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Subject Area: Political Theory
Topic: The American Revolution and Constitution

REPLY TO THE ANSWER OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES. - George Washington, The Writings of George Washington, vol. XI (1785-1790) [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. XI (1785-1790).

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

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REPLY TO THE ANSWER OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.

Gentlemen,

Your very affectionate address produces emotions, which I know not how to express. I feel, that my past endeavors in the service of my country are far overpaid by its goodness; and I fear much, that my future ones may not fulfil your kind anticipation. All that I can promise is, that they will be invariably directed by an honest and an ardent zeal. Of this resource my heart assures me. For all beyond, I rely on the wisdom and patriotism of those with whom I am to co-operate, and a continuance of the blessings of Heaven on our beloved country.1

[1 ]The form of these speeches was that used by the colonial governors in addressing the colonial assemblies, but was later set aside in favor of a single message to which no replies by the respective houses of Congress were given. The President had consulted Madison on the replies:

“Notwithstanding the conviction I am under of the labor which is imposed upon you by Public Individuals as well as public bodies—yet as you have begun, so I would wish you to finish, the good work in a short reply to the Addresses of the House of Representatives (which I now inclose) that there may be an accordance in this business.

“Thursday 12 o’clock, I have appointed to receive the Addresses.—The proper plan is with the House to determine.—As the first of every thing, in our situation which serve to establish a Precedent, it is devoutly wished on my part, that these precedents may be fixed on true principles.”—Washington to Madison, 5 May, 1789.