a committee ws tlten chosen, con- sisting of General Knox, Colon*?! Brooks, and Captain ilc-ywood, to prepare resolutions on the business before them. They reported the following resolutions, which on mature deliberation passed unanimously, <; Resolved unanimously, that at the commencement of the present war, the officers of the American army engaged in the service of their, country from the pur- >sl love and attachment to the rights and likeitis of 1783.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON 41 human nature which motives still exist in the high- est degree ; and that no circumstances of distress or danger shall induce a conduct that may tend to sully the reputation and glory which they have acquired, at the price of their blood and eight years faithful ser- vices. " Resolved unanimously, that the army continue to hare an unshaken confidence in the justice of Con- gress and their country, and are fully convinced that the Representatives of America will not disband or disperse the army until their accounts are liquidated, the balances accurately ascertained, and adequate funds established for payment ; and in this arrange- ment, the officers expect that the half pay, or a com- mutation for it, should be efficaciously comprehended. " Resolved unanimously, that his Excellency the Commander in Chief be requested to write to his Ex- cellency the President of Congress, earnestly entreat- ing thi3 rnost speedy decision of that honourable body upon the subject of our late address, which was for- warded by a Committee of the army, some of whom are waiting upon Congress for the result. In the al- ternative of peace or war, this event would be highly satisfactory, and would produce immediate tranquillity in the minds of the army, and prevent any further machinations of designing men, to sow discord between the civil and military powers of the United States. " On motion, resolved unanimously, that theoflios.Ti of the American army view with abhorrence and re- ject with disdain, the infamous propositions contained n a late anonymous address to the officers of the army, and resent with indignation the secret attempts of some unknown persons to collect the officers together, in a manner totally subversive of all discipline and good order. " Resolved unanimously, that the thanks of the offi- cers of the army be given to the Committee wrio pre outed to Congress the late address of the aii 17, fed 4 12 LIFE OF WASHiKG'^r^. [1783 the wisd.. .TI and prudence v, ita , thpy he^econ ducted that business ; aw' t!.a f . ~<>,,y pi* the proceed- ings of this day, be tr i'.rr'.tt jil by the President to Major General M'Dor/ a. 1 . ; and that lie be requested to continue his solicit i/ons at Congress, until the ob- jects of his mission a / accomplished." Machinations whi .'/ threatened the army with dis grace, and. the cov ', y with ruin, being thus happily suppressed, Gener . WASHINGTON without delay exe- cuted his pro in is - j the officers ; and in a letter tr Congress with fet ' j and force supported their claim* upon their count] Soon after the . proceedings, nine states concurreo in a resolution, ' minuting the half pay into a SUIT equal to five year ' whole pay. Still Congress depend- ed oa the stales t< furnish the funds to enable them to fulfil this engagei lent. In April the ra ification of the preliminary articles of peace between France and Great Britain was receiv- ed, and on the Hi h of that month, a cessation of hos- tilities was procUrmed in the American camp. In June Gener 1 WASHINGTON addressed a circular letter on the imp< rtant interests of the Union, to the Governors of the several states. It began, SIR, " The great object for which I had the honour to Mold an appointment in the service of iny country, be- jiig accomplished, 1 am now preparing to resign it into the hands of Congress / and return to that doniest.ick retirement, v hich it is well known, 1 loft with the grcateot reluctance ; a retirement for whn;ti 1 havo never ceased to -igh through a long and painful ab- sence, in which ( remote from the noise and trouble of the world) Imecitate to pass the remainder of life in a state of pndutorbed repose ; but. before 1 c;irry this resolution into eJTect, 1 think it a duty incumbent on me to make tlus my last official communication, tn congratulate you on the glorious evwnts which Heaven 1783.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 43 has been pleased to produce in our favour ; to offer rny sentiments respecting some important subjects which appear to me to be intimately connected with the tran- quillity of the United States ; to take my leave of your Excellency as a publick character, and to give my final blessing to that country in whose service I have pent the prime of my life ; for whoso sake I have consumed so many anxious days and watchful nights ; on.ould possibly be more strongly impressed with their present ineligible situation ; feel a keener sensibility at their distresses ; or more ardently desire to alleviate or remove them." He subjoined. " Although the officers of the army very well know my official situation, that I am only a servant of the publick, and that it is not with me to dispense with orders which it is my duty to carry into execution, yet as furloughs in all services are considered as a matter of indulgence, and not of compulsion ; as Congress, I am persuaded, entertained the best disposition towaida the army ; and, as I apprehend, in a very short time the two principal articles of complaint will be removed ; until the further pleasure of Congress can be known, I shall nut. hesitate to comply with the wishes of the army, under these reservations only, that officers suf- ficient to conduct the men who choose to receive fur- loughs, will attend them, either on furlough, or by de- tachment." This answer proved satisfactory ; good humour pre- vailed through the camp, furloughs were generally taken ; and in the course of the summer, the g r eater part of the soldiers returned quietly home. In October, Congress issued a proclamation, de- claring all those soldiers, who had engaged for the war, discharged on the 3d of December. While the veteran troops, who had homo the heat and burden of the war, left the service unpaid, and peaceably returned to the business of private life , about eighty new levies, stationed at Lancaster in Penn sylvania, revolted from their officers, and in a bodj 1783.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 43 marched to Philadelphia. Being there joined by two hundred of their companions in arms who were quar- tered in the barracks, they surrounded, with fixed bay- onets, the State House, in which Congress and the Ex- ecutive Council of Pennsylvania were sitting, and sent in a written message threatening the Council with the last outrage, if their demands were not, in twenty mi- nutes, granted. The mombors of Congress were not immediately menacpd, but they were, for several hnurs, insolently blocked up in their hall. As soon as General WASHINGTON received intelli gence of the mutiny, he detached General Howe with fifteen hundred men to suppress it ; but before lie reached Philadelphia, the disturbance was without bloodshed quieted. In a letter to Congress, General WASHINGTON thus expressed his indignation at this outrage of the military. " While I suffer the most poignant distress in observ- ing that a handful of men, contemptible in numbers, and equally so in point of service, (if the veteran troops from the southward have not been seduced by their example) and who are not worthy to be called soldiers, should disgrace themselves and their country, as the Pennsylvania mutineers have done, by insulting the sovereign authority of the United States, and that of their own, I feel an inexpressible satisfaction, that even this behaviour cannot slain the name of the American soldiery. It cannot be impotable to, or reflect dis>io nour on the army at large, bti on 'the contrary it will by the striking contrast it exhibits, hold up to pviblick viw the other troops in the most advantageous point of light. Upon taking all the circumstances into con- sideration, I cannot sufficiently express my surprise and indignation at the arrogance, the folly, and tha wickedness of the mutineers ; nor can 1 sufficiently admire the fidelity, the bravery, and patriotism whi^h must for ever signalize the unsullind character of tha other corps of our army. For when we consider thai VOL. 31. 5 60 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [ITE's these Pennsylvania levies^ who have now mutinied, are recruits, and soldiers of a clay, who have not borne the heat.an'l burden of the war, and who can have, in reality, very few hardships to complain of; and when Wt at the same time recollect that those soldiers, who have lately been furloughed from this army, are the veterans who have patiently endured hunger, naked- ness, and cold ; who have suffered and bled without a murmur, and who with perfect good order, have re- tired to their homes, without a settlement of-their ac- counts, or a farthing of money in their pockets ; we shall be as much astonished at the virtues of the latter, as we are struck with horrour and detestation at the proceedings of the former ; and every candid mind, without indulging ill grounded prejudices, will un- doubtedly make the proper discrimination. 1 ' On the 2~>th of November, the British troops evacu- ated New-York. General WASHINGTON, accompanied by Governour Clinton, by a number of other civil and military officers, and by many respectable citizens, make his publick entry on horseback into the city. His military course bring honourably and success- fully terminated, the painful task remained to bid adieu to the companions of his toils and dangers. The clos- ing interview took place on the 4th of December. At noon the principal officers of the army assembled at Francis's tavern, and their General soon entered the room. His emotions were too great for concealment Filling a glass of wine he turned to them and said, " With a heart full of love and gratitude, I now ta';e leave of you ; I most devoutly wish that your latter days may be as prosperous and happy, as your former ones have been glorious and honourable." He drank the wine, and proceeded. " I cannot come to each of you to take my leave, but shall be obliged to you, if each of you will come and take me by the hand.' General Knox being the nearest, turned to him. In- capable \>f utterance, General WASHINGTON grasped 1783.1 LIFE OF WASHINGTON 5\ his hand and embraced him. In the same affecting manner, ho took leave of each succeeding officer. From every eye dropped the tsar of sensibility, and not a single word interrupted the tenderness of the scene. He immediately left the room, and passed through a corps of light infantry, on his way to White Hall, where a barge waited to convey him to Powles' Hook. The whole company followed with feelings which words cannot express. Having entered the barge, he turned, and waving his hat, bade them a silent adieu Congress 'was then in session at Annapolis. To this honourable body, the General immediately re- paiied to resign his military command.* * On his way to Annapolis-, he stopped at Philadelphia to settle his accounts ; of which transaction Dr. Gordon makes the (allowing statement. " While in the city, he delivered in his accounts to the Comptroller, down to Deceml>erJ3th, all in his own hand-writ- ing, and every entry made in the most particular manner, stat- ing the occasion of each charge, so as to give the least trou ble in examining and comparing them with the vouchers, wkh which they were attended. T!u heads an as follow* , copied from lite folio manuscript pa- per bonk in the jilt of the treasury ojf.cf, No. 3700, being a black box of tin, containing, under lock and key, both tliat and the vouchers. Total of Expenditures from 1775 to 17(33, ex- clusive of Provisions from Commissaries and Contractors, and of liquors, &.C. from them and others, 3387 14 * Secret intelligence and service, 1982 100 Spent in reconnoitring and travelling, .... 1874 8 8 Miscellaneous charges, 2952 10 1 Expended besides, dollar* according to the scale of depreciation, . . bi!4 14 16,311 17 1 *' Two hundred guineas advanced to General M'DnugaJ are not included in tho l982 10, not being yot settled, but included ia onie of tho other charges, and BO reckoned in the general sum." IS LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1783 He arrived on the 19th, and on the next day inform- ed Congress of his desire to resign into their hands the commission with which they had invested him as-Cuin- mander in Chief of the American armies ; and he. ask ed in what form he should present his resignation Congress resolved that it should be at a publick audi nre on the succeeding Tuesday. When the moment cf this interesting transaction arrived, the gallery waa crowded with spectators ; and many of the civil offi- cers of the state and of the principal officers cf the Note. 104,364 of the dollars wpre received after March, 1780. and although credited forty for one, many did not fetch at the rate of a hundred for one, while 27,775 of them are re- turned without deducting any thir.g from the above acroum (and, iherelwv, actually made a present of to the publick.) (General WASHINGTON'S account) from June, 1775, to the end of June, 1783, .... 16,31117' Expenditure from July 1, 1783, to December 13, 1717 6 4 fAtii led afterwards) from thence to December 28, 213 8 4 Mrs. Washington's travelling expenses in com- ing to the General and returning, 1064 10 I[),J06 11 9 Lawful money of Virginia, the same as the Massachusetts, or 14,479 18 9^, sterling. " The General entered in his hook " 1 find, upon the final adjustiiM ill of these accounts, tha 1 1 am a considerable loser niv disbursements (blling a good deal short of mv receipts, awl lire money 1 had upon hand of my own: for besides me j:ngh iiur ry I suppose, and tlie perplexity of business ('or 1 fc'iow mv IUAV el.se to account lor the deficiency) I have omitted u i barge the same, whilst every debit against me. is here credit d. July 1, 17C3." 1783.J LIFE OF WASHINGTON 53 army, the French Consul General, and a large body of respectable citizens were admitted to the floor of the Hall. The members of Congress, representing the sovereignty of the nation, were seated and covered. At twelve o'clock, General WASHINGTON was intro- duced and conducted to a chair. After a short inter- val the Secretary commanded silence. The President then informed the general, " that the United States in Congress assembled, were' prepared to receive his com- munications." With dignity of manner suited to the occasion, he arose and addressed them : " Mr. PRESIDENT, " The great events, on which my resignation depend- ed, having at length taken place, I have now the ho- nour of offering my sincere congratulations to Con- gress, and of presenting myself before them to surren- der into their hands the trust committed to me, and to claim the indulgence of retiring from the service of my country. " Happy in the confirmation of our independence and sovereignty, and pleased with the opportunity af- forded the United States of becoming a respectable nation, I resign, with satisfaction, the appointment I accepted with diffidence ; a diffidence in my abilities to accomplish so arduous a task, which, however, was superseded by a confidence in the rectitude of our cause, the support of the supreme power of the Union, and the patronage of Heaven. " The successful termination of the war has verified the most sanguine expectations ; and my gratitude for the interposition of Providence, and the assistance 1 have received from my countrymen, increases with every review of the momentous contest. " While I repeat my obligations to the army in ge neral, I should do injustice to my own feelings not to acknowledge, in this place, the peculiar services and distinguished merits of the gentlemen who have boon attached to my person during the war. It was mpos- 5* t>4 LIFK OF WASHINGTON. [l~tt Bible the choice of corifide.itial officers to compose my family should have been more fortunate. Permit me, sir, to recommend in particular, those who hive con- tinued in the service to the present moment, as worthy of the favourable notice and patronage of Congress. " 1 consider it as an indispensable duty to close this hist solemn act of my official life, by commending the interests of our dearest country to the protection cf Almighty God, and those who have the superinten- dence of them to his holy keeping. " Having now finished the work assigned me, I re- tiie from the great theatre of action, and b ; -lding an affectionate farewell to this august body, under .wnose orders I have so long actedj here oiler my cominis sicn, and take my leave of all the employments of publick life.'' Having advanced to the chair and delivered the President his Commission, he received from him the following reply : " SIR, " The United States in Congress assembled, re- ceive, with emotions too affecting for utterance, the solemn resignation of the authorities under which you have led their troops with success, through a perilous and a doubtful war. " Called upon by your country to defend its invaded rights, you accepted the sacred charge, before it had formed alliances, and whilst it was without funds or a * government to support you. " You have conducted the great military contest with wisdom and fortitude, invariably regarding the rights of the civil power, through all disasters and changes. You have by the love and confidence of your fellow citizens, enabled them to display their martial genius, and transmit their fame to posterity. You have persevered, till these United Slates, aided by a magnanimous king and nation, have been en; bled under a just P-ovidence, ta close the war in freodfn 1783.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. bo safety, and independence ; en which happy event, we sincerely join you in congratulations. " Having defended the standard of liberty in thii new world ; having taught a lesson useful to thoe who inflict, and to those wh6 feel oppression, you re- tire from the great theatre of action, with the bless- ings of your fellow citizens ; but the glory of yonr vi-tues will not terminate with your military com maud ; it will continue to animate remotest ages. " We feel, with you, our obligations to the army in general, and will particulary charge ourselves with the interests of those confidential officers, who have at tended your person to this affecting moment. " We join you in commending the interests of our dearest country to the protection of Almighty God, be- seeching him to dispose the hearts and minus of its citizens, to improve the opportunity afforded them of becoming a happy and respectable nation. And for you. we address to him our earnest prayers, that- a life so beloved, may be fostered with all his care ; that your days may be as happy as they have been illustri- ous ; and that he will finally give you that reward which this world cannot give." The General immediately retired from the hall of Congress. The minds of the spectators were deeply impressed by ihe scene. The recollection of the cir- cumstances of the country at the time the commission was accepted, the events that had since taken place, ant: the glorious issue of the conflict conspired to give tne' scene the most lively interest. His country being exalted to the dignity of a sove- reign and independent nation, General WASHINGTON with great satisfaction re^ignad the arduous duties and high responsibility of his military command. Ho re- paired to Mount Vernon, in the delightful prospect of spending the residue of his days in the bosom of do- niestick life. With an immaculate character he had passed 66 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [178* through all the complicated tra.isactions of a revolu- tionary war ; and lad established an immortal reputa- tion as a soldier and a patriot, throughout the '.vilized world. To his retirement he carried the piofound veneration and must lively affection of his grateful rnun trymen. In the estimation of his friends, the measure of his honour was full. The extent of their wishes was, that no unpropitious event might take place to tarnish the lu.stro of his reputation ; but that in peace he- might descend to the grave, with his laurel crawn unladed on his head. CHAPTER X. General Washington in Retirement Ilia Pursuits Votes of Con Sirs* ami of iho !lalure of Virginia resecting Mm His Visitors and CorrenpoMdcnU Uii Plans to improve the Navi- gation of th! Potoiniu-k anf the services of her distinguished citizen. In a spacious area in the centre of the capi- tal of that state, she erected a marble statue of him, with the following inscription on its pedestal. "The General Assembly of .the Commonwealth of Virginia have caused this statue to be erected as a monument of affection and gratitude to GF.OKGK WASHINGTON, who, uniting in the endowments of the LIE HO the virtues of the PATRIOT, and ex- erting both in the establishment of the liberties of his country, has rendered his namo dear to his fellow c it i- rens. and given the world an immortal example of true glory." In addition to these expressions of publick venera- tion, innumerable addresses from literaiy and other incorporations were presented to him, which, in ar- dent language, expressed the veneration universally felt for his character, and the admiration entertained for his services. His well-balanced mind borr these publick and private honours without a symptom of vanity or pride. The pursuits of General WASHINS.-OS at this period were a renewal of habits, formed at an earlier part of life, and a recurrence to employments in which he ever took delight; and he experienced nothing of that dissatisfaction and listlessness of which gentlemen often complain, who leave the cares of a publick sta lion for the tranquil scenes of retirement. The im- provement of American husbandry engaged his cl.isa 1784.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 50 attention, and in the prosecution of plans adapted to this purpose, he entered into a correspondence with Mr. Arthur Young, and other distinguished European ogriculturists. The result ol their information, and of his own experience, he applied, to amend his farm- ing implements, to improve his breed of cattle, and in various experiments, suited to the soil he cultivated. The plans which succeeded with him, he recommend ed to the farmers around him. But even in the shade of Mount Vernon, the time of General WASHINGTON was not wholly at his own disposal. Every foreigner of distinction who visited the United States was urgent for an introduction to the late Commander in Chief; and every American of any consequence, who was about to cross the At- lar.tick, was ambitious to obtain letters from him to celebrated characters in Europe. With numbers of the officers of the late army, with many of the politi cal characters of his own country, and with several emi- nent individuals of Europe, he held a correspondence Ceremonious visitors and officious correspondents be- came oppressive to him, and in a letter to a friend, he thus complained of the burden of them. " It is not, my dear Sir, the letters of my friends which give me trou ble, or add ought to my perplexity. I receive them with pleasure, and pav as much attention to them as my avo- cations will permit. It is references to old matters with which I have nothing to do ; applications which often times cannot be complied with ; inquiries to satisfy which would employ the pen of an historian ; letters of compliment, as unmeaning, perhaps, as they are trou blesome, but which must be attended to ; and the com- mon place business, which employ my pen and my time, often disagreeably. Indeed these, with compa ny, deprive n e of exercise ; and uniess I can obtain relief, must be productive of disagreeable consequen- ces. Already, 1 begin to feel their effects. Heavy and gainful oppressions of the head, and other disa 60 MFL OF WASHINGTON. [1784. precab.e sensations often trouble me. I am therefore determined to employ sqme persi/n who shall case me of^th' driidtrertj of this business. To correspond with those I love, is among my highest gratifications. Let- ters of friendship require no study ; the communica- tions they contain flow with ease ; tmd allowances are expected -and are maf'.e. But this is not the case with those which require research, consideration, and re- collection." At length he engaged a young gentle- man of talents and education, w';o relieved him from a. great part of these irksome attentic-is. The patriot'ek mind of General WASHINGTON could not however be engrossed by his own concerns. In his retirement, he with solicitude watched over the interests of his country. The improvement of its in- land navigation early engaged his reflections. Plans which the war had interrupted, were now resumed upon an enlarged scale. This year he visited the west- ern country as far as Pittsburof, and having collected the necessary information, he opened his scheme to Mr. Harrison, then Governour of Virginia. This was to render the rivers Potomack and James naviga- ble as high as practicable ; to take accurate surveys of the country between these rivers and the streams which empty into the Ohio, and find the most advan- tageous portages between them ; to survey tiie waters west of th'e Ohio, which empty into the lakes ; and to open such inland navigation between- these waters, as would secure the trade of the western country to Vir- ginia _and Maryland. " Nature," he observed, " had made such an ample display of her bounties in those regions, that the more the country waa explored tho more it would rise in estimation." He was persuaded that Pennsylvania and New- York would adopt mea- sures, to direct the trade of that country to their sea ports, and he was anxious that his native stnte should seasonably avail herself of the advantages she possess- ed to secure her share in it " I am not," he decV.oJ, 178-1.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. Cl " for discouraging the exertions of any state to draw the commerce of the western country to its see,- porto The more communications we open to it, the closer wo bind that rising world, (for it indeed may be BO called) to our interests, anj the greater strength shall we acquire by it. Those to whom nature affords ths best communication, will, if they are wise, enjoy thi greatest share of the trade. All I would be u/i- derslood to mean therefore, is, that the gifts of Provi- dence may not be neglected." But political motives had higher influence in this transaction than commer- cial. " I need not remark to you, Sir," said he in his communication to the Governour of Virginia, "-that the flanks and rear of the United States are possessed by other powers, and formidable ones too ; nor need I press the necessity of applying the cement of interest to bind all parts of the union together by indissoluble bonds ; especially of binding that part of it which lies immediately west of us, to the middle states. For what ties, let me ask, should we have apon those people, how entirely unconnected with them shall wo be, and what troubles may we not apprehend, if the Spaniards on their right, and Great Britain on their left, instead of throwing impediments in '.heir way as they now do, should hdld ou_ lures for their trade and alliance i When tney get strength, which will be sooner than most people conceive, what will be the consequence of their having formed close commercial connexions with both, or either of those powers, it needs not, in my opinion, the gift of prophecy to foretell. " The western settlers (I speak now from my own observations) stand as it were upon a pivot. The touch of a feather would turn them any way. Until the Spaniards (very unwisely as I think) threw difficulties in their way, they looked down the Mississippi ; and they looked that way for no other reason than because they could gently glide down the stream ; without considering perhaps the fatigues of the voyage back VOL. II. G B8 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1784 again, and the time necessary for its performance and because they have no other means of coming to us. but by a long land transportation through unim- proved roads." These recommendations were not lost. Under the patronage of the governments of Virginia and Mary land, two companies were formed for opening the navi- gation of the Potornack and the James. Of bot.h which General WASHINGTON consented to be the president. The Legislature of Virginia by a resolution which passed unanimously, directed the treasurer of the state M subscribe for one hundred and fifty shares in each company for the benefit of General WASHINGTON. The appropriation was made in a manner the most affecting to a noble mind. The assembly expressed a wish, that while the improvements of their inknd navigation were monuments f his glory, they might also be monuments of his country's gratitude. The donation placed him in a very delicate and embarrassed situation. The ftelings excited by this generous and honourable act of his state, he fully expressed to the friend, who informed him of the passage of the bill. " It is not easy for me to decide by which my mind was most affected upon the receipt of your letter of the sixth instant surprise or grat'' ^de. Both were greater than 1 had words to express. The attention and good wishes which the assembly has evidenced by their act for vesting in me one hundred and fifty shares in the navigation of the rivers Potomack and James, is more than mere compliment there is an un- equivocal and substantial meaning annexed. But, be- lieve me, Sir, no circumstance has happened since 1 left the walks of publick life which has so mach embarrass- ed me. On the one hand, I consider this act, as I have already observed, as a noble and unequivocal proof of the good opinion, the affection, and disposition of my country to serve me ; and I should be hurt, if by declining the acceptance of it, my refusal should INI /784-7.J LIFE OF WASHINGTON & construed into disrespect, or the smallest slight upch the general intention of the Legislature; or that an ostentatious display of disinterestedness, or publick virtue, was the source of refusal. K On the other hand, it is really my wish to havo my mind and my actions, which are the result of re- flection, as free ant: independent as the air, that 1 may be more at liberty (in things which my opportunities and experience have brought rne to the knowledge of) to express rny sentiments, and if necessary, to suggest what may occur to me, under the fullest conviction that although my judgment may be arraigned, there will be no suspicion that sinister motives had the small- est influence in the suggestion. Not content then with the bare consciousness of rny having in all this navigation business, acted upon the clearest convic- tion of the political importance of the measure. I would wish that every individual who may hear that it was a favourite plan of mine, may know also, that I had no other motive for promoting it, than the ad vantage of which I conceived it would bo productive to the union at large, and to this state in particular, by cementing the eastern and western territory together, at the same time that it will give vigour and increase to our commerce, and be a convenience to our citi- zens. " How would this matter be viewed then by the eye of the world, and what opinion would be formed when it comes to be related that G***** \V********n exerted himself to effect this work, and that G***** W********js has received twenty thousand dollars and five, thousand pounds sterling of the publick money aa an interest therein? Would not this (if I api entitled to any merit for the part 1 have performed, and with- out it there is no foundation for the act) deprive me of the principal thing which is laudable in my con- duct ? Would it not in some respects be considered Ui the same V-jrht as a pension ? And would not th 04 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1784-7 apprehension of this induce me to offer my sentiments in future with the more reluctance ? In a word under whatever pretence, and however customary these gra tuities may be in other countries, should I not thunce forward be considered as a dependant ? One nxoinent'a thought of which would give me more pain than I should receive pleasure from the product of all the tolls, was every farthing of them vested in me." After great deliberation, ho determined to appro- priate the shares to such publick uses as the Legisla- ture should approve. In communicating this determi- nation through the Governour, to the General As Bemblv, he begged him to assure them that he was "rilled on tho occasion with every sentiment which can How from a heart, warm w "H love to his country sensible to every token of its approbation and affection, *jnd solicitous to testify in every instance a respectful attention to its wishes." According to his desire, the shares were appropriated to the support of a college in the vicinity of each of those rivers. The Cincinnati had in their original constitution secured perpetuity of existence to their society. The eldest male posterity of the officers were to succeed to the places of their fathers, and in the failure of them, a collateral branch might be introduced. Individuals also of the respective states, distinguished for their talents and patriotism, might be ndrnitted as honora- ry members for life. In this part of the institution, some American patriots thought they perceived the seeds of an order of nobility, and publick jsalousy was excited against the society. General WASHINGTON, their President, conceived that if popular prejudices could not be removed, the society ought " to yield to them in a degree, and not suffer that which was in- tended for the best of purposes to produce a bad one.' On full inquiry, he found that objections to tVe insti- tution were general throughout the United States, under the apprehension that it would prove dangerous ,/84-7.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON 65 to publick liberty, he therefore exerted his influence among tin,- officers to induce them to drop the offen- sive part of the institution, and at the annual meeting in May 17^7, the hereditary principle, and the power to adopt honorary members, were expunged from the constitution. This modification fully removed the publick apprehension. Experience proved the articles under which the United States originally confederated to be inadequate tc the purposes of national government ; and wise and good men in every part of the union anxiously looked forward to a crisis in publick affairs. Many of Ge- neral WASHINGTON'S friends intimated to him that tho occasion would call for his personal influence. Mr Jay, in letters written in the spring and summer of 1780, with feeling described the state of the country, " You have wisely retired from publick employments, and calmly view from the temple of fame, the various exertions of that sovereignty and independence, which Providence has enabled you to be so greatly and glori- ously instrumental hi securing to your country, yet I am persuaded that you cannot view them with the eyo of an unconcerned spectator. " Experience has pointed out errours in our nation- al government which call for correction, and which threaten to blast the fruit we expected from the tree of liberty. An opinion begins to p-evail that a general convention tor revising the articles of confederation would be expedient. Whether the people are yet ripe for such a measure, or whether the system pro- posed to be obtained by it is only to be expected troin calamity and commotion is difficult to ascertain " 1 think we are in a delicate situation, and a varie ly of considerations and circumstances give me un- easiness. It is in contemplation to take measursB for forming a general convention. The plan is not ma- tured. If it should be well connected and take effect, I am fervent in rny wishes that it mav comport with 6* ho LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1784-' the line of life you have marked out for yourself, t favour your country with your counsels on such an important and single occasion. " Our affairs seem to lead to some crisis, something that 1 cannot foresee or conjecture. I am uneasy and apprehensive, more so than during the war. Then we had a fixed object, and though the means and time of obtaining it were problematical, yet I did firmly be- lieve that we should ultimately succeed, because I did firmly believe that justice was with us. The case is now altered. We are going and doing wrong, and therefore I look forward to evils and calamities, but without being able to guess at the instrument, nature, or measure of them. " That we shall again recover, and things again go well, I have no doubt. Such a variety of circumstan- ces would not, almost miraculously, have combined to liberate and make us a nation, for transient and un- important purposes. I therefore believe that we are yet to become a great and, respectable people ; but when or how, only the spirit of prophecy can discern. " What I most fear is, that the better kind" of people (by which I mean the people who are orderly and in dustrious, who are content with their situations, and not uneasy in their circumstances) will be led by the insecurity of property, the loss of confidence in their r ilrs, and the want of publick faith and rectitude, to consider the charms of liberty as imaginary and delu- sive. A state of uncertainty and fluctuation must dis- gust and alarm such men, and prepare their minds for almost any change that may promise them quiet and security." To these weighty communications General WAPH INGTON replied. " Your sentiments that our affairs are drawing ra- pidly to a crisis, accord with my own. What the event will be, is also beyond the reach of my foresight We have errours t correct ; we have probably had 1784-7.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 67 too good an opinion of human nature, in forming out confederation. Experience has taught us that men will not adopt and carry into execution, measures tho best calculated for their own good, without the inter vent ion of coercive power. I do not conceive we can exist long as a nation, without lodging, somewhere, a power which will pervade the whole Union in as ener getick a manner, as the authority of the state govern menls extends over the several states. To be fear- ful of investing Congress, constituted as that body is, with ample authorities for national purposes, appears to me the very climax of popular absurdity and mad- ness. Could Congress exert them for the detriment of the people, without injuring themselves in an equal or greater proportion? Are not their interests insepara- bly connected with those of their constituents ? By the rotation of appointments, must they not mingle fre- quently with the mass of citizens ? Is it not rather to be apprehended, if they were not possessed of the powers before described, that the individual members would be induced to use them, on many occasions, very timidly and inefficariously, for fear of losing their popularity and future election ? We must take human nature as we find it; perfection falls not to the share of mortals. " What then is to be done ? Things cannot go on in the same strain for ever. It is much to be feared, as you observe, that the better kind of people, being dis- gusted with these circumstances, will have their minda pre ared for any revolution whatever. We are apt to run from one extreme to another. To anticipate and prevent disastrous contingencies, would be the part of wisdom and patriotism. " What astonishing changes a few years are capable of p'oducing ! 1 am told that even respectable charac- ters speak of a monarchical form of government with- out horrour. From thinking proceeds speaking, thence to acting is often but a single step. But how irrevoci- fi8 LIFE OF WASHINGTON [l?84--> ble and tremendous ! what a triun ph for our enemies to verify their predictions ! what a triumph for the ad- vocates of despotism to find that we are incapable of governing ourselves, and that systems, founded on the basis of equal liberty, are merely ideal and fallacious ' Would to God that wise measures may be taken in lime to avert the consequences we have but too much reason to apprehend. " Retired as I am from the world, 1 frankly acknow- ledge I cannot feel myself an unconcerned spectator. Yet having happily assisted in bringing the ship into port, and having been fairly discharged, it is not my business to embark again on the sea of troubles. " Nor could it be expected that my sentiments and opinions would have much weight on the minds of my countrymen. They have been neglected, though given as a last legacy in a most solemn manner. I then perhaps had some claims to publick attention. I con- sider myself as having none at present." When the plan of a Convention was ripened, and its meeting appointed to be at Philadelphia in May, 17b7j a respectable character in Virginia, communicated to General WASHINGTON the intention of that state to elect him one of her representatives, on this important occasion. He explicitly declined being a candidate, yet the Legislature placed him at the head of her delegation, in the hope that mature reflection would induce him to attend upon the service. The Govern- our of the state, Mr. Randolph, informed him of his .appointment, by the following letter. " By the en- closed act you will readily discover that the Assembly are alarmed at the storms whi.h threaten the United (States. What our enemies have foretold seems to be hastening to its accomplishment, and cannot be frus- trated but by an instantaneous, zealous, and sieady union among the friends of the federal government To you 1 need not press our present dangers. Tin (nefficacy pf Congress vou have often felt in your offi 1784-7.J LIFE OF WASHINGTON. i rial character ; the increasing languor of our asso tiated republicks you hourly see ; 'and a dissolution would be, 1 know, tc you, a source of the deepest mor tification. I freely then entreat you to accept tha unanimous appointment of the General Assembly to the Convention at Philadelphia. For the gloomy pros- pect still admits one ray of hope, that tho,se who be- gan, carried on, and consummated tho revolution, can yet restore America from the impending ruin " " Sensible as I am," said the General in his answer, u of the honour conferred ow me by the General As- sembly of this commonwealth, in appointing me one of the deputies to a Convention proposed to be held in the city of Philadelphia in May next, for the purpose of revising the federal constitution ; and desirous as I am OH all occasions of testifying a ready obedience to the calls of my contry yet, Sir, there exist at this moment, circumstances which I am persuaded will render this fresh instance of confidence incompatible with other measures which I hid previously adopted, and from which seeing little prospect of disengaging myself, it would be disingenuous not to express a wish that some other character on whom greater reliance can be had, ma}' be substituted in my place, the proba- bility of rny non-attendance being too great to con thine my appointment. " As no mind can be more deeply impressed than mine is with tho critical situation of our affairs, ru- sulting in a great measure from the want of efficient powers in the federal head, and due resj>ect to its or- dinances, so consequently those who do engage in the important business of removing these defects, will carry with them every good wish of mine, which 1h best dispositions towards their obtainment can bestow. The Governotir declined tho acceptance of his re signation of the appointment, and beofged him to sus spend liis determination until the approach of the pe riod of the meeting of Convention that his final iud 70 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. f7P7 merit might be the result of a full acquaintance with all circumstances. Thus situated, the General reviewed the subject, that he might upon thorough deliberation make the decision which duty end patriotism enjoined. He had, by a ciicular letter to tli state societies, declined being rt elected the President of the Cincinnati, and had an iw unced that he should not attend their general meet- ing at Philadelphia on the next May ; and he appre- hended, that if he attended the Convention at tho time and place- of their meeting, that he should give offence to all the ollicers of the late army whocom- posed this body. He was under apprehension that the states would not be generally represented on this oc- casion, and tliat a failure in the plan would diminish the personal influence of tl>ose who engaged in it. Some of his confidential frieiwls were of opinion that the occasion did not require his interposition, and that he ought to reserve himself for a state of things which would unequivocally demand his agency and influence. Even on the supposition that the plan should succeed, they thought that he ought not to en- gage in it ; because his having been in Convention would obligate him to make exertions to carry the measures that body might recommend, into effect, and would necessarily " sweep him into the tide of pulilick affairs." His own experience since the close of the revolutionary war created in his mind serioua doubts, whether the respective state? would quietly adop, any system, calculated to give stability and vi gour to the national government. " As we could not,' 1 to use his own language, " remain quiet more than three or four years in times of peace, under the con- stitutions of our own choosing, which were believed in many st.ites to have been formed with deliberation and wisdom, I see little prospeet either of our agreeing on any other, or that we should remain long satisfied under it. f we could Vet I would wish ary thing 1787.] LIFE OF WASHTNGTU1N 71 and every thing essayed to prevent the effusion of blood, and to divert the humiliating and contemptible figure we are about to make in the annals of n.ankind.'' These considerations operated powerfully to confirm him in the opinion first formed not to attend the Con- vention. On the other hand, he realized the greatness of the publick stake. The confederation was universally considered as a nullity.. The advice of a Convention, composed of respectable characters from every part of the union, would probably have great influence with the community, whether it should be to amend the articles of the old government, or to form a new constitution. Amidst the various sentiments which at this time prevailed, respecting the state of publick affairs, many entejtained the supposition that the " times must be worse before they could be better," and that the Ame- rican people could be induced to establish an efficient and liberal national government only by the scourge of anarchy. Some seemed to think that the experi- ment of a republican government in America had al- ready failed, and that one, more energetick, must soon by violence be introduced. Oeneral WASHINGTON en- tertained some apprehension, that his declining to at- tend the Convention would be considered as a derelic tion of republican principles. While he was balancing these opposite circum- stances in his mind, the insurrection of Massachusetts occurred, which turned the scale of opinion in favour of his joining the Convention. He viewed this event as awfully alarming. " For God's sake tell me," said he in a letter to Colonel Humphreys, " what i the cause of all these commotions? Do they proceed from licen- tiousness, British influence disseminated by the tories or real grievances which admit of redress ? If the lat ter, why wis redress delayed until the publick mind bad l>ecome so much agitated ? If the former, why aro 7? LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1787 not the powers of goveraiaent tried at once ? It is aa well to be without as not to exercise them." To General Knoz and other friends, similar appre- hensions were expressed. " I feel infinitely more than I can express to you, for the disorders which have arisen in these states. Good God ! who besides a tory could have foreseen, or a Briton have predicted them * i do assure you that even at this moment, when I re fleet upon the present aspect of our affairs, it seems to me like the visions of a dream. My mind can scarcely realize it as a thing in actual existence : So strange, so wonderful, axes it appear to me. In this, as in most other matters, we are too slow. When this spirit first dawned, it might probably have been easily checked ; but it is scarcely within the reach of human ken, at this moment, to say when, where, or how, it will terminate. There are combustibles in every state, to which a spark might set fire. In bewailing, which I have often done with the keenest sorrow, the death of our much lamented friend General Greene, I have accompanied my regrets of late with a query whether he would riot have preferred such an exit, to the scenes which it is more than probable many of hrs compatriots may live to bemoan. " You talk, my good sir, of employing influence to appease the present tumults in Massachusetts. I know not where that influence is to be found ; nor if attainable, that it would be a proper remedy for these disorders. Influence is not. government. Let us have a government by which our lives, liberties, and proper ties will be secured ; or let us know the worst at once. Under these impressions my humble opinion is that there is a call for decision. Know then precisely what the insurgents aim at. If they have real grievances, redress them if possible ; or acknowledge the justice of them, and your inability to do it in the present mo- ment. If they have not, employ the foice of th government against them at once. If this is inade 87] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 73 quate, all will be convinced that the superstructure is had, or wants support. To be more exposed in the eyes of the world, and more contemptible than we al- ready are, is hardly possible. To delay one or the other of these expedients is to exasperate on the one hai.i, or to give confidence en the other, and will add to their numbers ; for, like mow-balls, such bodies increase by every movement, unless there is something in the way to obstruct and crumble them, before their weight is too great and irresistible. " These are my sentiments. Precedents are dan- gerous things. Let the reins of government then be braced, and held with a steady hand ; and every vio- lation of the Constitution be reprehended. If defec- tive, let it be amended, but not suffered to be trampled upon while it has an existence." A friend having intimated by letter his apprehension, that civil discord was near, in which event ho would be obliged to act a publick part, or to leave the conti-. nent. " It is," said the General in reply, " with the deepest and most heart-felt concern. I perceive, by some late paragraphs extracted from the Boston papers, that the insurgents of Massachusetts, far from being satis- fied with the redress offered by their General Court, are still acting in open violation of law and govern- ment, and have obliged the Chief Magistrate, in a de- cided tone, to call upon the militia of the state to sup- port the constitution. " What, gracious God, is man ! That there should be such inconsistency and perfidiousness in his con- duct. It is but the other day, that we were shedding our blood to obtain the constitutions under which we live ; constitutions of or own choice and making ; and now we are unsheathing the sword to overturn them. The thing is so unaccountable that i hardlv know how to realize it ; or to persuade myself that ! am not under the iiusion of a dream. My mind, pre- yious to the receipt of your letter of tha first ultimo Vol. II 7 74 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1787 had often been agitated by a thought similar to the one -you expressed respecting a friend of yours ; but heaven forbid that a crisis should conie when he shall be driven to the necessity of making a choice of eithei of the alternatives there mentioned." Having learned that the states had generally elected their representatives to the Convention, and Congresi having given its sanction to it, he on. the 28tu of March communicated to the Governour of Virginia his consent to act as one of the delegates of his state on this important occasion. On the second Monday in May 1767, the delegates of twelve states met in Convention at Philadelphia, and unanimously elected General GEORGE WASHING- TON their President. The present C institution of Government of the United Stales was the result of the deliberations anl concessions of this venerable body. Although the friends of General WASHINGTON had .fully -acquiesced in the propriety of his retiring from publick life at the close of the revolutionary war, yet from the moment of the adoption of the Federal Con- stitution, all eyes were directed to him as the first President of the United States. His correspondents earl}' endeavoured to prepare his mind to gratify the expectations of his country. Mr. Johnson, a dis- tinguished patriot of Maryland, wrote him, " We can- not do witliout you, and I and thousands more can ex- plain to any body but yourself why we cannot do without you." The struggle between inclination and duty was long and severe. His feelings on this occasion fully ap- peared in the letters which he wrote to his friends on the subject Colonel Lee, then a member of Congress, communicating to General WASHINGTON the measures which that body were adopting to introduce the new government, thus alludes to the presidency. " The solemnity of the moment, and its application to yourself, have fixed ray mind in contemplations of 1788.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON 75 a publick and a personal nature, and I feel an involun- tary impulse which I cannot resist, to communicate, without reserve to you some of the reflections which the hour has produced. Solicitous for our common happiness as a people, and convinced, as I continue to be, thai oar peace and prosperity depend on the projiei improvement of the present period, my anxiety is es- treme that the new government may have an auspi- cious beginning. To effect this, and to perpetuate n nation formed under your auspices, it is certain you will again be called forth. The same principles of de motion to the good of mankind, wnich have invariably governed your conduct, will no doubt continue to rul your mind, however opposite their consequences maj be to your repose and happiness. It may be wrong, but I cannot suppress in my wishes for national felici- ty a due regard for your personal fain^and content. " If the same success should attend your efforts on this important occasion which has distinguished you hitherto, then, to be sure, you will have spent a life which Providence rarely, if ever, before gave to the lot of man. It is my anxious hope, it is my belief that this will be the case , but all things are uncertain, and perhaps nothing more so than political events. " Without you, the government can have but little chance of success; and the people, of that happinesa which its prosperity must yield." To these communications, the General thus replied* " Your observations on the solemnity of the crisis. and its application to myself, bring before mo subjects of the most momentous and interesting nature. Ill our endeavours to establish a new general government, the contest, nationally considered, seems not to have been so much for glory, as existence. It was for a long time doubtful whether we were to survive as an independent republick, or decline from our federal dig- nity into ins : "nincant and wretched fragments of em pire. Thti adoution of the constitution so extensive!/, 7t LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [ITdd and tvith so liberal an acquiescence on the part of the minorities in general, promised the former ; but lately, Like circular letter of iNew-York has manifested in my apprehension an unfavourable, it' :iot an insidious ten- dency to a contrary policy. 1 still hope for the best ; but belbre you mentioned it, 1 could not help tea) ing it would serve as a standard to which the disaffected could resort. It is now evidently the part of all honest men, who are fneuds to the new constitution, to endea- vour to give it a cliance to disclose its merits and de- fects by carrying it lairiy into e&ect,nuhe firstinstance " The principal fl>pick of your Better is, to me, a ,.111111 of great delicacy indeed, insomuch that I can scarcely, without some impropriety, touch upon it. In the in st. place, th;- event to which you allude may never happen, among other reasons because, if the partiality of my fellow-citizens conceive it to be a mean by which the sinews of the new government would be strengthened, it will of consequence be ob noxious to those who are in opposition to it ; many of whom, unquestionably, will be placed among the elect- ors. This consideration alone would supersede the expediency of announcing any definitive and irrevoca- ble resolution. You are among the small number of those who know my Invincible attachment to domes- tick hie, and that my sincerest wish is to continue in the enjoyment of it solely, until my final hour. But the world would be neither so well instructed, nor so candidly disposed, as to believe me to be uninfluenced by sinister motives in case any circumstance should render a deviation from the line of conduct 1 had pre- scubed tor myself indispensable. Should the contin- gency you suggest, take place, and (for argument'! sake alone let me say) should my unfeigned reluctance to accept the olhee be overcome by a deference for the reasons and opinions of my friends ; might 1 not, after the declarations 1 have made, (and heav-i knows they were made in the sincerity of my heart) in the judj; I7S8. LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 77 men*, of the impartial world, and of posterity, be clwirge- able with levity and inconsistency, if not v.'ith rash- ness and ambition ? Nay, farther, would there not even be some apparent foundation for the two former charges ? Now, justice to myself, and tianquillity of conscience require that I should act a part, if not above imputation, at least capable wf vindication. Nor will you conceive me to be too solicitous for reputa tion. Though I prize as I ought the good opinion of my fellow-citizens, yet if I know myself, I would not seek popularity at the expense of one social duty, or moral "irtue. " While doing what my conscience informed me was right, as it respected my God, my country, and my- self, I could despise all the party clamour and unjust censure which must be expected from some, whoso personal enmity might be occasioned l* their hostility to the government. I am conscious that I fear alone to give any real occasion for obloquy, and that I do not dread to meet with unmerited reproach. And Certain I am, whensoevei I shall be convinced the good of my country requires my reputation to be put in risk, regard for my own fame will not come in competition with an object of so much magnitude. " If I declined the task, it would be upon quite another principle. Notwithstanding my advanced season of life, my increasing fondness for agricultural amusements, and my growing love of retirement, aug- ment and confirm my decided predeliclion for the cha racter of a private citizen, yet it will be no one of these motives, nor the hazard to which my former reputation might be exposed, or the terrour of encoun- tering new fatigues and troubles, that would deter me from an acceptance ; but a belief that some other per- son, who had less pretence and less inclination to ba excused, could execute all the duties full as satisfacto- rily as myself. To say more would be indiscreet ; at (he disclosure of a refusal beforehand might incur the 78 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. implication of the fable, in which the fox is rej resent- ed as undervaluing the grapes he could not reach. Jfou will perceive, my dear sir. by what is here ob- served (and which you will be pleased to consider in the light of a confidential communication) that my inclinations will dispose and decide me to remain as I am; unless a clear and insurmountable conviction should be impressed on my rnind, that some very dis- agreeable consequences must in all human probability result from the indulgence of my wishes." To similar suggestions from Colonel Hamilton, Ge- neral WASHJNGTON-replied. " On the delicate subject with which you conclude your letter I can say no- thing ; because the event alluded to may never hap- pen, and because in case it should occur, it would be a point of prudence to defer forming one's ultimate and irrevocable decision, so long as new data might be af forded for one to act with the greater wisdom and pro- priety. I would not wish to conceal my prevailing sentiment from you. For you know me well enough, my good sir, to be persuaded that I am not guilty of affectation, when I tell you it is my great and solo desire to live and die in peace and retirement on my own farm. Were it even indispensable a different line of conduct should be adopted, while you and some others who are acquainted with my heart would aryuit, the world and posterity might probably accuse tne of inconsistency and ambition. Still I hope 1 shall always possess firmness and virtue enough to maintain (what I consider the most enviable of all titles) the character of an honest man. " Although I could not help observing from several publications and letters that my name had been some- times spoken of, and that it was possible that con- tingency which is the subject of your letter might happen, yet I thought it best to maintain a guarded silence, and to lack the counsel of my best friends (which I certainly hold in the highest estimation) ra 1788.] LIFK OF WASHINGTON. 7% therthan to hazard an imputation unfriendly to the de- licacy of my feelings. For, situated as I am, I could hardly bring the question into the slightest discussion, or ask an opinion even in the most confidential man- ner, without betraying in my judgment, some impro- priety of conduct, or without feeling ai> appreheusiou that a premature display of anxiety might be construed into a vain glorious desire of pushing myself into no- tice as a candidate. Now, if 1 am not grossly deceived in myself, I should unfeignedly rejoice, in case the electors, by giving their votes in favour of some other person, would save me from the dreadful dilemma of be- ing forced to accept or refuse. If that may not be, I are in Ihe next place, earnestly desirous of searching out the truth, and of knowing whether there does not ex- ist a probability that the government would be just as happily and effectually carried into execution without my aid, as with it. I am truly solicitous to obtain all the previous information which the circumstances will afford, and to determine (when the determination can with propriety be no longer postponed) according to the principles of right reason, and the dictates of a clear conscience ; without too great a reference to the unforeseen consequences which may affect my person or reputation. Until that period, I may fairly hold mj self open to conviction, though I allow your senti- ments to have weight in them ; and 1 shall not pass by your arguments without sjiving them as dispas- sionate a consideration as I can possibly bestow upon them. " In taking a survey of the subject, in whatever point of light I have been able to place it, I win not uppress the acknowledgment, my dear sir, that 1 Ixive always felt a kind of gloom upon rny mind, as often as I have been taught to expect I might, and pei.iaps must ere long be called to make a decision. You will, i am well assured, believe the assertion (though I Uave little expectation it would gain credit from thosa 80 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1788 who are less acquainted with me) that if 1 should re- ceive the appointment, and should be prevailed upon to accept it ; the acceptance would bj attended with more diffidence and reluctance, than ever I experi- enced before in my life. It would be, however, with a fixed and sole determination of lending whatever as- sistance might be in my power to promote the publick weal, in hopes that at a convenient and early period, my services might be dispensed with ; and that 1 might oe permitted once more to retire to pass an uncloud- ed evening after the stormy day of life, in the bosom of domestick tranquillity." We have already made copious extracts from the letters of the General on the subject of the Presiden- cy ; but as they clearly describe his feelings and views on the near prospect of being again summoned by hia country into publick life, they must be interesting to all. We will close them with the following commu nications made to General Lincoln, who had also com- municated to him the expectation of his friends, " I would willingly pass over in ilence that part of your letter, in which you mention the persons who are can- didates for the two first offices in the executive, if I did not fear the omission might seem to betray a want of confidence. Motives of delicacy have prevented me hitherto from conversing or writing on this subject, whenever 1 could avoid it with decency. I may, how- ever, with great sincerity, and 1 believe without of- fending against modesty or propriety, say to you, that 1 most heartily wish the choice to which you allude might not fall upon me ; and that if it should. I must resjrveHo myself the right of inaMng lip my final de cision, at the last moment, when it can be brought into one view, and when the expediency or incxpedi- enc^ of a refusal can he more judiciously determined than at present. But be assured, my dear sir, if from \ny inducement I shall be persuaded ultimately to ac- cept, it will not be (so far as I know my own heart /83] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 81 rom any of a private >r personal nature. Every per Kiii.il consideration conspires to rivet me (if 1 may use the expression) to retirement. At my time of life, and under my circumstances, nothing in this world can ever drasv me from it, unless it be a conviction that the partiality of my countrymen l jad made my services absolutely necessary, joined to a fear that my refusal might induce a belief that I preferred the conservation of my own repu- tation and private ease, to the good of my country. After all, if 1 should conceive myself in a manner constrained to accept, I call heaven to witness, that this very act would be th greatest sacrifice of my personal feelings and wishes that ever I have been called upon to make. It would be to forego repose and domestick enjoyment for trouble, perhaps publick obloquy ; for I should consider myself as entering upon an unexplored field, enveloped on every side with clouds and darkness. " From this embarrassing situation I had naturally supposed that my declarations at the close of the war would have saved me ; and that my sincere intentions, then publickly made known, would have effectually pre- cluded me for ever afterwards from being looked upon as a candidate for any office. This hope, as a last anchor of worldly happiness in old age, I had still carefully preserved ; until the publick papers, and private letters from my correspondents in almost every quarter, taught me to apprehend that I might soon be obliged to answer the question, whether 1 would go again into publick life or not." In event it appeared, that amidst the discordance of opinion, respecting the merits of the Federal Consti- tution, there was but one sentiment, through the United States, respecting the man who should admi- nister the government. On counting the votes of the electors of President and Vice President, it was found Jiat General GEORGE WASHINGTON had their unani- 62 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1789 mo us suffrage, and was chosen President of the United States for four years from the 4th of March 1780. On the 14th of April, official information reached him of his election. Having already matle up hie mind to obey the summons of a whole country, on the second day after this notification, he quitted the quiet walks of Mount Vernon for the arduous duties of the upreme magistracy of his nation. Although grateful for this renewed declaration of the favourable opinion of the community, yet his determination to accept the office was accompanied with diffidence and appreher sion. " I wish," he observed, " that there may not be reason for regretting the choice, for indeed all I can promise is, to accomplish that which can be done by an honest zeal." The feelings, with which ho entered upon publick life, he left upon his private journal. " About ten o'clock, I bade adieu to Mount Vernon, to private life, and to domestick felicity ; and with a mind oppressed with more anxious and painful sensa lions than I have words to express, set out for New York, with the best dispositions to render service to my country in obedience to its call, but with less hope of answering its expectations." He was met on the read by the gentlemen of Alex andria, and conducted to a publick dinner. From the numerous addresses presented to tne General on thi occasion, we sei ^ct that of the citizens of Alexandria, because it is a testimonial of the affection and venera- tion in which his neighbours and friends held his pri- vate as well as puolick character, and because, in itself it has peculiar interest. The following is the address " Again your country commands your care. Obe- dient to its wishes, unmindful of your ease, we see you again relinquishing the bliss of retirement, and thii too at a period of life, when nature itself seems to au- thorize a preference of repose ! " Not to extol your glory as a soldier ; not to po.jr forth our gratitude for past services : n'>t to acknow 789.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 8 edge the justice of the unexampled honour which ha* keen conferred upon you by the spontaneous and unanimous suffrages of three millions of freemen, in vour election to the supreme magistracy ; nor to ad nire the patriotism wh-ch directs your conduct, do vour neighbouu and f.iends now address you. Themes ess splendid, but more endearing, impress our minds. The first and best of citizens must leave us. Our ftged must lose their ornament ; our youth their mo- del ; our agriculture its improver ; our commerce its frieni ; our infant academy its protector ; our pool their benefactor, and the interiour navigation of the Potomack (an event replete with the most extensive utility already, by your unremitted exertions, brought into partial use) its institutor and promoter. "Farewell ! go ! and make a grateful people happy a people, who will be doubly grateful when they con template this recent sacrifice for their interest. " To that Being, who maketh and unmaketh at his will, we commend you ; and after the accomplishment of the arduous business tc which you are called, may he restore to us again, the best of men, and the most beloved fellow citizen !" To which General WASHINGTON replied as follows: " GENTLEMEN, " Although 1 ought not to conceal, yet I cannot de- acribe the painful emotions which I felt in being called upon to determine whether I would accept or refuse the Presidency of the United States. The unanimity in the choice, the opinion of my friends communicated from different parts of Europe as well as from Ameri- ca, the apparent wish of those who were not entirely satisfied with the constitution in its present form ; and in ardent desire on my own part to be instrumental in connecting the good will of my countrymen towards each other, have induced an acceptance. Those who know iiie nest (and you, my fellow citizens, are, from vour situation, in that number) know better than any B-l LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [178J5 others my love of retirement is so great, that no eurth ly consideration, short of a conviction of duty, could have prevailed upon me to depart from my resoh.tion never more to take any share in transactions of a pub- uck nature. For at my age, and in my circumstances, what prospects or advantages could I propose to rm self, from embarking again on the tempestuous and ui.cer- tain '/cean of publick life ? I do not feel myself under thr necessity of making publick declarations, in order to convince you, gentlemen, of my attachment to your- Belves, and regard for your interests. The whole te- nour of my life has been open to your inspection ; and my past actions, rather than my present declarations, must be the pledge of my future conduct. " In the mean time I thank you most sincerely for the expressions of kindness contained in your valedic- tory address. It is true, just after having bade adieu to my domestick connexions, this tender proof of your friendships is but too well calculated still farther to awaken my sensibility, and increase my regret at part ing from the enjoyments of private life. " All that now remains for me is *o comm't my sell and you to the protection of that beneficent Being who. on a former occasion, hath happily brought us together after a long and distressing separation. Per- haps the same gracious Providence will again indulge me. Unutterable sensations must then be left to more expressive silence while from an achinjr heart, I bid you all, my affectionate friends, and kind neighbours, farewell !" It was the wish of General WASHINGTON to avoid p^rad" on his journey to the seat of government, but he found it impossible. Numerous bodies of respect- able citizens, and detachments from the militia escort- ed him the whole distance, and at every place through which he passed, he received the most flattering ovi- den'.e of the high estimation, in which his countrymen %eld his talents and his virtues 1789.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 85 Gray's bridge over the Schuylkill was, with much taste, embellished on the occasion. At each end arch es were erected composed of laurel, in imitation of a Roman triumphal arch ; and on each side was a lauro shrubbery. As the General passed, a youth by the aid of machinery (unperceived by him) let down upon lug head a civick crown. Through avenues and etie"ta thronged with people, he passed from the Schuylkill into Philadelphia, and at night the city was illunii nated. At Trenton, the ladies presented him with a tribute of gratitude for the protection which, twelve yeara before, he gave them, worthy of the taste and refine- ment of the sex. On the bridge over the creek which runs through this place, a triumphal arch was erected on thirteeo-pillars ; these were entwined with laurel and decorated with flowers. On the front of the arch was the following inscription, in large gilt letters, THE DEFENDER OF THE MOTHERS WII L BE THE PROTECTOR '.I* 1 THE DAUGHTERS. On the centre of the arch above ihe inscription was a dome of floweis and evergreens encirclipg the dates of two events particularly interesting to the inhabit- ants of New-Jersey, viz. the successful assault on the Hessian post in Trenton, and the gallant stand made by General WASHINGTON at the same creek on the evening preceding the battle of Princeton. A nume- rous party of matrons, holding their daughters in their hands, who were dressed in white and held on their arms baskets of flowers, assembled at this placo, and en his approach the daughters sung the following ode t Welcome. Mighty Chief, onre more Welcome to ihis grateful shore ; Now no mercenary (be Aims again the fatal blow, Aims at THEE the I'atal blow. VOL II. 8 86 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [17W Virgins fair and matrons grave Those thy conquering arms did save, Build for THEE triumphal bowers; Strew ye fair his way with flowers, Strew your HKRO's way with Cowers. At the last lino the flowers were strewed before him. On the eastern shore of New- Jersey, he was met by a Committee of Congress, and accompanied over the river in an elegant barge, of thirteen oars, and man- ned by thirteen branch pilots. " The display of boats," observes the General in his diary, " which attended and joined on this occasion, some wit': vocal and others with instrumental musick on board, the decorations of the ships, the roar of cannon, and the loud acclamations of the people which rent the sky as I passed along the wharves, filled my mind with sensations as painful (contemplating the re- verse of this scene, which may be the case after all my endeavours to do good) as they were pleasing." He landed on the 23d of Ap'il at the stairs on Mur- ray's wharf, which were hign.j ornamented for the purpose. At this place the Governour of New- York received him, and with military honours, and amidst an immense concourse of people, conducted him to hia apartments in the city. At the close of the day, Fo- reign Ministers and other characters of distinction) made him congratulatory visits, and the publick exhibi- tion was at night closed by a brilliant illumination. 1789.1 LIVE OF WASHINGTON. 87 CHAPTER XI. Inauguration of the President His Address to Congress Answer* of the two Houses The Arrangements of his Household Hi* Regulations for Visitors The Reasons of their adoption The Relations of the United States with Foreign Powers Corgres* establishes the Depart ments of the Government The President fills them Ho visits New-England Ilia Reception Addresses to him His Answers Negotiations with the Indians Treaty with the Creeks War with the VVabash and Mimnis Tribes General Harmar's Expedition St. Clair defeated Genera) Wayne victorious and makes a Treaty with them Second Ses- sion of Congress Fiscal Arrangements of the Secretary of the Treasury Indisposition of the President He visits Mount Vor- non Meets Congress at Philadelphia His Tour to the Southern States Second Congress The President refuses his signature to the Representative Bill Contemplates retiring to PnvrteLife Consents to be a Candidate for the Second PresxJenc. 1789. IN adjusting; the ceremonies of the inaugura- tion of the President, Congress determined that tho oath of office should be administered to him in an open gallery adjoining the Hall of the Senate. Ac- cordingly on the 30th of April, General WASHINGTON attended, and, in a view of a vast assemblage of peo- ple, was constitutionally qualified for the administra- tion of the government. On his being proclaimed President of the United States, reiterated acclamations testified the interest and the pleasure which the at- tending multitude felt in the transaction. The President immediately entered tho Senate chamber and made the following Speech to the two branches of the Legislature. " FELLOW CITIZENS OF THE SENATE, AND OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, " Among the vicissitudes incident to life, no event could have filled me with greater anxieties than that of which the notification was transmitted by your or der, and received on the 14th day of the present month. On the one hand, I was summoned by my country, whose voice I can never hear but with veneration and 88 * LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [178 Jov^,from a retreat which I had chosen with the fondest predilection, and, in my flattering hopes, with an im- mutable decision as the asylum of my declining years a retreat which was rendered every day more necessa ry as well as more dear to me, by the addition of habit to inclination, and of frequent interruptions in my health to the gradual waste committed on it by time. On the other hand, the magnitude and difficulty of tho trust to which the voice of my country called me, be- ing sufficient to awaken in the wisest and most expe- rienced of her citizens, a distrustful scrutiny into his qualifications, could not but overwhelm with despond- ence one, who, inheriting iriferiour endowments from nature, and unpractised in the duties of civil adminis- tration, ought to be peculiarly conscious of his own deficiencies. In this conflict of emotions, all 1 dare aver is, that it has been my faithful study to collect my duty from a just appreciation of every circum- stance by which it might be affected. All I dare hope is, that if in accepting this task I have been too much swayed by a grateful remembrance of former instances, or by an affectionate sensibility to this transcendent proof of the confidence of my fellow citizens ; and have thence .too little consulted my incapacity as well as disinclination for the weighty and untried cares be- fore me ; my errour will be palliated by the motives which misled me, and its consequences be judged by my country, with some share of the partiality in which they originated. " Such being the impressions under which I have, in obHience to the publick summons, repaired to the present station, it would be peculiarly improper to omit in this first official act, my fervent supplications to that Almighty Being, who rules over the universe, Who presides in the councils of nations, and whose providential aids can supply every human defect, thai his benediction may consecrate to the liberties and happiness of the people of the United States, a govern 1789 J LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 89 ment instituted by themselves for these essential pur- poses, and may enable every instrument employed in its administration, to execute with success the func tions allotted to his charge. In tendering this homage to the great Author of every publick and private good, I assure myself that it expresses your sentiments not less than my own ; nor those of my fellow citi/ens at large, less than either. No people can be bound to acknowledge and adore the invisible hand, which con- ducts the affairs of men, more than the people of the Uiited States. Every step by which they have ad- vanced to the character of an independent nation, seems to have been distinguished by some token of providential agency. And in the important revolution just accomplished in the system of their united govern- ment, the tranquil deliberations and voluntary consent of so many distinct communities, from which the event has resulted, cannot be compared with the means by which most governments have been establish- ed, without some return of pious gratitude along with a humble anticipation of the future blessings which the past seem to presage. These reflections, arising out of the present crisis, Lave forced themselves too strongly on my mind to be suppressed. You will join with me, I trust, in thinking that there are none under the influence of which, the proceedings of a new and free government can more auspiciously commence. " By the article establishing the executive depart- ment, it is made the duty of the President ' to recom- mend to your consideration, such measures as he shall judge necessary and expedient.' The circumstances under which I now meet you, will acquit me from en- tering into that subject, farther than to refer you to the great Constitutional Charter under which we are assembled ; and which in defining your powers, desig- nates the objects to which your attention is to be given. It will be more consistent with those circumstances, and far more congenial with the feelings which acto 8* DO UFE OF WASHINGTON [)~1& ate me to substitute in place of a recommendation of particular measures, the tribute that is due to the talents, the rectitude, and the patriotism which adorn the characters selected to devise and adopt them. In these honourable qualifications, I behold the surest pledges, that as on one side, no local prejudices or at- tachments, no separate views nor party animosities, will misdirect the comprehensive and equal eye which ought to watch over this great ansemblage of commu- nities and interests : so, on another, that the founda- tions of our national policy will be laid in the pure and immutable principles of private morality ; and the pre-eminence of a free government be exemplified by all the attributes which can win the affections of its citizens, and command the respect of the world. " I dwell on this prospect a-ith every satisfaction which an ardent love for my country can inspire ; eince there is no truth more thoroughly established, than that there exists in the economy and course of nature, an indissoluble union between virtue ai.d hap- piness between duty and advantage between the genuine maxims of an honest and magnanimous policy, and the solid rewards of publick prosperity and lelioity. Since we ought to be no less persuaded that the pro- pitious smiles of Heaven can never be expected on a natior. tint disregards the eternal rules of order and right, which Heaven itself has ordained : and since the preservation of the sacred tire of liberty, and the desti ay of the republican model of government, are justly considered as deeply, perhaps as Jinully staked, on tho experiment entrusted to the hands of the American people. " Besides the ordinary objects submitted to your tare, it will remain with your judgment to decide IK w far an exercise of the occasional power delegated b) the fifth article of the Constitution is tendered expe- dient at the present juncture, by the nature of objec- tions which have been urged against the system, or by 1789.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON 91 the degree of inquietude which has given biith to (.hem. Instead of undertaking particular recommen- dations on tliis subject, in which I could be guided by no lights derived from official opportunities, I shall again give way to my entire confidence in your dis- cernment and pursuit of the publick good ; for I assure myself, that whilst you carefully avoid every altera- tion which might endanger the benefits of an united and effective government, or which ought to await the future lessons of experience ; a reverence for the characleristick rights of freemen, and a regard for the puhhck harmony, will sufficiently influence your de- liberations on the question, how far the former can be more impregnably fortified, or the latter be safely and advantageously promoted. " To the preceding observations I have one to add, which will be most properly addressed to the House of Representatives. It concerns myself, and will therefore be as brief as possible. When I was first honoured with a call into the service of my country, then on the eve of an arduous struggle for its liberties, the light in which I contemplated my duty, required that I should renounce every pecuniary compensation. From this resolution I have in no instance departed. And being still under the impressions which produced t, I must decline as inapplicable to myself, any share in the personal emoluments, which may be indispensa- bly included in a permanent provision for the execu- tive department ; and must accordingly pray that tho pe raniary estimates for the station in which I am plac- ed, may, during my continuation in it, be limited to such actual expenditures as the publick good may be thought to require. " Having thus imparted to jou my sentiments, aa they have been awakened by the occasion which brings us together, I shall take my present leave ; but not without resorting once more to the benign Parent of the \uunan race, in humble supplication, that since he 92 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. has been pleased to favour the American people with opportunities for deliberating in perfect tranquillity, and dispositions for deciding with unparalleled una nimity on a form of government for the security of their union, and the advancement of their happiness , so his divine blessing may be equally conspicuous in the enlarged views, the temperate consultatwns, and the vise measures on which the success of this go- vernment must depend." The answer of the Senate was highly respectful and affectionate. " The unanimous suffrage of the elective body in your favour, is peculiarly expressive of the gratitude, confidence, and affection of the citizens of America, and is the highest testimonial at once of your merit, and their esteem. We are sensible, Sir, that nothing but the voice of your fellow citizens could have called you from a retreat, chosen by the fondest predilection, endeared by habit, and consecrated to the repose of declining years. We rejoice, and with us, all Ameri- ca, that, in obedience to the call of our common coun- try, you have returned once more to publick hie. In you all parties confide, in you all interests unite, and we have no doubt that your past services, great as they have been, will be equalled by your future exertions ; and that your prudence and sagacity, as a statesman, will tend to avert the dangers to which we were ex- posed, to give stabil-ity to the present government, and dignity and splendour to that country, which your skill and valour as a soldier, so eminently contributed to raise to independence and empire. " When we contemplate the coincidence of circum '.ances, and wonderful combination of causes which gradually prepared the people of this country for in- dependence ; .when we contemplate the rise, progress, and termination of the late war, which gave them a name among the nations of the earth, we are, with you, unavoidably led to acknowledge and adore tin 178!).] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. Sfc great Arbiter of the universe, ly whom empires rise and fall. A review of the many signal instances of divine interposition in favour of this country, claims our most pious gratitude. And permit us, Sir, to ob- serve, that among the great events which have led to thw formation and establishment of a federal govern- ment, we esteem your acceptance of the office of Pre- sident, as one of the most propitious and important." The House, equally affectionate and respectful in their answer, say : " The Representatives of tho People of the United States, present their congratulations on the event by which your fellow citizens have attested the pre-emi- nence of your merit. You have long held the first place in their esteem ; you have often received tokens of their affection ; you now possess the only proof that remained of their gratitude for your services, of their reverence for your wisdom, and of their confidence in your virtues. You enjoy the highest, because the truest honour, of being the First Magistrate, by the unanimous choice of the freest people on the face of the earth. " Wo well know the anxieties with which you must have obeyed the summons, from the repose reserved for your declining years, into publick scenes, of which you had taken your leave for ever ; but the obedience was due to the occasion. It is already applauded by the universal joy which welcomes you to your station, and we cannot doubt that it will be rewarded with all the satisfaction, with which an ardent love for your fellow citizens must review successful efforts tc pro- mote their happiness. "This anticipation is not justified merely by the past experience of your signal services. It is particu- larly suggested by the pious impressions under which you commence your administration, and the enlighten- ed maxims by which you mean to conduct it. We fcel vnth you the strongest obligations tc adore the m- 44 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1783 visible hand which has led the American people througb no many difficulties, to cherish a conscious responsibi lity for the destiny of republican liberty, and to seek the only sure means of preserving and recommending the precious deposite in a system of legislation, found ed on the principles of an honest policy, and directed by the spirit of a diffusive patriotism. " The question arising out of the fifth article of tha Constitution will receive all the attention demanded *y its importance, and will, we trust, be decided under the influence of all the considerations to which you allude. " In forming the pecuniary provisions for the exe- cutive department, we shall not lose sight of a wish resulting from motives which give it a peculiar claim to our regard. Your resolution, in a moment critical to the liberties of your country, to renounce all per- sonal emolument, was among the many presages of your patriotick services, which have been amply fulfil- led ; and your scrupulous adherence now to the law then imposed on yourself, cannot fail to demonstrate the purity, whilst it increases the lustre of a charac- ter, which has so many titles to admiration. " Such are the sentiments with which we have thought fit to address you. They flow from our own hearts, and we verily believe, that among the millions we represent, there is not a virtuous citizen whose heart will disown them. " All that remains is, that we join in your fervent supplications for the blessings of Heaven on our coun- try ; and that we add our own for the choicest of those blessings on the most beloved of her citizens." While waiting the movements of the Legislature, the President endeavoured fully to acquaint himself with the state of publick affairs, and for this purpose, he called upon those who had been the heads of depart ments -nder the confederation, to report to him thf situation cf their respective concerns. He also, liar LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 95 ing consulted with his friends, adopted a system for the order of his own household, for the regulation of his hours of business, and of intercourse with those who, in a formal manner, visited him as the Supreme Magistrate! of the nation. He publickly announced that neither visits of busi- ness nor ceremony would be expected on Sunday, as he wished to reserve this day sacredly to himself Other regulations, adopted at this time, were at a sub- iequent period complained of as partaking too much of monarchical customs. To a friend in Virginia, who had made known these complaints, the President gave the following reasons for their adoption. " While the eyes of America, perhaps of the world, are turned to this government, and many are watch- ing the movements of those who are concerned in its administration, I should like to be informed through BO good a medium, of the publick opinion of both men and measures, and of none more than myself: not so much of what may be thought commendable parts, if any, of my conduct, as of those which are conceived to be of a different complexion. The man who means to commit no wrong, will never be guilty of enormi- ties, consequently can never be unwilling to learn what are ascribed to him as foibles. If tiiey are really such, the knowledge of them, in a well disposed mind, will go half way towards a reform. If they are not errours, he can explain and justify the motives of his actions. At a distance from the theatre of action, truth is not always related without emi/ellishments, and sometimes is entirely perverted, from a miscon ception of the causes which produced the effects that are the subject of censure. " This leads me to think that a system which I found it indispensably necessary to adopt upon my first com- ing to this city, might have undergone severe stric- tures, and have had motives, very foreign from those that governed me, assigned as the causes thereof" I 96 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [178& mean first, returning no visits ; second, appointing certain days to receive them generally, (not to the ex- clusion, however, of visits on any other days undor particular circumstances) and third, at first entertain- ing no company, and afterwards (unal 1 was unable to entertain any at all) confining it to official charac- ters. A few days evinced the necessity of the two first in so clear a point of view, that had 1 not adopted it, 1 should have been unable to have attended to any sort of business, unless 1 had applied the hours allotted to rest and refreshment to this purpose ; for by the time I had d.mo breakfast, and thence until dinner, and afterwards until bed time, I could not get reliev ed from the ceremony of one visit, before 1 had to at- tend to another. In a word, 1 had no leisure to read or to answer the despatches that were pouring in upon me from all quarters. " Before the custom was established, which now ac- commodates foreign characters, strangers, arid others, who, from motives of curiosity, respect to the Chief Magistrate, or any other cause, are induced to call upon me, 1 was unable to attend to any business what- soever. For gentlemen, consulting their own conve- nience rather than mine, were calling from the tirno I rose from breakfast, often before, ui'til I sat down to dinner. This, as I resolved not to neglect my publick duties, reduced me to the choice of one of these alter- natives ; either to refuse them altogether, or to appro- priate a time for the reception of them. The first would, I well knew, Le disgusting to many : the latter, I expected, would undergo animadversions from those who would find fault with or without cause. To please every body was impossible. I therefore adopted that line of conduct which combined publick advantage with private convenience, and which in my judgment was unexceptionable in itself. " These visits are optional. They are made w.th- out invitation. Between the hours of three and four i789.| LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 97 every Tuesday I am prepared to receive them. Gen tlemen, often in great numbers, come and go, chat with each other, and act as they please. A portei shows them into the room, and they retire from it when they choose, and without ceremony. At their first entrance, they salutt me, and I them, and as many as I can talk to, I do. What pomp there is in all this, I am unable to discover. Perhaps it consists in not sitting : to this, two reasons are opposed ; first, it is unusual ; secondly, (which. is a more substantial one) because I have no room large enoxigh to contain a third of the chairs which would be sufficient to admit it. If it is supposed that ostentation, or the fashions of courts, (which, by the bye, 1 believe originate often- er in convenience, not to say necessity, than is gene- rally imagined) gave rise to this custom, 1 will boldly affirm that no supposition was ever more erroneous ; for were I to indulge my inclinations, every moment that I could withdraw from the fatigues of my station, should be spent in retirement. That they are not, proceeds from the sense 1 entertain of the propriety of giving to everv one as free access as consists with that respect which is due to the chair of government ; and that respect, I conceive, is neither to be acquired or preserved but by maintaining a just medium be- tween much state, and too great familiarity. " Similar to the above, but of a more familiar and sociable kind, are the visits of every Friday afternoon to Mrs. Washington, where I always am. These pub- lick meetings, and a dinner once a week to as many as my table will huld, with the references '>.o and from the different departments of stale, and other commu- nications with all parts of the union, is as much, if not more, than I am able to undergo ; for 1 have already had, within less than a year, two severe attacks ; the last worse than the first : a third, it is more than pro- oable, will put me to sleep wit.i my fathers at what distance this may be, I know not." VOL. II. 9 16 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1789 At the commencement of the Presidency of General W* SHINGTON, a variety of circumstances combined to create anxiety and apprehension respecting the opera- tions of the government. The relation of the country with foreign powers was critical and embarrassing. Spain discovered jealousies of the American people, and manifested a disposition to check their progress to national wealth and strength. She had refused negotiation with the American government, and denied to its subjects the navigation of the Mississippi south of the boundary of the United States. Between Great Britain and the United States, great causes of altercation existed. Just complaints of the non-execution of essential articles of the treaty of peace were mutually made, and an irritable state of mind appeared in both nations, which rendered the ad- justment of the controversy the more difficult. France early discovered a disposition to take advan- tage of the partiality of the American people, to gain an influence in their councils, and to acquire the con- trol of their destiny. The Indians, through the whole" extent of the west- ern frontier, manifested great inquietude. Their jea- lousies of the United States were supposed to havfc been excited by the intrigues of Spanish and British partisans, and most of the tribes assumed a very threat- ening attitude. In addition to these foreign difficulties, there wfire considerations of a domestick nature, peculiarly calcu- lated to excite apprehension. The whole plan of the Federal Government wa new. In no branch of it was there a precedent ; but first principles and general rules were to be established in every department. The United States were with- out funds or revenue, and were destitute of pubiick eredit. Many distinguished characters, in different parts of 1789.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON, the Union, were from the first opposed t< the Federal Constitution. Debates in state Convei. turns on iti principles, had enkindled no inconsiderable degree of animosity. It had been ratified in them generally by small majorities, and in some instances this majority had been obtained, by annexing provisional amend ments to the ratmcation. It was therefore to be ap prehended that many of the members of the Legisla- ture were hostile to the Constitution, and would, un- der the idea of amending, sacrifice its spirit, or by their opposition to every salutary measure, prevent an ex- periment of a republican form of Government, auspi- ciously begun, from being fairly completed. Happily the American people retained their confi- dence in those distinguished statesmen, vvho had been their leaders in the controversy with Great Britain, which terminated in National Independence ; and these statesmen, imitating at this crisis the publick spirit of the General of the revolutionary war, con- sented to forego the pleasures and emoluments of pri- vate life, for the service of their country. Many of them were the successful candidates for popular suf- frage to compose the Legislature of the nation, and the first Congress consisted of men eminent for their ta- lents and political information, and venerable for their patriotism and virtue. A decided majority of these were the friends of the Constitution, and were dispos- ed to make every exertion to carry it into execution upon a liberal and efficient plan. One of the first acts of the Legislature was to esta blish those departments which were necessary to aid the Executive in the administration of the govern raent. In filling these departments, the President was to perform an important and delicate duty. Application* for office had been numerous, and the following ex- tract of a letter written to a friend, who had applied even before General WAH"*GTON accepted the P-esi 100 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1789 dency, will show the disposition with which he exe cu ">d this trust. " Should it become absolutely necessary fcr me to occupy the station in which your letter presupposes me, 1 have determined to go into it, perfectly free from all engagements of every nature whatsoever A conduct in conformity to this resolution, would en- able rue in balancing the various pretensions of diffe- rent candidates for appointments, to act with a sole reference to justice and the publick good. This is, in substance, the answer that 1 have given to all applica- tions (and they are not few) which have already been made. Among the places sought after in these appli- cations, I must not conceal that the office to which you particularly allude, is comprehended. This fact, I tell you merely as a matter of information. My ge- neral manner of thinking, as to the propriety of hold- ing myself totally disengaged, will apologize for my not enlarging further on the subject. ' " Though I am sensible that the publick suffrage which places a man in office, should prevent him from being swayed, in the execution of it, by his private in- clinations, yet he may assuredly, without violating his duty, be indulged in the continuance of his former at- tachments." His consequent nominations fully proved the purity of these declarations, and attested that his selection of characters, for the respective offices to be rilled, wa made with great judgment and prudence. Removed from the influence of' local and family considerations, he directed his attention to the publick interest. Where qualifications were equal, the candidate who could claim the merit of publick service, had the pre- ference in his appointment. His cabinet was composed of Mr. Jefferson, Secre- tary of State, Colonel Hamilton, Secretary of the Treasury, General Knox, Secretary of War, and Mr Edmund Randolph, Attorney General. 1789.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. lOi The session of Congress contiraed to September perfect harmony subsisted through this period between the Executive and the Legislature, and no circum- stance threatened to interrupt it. A'.the adjournment of Congress, the President made preparations for a tour through New-England, to view the improvements of the country and to judge of the disposition of the people towards the newly established government. Accordingly, on the 15th of October, he began his journey ; 'and, passing through Connecticut and Massachusetts went as far as Portsmouth in New- Hampshire ; returning by a different route, he arrived on the 13th of November at New- York. Many circumstances were combined during this visit to excite his sensibility and to render it grateful trt his best feelings. His journey carried him through the most populous and cultivated part of the United States, and gave him a favourable opportunity to notice the progress of the country in those improvements, which constitute the strength, the wealth, and ornament of society. He visited the scene of his first campaign, and must have experienced elevated reflections in con trasting the present situation of himself and his couii try, with his and their condition at the commencement of the revolutionary war. Every where he remarked a steady attachment to the Federal Government, and received the most grateful evidence of unqualified approbation of the measures of the Administration. In erery place through which he passed, business waa suspended, and all classes of citizens were eagerly em p oyed to obtain a sight of the Father of their country, and to join in the common expressions of veneration and attachment. Military parade, processions, and triumphal arches, awaited him in those populous towns at which he stopped, and so fully was the publick curiosity engrossed by his journey, that the news-pa- pers of the day were filled with narratives of its pro gress and termination 102 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [178D At Cambridge, the Lieutenant Govemour and Coun eil of Massachusetts waited upon him and accompani- ed him to Boston, escorted by a numerous collection of citizens, under the direction of the Marshal of the District, and the Sheriff of Suffolk. The Selectmen received him at Uie entrance of the town, and from it a procession of the inhabitants wa^ formed, wl. ich ex- tonded to the State House ;'an interesting part of this procession, and which engaged the special attention of the President, was the male children of the town, under their respective literary instructers. This pro- cession opened to the right and left, and he on horse- back, preceded by companies of artillery and infantry, by the Lieutenant Governour and council, the Mar shall and Sheriff, passed to the State House. Here a triumphal atrch was erected from the State House across Cornhill to the opposite houses. On the top of the arch was a gallery, in which were placed a select choir of singers of both sexes. In the middle of the gallery a pyramid was erected. T)n one side of this over the arch, was the inscription, " TO THE MAN WHO UNITES ALL HEARTS," and on the opposite side "TO COLUMBIA'S FAVOURITE SON." At the end of the arch next the State House, on a lar." The President was introduced through the Stale House to a handsome gallery at the west end of that building, erected neat the arch on seven pillars. As soon as he appeared in view, loud acclamations broke from the concourse b low. He bowed to them, on which the choir sang an appropriate Ode. He was then conducted to a house provided for his use, and elegantly furnished from the families of individual gentlemen. Addresses were presented to him from civil, literary, nd religious corporations, and from all oilier societies of any distinction. In these, grateful notice was 1789.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 103 ol his publick services, and particularly, of the sacri- fice he made of private happiness in accepting the Pr* Bidency. In his answers, the President reciprocated the be- nevolent wishes of his countrymen^ in language calcu lated to confirm their confidence and affection. He thus replied to a respectful address from the inhabit ants of Boston. " I rejoice with you my fellow citizens, in every circumstance that declares your prosperity ; and I do 10 most cordially because you have well deserved to be happy. " Your love of liberty, your respect for the laws, your habits of industry, and your practice of the mo- ral and religious obligations, are. the strongest claims to national and individual happiness. And they will, I trustj be firmly and lastingly established." In the renewal of direct intercourse between Gene- ral WASHINGTON and the companions of his toils and glory in the tented field, we perceive the most inte- resting effusion of the refine'd feelings of the human heart. " Amidst the various gratulations,'' says the society of Cincinnati of Massachusetts, " which your arrival in this metropolis has occasioned, permit us, the mem- bers of the society of the Cincinnati in this Common wealth, most respectfully to assure you of the ardour of esteem and affection you have so indelibly fixed in our hearts, as our glorious leader in war, and illustrious example in peace. " After the solemn and endearing farewell on the banks rtf t!e Hudson, which our anxiety presaged a? .mat, most peculiarly pleasing is the present unexp<.tt- ed meetinr. On this occasion we cannot avoid the recollection of the various scenes of toil and danger through which you conducted us, and while we con- template various trying periods of the war, and tha triumphs of peace, we rejoice to behold you, induced 104 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 78D by the unanimous voice of your country, entering upon oilier trials, and other services, alike important, an5 in some points of view, equally hazardous. .For the completion of the great purposes which a grateful country has assigned you, long, very long may your invaluable life be preserved. And as the admiring world, while considering you as a soldier, have long wanted a comparison, may your virtues and talents aa a statesman leave them without a parallel. " It is not in words to express an attachment found ed like ours. We can only say, that when soldiers, our greatest pride was a promptitude of obedience to ' your orders ; as citizens, our supreme ambition is to maintain the character of firm supporters of that no- blq fabrick of Federal Government over which you preside. " As members of the society of the Cincinnati, it will be our endeavour to cherish those sacred principles of charity and paternal attachment which our institution inculcates. And while our conduct is thus regulated, we can never want the patronage of the first of patri- ots and the best of men." ,To whicn the President thus replied. " In reciprocating with gratitude and sincerity, the multiplied and affecting grat illations of my fellow citiztns of this Commonwealth, they will all of them with justice allow me to say, that none can be dearer to me than the affectionate assurances which you have expressed. Dear indeed is the occasion which restores an intercourse with my faithful associates in prosper- ous and adverse fortune ; and enhanced are the tri- umphs of peace~participated with those whose virtue and valour so largely contributed to procure them To that virtue and valour, your country has confessed her obligations. Be mine the grateful task to add the testimony of a connexion which it was my pride t own in the field, and is now my happiness to ackuow ledge in the enjoyments of peace and freedom. I789.J LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 1< " Regulating your conduct by those principles which have heretofore governed your actions as men, soldieid, and citizens, you will repeat the obligations conferred on your country, and you will transmit to posterity an example that must command their admiration and grateful praise. Long may you continue to enjoy tho endearments of paternal attachment and the heartfelt happiness of reflecting that you have faithfully done your duty. " While I am permitted to possess the consciousness of this worth, which has long bound me to you by every tie of affection and esteem, 1 will continue to De your sincere and faithful friend." The first diplomatick transaction of the President was with the -Indian tribes. He conceived it to be true policy to " cultivate an intimate intercourse with the Indians upon principles calculated to advance their happiness, and to attach them firmly to the United States." With these views he early opened negotiations with them, and the interests of several of the states being closely connected with treaties that, might be made, he asked, during the first session of Congress, the advico of the Senate upon questions that were at issue. The first attempt, to establish a peace with the Creek Indians failed. M'Gillivray, their Chief, was the .son of a white man, and his resentment had been keenly excited against the state of Georgia by the confisca- tion of lands which his father had holden. ; and more particularly by the claim of that government to a large tract on the Oconee in virtue of an Indian purchase, (he validity of which the Creek hation denied. Ge- neral Lincoln, Mr. Griffin, and Colonel Humphries were deputed Commissioners to negotiate with the Creeks in the summer of 178!). They met M'Gilli- vray with other Chiefs, and about two thousand of the tribe at Rock landing, on the Oconee, on the frontiers rtf Georgia. Although first appearances promised 106 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1790-5 success to the mission, yet M'Gillivray suddenly broke off the negotiation far the ostensible reason of a dis- pute about boundaries, but really, as was supposed, through the influence of the Spanish government. The situation of the United States in their relation with the Indians became more and more critical avid embarrassing, and war was threatened with all the Iribee from Canada to Louisiana. The danger was the more formidable from the supposition that the jealousies of the Indians were excited by the intrigues of British and S-piinish agents, and that an Indian war would probably lead to hostilities with those powers. Ardently desirous to secure the frontiers from the horrourst of Indian warfare, the President again at- tempted to negotiate with the Creeks, without com- mitting the dignity of government. He sent Colo- Willett, a gallant revolutionary officer, into their coun- try, apparently upon private business ; but furnished witli credentials, to he used if he found M'Gillivray disposed for peace. This second mission proved suc- cessful. M'Gillivray and a number of Creek Chiefs were induced to repair to New- York, where negotia- tions were immediately opened, and a treaty soon es- tablished: although the Secretary of East Florida came to New-York with a large sum of money, under a pre- tence of purchasing flour, but in fact to prevent M'Gil- livray from treating. The attempt to establish peace with the Indians of the Wabash and the Miamis did not terminate so suc- cessfully. The American settlers on that frontier con- tinued to suffe from their .hostilities, and all appear- ances indicated, that they could be brought into a pa- cifick disposition, only by being made themselves to feel the miseries of war. The President. was decidedly of the opinion that on the failure of negotiation, a military force should be employed in their country, which their united power could not successfully resist, and which should be ada J 790-5.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 107 quate to the conquest of their towns, ud the destruc- tion of their villages. This, he conceived, policy, economy, and humanity dictated. But Congress, iu their military establishment, did not meet lire views, and at the moment he gave his sanction to the bill, he entered in his private journal, that he did not conceive the military establishment was adequate to the exi- gence of the government, and to the protection it was intended to afford. For the sake of a connected view of Indian affairs, we will in this place give a narrative of subsequent transactions, although we shall be carried out of tlte order of time in which events took place. The attempt to negotiate with the Indians north- west of the Ohio having proved abortive, the Presi- dent conceived himself bound to use the means Con- gress had put into his hands to protect the frontiers ; and accordingly General Harmar was sent in Septem- ber 1791, into the Indian territories with a force, con- sisting of about three hundred regular troops anri eleven hundred militia of Pennsylvania and Kentucky, with orders to bring the Indians if possible .to action, and to destroy their settlements OR the waters of the Scioto and Wabasfe. The Savages avoided an engagement with the main body of the American army, but with great spirit at- tacked a strong detachment which had pursued them, and killed several valuable officers. Harmar destroyed their settlements, but aflbrded no protection to the frontiers. Several smaller expeditions with variowg success were made into the Indian country, and in the autumn of 1791 Major General St. Clair marched a force of near two thousand effective men into thfcir territories, and on the fourth of November was attack- ed and totally defeated by them. The President, apprehending that the success of the Indians, and the booty they had gained, would have in- fluence to bring other tribes into the war, conceived 108 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1790-5 that the honour of the nation was concerned to retrieve the American losses, and to afford protection to the frontiers. St. Clair resigning his commission, General Wayne was appointed his successor." The President lost no time in laying before Congress an estimate ^f such a military force, as he thought would be adequate to the object ; and they at length acceded to his pro- posal. While these preparations were ripening, much complaint -was made of the war, and the President was induced, rather from a desire to convince the country that successful warfare was the only means of peace, than from any expectation of success in the mission, to send Colonel Harden and Major Truemaa, two valuable officers and worthy men, into the Indian country, to attempt negotiation ; but they were both murdered. On the 20th of August, 1794, General Wayne brought the Indians to an engagement, to- tally defeated them, and destroyed their country on the Miamis. This action was decisive : it deterred other tribet from entering into the war, and induced the Miamis themselves to treat for peace. On the 3d of August, ' a treaty was entered into by General Wayne with the Indians northwest of the Ohio, which ended all hostili- ties, quieted the fears of the frontiers, and gave univer sal satisfaction. As early as 1780, the President received authentick intelligence, that Spanish agents were intriguing with the inhabitants of the -Western country, to seduce them from their allegiance to the United States. Re- presentations were made them in the name of the government of Spain, that while they were connected .with the Atlantick States, the navigation of the Mis s-'ssippi would be denied them ; but if they would as sumo an independent government, the river should bfc opened, and their independence supported. In 1794, Spain, suffering herseLl the evils of wnr, R r as inclined to treat with the United States. Sii* 1790-5 | LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 108 intimated by her ministers, that the etiquette of hot court forbid her to treat, with Mr. Short, the American resident at Madrid, yet a higher diplomatick charactei would be accredited, and negotiations immediately opened with him. The President placed full conn dence in Mr. Short, but he thought it policy to meet the friendly propositions of Spain, and in November nominated Mr. Pinckney to be the American Ministei at that Court. In the course of the next summer, Mr Pinckney repaired to Madrid, and on the 20th of Octo- ber, 1795, a treaty was signed between him and the Spanish commissioners, which happily terminated the controversy respecting boundary lines, and the naviga- tion of the Mississippi to the satisfaction of the nation. On the 8th of January, 1790, the President met Congre=s at their second session. In his_ speech he congratulated them on the succeed of their measures, and recommended a variety of na- tional objects to their serious attention. Among these, the following are the principal. Provision for national defence ; the means of holding irteieourse with fo- reign nations ; establishing a rule of naturalization ; uniformity in the currency, weights, and measures of the United States ; and the promotion of science and literature. " Knowledge," he observed, " is in every country the surest basis of publick happiness. In one, in which the measures of government receive their impressions so immediately from the sense of the community as in ours, it is proportionably essential." And he concluded with the following assurances. " I shall derive great satisfaction in co-operating * ith you in the pleasing though arduous task of ensuring to our fellow citizens the blessings which they have a right to expect from a free, efficient, and equal govern ment." The answers of the Senate and the House of Re- presentatives were cordial and respectful, and promised VOL. II. 10 .10 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1790-5 a continuance of harmony between the Executive and Legislature. In this session of Congress, the Secretary of the Treasury first reported those fiscal arrangements in support of publick credit, which, in their progress to establishment, were the occasion of warm and ani- mated debates in the Legislature, fully displayed the discordance of politico! opinion among the members, and excited that party ppirit which has since convulsed the United States. The President readily gave his sanction to these fis- cal establishments of the Legislature, yet by this act he seemed not to lose the good opinion of the opposi- tion ; the blame and odium fell upon the Secretary of the Treasury, and upon the northern federal members of Congress. The incessant application to business had a visible effect upon the constitution of the President, and at tliis period he was for a second time attacked with a violent disease, which put his life in imminent danger. At the close of *lhe session, therefore, he determined to give himself a short relaxation in a visit to Mount Vernon. He first made a tour to Rhode-Island, which not being then in the Union, had not been included in his visit to New-England ; and at Newport arid Provi- dence he received every attention which affection and respect could dictate. This retirement was of essential service to his health, and at the close of autumn he returned to Phi- ladelphia to meet the Legislature ; to which place Congress had adjourned, at the close of the year 1790. At this time the President noticed the rising disturb- ances in Europe, and advised to those precautionary measures, which had a tendency to secure to th United Stsxtes the benefit of their commerce. Men- tioning to the House the sufficiency of the established revenue to the purposes to which it was appropriated, ke expressed his hope " that it would be a favourite 1790-5.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON Hi policy with them not merely to secure the interest of tKe debt funded, but as far, and as fast as the growing resources of the country will permit, to exonerate it of the principal itself." The address was closed in the following impressive manner. " In pursuing the various and weighty business of the present session, I indulge the fullest persuasion that your consultations will be marked with wisdom, and animated by the love of country. In whatever belongs to ny duty, you shall have all the co-operation which an undiminished zeal for its welfare can inspire It will be happy for us both, and our best reward, if by a successful administration of our respective trusts, we can make the established government more and more instrumental in promoting the good of our fellow citizens, and more and more the object of their attachment and confidence." The respect and confidence of the Legislature in the Executive appeared on this occasion without dimi- nution ; although one of the measures of the Presi dent was for the first time condemned. A member from Georgia pronounced the treaty with the Creek Indians to be a violation of the rights of that state. In this session of Congress the Bank of the United States was established. Its constitutionality had been deeply argued in the Legislative body, and came be- fore the Executive as a question involving the highest national interest. It was reviewed in the Cabinet with the deliberation it merited. The Council, on this oc- casion, as on most others, were divided. Messrs. Jef ferson and Randolph expressed as their decided opi nion that the law was unconstitutional. Messrs Hamilton and Knox were fully convinced of its consti- tutionality. The President called upon each member of his Council for the reasons of his opinion in writing. These he maturely weighed, and being convinced him- self that the law was constitutional, put his signature to it. J12 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1790-5. With the 3d of March, 1791, terminated the period of the first Congress. President WASHINGTON having made the necessary arrangements, and appointed an Executive Council to attend to the business of the government, soon after the close of the session, commenced a journey to the Southern States. On his way he stopped at the Poto mack, and, pursuant to the powers with which Con gress had vested him, marked out the f'.le of the Fede- ral City, designed as the permanent seat of govern- ment In the course of this tour he received the same general expressions of love and veneration for his cha- racter, and of confidence in his government, which he had experienced in his northern c' T cuit. And he de- rived great satisfaction in contemplating the improve- ments of the country, and remarking the evidences of attachment to the Federal Government. The feelings excited by this journey are fully expressed in the fol- lowing letter, written after his return to Philadelphia. " In my late tour through the Southern Status, I ex- perienced great satisfaction in seeing the good effects of the general government in that part of the union The people at large have felt the security which it gives, and the equal justice which it administers to them. The Farmer, the Merchant, and the Mecha- nick, have seen their several interests attended to, and froin thence they unite in placing a confidence in their Representatives, as well as in those in whose hands the execution of the laws is placed. Industry has there taken place of idleness, and economy of dissipation. Two or three years of good crops, and a ready market for the produce of their lands, have put every one in good humour ; and in some instances, they even im pute to the government what is due only to the good ness of Providence. " The establishment of publick credit is an immense point gained in our national concerns. This I believo eiceciis the expectation of the most sanguine amonf .790-5.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON, 113 us ; and a late instance, unparalleled in this country, has been given of the confidence reposed in our mea- sures, bv the rapidity with which the subscriptions to the Bank of the United States were rilled. In two hours after the books were opened by the commission- ers, the whole number of shares were taken up, and four thousand more applied for than were allowed by the institution. This circumstance was not only pleas- ing as it related to the confidence in government, but also as it exhibited an unexpected proof of the re- sources of our citizens." The hearts of all Americans were with General WASHINGTON at this period ; but notwithstanding these ' jiublick appearances, there was in fact much hostility to the government at the Southward. On the 24th of October, 1791 , the President met the second Congress in the established form. During this session a great national question came before the Legislature which the President was com- pelled ultimately to decide. The constitution provides that there shall not be more than one Representative to thirty thousand in- habitants. An enumeration having been made, the House of Representatives passed a bill providing for each state to send one Representative for every thirty thousand of its population. This ratio in several in- stances leaving a large fraction, operated unequally on the small states. The Senate, to cure the evil, assumed a new principle of apportionment. They found the whole population of the United States, and, dividing thi aggregate number by thirty thousand, took the quo- tient as the number of Representatives, and then ap- portioned this number upon the several states accord- ing to their population ; to which the House concurred. When the President had the bill before him for hid signature, he took the opinion of his Cabinet upon the constitutionality of the arrangement. Mr. JeiTerson and Mr. Randolph thought the bill unconstitutional 10" 114 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1790-5. General Knox was undecisive, and Colonel Hamilton conceived that the expression of the Constitution mi.re divided. Mr. Jefferson and Mr. Randolph held that the government was under no ob- ligation to restore them to their original owners. Colonel Hamilton and General Knox contended that, to maintain*an honest neutrality, the United States were bound to restore the prizes. The President took time to deliberate on those points an which his Council were not agreed. Principles in which they were united, he establish- ed ; and directed the Secretary of State to give the necessary information to the Ministers of France and Britain. Mr. Genet complained heavily of these rules of th American Government, as a violation of neutral rifht 1793-7.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 12V and as a breach of existing treaties between the two nations. In his comments upon thes? treaties, he claimed for France every thing which the two nations had bound themselves not to grant to other countries, converting negative stipulations which respected other nations, into grants < ? positive privileges to the contracting parties. He was informed, that out of respect to him, the eubject had been reviewed in the Cabinet ; but that the President saw no reason to change his opinion. Mr. Genet still refused acquiescence, and seemed to have entertained the expectation, that he should be able so far to avail himself of the partiality of the Americans for France, as to bend the Administration to his own purposes, or to overthrow it. Prosecutions having been commenced against two of the American citizens, whom Genet engaged at Charleston, to cruise in the service of France, he de- manded these men of the civil magistrate who had ar- rested them, in the following very extraordinary ian^ guage. " I have this moment been informed that two offi- cers in the service of the Republick of France, citizens Gideon Henfield and John Singletary, have been ar- rested on board the privateer of the French Republick, the Citizen Genet, and conaucted to prison. The crime laid to their charge, the crime which my mind cannot conceive, and which my pen almost refuses to state, is the serving of France, and defending with her" children the common glorious cause of liberty. " Being ignorant of any positive law or treaty which durives Americans of this privilege, and authorizes officers of police arbitrarily to take mariners in the service of France from on board their vessels, I call upon your intervention, sir, and that of the President of the United States, in order to obtain the immediate releasement of the above mentioned officers, who have 128 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [17JKW acquired by the sentiments animating- them, and bv the act of their engagement, anleriour to every act to the contrary, the right of French citizens, if they have lost that of American citizens." The President considered this insolent demand as an attack upon the honour and independence of tho United States ; but without noticing the intemperate language of the French Minister, he steadily pursued the publick interest. The leading individuals of that portion of the Ame- rican people who had been opposed to the adoption of tho National constitution, and were opposed to the measures of the Administration under it, in the par- tialities and prejudices manifested throughout the Union towards France and Great Britain, saw the probable means to weaken the confidence, and alienate the affection which the citizens of the United States manifested towards the President ; and in this way to bring about a revolution in the national government. In pursuance of this plan, the resentments and the en- thusiastick sympathies of the people were fostered ; and dernocratick societies, in imitation of the Jacobin Club in Paris, were formed. The victories of France were celebrated by feasts, bonfires, and other publick rejoicings. The measures adopted by the Executive to preserve the peace of the nation, were vilified in the newspa- pers devoted to the opposition ; the proclamation of neutrality was declared to be an exercise of power, with which the Constitution did not invest the Presi- dent ; and the measures of the Administration gene- rally were pronounced to be unfriendly to France, and to carry evidence of their intention to break with that Republick and to join in the royal crusade against liberty. Mr. Genet was justified in the construction of the existing treaties between the two nations, and he was urged to persist in his opposition to the rnea- cures of the American government. 1793-7 J LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 12& The President deeply felt the insult ottered to the nation, by the attempt of the French Minister to con tinue the exercise of an usurped authority within tho United States ; but he knew the importance of yield ing to the feelings of his countrymen, as far as con- sisted with the dignity of his station, and with the in dependence, the peace, and welfare of his ccuntry He contented himself with confuting in a cool and difr- oassionate manner the extravagant positions of Mr, Genet, and inflexibly adhered to his system. Private business called him to Mount Vernon, and he was absent from the seat of government from the 24th of June to the llth of July. During his absence the Heads of Departments superintend 3d the execu tion of tho measures that had been agreed upon in the Cabinet. At this time an event took place which fully exhibits the rashness jf the French Minister, and shows the difficulty to which 'he subjected the administration. A French privateer brought an English merchant- man, the Little Sarah, into Philadelphia. This vessel Genet equipped as a privateer. Having mounted four- teen iron cannon, and six swivels, and taken on board one hundred and twenty men, a number of whom were Americans, she was about to sail under the name of La Petite Democrat. In this situation the Secretary of the Treasury reported her case to the Secretaries of State and of War. Governour MifHin was in con- sequence requested to make examination, and on the 14th of July he reported that she was to sail next day. By desire of the Heath of Departments the Governour sent Mr. Dallas, Secrt ,ary of State for Pennsylvania., to request Mr. Genet to relieve them from the disa- greeable necessity of preventing by force the sailing of a privateer equipped in their ports. This request excited in that Minister the most violent passion,which he vented in very intemperate and abusive language, declared that La Petite Democrat would repel force by force, and threatened to appeal from tho Executive to 130 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1793-V the people. Mr. Jefferson in person waited upon him to renew the request,- that he would order the priva- teer not to sail until the pleasure of the President could be known ; Mr. Jefferson reported, that after an ebullition of passion, and some equivocation, he un- derstood Mr. Genet to promise, that the privateer should fall down below Chester, and there wait the will of the PresiJeiit. Colonel Hamilton and Gene- ral Knox were for taking measures to prevent her Bailing, but Mr. Jefferson, professing his confidence in the promise of Mr. Genet, opposed them, and they were not put in execution. These proceedings were immediately reported to the President on his return to the seat of government. Mr. Jefferson had then retired, indisposed, to his coun- try house, and the President wrote him as follows : " What is to be done in the case of the Little Sa- rah, now at Chester ? Is the Minister of the French Republick to set the acts of this government at defi- ance witli impunity ? And threaten the Executive with an appeal to the people ? What must the world think of such conduct ? And of the United States In sub- mitting to it ' " These are serious questions. Circumstances press for decision ; and as you have had time to considei them, upon me they come unexpectedly, I wish to know your opinion upon them even before to-morrow, for the vessel may then be gone." IT answer to this loiter, the Secretary of State in- ibri.ied the President, that Mr. Genet had assured him that the vessel should not sa ; before the decision of the Executive respecting it should be known ; and co- ercive measures were therefore suspended. In Coun- cil, next day, it was determined to detain the armed vessels of belligerents in port. This determination was made known to Genet, but in contempt of it the privateer sailed. The opposition applauded even thil ict of resistance in the French Minister. The un- 1793-7.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 131 wearied endeavour of the Administration, by a faithful observance of treaties, and an impartial treatment to- wards belligerent powers, to secure the blessings of peace, and the rights of neutrality to the United States^ was construed into a violation of those treaties, and into an insidious pel. erne to force the country into a war against France. The French Minister persisted in his exposition of the treaty, and in repeated letters, written in abusive and insulting language, to the Secretary of State, da- manded reparation of injuries his country had sus- tained. The President was at length convinced of the ne- cessity of taking effectual measures with Genet, and on the 25th of July he wrote the following letter to Mr. Jefferson. " As the official conduct of Mr. Genet, relatively to the affairs of this government, will have to undergo a very serious consideration, so soon as the special court at which the Attorney General is now engaged, wi.l allow him to attend with convenience, in order to de- cide upon measures proper to be. taken thereupon, it is my desire that all the letters to'and from that Minis- ter may be ready to be laid before me, the Heads of Departments, and the Attorney General, whom I shall advise with on the occasion, together with the minutes of such oral communications as you may have had with him on the subject of these letters, &c. And aa the memorials from the British Minister, and answers thereto, are materially connected therewith, it will bo proper, I conceive, to have these ready also." The Executive proceeded with the unanimous cm- ent of the Cabinet, to establish a system by which to regulatu the intercourse with nations at war. The rules adopted give evidence of the unalterable purpose of the President, sacredly to observe all national en- gagements, and honestly to perform every duty due to belligerent powers ; and they manifest a determina 133 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1793-7 lion to insist on the uninterrupted exercise of tho rights of neutrality for his own country. It was also pgreed that prizes brought into American ports, by privateers equipped in them, should be restored, or compensation be made for them, and that armed vessels of this description should not b'e permitted to remain in American harbours. These regulations were communicated to the Minis ters of the belligerent nations, and in the same letter, the privileges stipulated by treaty for France were stated, and a solicitude was expressed for their se- curity. After deliberate attention to the conduct and corre- spondence of the French Minister, it was agreed that a letter should be written to Mr. Morris, American Minister at Paris, stating the reasons on which the measures of the Administration with belligerent na- tions were founded, giving information of the disa- greement of Mr. Genet with the government, and re- ** questing his recall. The communication to the French government on this subject concluded in the follow- ing manner. " After independence and self govern- j ment, there was nothing America more sincerely' wished than perpetual friendship with them." The threat of Mr. Genet to appeal from the Presi- dent to the people being reported on most respectable authority, made a deep impression on the publick rnind. That portion of the American people, which were originally in favour of adopting the National Constitu- tion of government generally approved the measures. of the Administration ; and although they thought favourably of the revolution of France, and wished well to our cause, yet they were indignant at the insult offered \tj her minister to the Chief Magistrate of the United States. The'appeal having been made to them, they felt themselves constrained by every feeling of patriotism to support their own government in mea- sures they deemed to be fair, just, and impartial In I7TO-7.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 133 every part of the United States, the people itssmibled in their towns and districts, to express their opinion* on publick measures. The contest was warm, but the great majority of voices was found on the siclo of the Administration, its measures were approved ; and it fully appeared that the affection and confidence of the American people in the President, existed in their force and efficacy. Yet at the moment that- publick indignation was expressed at the attempt to exercise a foreign influence over the American councils, it waa evident that those who expressed it, felt a strong par- tiality in favour of France in her contention with Eng- land. In the .spirit of conciliation, General WASHINGTON determined not to take violent measures with Genet, until the result of tl>e complaint lodged against him with his own government, should be known, and with magnanimity he bore his abuses. But at length, pa- tience and forbearance were exhansted. In 1794 the French Minister deliberately planned two expeditions against Spain, to be carried on from the United States, and granted commissions to Ame- rican citizens to be officers in" them, who 'privately en- listed men for the purpose. The conquest of the Flo- ridas was -.the object of one of these expeditions, and Georgia was the place of rendezvous for the troops destined to this service. The other was designed for the invasion of Louisiana, and was to be" prosecuted from Kentucky down the Ohio and Mississippi. The arrangements were all made ; but before the plan was ripe for execution, the government interposed, and omo of the -principal agents were arrested. No go- vernment, the President conceived, which had any pretentions to independence, could subrr.it to insults of this nature. Having consulted, with the Vice President, the Hcada of Departmtmts, and other leading characters in the government, he determined to suspend the ministerial VOL. II. 12 134 L1F-E OF WASHINGTON. [1793-7 functions, and to confine the person of Genet. Mes- sages to the two houses of the Legislature on this sub ject were prepared, and orde r s were given to the Mar shal to take the French Minister into custody. Hut the evening prsceding the day on which these order* were to have been carried into execution, official let ters from Mr. Morris informed the President, that Mr. Genet was recalled, which prevented the necessity of carrying the measure to extremity. One instance among mary, of the independence, the firmness, and the good fortvme of President WASHINGTON. Mr. Fauchet, the successor of Mr. Genet, brought assurances that Jiis government disapproved of the conduct of his predecessor, and made warm declara tions of his own disposition to consult the peace and honour of the government of the United States, and his practices for a time corresponded with his lan- guage. About this period, the Executive of the French go- vernment made known to the President their wishes that Mr. Morris might be recalled. He immediately complied witli their request, and nominated Colonel Monroe of Virginia as his successo*. an appointment peculiarly pleasing to the friends of v ranee. The task of the Executive was rendered still more delicate, arduous, and difficult, by the conduct of Great Britain. The Court of London had declined a treaty with Congress under the old Confederation. At the com- mencement of the Federal Government, the Adminis- tration was disposed to negotiate with Great Britain without committing the honour of the nation. Mr. Gouverneur Morris, who was in England on private business, was directed to open a.n informal conference with members of the British Cabinet on the subject of American affairs. With much address he executed this commission but to little purpose. He informer the President, that the Duke of Leeds and Mr. Pitl /703-7.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 13* manifested a disposition to live on terms of amity ani friendship with the United States ; but discovered uo inclination to enter into a commercial treaty with them , that they complained of the neglect of the American government to execute the stipulations of the treaty of peace, for which neglect they justified their retention 01 the Western Posts. In this situation the French revolution found Great Britain and the United States. At the commence- ir.cnt of the war butween France and England, various circumstances indicated the probability that America would be brought into the contention against Britain. The warm and animated expressions of fraternity made by the American people towards France ; tho festivals in celebration of French victories, and the manifest partiality which many discovered for her in the management of tli'e war, probably led the British Cabinet to think that the United States were disposed to become parties in the war, and induced them to adopt measures to meet this hostile spirit. On the other nand, the unfriendly indications of the English Court, and the impressments of American seamen in the British ports, in addition. to the common vexa- tion of neutrals on the high seas, and the attempt to starve France by carrying American provision vessels into English- ports, was so much iuel to feed tli pas- sions of the Americans already in a blaze. In this state of national affairs, the President met Congress on the 4th of December, 1793. In the speech delivered on this interesting occasion, he thus noticed his re-election to the Presidency. " Sinse the cornrneicement of the term for which i have been again called into office, no fit occasion has arisen for expressing to my fellow citizens at large tho deep and respectful sense which I feel of the renewed testimony of publick approbation. While on the quo hand, it awakened my gratitude, for all those instances of affectionate partiality with which I have been 136 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1793-7 honoured by my country ; on the other, it could not prevent an earnest w-ish for that retirement, from which no private consideration should ever have torn me. But influenced by the bilief that my conduct would be estimated according to its real motives, and that the people, and the authorities derived from them, would support exertions, having nothing personal for their object, I have obeyed the suffrage which com- manded me to resume the executive power ; and I humbly implore that Being on whose will the fate of nations depends, to crown with success our mutual endeavours for the general happiness." He then ma.de the following communications re- specting the measures of the Administration. " As soon as the war in Europe had embraced those powers with whom the United States have the most extensive relations, there was reason to apprehend that our intercourse with them might be interrupted, and our disposition for peace drawn in question by suspicions too often entertained by belligerent nations. It ained therefore to be my duty to admonish our citizen* of the consequence of a contraband trade, and of hostile acts to any of the parties ; and to obtain by a declaration of the existing state of things an easier admission of our rights to the immunities be- longing to our situation. Under these impressions the Proclamation was issued. " In this posture of affairs, both new and delicate, I resolved to adopt general rules, which should conform to the treaties, and assert the privileges of the United States. These were reduced into a system, which hall be communicated to you." After noticing those legislative provisions which his experience dictated as necessary, he proceeded : " I cannot recommend to your notice, measures for the fulfilment of our duties to the rest of the worldj without again pressing upon you the necessity of plac- ing yourselves in a situation of complete defence, and 1793-7] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. "137 of exacting from them, the fulfilment of their duties towards us. The United Stales ought not to indulge a persuasion that, contrary to the order of human events, they will for ever keep at a distance those pain- ill appeals to arms, with which the history of every other nation abounds. There is a rank due to the United States among nations, which will he withheld, if not absolutely lost, by the reputation of weakness. II we desire to avoid insult, we must be able to repel it ; if we desire to secure peace, one of the most pow- erful instruments of our prosperity, it must be known that we are, at all times, ready for war." After advising the greatest appropriations for the redemption of the publick debt, which the resources cf the count) y would permit, he in the following manner concluded the address. " The several subjects to which I have now referred open a wido range to your deliberations, and involve some of the choicest interests of our common country. Permit me to bring to your remembrance the magni- tude of your task. Without an unprejudiced coolness, the welfare of the government rnav be hazarded ; without harmony, as far as consists with freedom of sentiment, its dignity nay be lost. But as the legis- lative proceedings of the United States will never, 1 trust, be reproached for the want of temper, or of can- dour, so shall not the publick happiness languish from the want of my strenuous and warmest co-operations." The party in the United States, opposed to the ge- neral system on which the Federal Government had been administered, by associating the cause of France with their own, had increased their members in tho present Congress ; but they were not prepared to at- tack either the discernment or the patriotism of thu President. The House of Representatives, in their answer, thus noticed* the unanimous suffrage, by which General WASHINGTON had, a second time, been elected to the Presidency. 12* 138 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [179S-7. " It was with equal sincerity and promptitude they embraced the occasion for expressing to him their con- gratulations on so distinguished a testimony of pubhck approbation, and their entir -confidence in the puritj and patriotism of tiie motives which had produced this obedience to the voice of his country. It is to virtues that have commanded long and universal reverence, and services from which have flowed great and lasting benefits, that the tribute of praise may be paid without the reproach of flattery ; and it is from the same sources that the fairest anticipations may be derived in favour of publick happiness." The proclamation of neutra- lity was in a cautious manner approved, and a disposi- tion was expressed to support the Executive. The answer of the Senate breathed unreserved af fection and confidence. Referring to the second elec- tion of the President, they observed, " In the unani- mity which a second time marks this important national act, we trace with particular satisfaction, besides the distinguished tribute paid to the virtues and abilities, which it recognises, another proof of that just discern- ment, and constancy of sentiments and views, which have hitherto characterized the citizens of the United States." They declared the Proclamation to be " a measure well timed and wise, manifesting a watchful solicitude for the welfare of the nation, and calculated to promote it." At the close of this year, Mr. Jefferson resigned his Secretaryship, and was succeeded by Mr. E. Ran- dolph ; and Mr. William Bradford was appointed At torncy General. After a very animated debate, January, 1794, a bill passed Congress by a V3ry small majority, tp build six frigates, and it received the cordial assent of the Exe- cutive. This was the commencement of the Arneri can navy. In November 1793 the British government had given Insiructions to her ships to detain all vessels ladci> with 1793-7.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 131 (roods, the produce of any colony belonging to Franc? or carrying provisions, or other supplies to those colo- nies, and bring them into English ports for adjudica- tion. These instructions were thought, by reflecting men in America, to be proof of a hostile spirit in the Bri- tish Cabinet towards the United States, and Congress defined it expedient to be prepared to meet the proba- ble event of war. They accordingly laid an embargo foi the term of thirty days, and with great unanimity adopted provisional measures of self defence. While these measures were in train, the President on the 4th of April, 1794, transmitted to Congress a letter from Mr. Pinckney, who had been appointed Minister at the Court of London, which contained in- formation, that the orders of November were revoked, and instructions given to cruizcrs to bring in for adju- dications only those neutral vessels which were laden with the produce of French Islands on a direct voyage from Uiose islands to Europe ; and gave the substance of a conversation between Lord Grenville and Mr. Pinckney in which his Lordship more satisfactorily ex- plained the instructions of November ; and manifested a disposition to cultivate peace and amity with the United States. This communication made a deep impression on the Federal members of Congress. They thought that a door was opened for negotiation, and that war might probably be avoided. The opposition members and the partisans of Franco, alarmed by these symptoms of moderation, redoubled their attack upon England, and upon all, who were disposed to cultivate friendship with her. Newspapers were filled with invectives of this nature, and every epithet of vileness and calumny was made use of to inflame the publick mind, and increase the hostility of the nation against Great Britain. The majority of Congress discovered a disposition to proceed in their UC LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [17i)3-/ military preparations, in which the sentiment, of the community seemed to support them, and general ap- ptarances still indicated approaching hostilities. The President foresaw the evila that must be intro- duced by a war with Great Britain, in the distemper- ed state of the publick mini. He knew that sne iTn- inanded lhc)cean, that she presented the best mar- kets for the exports of the United States, and furnish- ed, on the easiest terms, those manufactures which were necessary to his countrymen. He perceived tl at the devotion of the people to France would throw the United States into her arms, and that his country must become a mere satellite of her will. He was not without some apprehension, that the bloody and fero- cious spirit that had disgraced the French revolution might be introduced into the peaceable society of America. Under these solemn impressions, he determined to use his endeavours to arrest the dreaded evil, and on vhe 16th of April he nominated in the Senate an En- to% Extraordinary to the Court of Great Britain, and for the following reasons. " The communications which I have made to you curing your present session, from the despatches of our Minister in London, contain a serious aspect of our allairs with Great Britain. But as peace ought to be pursued with unremit^ed zeal, before the last resource, which has so often been the scourge of nations, ind cannot fail to check the advanced prosperity of the United States, is contemplated, I have thought prrper to nominate John Jay, as Envoy Extraordinary of the United States to his Britannick Majesty. " My confidence in our Minister Plenipotentiary in London continues undiminisked. But a mission like this, while it corresponds with the solemnity of the occasion, will announce to the world a solicitude foi the friendly adjustment of our complaints, and a re luotar.cc to hostility. Going immediately from th 1793-7] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 141 United States, such an Envoy will carry with him a full knowledge of the existing temper and sensibility of our country ; and will thus, be taught to vindicate our rights with firmness, and to cultivate peace with sincerity." To a considerable part 'of Congress, and to a .arge portion of the American prople, this decisive ant wa unexpected and displeasing ; and it was adopted in full view of the obloquy and abuse of which it would be the occasion. A motion made to stay the proceedings against Great Britain, on account of the pending negotiation was overruled in the House of Representatives ; and a bill prohibiting commercial intercourse with her carried by a considerable majority ; which was lost in the Senate by the casting vote of the Vice President. The authority of the Executive to issue the pro- clamation of neutrality had by many been douhted ; his power-to call out the militia to prevent the sailing of privateers, which had violated his rules, denied ; and the American citizens, who had been prosecuted for engaging in expeditions against the nations at war, had been acquitted by a jury of trials. The President therefore, although entertaining himself no doubt about his constitutional authority, was desirous- to ob- tain the sanction of Congress for the system he had adopted to preserve the peace of the country. At the commencement of the session, he intimated to the National Legislature the propriety of the mea- sjire, and in pursuance of his advice, the Senate intro- duced a bill, prohibiting within the United States the exercise, by Foreign Ministers, of those acts of sove- reignty which Genet claimed, and subjecting to fine and imprisonment those who should be guilty of any of the acts towards the belligerent nations, which the Executive had forbidden. This bill, necessary as it vas to the honour and peace of the- nation, was oppos- ed by the whole force of the Antifederalists, and finally J42 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1793-7 passed tho Senate by the casting vote of the Vice Pre- sident. On the Oth of Juno, J704, the session of Congress, which had been active and stormy, closed. In the course of this year, the President was called to an important, but painful duty in administering the djinestick concerns of the government. I nder the last Presidency an act had passed, laying duty on spirits distilled within the United States. To the inhabitants in the Western Counties of Penn- sylvania this was highly offensive. The whole district had been from the beginning, hostile to the Federal Constitution. They had with acrimony opposed ita adoption, and were in opposition to all the measures of the Administration. Emboldened by the hoarse and loud clamours of their party, they absolutely refused compliance with the law. The President with anxiety saw this combination, but waited in the expectation that the fjuiet submission to the act in other parts of the Union, would induce the people of "this district to yield obedience. In the mean time he recommended to Congress to modify the act in such a manner as to remove every reasonable objection. Accordingly in May, 17;i2, the National Legislature took up the sub- ject, and made such alterations in the act, as experi- ence dictated would be salutary. This revision did not conciliate the insurgents. The officers, who at- tempted to collect the duty, were violently opposed. In County and District Conventions, a systematick opposition was planned ; and banishment from the cir- cle of goo.l neighbourhood, and from all the benefiti and pleasures of social intercourse, was denounced igainst all who should aid the publick officers ; and the officers themselves were threatened with every per- sonal outrage,, should they persist in the endeavour to execute the duties of their office. Knowing the importance of breaking this daring combination. >he President issued a Proclamation, ad- 1794] LIFE OK WASHINGTON. 143 mo"isb t ng all persons to desist from proceedings de- signed '.o obstruct the execution of the laws, requiring the interposition of magistrates in support of govern- ment, and directing the prosecution of offenders. The Proclamation not producing the desired effect, b. endeavoured to prevent the necessity of having re- course to a military force, by making it the interest of ti.fi distillers to pay the duty. Prosecutions were instituted against delinquents, /here they could be sustained, the spirits distilled in 'he counties opposing the law were ordered to be sciz- :d on their way to market, by the officers of the reve- me, and the contractors for the army were directed .0 purchase only the spirits, on which the duties had jeen paid. But whatever were the wishes of the dis- tillers, the fear of an infuriated populace prevented a compliance with these orders ; and the insurgents took encouragement from the lenity of the Executive, in the expectation of ultimate success. By violent threats they deterred the Marshal from the service of his precepts, committed numerous outrages upon the friends of government, and organized themselves into military bands to resist any force that might be sent to subject them to the laws. The President had for three years patiently waited the effect of conciliatory measures, but these had only rendered the opposition more desperate He therefore had only to choose between the alternative of permit- ting the prostration of the government, or to call out its force in support of the laws. The subject in all its momentous consequences was laid before the Cabinet, and General Mifflin, the Governour of Pennsylvania, was on this occasion call- ed into the Council. Their unanimous desire was to avoid, if possible, the coertion of the military, and they therefore advised, that Commissioners should DO sent to the insurgents to warn them of their danger, and to offer a pardon of past offences, on condition cf 144 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1794 future obedience to the laws. It was also advised that a proclamation should be issued in conformity to the act of Congress, Commanding the insurgents to disperse by a given day. But in respect to ultimate operations, there was not an unanimity of opinion. The Govemour of Pennsylvania thought that the mi- litia of that state would be insufficient to suppress the insurrection, and appeared apprehensive of danger from the attempt to call out the power of government. Mr. Randolph, Secretary of State, expressed his fears on account of the numbers and strength of the insur- gents. He doubted whether the militia would obey the, orders of the Executive, and march to suppress by force of arms this combination ; if they should, he doubted the success of the expedition, and foreboded civil war in all its Ivo'rrours as the consequence. of a failure. The Secretary of the Treasury, the Secretary of War, and the Attorney General, were of opinion, that the President was bound by the most sacred obliga- tions, to use the means placed at his disposal, faithfully to execute the 'law. They therefore advised him to try the power of the government to coerce submis- sion ; and from policy and humanity to march a force into the insurgent counties, too strong to be resisted. The President did Hot hesitate to do his duty. Without exerting the means of prevention in his pow- er, he could not see the laws prostrated, and the au- thority of the United States defied. On the 7th of August, he issued the Proclamation which the law made a prerequisite to the employment of force. In it he gave a recapitulation of the mea- sures of Government, and of tHte opposition of the in- surgents, and thus proceeded, " Whereas it was in his judgment necessary, under the circumstances of the case, to take measures for calling forth the militia in order to suppress the combinations aforesaid, and to auee the laws to be duly executed, and he had accord I7J4.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 145 ingly determined so to do ; feeling the deepest re- gret for the occasion, but withal the most solemn, con- viction that the essential interests of the Union de manded it : that the very existence of govetmnent, and the fundamental principles of social order were involved in the issue ; :ind that the patriotism and firmness of all good citizens were seriously called upon to aid in the suppression of so fatal a spirit." The Proclamation closed by ordering ail iasurgents, and all other persons whom it might concern, on or before the first day of the ensuing September, to disperse and retire to their respective homes. Orders were on the same day issued to the Govcrnours of New-Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Virginia, for their re- spective quotas of twelve thousand nieii, which at a subsequent period was increased to fifteen thousand, who wero to be held in readiness to march at a mi nu f e's warning. Reluctant to draw the sword upon his fellow citi zens, the President at. this awful crisis determined to make one more attempt to reclaim by mild entreaty his deluded countrymen. The Attorney General, Judge Yates, and Mr. Ross, were commissioned to bear to the insurgents a general amnesty for all past crimes, on condiiioii of future obedience : but the cle- mency of the government was again spurned, and its power disregarded. The insurgents, forming an opinion from the lan- guage of democratic^ societies, and from the publica- tions in antifederal newspapers, seem to have enter- tained the supposition that their disaffection was go- nerally felt by the citizens of the United States, and that the attempt to suppress them would issue in a revolution of the government. That the Executive- of Pennsylvania might act in unison with the National Administration, Gpvernour Mifilin had also issued a Proclamation, and appointed commissioners to join those ol the nation. Voj.. II. 13 146 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1794 The faction opposed to government insidiously at tempted to obstruct the execution of the orders of tha President, but without effect ; the community express- ed unequivocally the determination to support the government, and to execute the laws. The personal influence of Governour MifHin surmounted the obstruc- tions which arose from the insufficiency of the militia taw^s of Pennsylvania ; the officers and men of ,he re- spective States obeyed the summons with an alacrity that exceeded the expectation of the most sanguine , and the required nu-.Txber of troops was seasonably in readiness to obey the orders of the Commander in Chief. The command of the expedition was given to Go- vernour Lee of Virginia, and the Governours of Penn syrvania and New-Jersey commanded the militia of their respective states under him. This force moved into the insurgent counties and bore down all opposi- tion. Thus by the vigour and prudence of the Exe- cutive, this formidable and alarming insurrection was, without the sacrifice of a life, subdued. The President attributed this insurrection in a great degree to the influence of the democratick societies. This opinion he expressed in his private letters, and in his publick communications to the Legislature. In a letter to Mr. Jay, he observed, " That the self-created societies, who hare spread themselves over this country, have been labouring in- cesf.intly to sow the seeds of distrust, jealonsy, and of course discontent, hoping thereby to effect some re- volution in the gov rrnment, is not unknown to you. That they have been the fomenters of the western dis- turbances, admits of no doubt in the mind of any onfl who will examine their conduct. But, fortunately they have precipitated a crisis for which they wera not prepared ; and thereby have unfolded views which will, I trust, effect their annihilation sooner, than ft might have happened." 1794.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 147 General WASHINGTON had the firmness an/! indo- ncndence to denounce these societies to the National Legislature, and to lend his personal influence to counteract their designs, thereby bringing upon him self their resentment. In his official address to Congress, on the 19th of November, he, as a channel of publick information, narrated the rise, progress, and issue of the insuriec tion, passed a merited encomium on the patriotism of those who had with alacrity exerted themselves to suppress it, and proceeded to observe : " To every description of citizens, let praise be giv en. But let them persevere in their affectionate vigi- lance over that precious depository of Anver ican happi- ness, the Constitution of the United Slates. And when in the calm moments of reflection, they shall have retraced the origin and progress of the insurrec- tion, let them determine whether it has not beet} fo- mented by combinations of men, who, careless of con- sequences and disregarding the unerring truth, that those who rouse, cannot always appease a civil op^- vulsion, have disseminated, from an ignorance or per : version of facts, suspicions, jealousies, and accusa- tions of the whole government." He, on this occasion, renewedly recommended to. the Legislature the orga- nization of the militia, and made such other commu- nications as the state of the country rendered expedi- ent. In their answer to this address, the Senate said ; " Our anxiety arising from the licentious and open re- sistance to the laws in the Western Counties of Penn- sylvania, has been increased by the proceedings of certain self-created societies relative to the laws and Administrations of the government ; proceedings, in our apprehensions, founded in political errour, calcu- lated, if not intended, to disorganize our government, anil which, by inspiring delusive hopes of support, 149 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 11795 have been instrumental in misleading our fellow citi tens in the scene of insurrection." They expressed an unqualified approbation of th measures adopted by the Executive to suppress the insurrection, and concluded in the following manner. " At a period so momentous in (he affairs of nations, the temperate, just, and firm policy that you have pur sued in respect to foreign powers, has been eminently calculated to promote the grtat and essential interest of our country, and has created the fairest title to the publick gratitude and thanks." The House of Representatives was not thus cordia and approbatory in their answer to the Speech of the President. After much-debate, they omitted to notice the eon Juct of the Executive with foreign powers, and they made no reply to hrs observations on self-created so cieties. In other points, the answer was respectful. On the last of January 17115, Mr. Hamilton resigned his place as Secretary of the Treasury, and was suc- ceeded by Mr. Oliver Woleott. And soon after Gene- ral Knox resigned the Secretaryship of War, and was succeeded by Colonel T. Pickering. While these events were taking place in America, Judire Jay was executing a commission in England highly important to his country. From the moment that he was admitted to a confer- ence with the Hritish Cabinet, he with the ardour of a patriot, and the ability of a statesman, devoted himself to the business of bis mission. While decorous in his behaviour towards 'he British crown, he maintained tip* respectability of his own character, and supported the horrmir of the United Sta es. Persuaded that wai would be the consequence of a failure of his negotia lion, he patiently attended to the investigation of th* subject in controversy, and finally agreed with Lord Greenville upon a treaty between the two countries 1795.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 149 In a letter to the President, he declared this to be the oest it was possible to obtain, and added, " I ought not to conceal from you, that the confidence reposed in your personal character was visible and useful throughout the negotiation." On the 8th of June, the President submitted the treaty, with the documents which attended it, to the deliberation of the Senate, that they might " in their wisdom decide whether they would advise and consent that it should be ratified." After deliberate investigation, the Senate, by exact ly two thirds of their numbers, the constitutional ma- jority advised to its ratification, with somu qualifica- tion of the 12th Article. Great exertion had been made by the party that opposed the mission of Mr. Jay, to keep alive the spirit of hostility to Great Britain. The secrecy ob- served in the negotiation was pointedly reprobated as a violation of the first principles of a Republican Go- vernment, and every circumstance that transpired re specting it, was used as a means to excite odium against the negotiation, and prejudice against the trea ty. While tho train was laying to enkindle a publick Same, word was received through a credible channel that the British Court had renewed the orders to their cruisers to detain provision vessels bound to French ports. Although the President had previously deter- mined t ) ratify the treaty, yet on this information, ha ordered a strong remonstrance to be drawn against those or jers, and suggested to his Cabinet the proprie ty of suspending the exchange of the ratified treaty, upon their revocation. In this stage of the business, he was called to Moun , Vernon. During his absence, and while the publick mind waa in a state of irritation, a Senator in Congress from Virginia, violating the decorum a.Eci the rules of th Senate, sent an incorrect copy ofth treaty to th. 13 550 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [179V Editor of i democratick paper, and through the presi it was immediately communicated to the publick. If the attempts to negotiate were represented as incon- sistent with the honour of the United States, and all the circumstances attending it criminated as a dere- liction of the interests of a sister Republick ; it can- not he supposed, that the instrument itself, which was the result of mutual concessions, and the adjustment of opposing national interests, should quiet the publick mind, subjected to the despotism of passion and pre- judice. Noisy and violent declamation against tho treaty abounded in every part of the United States and few were found, who, unbiassed by national inta rest, coolly and impartially decided upon its merits Publick meetings were holJenin all the large towns, and intemperate addresses denouncing the treaty voted, which were published in the Newspapers before they were presented to the President. Pamphlets were also put into circulation, written with ingenuity and calculated to increase the preju- dices against this national transaction, on the pretence that it was a sacrifice of the interests of France in fa vour of Great Britain. These violent movements deeply affected the Presi- dent, but they did not -change his determination. His letters, and the general tenour of his conduct at this perrod, discover the firmness and independence with which he was prepared to resist every attempt unsuit- ably to bias the Executive. His greatest apprehen- sions on this occasion were, that France would avail herself of these popular commotions, either to force the government of the United States into her measures, or to embarrass the execution of the treaty, and to render its stipulations in favouf of American commerce inef- fectual. In a letter of the 2!Hh of July written to the Secretary of State, aftermentioning that the stateofthe country required the utmost circumspection, he added . " I have Mever since I have betsn in the administration J795.J LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 15: f the government, seen a crisis which, in my opinion, has been so pregnant with interesting events, nor one from which more is to be apprehended, whether viewed on the one side or the other. From New-York ther is, and I am told will further be, a counter current; but how formidable it may appear, 1 know not. If the same does not take place at Boston and other towns, it will afford but too strong evidence that the opposi- tion is in a manner universal, and would make the ratification a very serious business indeed. But as it respects the French, even counter resolutions would, for the reasons I have already mentioned, do little more than weaken, in a small degree, the effect the other side would have." In a letter to the Secretary, of the 31st of July, having mentioned his determina tion to return to Philadelphia, and stated the firmness and wisdom necessary to meet the crisis, he proceeded. " There is too much reason to believe, from the pains that have been taken before, at, and since the advice of the Senate respecting the treaty, that the prejudices against it are more extensive than is generally ima- gined. How should it be otherwise, when no stono has been left unturned that could impress on the mindi of the people the most errant misrepiosentation of facts ; that thuir rights have not only been neglected, hut absolutely sold ; that there are no reciprocal ad- vantages in the treaty ; that the benefits are all on the side of Great Britain; and what seems to have had more weight with them than all the rest, arid has been most pressed ; tiiat the treaty is made with the design to oppress the French Ilepublick, in open vio- lation of c"-r treaty with that nation, arid contrary too to every principle of gratitude and sound policy. In time, when passion shall have yielded to sober reason, the current may possibly turn ; but, in the mean while, this government in relation to France and England may be compared to a ship between Scylla and Charyb- dis. If the treaty is ratified, the partisans of thf 152 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [17!)5 French, or rather of war and confusion, will excite them to hostile measures, or at least to unfriendly sen timcnts ; if it is not, there is no foreseeing all the con- sequences that may follow as it respects Great Britain. " It is not to be inferred from hence, that I -am, or shall be disposed to quit the ground I have taken, un- less circumstances more imperious than have yet come to my knowledge, should compel it ; for there is but one straight course, and that is to seek truth, and to pursue it steadily. But these things are mentioned to show that a close investigation of the subject is more than ever necessary. Every step should be explored before it is taken, and every word weighed before it is uttered or delivered in writing." In a subsequent letter, in which he mentioned the increasing hostility to the treaty, he added, " All these things do not shake my determination with respect to the proposed ratifi- cation; nor will they, unless something more imperious and unknown to me should, in the opinion of yourself and tl>e gentleman with you, make it adviseable for me to pause.' On the llth of August, the President arrived at Philadelphia, and on j^ie next day he brought before the Cabinet tiie question respecting the immediate ratification of the ti-eaty. The Secretary of Stale ad- vised to the postponement of this measure, until the orders of the British should be revoked. The other members of the Cabinet voted for an immediate ratirV cation with a strong memorial against those orders. Wit.i this advice the President closed. The orders were recalled, and the ratifications of the treaty ex- changed. The President was probably led to this immediate ratification of the treaty by the popular violence, which was raised against it in every part of the United States. He conceived that it was necessary, either at once tc arrfst i'.s- progress, or ultimately to yield to its force 'V'.ic fcver.t proved the soundness of his judgment ana 1795.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 19ft Ihe influence of his character. Violent opposition ceased. Reflection arid experience convinced discern- ing men, that the treaty was a wise and salutary measure. On the 19th of August 1705, Mr. Randolph resigned his office as Secretary of State. He had been strongly suspected of breach of trust, and of h< ving committed the honour and interest of his country in his commu- nications with the -French Minister. To enable him as he affirmed, to vindicate himself, he i^questcd tho sight of a confidential letter, which the President had written to him, and which he had left in the office^ His avowed purpose was to publish this, with other documents, to show that he had been disgraced on ac- count of his attachment to France and liberty. " 1 have directed," replied the President, " that you should have the inspection of my letter of the SKid of July, agreeably to your request ; and you are at full liberty to publish without reserve any or every private and confidential letter I ever wrote you ; nay more, every word I ever uttered to you or in your presence, from whence you can Herive any advantage in your vindica- tion." Happy the ruler, who in the consciousness of the purity of his intentions carf, in times of political agitation, thus address a suspected member of his Council, who had been admitted to his unlimited con- fidence. Colonel Pickering was removed to the departmert of State, and Mr. M' Henry appointed Secretary of War. By the death of Mr. Bradford, the office of Attorney General became vacant, which was soon filled l-y Mr. Lee of Virginia. In the Autumn of 17!)5 a treaty was negotiated through the agency of Colonel Humphreys with tha the Regency r,f Algiers, by which a number of Ame- rican citizens, who had been enslaved, were liberated. On opening the first session of the fourth Congress, Dec. 1795, the President congratulated tho two House* 154 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1795. n the prosperity of the nation. " I trust,' said he, " I do not deceive myself while I indulge the persua- sion that I have never met you at any period, when) more than at the present, the situation of our publick affairs has afforded just cr use for mutual congratula- tion ; and for inviting yon to join with me in profound gratitude to the author of all flood for the numerous and extraordinary blessings we enjoy." Then making a brief statement of the situation of the United Stato in iheir foreign relations^ he thus proceeded. " Tiiis interesting summary of our affairs, with re- gard to the. powers between whom and the United States, controversies have subsisted ; and with regard also to our Indian neighbours with whom we have been in a state of enmity or misunderstanding, opens a wide field for consoling and gratifying reflections. If by prudence and moderation on every side, the ex- tinguishment of all the causes of external discrrd which have heretofore menaced our tranquillity, on terms compatible with our national faith and honour, shall be the happy result, how firm and how precious a foundation will have been laid for r.ccelerating, ma- turing, and establishing the prosperity of our country." Recommending a number of national objectff, to the attent'on of the Legislature, the speech was con- cluded in the following manner. " Temperate discussion of the important subjects that may arise in the course of the session, and mutual forbearance where there is a difference in opinion, are too obvious and necessary br the peace, happiness, and welfare of our country, to need any recommendation of mine." The answer of the Senate was in their usual cordial hd respectful manner. A majority of the House of Representatives of this Congress was of the party opposed to the general nd' ministration of the government. To this party the British treaty was offensive ; and their feelings on thil 1795.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 15& Bubject had an influence on their reply to the Pres ! - dent's speech. The Committee reported an answer, which contain ed this clause : " that the confidence of his fellow citizens in the Chief Magistrate remained undiminish- ed." It was moved to strike out this clause because it contained an untruth. In the animated debate that ensued, ths friends of the President supported the clause, and maintained with zeal, that the confidence of the American citizens in him hnd suffered no dimi nution ; the advocates of the motion with pertinacity averred that by a recent transaction the confidence of the people in the President was diminished; and seve ral of the speakers declared, that tliek own confident in him was lessened. To prevent a vote of the House to expunge the clause, it was moved and carried to recommit the an swer. In the second report, this clause was in such i manner modified as to pass without objection. Mr. Monroe reached Paris soon after the fall of Ro- bespierre, his reception as the American Minister wa publick, and on the occasion, he gave the Convention the most positive assurances of the fervent attach- ment of the American people to the interest of France. . The Committee of Safety of France ha 1 previously written to the American Congress, and the Executive of the Federal Government being the constituted or- gan of foreign intercourse, the Senate and House of Representatives had, by their resolves, transmitted this letter to the President with a request, that he would in a respectful answer express their friendlv disposi- tion towards the French Republick. Accordingly the Sec retary of State addressed two letters to the Com- Riittee of Safety, in the rime of each branch of the Legislature. These Mr. Monroe conveyed, and de- livered with his own credentials to the Presid?nt of Ihe Convention. The communications of the American Minister wer /56 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [179& received with expressions of high giatificalion, and the Contention decreed, that the flags of France and America should be united, and suspended in their hall, as an emblem of the eternal union and friendship of the two Republicks. Colonel Monroe, to recip-ocate this act of fraternity, requested the Convention to accept from him f .ha American flag, as evidence of his own sensibility, and as a token of the satisfaction with which his country would improve evory opportunity to promote the union of the two nations. Mr. Adet, the successor of -Mr. Fauchet, arrived at Philadelphia in the summer of 1795, and brought with him the flag of France as a compliment from the Con- vention to Congress, and a letter from the Committee of Safety to t-his body. He made no mention to the President of this present until December, intending to present it directly to Congress, and to avail himself of t'ho opportunity to address that b show partiality or prejudice to- wards belligerent powers. The following was the reply of the President. " Born, sir, in a land of liberty ; having early learn- ed its value ; having engaged in a perilous conflict to defend it ; having, in a word, devoted the best years of my life to secure its permanent establishment in my own country ; my anxious recollections, my sympa- thetick feelings, and my best wishes are irre.^ist-bly attracted, whensoever, in any country, I see an op- pressed nation unfurl the banners of freedom. But above all, the events of the French revolution have pnxluced the deepest solicitude, as well as the highest udn: ; ration. To call your nation brave, were to pro- nounce but common praise. Wonderful people ! Ages to come will read with astonishment the history of your brilliant exploits. I rejoice that the period of your toils and of your .innicnse sacrifices is approach- ing. 1 rejoice that the interesting revolutionary move ments of so many years have issued in the formation of a ConsMtution designed to give permanency to the great object for which you have contended. I rejoice that liberty, which you have so l^ng embraced with enthusiasm liberty, of which you have been the in- vincible defenders, now finds an anyluin in the bosom of a regularly organized government ; a government which, being formed to secure the happiness of the French people, corresponds with the ardent wishes of my heart, while it gratifies the pride of every citizen of the United States by its resemblance to their own. On these glorious events, accept, sir, my sincere con gratulations. " In delivering to you these sentiments, I expresi cot my own feelings only, but those of my fellow citi- Vi _i.. II. 14 158 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1793-7 zens in relation to the commencement, the progress, and th<: issue of the French revolution ; and they wi! certainly join with me in purest wishes to the Su- preme Being, that the citizens of our sister republick, our magnanimous allies, may soon enjoy in peace, tha liberty which they have purchased at sc great a price* and all the happiness that liberty can bestow. " I receive, sir, with lively sensibility, the symbo" of the triumphs, and of the enfranchisements of you' nation, the colours of France, which you have now presented to the United States. Tho transaction ;vil be announced to Congress, and the colours will be do posited with the archives cf the United States, whioi are at once the "evidence and the memorials of 1'ieu freedom and independence ; may these be perpetual ; and may the friendship of the two Republicks be com- mensurate with their existence." The address of the French Minister, the reply of the President, tho flag of France, and the letter of the Committee of Safety, were all transmitted by the Pre- sident to Congress. In February 1796, the treaty was returned in the form recommended by the Senate, and ratified by his Britannick Majesty ; and on the last of that month, the President issued his Proclamation stating its ra- tification, and declaring it to be the law of the land. The predominant party in the House of Representa- tives expressed surprise, that this Proclamation should be issued before the sense of the House was taken on the subject ; as they denied the power of the Presi- dent and Senate to complete a treaty without their sanction. In March a resolution passed, requesting the President " to lay before f both houses respectively, was not made necessary. ' It is a fact declared by the General Convention ana universally understood that the Constitution of 14* 162 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [17'J3-=v the United States was the result of a spirit of amity and mutual concession. And it is well known, that under this influence, the smaller states were r "'mitted to an equal representation in the Senate with the larger states ; and that this branch of the government was invosted with great powers ; for on the equal partici- pation of thosn pmvers. the sovereignty and politica. safety of the smaller states were deemed essentially to depend. " If other proofs than these and the plain letter of the Constitution itself be necessary to ascertain the point under consideration, they may be found in the journals of the General Convention which I have de- posited In the office of the Department of State. In these journals it will appear, that a proposition was made, that no treaty- should be binding on the United States, which was not ratified by a law ; and that the proposition was explicitly rejected. " As therefore it is perfectly clear to my under- standing that the assent of the House of Representa- tives is no.' necessary to the validity of a treaty ; ag the treaty with Great Britain exhibits in itself all the objects requiring legislative provision; and on these the papers called for can throw no light ; and as it is essential to the due administration of the government, that the boundaries fixed by the Constitution between the different departments should be preserved ; a just regard to the Constitution, and to the duty of my office, under all tho circumstances of this case, forbid a compliance with your request." A resolution moved in the House to make the ne- cessary appropriations to carry the Britisli treaty into effect excited among the members the strongest emo- tions of human nature, and gave rise to speeches high- ly argumentative, eloquent, and animated. The debaifl Was protracted until the people assumed the subject Jn their respective corporations, meetings were holdcn. the strength of parties was fully tried, and it clearlj 1793 7.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 163 appeared that the great majority were disposed to rally around the F.xecutive. Innumerable petitions were presented to Congress praying them to make the re quisite appropriations. Unwilling to take upon themselves the consequences of resisting t.ie publick will, Congress made the ap propriations. It was not in the administration of the government only, that General WASHINGTON found it necessary to exercise great caution and prudence. The convulsions of France and the political divisions of the United States, rendered it expedient that he should be circum- spect in his personal friondships, and in the exercise of benevolent offices towards individual characters. A sincere friendship had been formed between him and the Marquis La Fayette. This friendship was not disturbed by those vicissitudes in France, which occasioned the exile and foro'gn imprisonment of that nobleman. These rather increased the sensibility, and strengthened the attachment of the President towards the unfortunate Marquis. But on account of the state of parties in France and America, interpositions iu his favour were privtitely made. The American Ministers at Foreign Courts were directed in an un- official manner to exert themselves to obtain his libe- ration, or to render his confinement less oppressive. A confidential agent was sent to Berlin to solicit L'.s liberty ; but before he reached his place of destination, the King of Prussia had surrendered the Marquis t~< the Emperor of Germany. Mr. Pinckney, then at the Court of London, was directed to intimate lie wishes of the President to the Austrian Minister at that Court, and to solicit the influence of the Brit'.sh Cabinet in favour of the illustrious prisoner. Disap pointed in the expected mediation of Great Britain, the President addressed the following letter imrrrr diately to the Emperor of Germany. 164 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1793-7 " It will readily occur to your Majesty that occa- sions may sometimes exist, on which official considera lions would constrain the Gnief of a nation .j be si- loit and passive in relation even ta objects which affect his sensibility, arid claim his interposition as a "man. Finding myself precisely in this situation at present, I take the 'iberty of writing this private letter to your Majesty, being persuaded that my motives will also be my apology for it. " In common with the people of this country, I re- tain a strong and cordial sense of the services render- ed to them by the Marquis La Fayette ; and my friend- ship for him lias been constant and sincere. It is na- tural, therefore, that 1 should sympathize with him and his family in their misfortunes, and endeavour to miti- gate the calamities they experience, among which his present confinement is not the least distressing. " I forbear to enlarge on this delicate subject. Per mil me only to submit to your Majesty's consideration, whether his long imprisonment, and the confiscation of his estal<5, and the indigence and dispersion of his family, and the painful anxieties incident to all those circu.nstances,do not form an assemblage of sufferngs, which recommend him to the mediation of humanity ? Allow me, sir, on this occasion, to be its organ ; arid to entreat that he may be permitted to come to this coun- try on such conditions, and under such restrictions as your Majesty may think it expedient to prescribe. " As it is a maxim with me not to ask, what under ei .nilar circumstances, I would net grant, your Majes- ty will do me the justice to believe, that this request appears to me to correspond with those great princi pies of magnanimity and wisdom, which form the ba sis of sound policy and durable glory." This letter was sent to Mr. I'inckney. and was by him transmitted tiirough the Austrian Minister to the Emperor. From this period the Marquis r as treateo 1793-7.] LIFE O"F WASHINGTON. ' 165 with more mildness, and was soon after discharged from his confinement ; but what influence the Presi- i dent's letter had on these measures is not known. In 17'.5, George Washington Motier La Fayette the son of the Marquis La Fayette, made his escape from France, and arrived with his tutor at Boston, kie immediately by letter communicated his situation to General WASHINGTON, and solicited his advice and patronage. The mother , young Fayette was then in France, and the President was surrounded by Frenchmen, the agents or friends of the administra- tion, which had denounced the Marquis. These men were ready to denounce every act of favdur done to a man who was proscribed by the French Government. From regard to the safety of that lady, and from pru- dential con: idcrations in respect to his ov~n official character, he thought it unadviseahle to invite him im- mediately to the seat of government, and publickly to espouse hir interest. But he wrote confidentially to a friend in the neighbourhood of Boston, requesting hirr to visit tho young prentleman, to acquaint him with the reason which rendered it inexpedient that he should be invited into the President's family, and, to adopt the language of the letter, to " administer ab the consolation that he can derive from the most une quivocal assurances of my standing in the place, and be coming to him a father, fri.e.nd, protestor, imd-supportcr " Considering how important it is to avoid idleness and dissipation to improve his mind and to give him all the advantages which education can bestow, my opinion and my advice to him is, (if he is qualified for admission) that he should enter as a student at the University in Cambridge ; although it should be for a ehort time only. The expense of which, as also for every other menns fi>r his support, I will pay ; and now do authorize you, my dear sir, to draw upon me accordingly. Arid if it be desired that his tutor should Accompany him to the University, any expense that 1G6 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 1796--9 he shall incur foi the purpose, shall be borne by me in like manner." The tutor of young Fayette thought he 77iight with more advantage pnrsue his studies ir. private, and therefore he did not enteV the University. The members of Congress, in opposition to the measures of the Administration, obtained the j:n'">wl- edge of tLa arrival of a son of the Marquis j_ia Fay- ette in some part of America. Expecting perhaps that the President had maintained a cold and unfeel- ing reserve towards him, they instituted an inquiry into his situation ; and when they discovered that the President had extended towards young Fayette the assistance and t'ne protection of a friend and a father, they dropped the subject. This young gentleman remained for a short time in the United States; returning to France, he distin- guished himself ;n the army of Buonaparte; but the usual promotions have been denied him. CHAPTER Xlil. Tho PresHent cahimniaterl His Letter to Mr. Jefferson St,iu/ mem of the Secretary of the Tr.-Ksury The F enrh Directory's attempt to com ml Ihn American (lovcrninei! Ki'view of the Transactions with France The Presuli ill ilucl res his resolution to retire from I'nhlirk Life Mart* Congrem to the liisl Timo Dcscr |M;S the letters that had been forced At nml* the lnaiin- ration of Mr. Adams Retires 10 Mount Ver on Threatening Altitude of France (lenaral Washington ap|x 'i-eil Comnminler in i 'hief of the American Forces His opinion of Pubtick Moa- snres His liHlisiiosilion an 1 Death Conclusion. 17!)G. THE friends of General WASHINGTON k;;ew that it \vis his intention to decline being a candidate at the third election of President, and this was expect ed by the publick. Warm solicitations were used to dissuade him fror.i the intention, but his determination Was fixed ; and nothing could change it excepting a 1796-9.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON 10? rrisis in tin affairs of his country, which would rendei retirement inconsistent with his duty, and derogatory to his character. In the possibility of such an event, his friends pro vailed with him to withhold the publick expression of his design until it should becv me necessary to direct the attention of the community to a successor Thii silence alarmed the party opposed to his adm nistra- tion. His personal influence at the head of govern- ment, they conceived, could alone defeat their plans, and prevent a revolution in the National Council. Since the ratification of the British treaty, they had laid aside the decorous language and exteriour respect, which they had, until that period, observed towards the President, and on this occasion they with the ut- most virulence assailed his character. His merit as a soldier, and his wisdom and patriotism as a statesman, were denied ; and even his honour and honesty as a man were brought into question. Letters, forged and published in 177(5, to injure his reputation as the Ge- neral in the revolutionary war, were at this time re- published as genuine, to excite prejudice against him. The queries, which he had confidentially proposed to the deliberation of his Cabinet, were laid before the publicK, with comments designed to show, that they indicated a deadly hostility to France. The queries could have come before the pubiick only b" a breech of confidence in some one of the Cabinet. Mr. Jeffer- son was disposed to prevent any susj icion from rest- ing on the mind of General WASHING', ov, that he wns the dishonourable individual, and for this purpose ha addressed a letter to him, to which the President gave the following reply. " If I had entertained any suspicion before, that the queries which have been published in Bache's paper, proceeded from you, the assurances you have given of the contrary would have re-novcd them ; but the truth ', 1 harboured none. I am at no loss to conjecture 163 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [170G-9. from \vhat source they flowed, through what channe. they were conveyed, nor for what purpose they and shnilar publications appear. " As you have mentioned the subject yourself, it would not be frank, candid, or friendly, to conceal that your conduct has been represented as derogating from that opinion I conceived you entertained of me ; that to your particular friends and connexions you have de- Kcribed, and they have denounced me, as a person under dangerous influence, and that if I would listen more to some other opinions, all would be well. My answer has invariably been, that I had never d's- eovered any thing in the conduct of Mr. Jefferson, to raise suspicions in my mind of his sincei.ty; lhat if h wo'.-il \etrace my publick conduct while he was in tiie administration, abundant proofs would occur to him, that truth and right decisions were the sole objects of my pursuit ; that there were as many instances wi'.hin his own knowledge, of my having decided against as in favour of the person evidently alluded to ; and moreover, that I was no believer in the infallibility of the politicks or measures of any man living. In short, that I was no party man myself, and that the first wish of my heart was, if parties did exist, to reconcile them. " To this I may add, and very truly, that until the last year or two, 1 had no conception that parties would, or even could go the lengths I have been wit- ness to ; nor did I believe until lately, that it waa within the bounds of probability, hardly within those of possibility, that while I was using my utmost exer- tions to establish a national character of our own, in- dependent, as far as our obligations and justice would permit, of every nation of the earth ; and wished by steering a steady course to preserve t.liia country from the horrours of a desolating war, I ihould be accused of being the enemy of one nation, and subject to the influence of another ; and to prove it, that every aoj 1796-9.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 169 of my administration would be tortured, and the grossest and most insidious misrepresentations of them be made, by giving one side only of a subject, and that too in such exaggerated und indecent terms as could scarcely be applied to a Nero to a notorious defaulter or even to a common pickpocket. " But enough of this. I have already gone further in the expression of my feelings than I intended." General WASHINGTON was also atrociously cha; sred with having unlawfully drawn money from the publi.k treasury for his private use. This charge was sup- ported by extracts from the books of the national trea- sury, and his enemies boasted that they had discover- ed an indelible blemish in his character ; but their triumph was only for a moment. The Secretary of the Treasury published a statement of facts, by which it clearly appeared that the money drawn by the or- ders of the President had in no year exceeded the ap- propriations for his salary. He received no publick motiey but for the support of his family, in some quar- ters of the year the receipts had overrun the amount due, and in others fallen short ; arid that the President himself had no concern in the transaction, the busi ncrfs having been conducted by a gentleman who sa perintended his household. The publick frowned his accusers into silence, and the weapon levelled against his refutation fell innoxious to the ground. The Government of France was too well acquaint- ed with the number and the temper of their friends in 'he United States, to relinquish the plan formed to ob- tain a controlling influence in the administration of American affairs. Mr. Fauchet had made formal com- plaints against the measures of President WASIIINOTC H. For a time his remonstrances were made in the Ian guage of decency and respect : but at the close of nil ministry, he descended to the reproachful manner of his predecessor. Mr. Adet arrived at Philadelphia, while the Senate were deliberating on the Bntisfl VOL. TI. 15 V70 J.ll-E OF WASHINGTON. [1796-9 treaty, and full comirrunications were made to him on the subject. Colonel Monroe was also furnished with documents, calculated to remove uneasiness from the minds of the French Directory respecting this transac- tion. But instead of communicating to the Dinctory the documents and reasonings of his government, while they were deliberating ow this subject, and before they had committed themselves by any publick act. he re- served them is answers to complaints, that the go- vermnunt of France might make against the treaty with Great Britain. The President well knew that France had no just ground of complaint against the United States ; but he was apprehensive that her disappointment at the adjustment of a controversy which had long menaced war between Great Britain and America, would induce her to some act of violence. He therefore deemed it highly important, that there should h a Minister at 1'ans, who fully entered into the views of the Ad- ministration. Not being perfectly satisfied with Mr. Monroe, he recalled him, and appointed as his successor, General Charles Cotesworth Pinckney. The French- having complained of most of the acts of the American Government, iu relation to the powers at war, by order of the President these acts were carefully reviewed, a fair and minute detail of all points of difference be- tween the two nations given, and the measures i.f the Administration defended by unanswerable argurrents. Upon this lucid and conclusive vindication of the measures of the Administration, the President relied to remove jealousy from the minds of the Directory, and restore the harmony of the two nations; but unhappily the party at home had taken their ground, and were not by any considerations to be moved from it, and supported' by these, the French Directory were not disposed to recede. At the near approach of the period for the election of a President, it fully appeared, that General WASH i7pfi-9] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 17i INGTON had not lost his hold on the affections and confidence of his countrymen. The pubhck sentiment every where indi. ated a determination to choose no man an elector, on whom implicit confidence could not be placed, to give his suffrage for General WASH- INGTON ; and it was satisfactorily ascertained, that should the General consent to be a candidate, he would for the third time be unanimously chosen 1'ro- sidenl of the United S'ates. in this state of the publick mind, in the month c-C September he published the following address. " FRIENDS AND FELLOW CITIZENS, " The period for a new election of a citizen, to ad minister the Executive Government of the United States being not far distant, and the time actually arrived, when your thoughts must be employed in designating the person, who is to be clothed with that important trust, it appears to me proper, especially as it may conduce to * more distinct expression of tho publick voice, that I should now apprize you of the resolution I have formed, to decline being considered among the number of those, out of whom a choice is to be made. " I bog yoa, at tho same time, to do me the justice to be assured, that this resolution has not been taken, without a strict regard to all the considerations ap pertaining to the relation which bir.ds a dutiful citizen to his country ; and that, in withdrawing the tender of service, which silence in my situation might imply, 1 am influenced by no diminution uf zeal for your future interest ; no deficiency of grateful respect for your past kindness ; b-it am supported by a full con- viction that the step is compatible with both. " The acceptance of, and continuance hitherto in the office to which your suffrages have twice called me, have been a uniform sacrifice of inclination to the opinion of duty, and to a deference for what appeared to be your desire. I constantly hoped that it would 172 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [17% <> have been much earlier in my power, consistently with motives which I was not at liberty to disregard, to re- turn to that retirement, from which I had been reluc- tantly drawn. The strength of my inclination to do this, previous to the last election, had even led to the preparation of an address to declare it to you ; but ma- ture reflection on the then perplexed and critical pos. lure of our affairs with foreign nations, and the unani mous advice of persons entitled to my confidence, im polled me to abandon the idea. " I rejoice that the state of your concerns, external as well as internal, no longer renders the pursuit of inclination incompatible with the sentiment of duty, or propriety ; and am persuaded whatever partiality may be retained for my services, that in the present circumstances of our country, yon will not disapprove my determination to retire. " The impressions with which I first undertook tha arduous trust, were explained on the proper occasion. In the discharge of this trust, I will only say, that 1 aave, with good intentions, contributed towards the organization and administration of the government, the best exertions of which a very fallible judgment was capable. Not unconscious, in the outset, of the inferiority of my qualifications, experience in n:y own eyes, perhaps still more in the eyes of others, has strengthened the motives to diffidence of myself; and every day the increasing weight of years admonishes me more and more, that the shade of retirement is as necessary to me as it will be welcome. Satisfied, that if any circumstances have given peculiar value to my erv'ces, they were temporary, I have tho consolation to believe, that while choice and prudence invite me to quit tho political scene, patriotism docs not forbid it. " In looking forward to the moment, which is to terminate the career of my publick life, my feelings do not permit me to suspend the deep acknowledg- ment of that debt of gratitude which I owe to my be J70b-9.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 17n loved country, for the mary honours it has conferred Q]>i>n mo still more for tlie steadfast confidence with which it has supported me, and for the opportunities I have thence enjoyed of manifesting my inviolable attachment, by services faithful' and persevering, though in usefulness unequal to my zeal. If benefits have resulted to our country from these services, let it always be remembered to your praise, and as an in- structive example in our annals, that under circum- stances in which the passions, agitated in every direc- tion, were liable to mislead, amidst appearances some- times dubious vicissitudes of fortune, often discou- ragingin situations, in which, not unfrequeritly, want of success has countenanced the spirit of criticism the constancy of your support was the essential prop of the efforts, and a guarantee of the plans by which they were effected. Profoundly penetrated with this idea, I shall carry it with me to my grave, as a strong incitement to unceasing vows, that Heaven may con- tinue to you the choicest tokens of its beneficence that your union and brotherly affection may be per- petual that the free constitution, which is the work of yoar hands, may be sacredly maintained that ita administration, in every department, may be stamped with wisdom and virtue that, in fine, the happiness of the people of these states, under the auspices of liberty, may be made complete, by so careful a pre- servation, and so prudent a use, of this blessing, as will acquire to them the glory of recommending it to the applause, the affection, and the adoption, of every nation which is yet a stranger to it. " Here, perhaps, I ought to stop. But a solicitude for your welfare, which cannot end but with my life, and the apprehension of danger, natural to that solici- tude, urge me, on an occasion like the present, to offer to your solemn contemplation, and to recommend ta your frequent review, some sentiments which arc th< result of much reflection, of nc inconsiderable observa 15 174 LIFE OF WASHJNGTOiN [179G-3 lion, arid which appear to me all important to the per manency of your felicity as a people. These will b offered to you with the more freedom, as yoa can only see in them, the disinterested warnings of a parting friend, who can possibly have no personal motive to bias his counsels. Nor can 1 forget, as an encourage- ment to it, your indulgent reception of my sentiments on a former and not dissimilar occasion. " Interwoven as is the love of liberty with evry ligament of your hearts, no recommendation of mine is necessary to fortify or confirm the attachment. " The unity of government which constitutes you one people, is also dear to you. It is justly so, for it is a main pillar in the edifice of your real independ- ence ; the support of your tranquillity at home ; your peace abroad ; of your safety ; of your prosperity ; of that very liberty which you so highly pri/e. But, as it is easy to foresee, that from different causes and from different quarters, much pains will be taken, many artifices employed, to weaken in your rninds the conviction of this truth ; as this is the point in your political fortress, against which the batteries of inter- nal and external enemies will be most constantly and actively (though often covertly and insidiously) direct- ed ; it is of infinite moment that you should properly estimate the immense value of your national union, to your collective and individual happiness .; that you should cherish a cordial, habitual, and immoveable at- tnrhrnent to it ; accustoming yourselves to think and speak of k. as of the palladium of your political safety and prosperity ; watching for its preservation with jetlous anxiety ; discountenancing whatever may sug- gest even a stisjvcion that it can, in any event, be abandoned ; and indignantly frowning upon the first da'vning of every attempt to alienate anv portion of 9111 c.Miulry from tlit- res'., or to enfeeble the sacred tics \v!i!ch ivnv link tf>jr<>lher the various parts. tor ihis yo- ^avc every ind'Jtement of sympathy 179T>-9.1 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. J75 and interejt. Citizens by birth or choice, of a com mon country, that country has a right to concentrate your affections. The name of American, which be- longs to you, in your national capacity, must alwava exalt the just pride of patriotism, more than any ap- pellation derived from local discriminations. With slight shades of difference, you have the same reli- gion, manners, habits, and political principles. You have., in a common cause, fought and triumphed to- gether ; the independence and liberty you possess are the work of joint counsels, and joint efforts, of zoia- mon dangers, sufferings, and successes. " But these considerations, however powerfully they address themselves to jjur sensibility, are greatly outweighed by those which apply more immediately to your interest. Here every portion of our country finds the most commanding motives for carefully guarding and preserving the union of the whole. " The North, in an unrestrained intercourse with the South, protected by the equal la-.vs of a common go vernment, finds in the productions of the latter, great additional resources of maritime and commercial en- terprise, and precious materials of manufacturing in- dustry. The South, in the same intercourse, bene- fiting by the agency of the North, sees its agriculture grow, and its commerce expand. Turning partly into its own channels the seamen of the North, it finds its particular navigation invigorated and while it con- tributes, ia different ways, to nourish and increase th general mass of the national navigation, it looks fot- ward 4 o the protection of a maritime strength, to which itself is unequally adapted. . "The East, in like intercourse with the West, already finds, and in the progressive improvement of interiour communications, by land and wa'.er, will more and more find a valuable vent for the commodities which it brings from abroad, or manufactures at home. The Vest derives from the East supplies requisite to its 176 UFE OF WASHINGTON [1796-.* growth and comfort and what is, perhaps, of still greater consequence, it. must of necessity owe the secure enjoyment of indispensable outlets, for its own produc- tions, to the weight, influence, and the future maritime strength of the Atlantick side of the Union, directed by an indissoluble community of interest as one nation. Any other tenure by which the West can hold this es- jenlial advantage, whether derived from its own sepa- iate strength, or from an apostate and unnatural cm- nexion with any foreign power, must be intrinsically precarious. " While then every part of our country thus feels an immediate and particular interest in union, all the parts combined cannot fail 10 find in tlie united mass of means and efforts, greater strength, greater re- source, pro]>ortionably greater security from external danger a less frequent interruption of their peace by foreign nations, and what is of inestimable value, they must derive from union an exemption from those broils and wars between themselves, which so frequently afflict neighbouring countries not tied together by the same government ; which their own rivaltmips alone would be sufficient to produce, but which opposite fo- reign alliances, attachments, and intrigues would stimu- late and embitter. Hence, likewise, they will avoid the necessity of those overgrown military establish- ments, which, under any form of government, are inauspicious to liberty, and which are to be regarded as particularly hostile to republican liberty. In this sense it is, that your Union ought to be considered as the main prop of your liberty, and that the love of the one ought to endear to you the preservation of th other. " These considerations speak a persuasive langnagu to every reflecting and virtuous mind, and exhibit the continuance of the Union as a primary object of path- oti^k desire. Is there a doubt whether a common go- vernment can embrace so large a sphere ? Let expeii- t7!X>-9.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 177 enco solve it. To listen to mere speculation in such B. case were criminal. We are authorized to hope that a proper organization of the whole, with the auxiliary agency of governments for the respective subdivisions, will afford a happy issue to the experiment. It is well worth a fair and full experiment. With such power- ful and obvious motives to Union, affecting all pa.rU of our country, while experience shall not have dfl-' mcmtrated its impracticability, there will alwaya be reason to distrust the patriotism of those, who, in any quarter, may endeavour to weaken its bands. " In contemplating the causes which may disturb our Union, it occurs as a matter of serious concern, that any ground should have been furnished for character- izing parties, by geographical discriminations. J\"ortli- ern and Southern, jltlantic.k and Western; whence de- signing men may endeavour to excite a belief, that there is a real difference of local interests and views One of the expedients of party to acquire influence, within particular districts, is to misrepresent the opi- nions and aims of other districts. You cannot shield yourselves too much against the jealousies and heart burnings which spring from these misrepresentations ; they tend to render alien to each other those who ought to be bound together by fraternal affection. Tlw inhabitants of our western country have lately had a useful lesson on this head : they have seen in the negotiation by the Executive, and in the unanimous satisfaction by the Senate, of the treaty with Spain and in the universal satisfaction at that event through out the United States, a decisive proof how unfounded were the suspicions propagated among them, of a po- licy in th* us, and unprincipled men, will be enabled to subvert the power of the people, and to usuip for themselves th-9 sums for obtaining revenue, which the publick exigen- cies may at any time dictate. ' Observe good faith and justice towards all nttkns, cultivate peace and harmony with all. Religion and morality enjoin this Ciwitur.t ; and can it be, that gooa policy does not equally enjoin it ? It will be worthy of a free, enlightened, and (at no distant period) a gi sat nation, to give to mankind the magnanimous and too novel example of a people always guided by an ex altcd justice and benevolence. Who can doubt in the course of time and things, the fruits of such a plan would richly repay any temporary advantages which might be lost by a steady adherence to it ? Can it be, that Providence has not connected the permanent fe- licity of a nation with its virtue ? The experiment, at least, is recommended by every sentirrunt which ennobles human nature. Alas! is it rendered impos- sible by its vices ? " In the execution of such a plan, nothing is more essential than that permanent, inveterate antipathies against particular nations, and passionate attachments for others should be excluded ; and that, in place of them, just and amicable feelings towards all should be cultivated. The nation which indulges towards ano- ther an habitual hatred, or an habitual fondness, is in some degree a slave. It is a slave to its animosity or to its direction, etthor of which is sufficient to lead it astray from its duty and its interest. Antipathy in one nation, against another, disposes each more readily to ofler insult and injury, to lay hold of slight causes f umbrage, and to be haughty and intractable, when 8> ".idental or trifling occasions of dispute occur. " Hence frequent collisions, obstinate, envenomed, and bloody contests. The nation, prompted by ill will and resent 'iient, sometimes impels to war the govern- ment, contrary to the best calculations of policy. The government sometimes participates in the national pro- pensity, and adopts, through passion, what reason 179<>-9.] LIFE UY WASHINGTON. 185 would reject ; at other times, it makes the anlmositj of the nation subservient to projects of hostility, insti- gated by pride, ambition, and other sinister and perni- cious motives. The peace often, sometimes, perhaps, the liberty of nations has been the victim. " So likewise, a passionate attachment of one nation tor another produces a variety of evils. Sympathy for the favourite nation, facilitating the illusion of an imaginary common interest, in cases where no real common interest exists, and infusing into one the en- mities of the other, betrays the former into a partici- pation in the quarrels and wars of the latter, without adequate inducement or justification. It leads also to concessions to the favourite nauon of privileges de- nied to others, which is apt doubly to injure the nation making the concessions ; by unnecessarily parting with what ought to have been retained ; and by excit- ing jealousy ill will, and a disposition to retaliate, in the parties from whom equal privileges are withheld and it gives to ambitious, corrupted, or deluded citi- zens (who devote themselves to the favourite nation) facility to betray, or sacrifice the interests of their own country, without odium, sometimes even with popu- larity ; gilding with the appearances of a virtuous sense of obligation, a commendable deference for pub- lick opinion, or a laudable zeal for publick good, the base or foolish compliances of ambition, corruption, or infatuation. " As avenues to foreign influence in innumerable ways, such attachments are particularly alarming to the truly enlightened and independent patriot. How many opportunities do they afford to tamper with do- mestick factions, to practise the arts of seduction, to mislead publick opinion, to influence or awe the pub- lick councils I Such an attachment of a small or weak, towards a great and powerful nation, dooms the former to be the satellite of the latter. " Against the insidious wiles of foreign influence 16" 186 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1756-s (I conjure you to \ elievc me, fellow citizens) the jea- lousy of a free people ought t" he cunsttinlly awake ; since history and experience prove that foreign influ- ence is one of the most baneful foes of republican go- vernmont. But that jealousy to he useful must be impartial ; else it becomes the instrument of the very influence to be avoided, instead of a defence against it. Excessive partiality fir one foreign nation, and exces- sive dislike of another, cause those whom they actuate to see danger only on one side, and serve to veil and even second the arts of influence on the other. Real patriots, who may resist the intrigues of the favourite, are liable to become suspected and odious ; while its tools and dupes usurj, the applause and confidence of the people, to surrender their interests. 4i The great rule of c,.idiict for ns, in regard to fo- reign nations, is, in extending our commercial rela- tions, to have with them as little political connexion as possible. So far ns we have already formed engage- ments, let them be fulfilled with perfect good faith. Here let us stop. " Europe has a set of primary interests, which to UB have none, or a very remote relation. Hence she must be engaged in frequent controversies, the causes of which are essentially foreign to our concerns. Hence, therefore, it must be unwise in us to implicate ourselves by artificial ties, in the ordinary vicissitudes of hef politicks, or the ordinary combinations and col- lisions of her friendships, or enmities. " Our detached and distant situation. invites s.nd en- ables us to pursue a different course. If we remain oe people, under an efficient government, the period is not far off", when we may defy rnateria injury from external annoyance ; when we may take such an atti- tude as will cause the neutrality we may at any time resolve upon, to be scrupulously icspected ; when bel- ligerent nations, under the impossibility of making ac- quisitions upon us, will not lightly hazard the giving 17-9.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 18> Us provocation ; when we may choose peace or war is our interest, guided by justice, shall counsel. " Why forego the advantages of so peculiar a situa- tion ? Why quit our own to stand upon foreign ground ? Why, by interweaving our destiny with that of any part of Europe, entangle our peace and pros- perity in the toils of European ambition, rivalship, in- terest, humour, or caprice ? " It is o-:r true policy to steer clear of permanent alliances with any portion of the foreign world ; so far I mean, as we are now at liberty to do it ; for let me not be understood as capable of patronising infidelity to existing engagements. I hold the maxim no less applicable to publick than to private affairs, that ho- nesty is al>vays the best policy. I repeat it, therefore, let those engagements be observed in their genuine sense. But, in my opinion, it is unnecessary and would be unwise to extend them. " Taking care always to keep ourselves, by suitable establishments, on a respectable defensive posture, we may safely trust to temporary alliances for extra- ordinary emergencies. " Harmony, and a liberal intercourse with all na- tions, are recommended by policy, humanity, and in- terest. But even our commercial policy should hold an equal and impartial hand ; neither seeking nor granting exclusive favours or preferences ; consulting the natural course of things; diffusing nnd diversify- ing, by gentle means, the streams of commerce, bul forcing nothing ; establishing, with powers so disposed, in order to give trade a stable course, to define the rights of our merchants, and to enable the govern- ment to support them ; conventional rules of inter- course, the best that present circumstances and mutual opinion will permit, but temporary, and liable to b from time to time abandoned or varied, as experie.-nce and circumstances sha 1 dictate ; constantly keeping in view, that it is folly in one nation to lx>k for disin 188 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1796-j lerestod favours from another ; that it must pay, with & portion of its independence for whatever it may ac- cept under that character ; that by such acceptance, it may place itself in the condition of having given equivalents for nominal favours, and yet of being re- proached with ingratitude for not giving more. There can be no greater errour than to expect, or calculate upon real favours from nation to nation. It is an illu- sion which experience must cure, which a just pride cught to discard. " In offering to you, my countrymen, these coun- sels of an old and affectionate friend, I dare not hope they will make the strong and lasting impression 1 coul'd wish ; -that they will control the usual current of the passions, or prevent our nation from running the course which has hitherto marked the destiny of nations : but if I may even flatter myself that they may le productive of some partial benefit, some occa- sional good ; that they may now and then recur, to moderate the fury of party spirit, to warn against the mischiefs of foreign intrigue, to guard against the im postures of pretended patriotism ; this hope will be a full recompense for the solicitude for your welfare, by which they have been dictated. " How far, in the discharge of my official duties, I have been guided by the principles which have been delineated, the publick records and other evidences of my conduct must witness to you and to the world. To myself, the assurance of my own conscience is, that I have at least believed myself to be guided by them. " In relation to the still subsisting war in Europe, my Proclamation of the 22d of April, 1793, is the in- dex to my plan. Sanctioned by your approving voice, and by that of your Representatives in both Houses of Congress, the spirit of that measure has continual- ly governed ine ; uninfluenced by any attempts io do ler or divert me from it. 175)0-!).] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 180 " After deliberate examination with the aid of th* best lights I could obtain, I was well satisfied that out country, under all the circumstances of the case, had i right to take, and was-bound in duty and interest to take a neutral position. Having taken it, 1 determined, as far as should depend upon me, to maintain it with moderation, perseverance, and firmness. " The considerations which respect the right to nold this conduct, it is not necessary, on thie occasion, to detail. 1 will only observe, thai according to my understanding of the matter, that right, so far from being denied by any of the beliigerent powers, has been virtually admitted by all. " The duty of holding a noutral conduct may be in- ferred, without any thing more, from the obligation which justice arid humanity impose on every nation, in cases in which it is free to act, to maintain inviolate the relations of peace and amity towards other nations " The inducements of interest for observing that conduct will best be referred to your own reflections and experience. With me, a predominant motive has been to endeavour to gain time to our country to set- tle and mature its yet recent institutions, and to pro gress without interruption, to that degree of strength and consistency, which is necessary to give it, human- ly speaking, the command of its own fortunes. " Though in reviewing the incidents of my adminis- tration, 1 am unconscious of intentional errour, I am nevertheless too sensible of my defects not to think it probable that I may have committed many erroura. Whatever they may be, I fervently beseech the Al mighty to avert or mitigate the evils to which they may tend. I shall also carry with me the hope thai my country will never cease to view them with indul- gence ; and that after forty-five years of my life dedi- cated to its service, with an upright zeal, the faults ol incompetent abilities will .be consigned to oblivion, at vyself must soon be to the mansions of rest. 90 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1796-9 " Relying on its kindness in this, as in other things, and actuated by that fervent love towards it, which ia BO natural to a man, who views in it the native soil of himself and his progenitors for sev jral generations ; I anticipate with pleasing expectation, that retreat, in which I promise myself to realize, without alloy, the sweet enjoyment of partaking, in the midst of iny fel- low citizens, the benign influence of good laws under a free government the ever favourite object of my heart, and the happy reward, as I trust, of our mutual cares, labours, and dangers. " This Address to the people of the United States was received with the highest veneration and gratitude Several of the State Legislatures ordered it to be put upon their journals, and every citizen considered it as the legacy of the most distinguished American Patriot. On the 7th of December, 1796, the President for the last time, met the National Legislature. In his Speech, after taking a view of the situation of the United States, he, regardless of opposition and cen sure, recommended the attention of Congress to those measures which he deemed essential to national inde- pendence, honour, and prosperity. The first among these was the creation of a Navy. " To an active external commerce, the protection of a naval force is indispensable. This is manifest with regard to wars in which a State is itself a party: but besides this, it is in'our own experience, that the most sincere neutrality is not a sufficient guard against the depredations of nations at war. To secure re- spect to a neutral flag requires a naval force, organ- ized and ready to vindicate it from insult or aggres sion. This may even prevent the necessity of going to war, by discouraging belligerent powers from com- mitting such violations of the rights of the neutral party, as may first or last, leave no other option. From the best information I have been able to obtain, 1796-9.J LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 191 ,'t would seem as if our trade to the Mediterranean without a protecting force, will always be insecure and our citizens exposed to the calamities from which numbers of them have but just been relieved. " These .considerations invite the United States to look to the means, and to set about the gradual creation of a Navy. The increasing progress of their navigation promises them, at no distant period, the requisite supply of seamen ; and their means, in other respects, favour the undertaking. It is an encourage- ment, likewise, that their particular situation will give weight and influence to a moderate naval force in their hands. Will it not then be adviseable to begin without delay to provide and lay up materials for the buHding and equipping of ships of war ; and to pro- ceed in the work by degrees, in proportion as our re- sources shall render it practicable without inconve- nience ; so that a future war of Europe may not find our commerce in the same unprotected state in which it was found by the present." He proceeded to recommend those establishments for the manufacturing such articles as are necessary for the defence of the country, an institution for the improvement of agriculture, a Military Academy, and a National University. In reference to foreign powers, ne observed : " While in our external relations, some serious in conveniences and embarrassments have been over- come, and others lessened, it is with much pain and deep regret' I mention that circumstances, of n very nnwelcorne nature, have lately occurred. Our trade has suffered, and is suffering extensive injuries in the West Indies from the cruisers and agents of the French Republick ; and communications have been received from its minister here, which indicate the danger of a further disturbance of our commerce by its authority ; and which are in other respects far firm Agreeable. f'J2 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [r/96-9 " [t has been rny constant, sincere, and earnest wish, in conformity with that of our nation, to maintain cordial harmony, and a perfectly friendly understand- ing with that Republick. This wish remains unabated : and I shall persevere in the endeavour to fulfil it to the utmost extent of what shall he consistent with a just and indispensable regrard to the rights and honour of our country ; nor will 1 easily cease to cherish the expectation, that a spirit of justice, candour, and friend- ship, on the part of the Republick, will eventually en sure success. " In pursuing this course, however, I cannot forget what is due to the character of our government and nation ; or to a full and entire confidence in the good sense, patriotism, self-respect, and fortitude of my countrymen." In the following manner, he concluded his Address " The situation in which I now stand, for the last time, in the midst of the representatives of the peo- ple of the United States, naturally recalls the period when the administration of the present form of Go- vernment commenced ; and I cannot omit this occa- sion to congratulate you and my country on the suc- cess of the experiment ; nor to repeat my fervent supplications to the Supreme Ruler of the Universe, and Sovereign Arbiter of Nations, that his providential care may stiM bo extended to the United States ; that the virtue and happiness of the people may be pre- served, and that the government which they have in- stituted for the protection of their liberties, may b perpetual." The Senate in their reply approved the sentiment* of the address, and, noticing the prosperity of th United States, they added, " Whilst contemplating the causes that produced this auspicious result, we must acknowledge the ex- tellence of the constitutional system, and the wisdom ot the legislative provisions ; but we should be deficient /790-9.] MFE OF WASHINGTON. 1% in grat'tude and justice, did wo not attribute a great portion of these advantages to the virtue, firmness, and talents of your administration ; which have been Con- spicuously displayed, in the most trying times, and on the mosi c'ltical occasions ; it is therefore with tho incerest regret, that we now receive an official notifi- cation of your intentions to retire from the public k employments of your country. " Wheiv we review the various scenes of your pub lick life, so long and so successfully devoted to the most arduous services, civil and military ; as well dur ing the struggles of the American Revolution, as the convulsive periods of a recent date, we cannot look forward to your retirement without our warmest affec- tions and most anxious regards accompanying you ; and without mingling with our fellow citizens at large, in the sincerest wishes for your personal happiness, that sensibility and attachment can express. " The most effectual consolation that can offer for tho loss we are about to sustain, arises from the ani- mating reflection that the influence of your example will extend to your successors, and the United States thus continue to enjoy an able, upright, and energetick Administration." In the House of Representatives, an answer, which promised attention to the st-vefal subjects recommend- ed in the Speech, and concluded as follows, was aller pointed objection and warm debate, voted by a *arge majority. " And while we entertain a grateful conviction that your wise, firm, and patriotic!? administration hai been signally conducive to the success of the present form of government, we cannot forbear to express th deep sensations of regret with which we contemplate your intended retirement from office. " As no other suitable occasion may occur, we can- not suffer the present to pass without attempting to VOL. II. 17 194 L1F OF WASHINGTON. [1796-? disclose some of the emotions whieh it cannot fail in awaken. " The gratitude and admiration of your country- men are still drawn to the recollection of those re- splendent virtues and talents which were so eminently instrumental to the achievement of the Revolution, and of which that glorious event will ever be the me- morial. Your obedience to the voice of duty and your country, when you quitted reluctantly, a second time, the retreat you had chosen, and first accepted the Pre- sidency, afforded a new proof of the devotedness of your zeal in its service, and an earnest of the patriot- ism and success which have chaiacterized your Ad- ministration. As the grateful confidence of the citi- zens in the virtues of their Chief Magistrate has es- sentially contributed to that success, we persuade our- selves that the millions whom we represent, partici pate with us in the anxious solicitude of the present occasion. " Yet we cannot be unmindful that your moderation and magnanimity, twice displayed by retiring from vour exalted stations, afford examples no less rare and instructive to mankind than valuable to a Republick. " Although we are sensible that tiiis event, of itself, completes the lustre of a character already conspicu- ously unrivalled by the coincidence of virtue, talents, success, and publick estimation ; yet we conceive we owe it to you, sir., and still more emphatically to our- selves and to our nation, (of the language of whose hearts we presume to think ourselves, at this moment, the faithful interpreters) to express the sentiment* with which it is contemplated. " The spectacle of a free and enlightened nation, offering by its Representatives the tribute of unfeign- ed approbation to its first citizen, however novel and interesting it may be, derives all its lustre (a lustra which accident or enthusiasm could not bestow, and 179G-9.J LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 10t> which adulation would tarnish) from the transcendent merit, of which it is the voluntary testimony. " May you long enjoy that liberty which is so dear to you, and to which your name will ever be so dear May your own virtue and a nation's prayers obtain the happiest sunshine for the decline of your days, and the choicest of future blessings. For our coun- try's sake, and for the sake of republican liberty, it in our earnest wish that your example may be the guide of your successors ; and thus, after being the orna- ment and safeguard of the present age, become the patrimony of our descendants " President WASHINGTON now with supreme delight anticipated the time when he should quit the storms and agitations of pubiick life, for the retirement of Mount Vernon ; an** 6-9.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON 20* ficient justification to myself and to the world. I hope it will be so considered by yourself. Mr. M'Henry will have the honour to consult you upon the organ! zation of the army, and upon every thing relating to it. With the order to wait on General WASHINGTON the Secretary of War received from President Adam the following instructions. " It is my desire that you embrace the first opportu nity to set out on your journey to Mount Vernon, and wait on General WASHINGTON with the commission of Lieutenant General and Commander in Chief of the armies of the United States, which, by the advice and consent of the Senate, has been signed by me. " The reasons and motives which prevailed on me to venture on such a step as the nomination of this great and illustrious character, whose voluntary resig- nation alone occasioned my introduction to the office I now hold, were too numerous to be detailed in this let- ter, and are too obvious and important to escape the observation of any part of America or Europe. But as it is a movement of great delicacy, it will require all your address to communicate the subject in a manner that shall be inoffensive to his feelings, and consistent with all the respect that is due from me to him. " If the General should decline the appointment, all the world will be silent, and respectfully acquiesce. If he should accept it, all tl.e world, except the ene- mies of this country, will rejoice. If he should come to no decisive determination, but take the subject into consideration, 1 shall not appoint any other Lieutenant Genera) until his conclusion is known.' The General opened himself explicitly to the Secre- tary of War, and by him returned the following an Bwer to the President's communication. " I had the honour, on the evening of the 11th in- Btant, to receive from the hands of the Secretary of War your favour of the 7th, announcing that you hid, with the advice and consent of thj Senate, appointed 204 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. |[]7flO-9 me Lieutenant General and Commander IIY Chiff of the Armies raised, or to be raised for the service of the United States " I cannot express how greatly affec 1 ed I am at this new proof of publick confidence, and at the highly flattering manner in which you have been pleasod to make the communication. At the same time, I must not conceal from you my earnest wisli that the choice had fallen upon a man less declined in years, and bat- ter qualified to encounter the usual vicissitudes of war. " You know, sir, what calculations I had made rela- tive to the probable course of events or\ my retiring from office, and the determination, with which I had consoled myself, of closing the remnant of my days HI. my present peaceful abode. You will therefore be at no loss to conceive and appreciate the sensations I must have experienced, to bring my mind to any con- clusion that would pledge me at so late a period of life, to leave scenes I sincerely love, to enter upon the boundless field of publick action, incessant trouble, and high responsibility. " It was not possible for me to remain ignorant, of, or indifferent to recent transactions. The conduct of the Directory of France towards our country ; their insidious hostility to its government ; their various practices to withdraw the affections of the people from it ; the evident tendency jf their arts, and those of their agents, to countenance and invigorate opposition ; their disregard of solemn treaties ar. J the laws of na- tions ; their war upon our defenceless commerce ; their treatment of our Ministers of peace ; and their demands, amounting to tribute, could not fail to excite in me, sentiments corresponding with those my coun- trymen have so generally expressed in their affection- ate addresses to you. " Believe me, sir, no man can more cordially ap- prove the wise and prudent measures of your Adminis- tration. They ought to inspire universal confidence, 1796-9.J LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 205 Mid will, no doubt, combined with the state of things, call from Congress such laws and means as wui enable you to meet the full force and extent of the crisis. " Satisfied, therefore, that you have sincerely wish ed and endeavoured to avert war, and exhausted to the last drop the cup of reconciliation, we can, with pure hearts, appeal to heaven for tiie justice of our cause, and may confidently trust the final result, to tliat kind Providence who has heretofore, and BO often, signally favoured the people of the United States. " Thinking in this manner, and feeling how incum- bent it is upon every person of every description to contribute, at all times, to his country's welfare, and especially in a moment like the present, when every thing we hold dear and sacred is so seriously threaten- ed, i have finally determined to accept the commission of Commander in Chief of the Armies of the United States, with the reserve only, that I shall not be called into the field until the army is in a situation to require my presence, or it becomes indispensable by the ur- gency of circumstances. " In making this reservation, I beg it to be under- stood that I do not mean to withhold any assistance to arrange and organize the army, which you may think I can afford. 1 take the liberty also to mention that I must decline having rny acceptance considered as drawing after it any immediate charge upon the publick, or that I can receive any emoluments annexed to the appointment before I am in a situation to incur ex- pense." From this period the domestiek employments of Ge- neral WASHINGTON were blended with the concerns of his publick commission ; but he did not apprehend that France would push her aggressions to actual war. He conceived that the object of the Directory was to subject the Government of the United State! to their measures, either through fear of war, or bl the controlling influence of the people. VOL. II . 18 206 LIFE OF WASHINGTON [179G-& It was the settled opinion of the General, that the great body of the American people were actuated by the love of country, and only needed informatim re- specting the measures of government to induce them to support it. In the patriotick spirit, excited in 1798, he contemplated a resource, which might at all times be relied upon to repel foreign aggressions, and on this occasion he confidently expected that France would recede from her insolent pretensions. But he did not live to see the fulfilment of his pre- dictions. On Friday, December 13, 1799, while su- perintending some improvements on his estate, he was out in a light rain, which wet his neck and hair. The occurrence commanded no immediate attention, but in tne course of the ensuing night he was seized \vith an inflammation of the wind pipe. The complaint was accompanied with difficulty in swallowing, and witn a quick and laborious respiration. Conceiving that bleeding would be salutary, a vein was opened by one accustomed to the use of the lancet, anu fourteen ounces of blood taken from him ; but he could not be persuaded to send for his physician until the morning. About 11 o'clock, on Saturday, Dr. Craik irnved, and perceiving his extreme danger, desired the advice of two consulting physicians ; but their aid, in this case, was unavailing. Speaking soon became painful, and respiration contracted and imperfect, and at half past eleven on Saturday night, December 14, in the full possession of reason, he expired. From Ike moment of attack, he believed the disease would prove mortal, and submitted to medical aid rather to gratify the wishes of his anxious friends, than from any expectation of relief. Some- hours before death, with extreme difficulty, he intelligibly expressed a desire that he might be permitted to die without further disturbance. When he could no longer swal- low, he undressed himself and got into bed, there to .wait his dissolution Dr Craik took the head of hit 171MW).] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 20V beloved and respected friend in his lap, to wnoin the General said, " Doctor, I am dying, and have bee*, dying for a long time, but I am not afraid to die." With fortitude he bore the painful conflict, and with perfect serenity resigned himself to his God. His interment on Wednesday, the 18th of Decem- ber, was attendee oy religious services, and military honours ; and a great concourse of people followed liii hearse, as unassembled mourners. The report of the death of General WASHINGTON reached the seat of Government before the information of his sickness. It excited the highest sensibility in the members of Congress, and overwhelmed them with affliction. A solemn silence prevailed in the House of Representatives for several minutes. At length Mr. Marshall, the present Chief Justice of the United States, mentioned the melancholy information. " This information is not certain," he observed, " but there la too much reason to believe it true. After receiving intelligence," he added, "of a national calamity so heavy and afflicting, the House of Representatives can be but ill fitted for publick business." In consequence, both Houses adjourned. On opening the House the next morning, Mr. Mar shall addressed the Chair in the following manner. " The melancholy event which was yesterday an nounced with doubt, has been rendered but too certain Our WASIHNGTON is no more ! The Hero, the Patriot, and the Sage of America the man on whom, in times of danger, every eye was tuned, and all hopes were placed, lives now only in his own great actions, and in the hearts of an affectionate and afflicted people. " If, sir, it had even not been usual openly to testify respect for the memory of those whom Heaven has (elected as its instruments for dispensing good to man. yet, such has been the uncommon worth, and such th extraordinary incidents which have marked the life of him whose loss we all deplore., that I ho whole Arnen- 808 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1796-S can nation, impelled by the same feelings, would ca.l\ with one voice, for a publick manifestation of that sor row which is so deep and so universal. " More than any other individual, and as much as to one individual was possible, has he contributed to found this our wide spreading empire, and to git't to th* Western World, independence and freedom. " Having effected the great object for which he wa placed at the head of our armies, we Lave seen him convert the sword into the plough&htre, and sink th oldier into the citizen. " When the debility of our Federal System had be- come manifest, and the bonds which connected thif vast Continent were dissolving, we have seen him, th* Chief of those Patriots who formed for us a Constitu tion, which, by preserving the Union, will, I trust substantiate and perpetuate those blessings which OUT Revor ion had promised to bestow. " In oX^dieuce to the general voice of his country, calling li'in to preside over a great people, we havi seen him once more quit thb retirement he loved, and in a season more stormy and tempestuous than war it self, with calm and wise determination, pursue th true interests of the nation, and contribute, more than any other could contribute, to the establishment of that system of policy, which will, 1 trust, yet preserve our peace, our honour, and independence. " Having twice been unanimously chosen the Chief Magistrate, of a free people, we have seen him, at a time when'his re-election with universal suffrage could not be doubted, afford to the world a rare instance of moderation, by withdrawing from his high station to Uie peaceful walks of private life. " However the publick confidence may change, and the publick affections fluctuate with respect to others, with respect to him, they have, in war and in peace, in publick and in private life, been as steady as Lis own firm mind, and as constant as his own exalted virtues I796-I/.J LIFE OF WASHINGTON. J209 " Let us then. Mr. Speaker, pay the last trioute of respect and affection to our departed friend. Let the Grand Council of the nation display those sentiments which the nation feels. For this purpose I hold in my hand some resolutions which I take the liberty of offer- ing to the House." The resolutions, after stating the death of General WASHINGTON, were as follows. " Resolved, That this House will wait on the Presi- dent in condolence of this mournful event. " Resolved, That the Speaker's chair be shrouded with black, and that the members and officers of the House wear black during the session. " Resolved, That a Committee in conjunction with one from the Senate, be appointed to consider on the most suitable manner of paying honour to the memory of the man, first in war, first in peace, and first in the hearts of his fellow citizens." These resolutions had no sooner passed, than a writ- ten message was received from the President, trans- mitting a letter from Mr. Lear, " which," said the message, " will inform you that it had pleased Divine Providence to remove from this life our excellent fel low citizen, GEORGE WASHINGTON, by the purity of his life, and a long series of services to his country, rendered illustrious througn the world. It remains for an affectionate and grateful people, in whose hearts he can never die, to pay suitable honour to his memory." On this mournful event, the Senate addressed to the President the following letter. " The Senate of the United States respectfully take leave, sir, to express to you their deep regret for the loss their country sustains in the death of General GEORGE WASHINGTON. " This event, so distressing to all our fellow citizens, must be peculiarly hnavy to you, who have long been associated with him in deeds of patriotism. Permit IB, sir, to mingle our tears with yours On this occa 18* 210 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [179G-? sion it is manly to weep. To lose such a man, at such a crisis, is no common calamity to the world. Ou country mourns a Father. The Almighty Disposer of human events has taken from us our greatest benefac- tor and ornament. It becomes us to submit with re- verence to HIM who " maketh darkness his pavilion." " With patriotick pride we review the life of oui WASHINGTON, and compare him with those of other countries who have been pre-eminent in fame Ancient and modern names are diminished before him. Greatness and guilt have too often been allied ; but kis fame is whiter than it is brilliant. The destroyers of nations stood abashed at the majesty of Ids virtues. It reproved the intemperance of their ambition, and dark- ened the splendour of victory. The scene is closed, and we are no longer anxious lest misfortune should sully his glory ; he has travelled on to the end of his journey, and carried with him an increasing weight of honour ; he has deposited it safely where misfortune cannot tar- nish it : where malice cannot blast it. Favoured of heaven, he departed without exhibiting the weakness of humanity ; magnanimous in death, the darkness of the grave could not obscure his brightness. " Such was the man whom we deplore. Thanks to God, his glory is consummated. WASHINGTON yet lives on Earth in his spotless example His spirit is in Heaven. (i Let his countrymen consecrate the memory of the heroick General, the patriotick Statesman, and the virtuous Sage. Let them teach their children never to forget that the fruits of his labours and his example are their inheritance." To whi-.h the President made the following answer. '* I receive, with the most respectful and affectionate icetitini'jnts. in this impressive address, the obliging ex- pressions ot yjjftir regret for the loss our country hai sustained, in the death of her most esteem-d, beloved, and admired citizen. 1796-9.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 211 " In the multitude of my thoughts and recollections on this melancholy event, you will permit me to say that I have seen him in the days of adversity, in som of the scenes of his deepest distress, and most trying perplexities. I have also attended him in his high- est elevation, and most prosperous felicity, with uni- form admiration of his wisdom, moderation, and con- tancy. " Among all our original associates in that memora ble league of this Continent in 1774, which first ex- pressed the sovereign will of a free natron in Ameri- ca, he was the only one remaining in the general go- vernment. Although with a constitution more enfee- bled than his, at an age when he thought it necessary to prepare for retirement, 1 feel myself alone, bereaved of my last brother ; yet 1 derive a strong consolation from the unanimous disposition which appears in all ages and classes to mingle their sorrows with mine on this common calamity to the world. " The life of our WASHINGTON cannot suffer by a com- parison with those of other countries, who have been most celebrated and exalted by fame. The attributes and decorations of royalty could only have served to eclipse the majesty of those virtues which made him from being a modest citizen, a more resplendent lumi- nary. Misfortune, had he lived, could hereafter have Bullied his glory only with those superficial minds, who, believing that characters and actions are marked by success alone, rarely deserve to enjoy it. Malice could never blast his honour, and envy made him a singular exception to her universal rule. For himself, he had lived long enoujrh to life and to glory. For hi fellow citizens, if their prayers could have been an rvered, he would have been immortal ; for me, hi* departure is at a most unfortunate moment. Trust- tug, however, in the wise and righteous dominion of Providence over the passions of men, and the result* 12 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [l>J6-9 of their councils and actions, as well as over their live* nothing remains for rne but Immlile resignation. " His example is now complete ; and it will teach wisdom and virtue to magistrates, citizens, and men, not only in the present age, but in future generations, as onsr as our history shall be read. If a Trajan found a Pliny, a Marcus Aurelius can never want biogra pliers, eulogists, or historians." A joint, committee of the two Houses reported the following resolutions. " That a marble monument be erected by the United States at the city of Washington, and that the family uf General WASHINGTON be requested to permit his body to be deposited under it ; and that the monument be so designed as to commemorate the great events of his military and political life. " That there be a funeral procession from Congress Hall to the German Lutheran Church, in memory of General WASHINGTON, on Thursday the 26th instant, and that an oration be prepared at the request of Con- gress, to be delivered before both Houses on that day ; and that the President of the Senate and Speaker of the House of Representatives, be desired to request one of the members of Congress to prepare and de- liver the same. " That it be recommended to the people of the United States to wear crape on the left arm as mourn ing for thirty days " That the President of the United States be re quested to direct a copy of these resolutions to be transmitted to Mrs. Washington, assuring her of the profound respect Congress will ever bear to her per- son and character, of their condolence on the late af- "ecting dispensation of Providence, and enlreating her assent to the interment of the remains of Genera] WASHINGTON in the manner expressed in the Hist reno lution. 1796-9.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 21 " That the President be requested to issue Tiis Pr clamation, notifying to the people throughout the United States the recommendation contained in the third resolution." The President transmitted the resolutions of Con- gress to Mrs. Washington, to which she thus replied. " Taught by the great example which I have so long had before me, never to oppose my private wishes to the publick will, I must consent to the request made by Congress, which you have had the goodness to transmit to me ; and in doing this, I need not, I cannot say, what a sacrifice of individual feeling I make to a sense of duty." Information of the death of General WASHINGTON was, throughout the United States, accompanied by spontaneous and universal expressions of deep grief for his loss, and of the highest veneration for his memory. The citizens without exception complied with the recommendations of Congress. Civil Incor- porations and Legislative Bodies, Colleges and all other respectable Societies, formed funeral processions, and attended upon prayers, eulogies, and orations. The resolution of Congress respecting the nioru- ment has not been carried into execution. When a motion for the necessary appropriation was made in the House of Representatives, many members mani- fested a preference for an Equestrian Statue, voted by Congress at the close of the war, and in the dispute between a monument and a statue, the session of the Legislature passed away, and no appropriation was made. They, who had opposed every part of his adminis- tration, probably could not in sincer.ty favour a Na- tional Monument to his memory ; and when the sub- ject was revived in Congress, the publick feelings, having in some measure subsided, they opposed ai'y appropriation for this purpose, as an improper use of. publick money. The reason assigned for objecting ta 814 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. the measure was, that the gratitude and veneration cf the people were the appropriate monument of the oub- lick services of the American Patriot. General WASHINGTON never had any children. By his will he le-fl Mrs. Washington the use of all his property during her life. At her decease he liberated his slaves, and disposec of property among his and her relations, amounting b; his own estimate, to five hun- dred and thirty thousand dollars. This amount of property does not include the Mansion House on Mount Vernon, nor the domain connected with it, which was under the personal management of Gene- ral WASHINGTON. CONCLUSION. GENERAL WASHINGTON was exactly six feet in height, ho appeared taller, as his shoulders rose a little higher than the true proportion. His eyes were of a gray, and his hair of a brown colour. His limbs were well formed, and indicated strength. His complexion was light, and his countenance serene and thoughtful His manners were graceful, manly, and dignitied. His general appearance never failed to engage the re- spect and esteem of all who approached him. Possessing strong natural passions, and having the nicest feelings of honour, he was in early life prone keenly to resent practices which carried the intention of abuse or insult ; but the reflections of maturer age ^ gave him the most perfect government of himself. He nossessed a faculty above all other men to hide the weaknesses inseparable from human nature ; and he bore with meekness and equanimity his distinguished honours. Reserved, but not haughty, in his disposition, he country was established, and enumerating the causes which unitedly had ameliorated tlie condition of hu- man society, he, above science, philosophy, commerce, and all other considerations, ranked " the pure and be- nign light of Revelation." Supplicating Heaven that his fellow citizens might cultivate the disposition, and practise the virtues, which exalt a community, he pro tented the following petition to his Gd That he Vo- II. 19 818 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. would most gracious!)' be pleased to dispose us all to do justice, to love mercy, and to demean ourselves with t'at r.harity, humility and paciiick temper rf mind, which were the eharacteristicks of the Divine Author of our blessed religion ; without a humble imitation of whoso example in these things, we can never hope to be a happy nation." During the war, he not unfrequcntly rode ton or twelve miles from camp to attend publick worship ; and he never omitted this attendance, when opportuni- ty presented. In the establishment of his presidential household, ho reserved to himselt' the Sabbath, free from the in- terruptions of private visits, or publick business ; and throughout the eight years of his civil administration, i e gave to the institutions of Christianity the influence of his example. lie was as fortunate as great and good. Under his auspices, a civil war was conducted with mildness, and a revolution with order. Raised him- self above the influence of popular passions, he happi- ly directed these passions to the most useful purposes. Uniting the talents of the soldier with the qualifica- tions of the statesman, and pursuing, unmoved by difficulties, the noblest end by the purest means, he had the supreme satisfaction of beholding tho coin- phto success of his great military and civil service!, in the independence and happiness of his country O Or TdLDMK II. * *- * : . - * V** . v * * * * * "" * ^^ 4 ^ *v I * 4^4 . 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