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.

146 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [1789.
people of Philadelphia, which they have on all occasions evinced in my favor.
GEORGE WASHINGTON.
TO THE PRESIDENT AND FACULTY OF THE UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
APRIL 20TH, 1789.
GENTLEMEN,
I accept, with peculiar pleasure, the address of the
University of the State of Pennsylvania, upon my appointment to the first office in the Union. Notwithstanding I had most seriously determined never more
to take any part in transactions of a public nature,
yet a conviction of duty would not suffer me, on the
present occasion, to refuse a compliance with- the
unanimous call of my country; nor could I remain
insensible to the honor, that was conferred upon me
by this -fresh and distinguished proof of its approbation.
Probably my fellow-citizens anticipate too many and
too great advantages from the appointment. It will,
however, be an object, indeed, near to my heart, to
verify as far as may be in my-power those favorable
presentiments, by endeavouring to secure the liberty
and promote the happiness of the American people.
I am not a little flattered by being considered by
the patrons of literature as one in their number. Fully
apprized of the influence, which sound learning has
on religion and manners, on government, liberty, and
laws, I shall only lament my want of abilities to make
it still- more extensive.
I conceive hopes, however, that we are at the eve
of a very enlightened era. The same unremitting ex