TRANSCRIPT GLC 2437.52.146
George Washington. Letter copy: Philadelphia, to Henry Knox, 1794 December 30. 1 p.

No 2- Copied from the Original [inserted: & compared] Feby. 1st 1854-

Washington Philadelphia
Decbr 30. 1794

Sir,

The considerations which you have often suggested to me, and are repeated in your letter of the 28th inst. – as requiring your departure from your present office are are such as to preclude the possibility of my urging your continuance in it –

This being the case, I can only wish that it was otherwise – I cannot suffer you however, to close you publick service without uniting with the satisfaction which must arise in your own mind from a conscious rectitude, my most perfect persuasion, that you have deserved well of your country – My personal knowledge of your exertions, while it authorizes me to hold this language, justifies the sincere friendship which I have ever borne for you, and which will accompany you in evry situation of life.

Being with Affectionate Regard Always Yours (sd.) G Washington

Majr. Genl Knox. Secty War -

Notes: Published in Fitzpatrick, John C. The Writings of George Washington. v. 34, p76.