Washington, George (1732-1799) To the Members of the Society of Cincinnati... [speech as president]
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC01972 Author/Creator: Washington, George (1732-1799) Place Written: Boston Type: Letter signed Date: 27 October 1789 Pagination: 1 p. 37 x 23 cm Order a Copy
One manuscript speech dated 1789, signed by Washington and addressed to those members of the Society in Massachusetts.
Signer of the U.S. Constitution.
To the Members of the Society of this Cincinnati in the
commonwealth of Massachusetts.
In reciprocating, with gratitude and sincerity, the multiplied, and affecting gratulations of my fellow-citizens 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 prosperous and adverse fortune - and enhanced are the triumphs of peace, participated with those, whose virtue and valour so largely contributed to procure them. - To that virtue and valor your country has confessed her obligations. - Be mine the grateful task to add the testimony of a conviction, which it was my pride to own in the field, and it is now my happiness to acknowledge in the enjoyments of peace and freedom.
Regulating your conduct by those principles, which have heretofore governed your actions as Men, Soldiers, and Citizens, you will repeat the obligations conferred on your country-and you will transmit to posterity an example, which must command their admiration, and obtain their grateful praise.
Long may you continue to enjoy the endearments of fraternal attachment, and the heartfelt happiness of reflecting that you have faithfully done your duty! - While I am permitted to possess the consciousness of that worth, which has long bound me to you by every tie of affection and esteem, I will continue to be your sincere and faithful friend.
Go: Washington
Boston, October 27th 1789
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