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.

80 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1756.
deeply affected by the scenes he witnessed, and his
inability to extend relief, are vividly portrayed in a
letter to the governor.
"Your Honor may see," said he," to what unhappy
straits the distressed inhabitants and myself are reduced.
I am too little acquainted, Sir, with pathetic language
to attempt a description of the people's distresses,
though I have a generous soul, sensible of wrongs,
and swelling for redress. But what can I do? I see
their situation, know their dancer, and participate their
sufferings, without having it in my power to give them
further relief, than uncertain promises. In short, I see
inevitable destruction in so clear a light, that, unless
vigorous measures are taken by the Assembly, and
speedy assistance sent from below, the poor inhabitants
that are now in forts, must unavoidably fall, while the
remainder are flying before the barbarous foe. In fine,
the melancholy situation of the people, the little prospect of assistance, the gross and scandalous abuse
cast upon the officers in general, which is reflecting
upon me in particular, for suffering misconduct of such
extraordinary kinds, and the distant prospect, if any,
of gaining honor and reputation in the service, - cause
me to lament the hour that gave me a commission,
and would induce me, at any other time than this of
imminent danger, to resign, without one hesitating moment, a command from which I never expect to reap
either honor or benefit; but, on the contrary, have
almost an absolute certainty of incurring displeasure
below, while the murder of helpless families may be
laid to my account here! The supplicating tears of
the women, and moving petitions.of the men, melt
me into such deadly sorrow, that I solemnly declare,
if I know my own mind, I could offer myself a willing
sacrifice to the butchering enemy, provided that would
contribute to the people's ease."