The writings of George Washington; being his correspondence, addresses, messages, and other papers, official and private, selected and published from the original manuscripts; with a life of the author, notes and illustrations. By Jared Sparks.

ET. 22.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 51
a matter almost indifferent, whether I serve for full
pay, or as a generous volunteer. Indeed, did my circumstances correspond with my inclinations, I should
not hesitate a moment to prefer the latter; for the
motives that have led me here are pure and noble.
I had no view of acquisition, but that of honor, by
serving my King and country." In this declaration,
uttered in the sincerity of his heart, we perceive the
principles, the eminent virtues, that dictated every act
of his public life.
Colonel Fry having died suddenly at Will's Creek,
while on his way to join the army, the chief command devolved on Colonel Washington. Recruits were
brought forward by Major Muse. The North Carolina troops, to the number of about three hundred
and fifty, led by Colonel Innes, arrived at Winchester. The governor was then in that town, holding
a council with Indians, and he appointed Innes commander of the expedition, but confirmed Colonel Washington's command of the Virginia regiment.
The appointment of Innes was an unpopular measure in Virginia, as he was from another colony; and
the governor was accused of partiality for an old friend
and countryman, both he and Innes being Scotchmen
by birth. No ill consequences ensued. Neither Colonel Innes nor his troops advanced beyond Winchester.
To promote enlistments the mgn were extravagantly
paid; and, when the money raised by the Assembly for
their support was expended, they dispersed of their
own accord. An Independent Company from South
Carolina, consisting of one hundred men under Captain Mackay, arrived at the Great Meadows. Two
companies from New York landed at Alexandria, and
marched to the interior, but not in time to overtake
or succour the army in advance.