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. 51.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 401
chief, which for the moment was more severe and
painful, than any he had been called to bear. The
time had arrived, when he was to bid a final adieu
to his companions in arms, to many of whom he was
bound by the strongest ties of friendship, and for all
of whom he felt a lively gratitude and sincere regard.
"This affecting interview took place on the 4th of
December. At noon, the principal officers of the army
assembled at Frances's tavern, soon after which, their
beloved commander entered the room. His emotions
were too strong to be concealed. Filling a glass, he
turned to them and said,'With a heart full of love
and gratitude, I now take leave of you; I most devoutly wish, that your latter days may be as prosperous and happy, as your former ones have been glorious and honorable.' Having drank, he added,'I
cannot come to each of you to take my leave, but
shall be obliged if each of you will come and take me
by the hand.' General Knox, being nearest, turned to
him. Washington, incapable of utterance, grasped his
hand, and embraced him. In the same affectionate
manner he took leave of each succeeding officer.
The tear of manly sensibility was in every eye; and
not a word was articulated to interrupt the dignified
silence, and the tenderness of the scene. Leaving
the room, he passed through the corps of light infantry, and walked to White Hall, where a barge waited
to convey him to Paulus Hook. The whole company
followed in mute and solemn procession, with dejected
countenances, testifying feelings of delicious melancholy,
which no language can describe. Having entered the
barge, he turned to the company, and, wavinog his hat,
bid them a silent adieu. They paid him the same
affectionate compliment; and, after the barge had left
VOL. I. 51 HH*