A complete history of the Marquis de Lafayette, major-general in the American army in the war of the revolution. Embracing an account of his tour through the United States, to the time of his departure, September, 1825. By an officer in the late army.

76 HISTORY OF THE
opportunities of being useful to it, as an American officer, only
solicits leave of absence, for the purpose of embracing the
views which have been already suggested.
The pain which it costs me to separate from an officer
who possesses all the military fire of youth, with a rare maturity of judgment, would lead me, if the choice depended on
my wishes, to place his absence on the footing which he
proposes. I shall always esteem it a pleasure to be able to
give those testimonials of his services to which they are
entitled, from the bravery and conduct which have distinguished him on every occasion; and I do not doubt that
Congress. will, in a proper manner, express how sensibly
they appreciate his merits, and how much they regret his departure.
I have the honour to be, &c.
GEORGE WASHINGTON.
Some time after this flattering communication, the Marquis
addressed a noble and generous letter to Congress on the same
subject.
Philadelphia, October 13, 1778.
SIR,
However attentive I ought to be not to employ the precious moments of Congress in the consideration of private
affairs, I beg leave, with that -confidence which naturally
springs from affection and gratitude, to unfold to them the
circumstances in which I am, at present, situated. It is impossible to speak more appropriately of the sentiments
which attach me to my own country, than in the presence of
citizens who have done so much for their own. So long