Mount Vernon, November 10, 1787.
Dear Sir:
I thank you for the pamphlet, and for the Gazette, contained in your
letter of the 30th ult. For the remaining numbers of Publius, I shall
acknowledge myself obliged, as I am persuaded the subject will be well
handled by the author.
The new constitution has, as the public prints will have informed
you, been handed to the people of this State by a unanimous vote
of the Assembly, but it is not to be inferred from hence that its
opponents are silenced. On the contrary there are many, and some
powerful ones--some of whom, it is said, by _overshooting_ the mark,
have lessened their weight; be this as it may, their assiduity stands
unrivalled, whilst the friends to the constitution content themselves
with barely avowing their approbation of it. Thus stands the matter
with us at present, yet my opinion is that the major voice is favorable.
Application has been made to me by Mr. Secretary Thompson (by order
of Congress), for a copy of the report of a committee, which was
appointed to confer with the Baron De Steuben, on his first arrival
in this country, forwarded to me by Mr. President Laurens. This I
have accordingly sent. It throws no other light on the subject than
such as is to be derived from the disinterested conduct of the Baron.
No terms are made by him, “nor will he accept of any thing but with
general approbation.” I have, however, in my letter inclosing this
report to the Secretary, taken occasion to express an unequivocal wish
that Congress would reward the Baron for his services, sacrifices,
and merits, to his entire satisfaction. It is the only way in which I
could bring my sentiments before that honorable body, as it has been an
established principle with me, to ask nothing from it.
With very great esteem and regard,
I am, dear Sir,
Your most obedient servant,
G. Washington.