Mount Vernon, October 18, 1787.
Dear Sir:
Your favor, without date, came to my hand by the last post. It is
with unfeigned concern I perceive that a political dispute has arisen
between Gov. Clinton and yourself. For both of you I have the highest
esteem and regard. But as you say it is insinuated by some of your
political adversaries, and may obtain credit, “that you _palmed_
yourself upon me and was _dismissed_ from my family,” and call upon
me to do you justice by a recital of the facts; I do, therefore,
explicitly declare, that both charges are entirely unfounded. With
respect to the first, I have no cause to believe that you took a
single step to accomplish, or had the most distant idea of receiving
an appointment in my family till you were invited thereto. And with
respect to the second, that your quitting it was altogether the effect
of your own choice.
When the situation of this country calls loudly for unanimity and
vigor, it is to be lamented that gentlemen of talent and character
should disagree in their sentiments for promoting the public weal; but
unfortunately this ever has been, and more than probable ever will be,
the case in the affairs of man.
Having scarcely been from home since my return from Philadelphia, I can
give but little information with respect to the _general_ reception of
the new constitution in _this_ State. In Alexandria, however, and some
of the adjacent counties, it has been embraced with an enthusiastic
warmth of which I had no conception. I expect, notwithstanding, violent
opposition will be given to it by _some_ characters of weight and
influence in the State.
Mrs. Washington unites with me in sending her best wishes for Mrs.
Hamilton and yourself.
I am, dear Sir,
Your most obedient and affectionate friend,
G. Washington.