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.

PART I.] THE FRENCH WAR. 229
I did for this reason reject the offer, until I was ashamed
any longer to refuse, not caring to expose my character
to public censure. The solicitations of the country
overcame my objections, and induced me to accept it.
Another reason has of late operated to continue me
in the service until now, and that is, the'dawn of hope
that arose, when I heard your Lordship was destined
by his Majesty for the important command of his armies
in America, and appointed to the government of his dominion of Virginia. Hence it was, that I drew my
hopes, and fondly pronounced your Lordship our patron. Although I had not the honor to be known to
your Lordship, yet your name was familiar to my ear,
on account of the important services rendered to his
Majesty in other parts of the world.
Ever since our defeat at the Meadows, and behaviour
under General Braddock, we have been tantalized, nay,
bid to expect most sanguinely a better establishment,
and have waited in tedious expectation of seeing this
accomplished. The Assembly, it is true, have, I believe, done every thing in their power to bring this
about; first, by soliciting his Honor, the LieutenantGovernor, to address his Majesty; and next, by addressing his Majesty themselves in favor of their regiment. What success these addresses have met with,
I am yet ignorant. - With regard to myself, I cannot
forbear adding, that, had General Braddock survived
his unfortunate defeat, I should have met with preferment agreeable to my wishes. I had his promise to
that purpose, and I believe that gentleman was too sincere and generous to make unmeaning offers, where no
favors were asked. General Shirley was not unkind in
his promises, but he has gone to England.
I do not know, my Lord, in what light this short and
disinterested relation may be received; but it is offered
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