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Subject Area: War and Peace
Topic: The American Revolution and Constitution

TO HUGH WILLIAMSON, IN CONGRESS. - George Washington, The Writings of George Washington, vol. X (1782-1785) [1891]

Edition used:

The Writings of George Washington, collected and edited by Worthington Chauncey Ford (New York and London: G. P. Putnam’s Sons, 1890). Vol. X (1782-1785).

Part of: The Writings of George Washington, 14 vols.

About Liberty Fund:

Liberty Fund, Inc. is a private, educational foundation established to encourage the study of the ideal of a society of free and responsible individuals.


TO HUGH WILLIAMSON, IN CONGRESS.

What has been done respecting the navigation of James river I know not—I fear little.

Sir,

This State did a handsome thing, and in a handsome manner for me; in each of these navigations they gave me and my heirs forever fifty shares; but as it is incompatible with my principles, and contrary to my declarations I do not mean to accept of them. But how to refuse them, without incurring the charge of disrespect to the country on the one hand, and an ostentatious display of disinterestedness on my part on the other, I am a little at a loss: time and the good advice of my friends must aid me, as the Assembly will not meet ’till Octor., and made this gratuitous offer among, if not the last act of the last session, as if they were determined I should not resolve what to do from the first impulse. Mrs. Washington joins me in every good wish for you, and with sentiments of attachment and regard, I am, &c.

It has so happened, that your favor of the 19th ultimo did not come to my hands until the last mail arrived at Alexandria. By the return of it I have the honor to address this letter to you.