George Washington to Henry Knox on his reluctance to become President - American History 1493-1945 - Adam Matthew Digital

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Field name	Value
Collection Reference Number	GLC02437.09342
From Archive Folder	The Henry Knox Papers [0088] March-April 1789
Title	George Washington to Henry Knox on his reluctance to become President
Date	1 April 1789
Author	Washington, George (1732-1799)
Recipient	Knox, Henry
Document Type	Correspondence
Content Description	Later copy of a letter written by Washington to Knox, discussing his hesitation to become President. Reads "My movements to the chair of Government will be accompanied with feelings not unlike those of a culprit who is going to the place of his execution: so unwilling am I, in the evening of a life nearly consumed in public cares, to quit a peaceful abode for an Ocean of difficulties, without that competency of political skill, abilities & inclination which is necessary to manage the helm." Copy made 2 February 1854.
Subjects	President Mount Vernon Government and Civics
People	Washington, George (1732-1799) Knox, Henry (1750-1806)
Place written	Mount Vernon, Virginia
Theme	Creating a New Government; Government & Politics; The Presidency
Sub-collection	The Henry Knox Papers
Additional Information	Signer of the U.S. Constitution.
Copyright	The Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History
Module	Settlement, Commerce, Revolution and Reform: 1493-1859
Transcript	Show/hide Download PDF [Draft] Mount Vernon April 1st. 1789 My dear Sir; The Mail of the 30th. brought me your favor of the 23d. For which, & the regular infor- mation you have had the goodness to transmit of the state of things in New York, I feel myself very much obliged, and thank you accordingly. I feel for those Members of the new Congress, who, hitherto, have given an unavailing attendance at the theatre of business. For myself, the delay may be compared to a re- prieve; for in confidence I can assure you - with the world it would obtain little credit - that my movements to the chair of Government will be accompanied with feelings not unlike those of a culprit who is going to the place of his execution: so unwilling am I, in the evening of a life nearly consumed in public cares, to quit a peaceful abode for an Ocean of difficulties, without that competency of political skill, abilities & inclination which is necessary to manage the helm. I am sensible, that I am embarking the voice of my Countrymen and a good name of my own on this voyage, but what returns will be made for them - Heaven alone can foretell. Integrity & firmness is all I can promise; these be the voyage long or short, never shall forsake me although I may be deserted by all men. For of the consolations which are to be derived from these (under any circum- stances) the world cannot deprive me. With best wishes for Mrs. Knox, & sincere friend- ship for yourself. I remain Your affectionate Go: Washington

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