UNITED STATES, _January 8, 1800_.
The letter is as follows:
SIR: While I feel with keenest anguish the late
dispensation of Divine Providence, I cannot be insensible
to the mournful tributes of respect and veneration which
are paid to the memory of my dear deceased husband; and, as
his best services, and most anxious wishes, were always
devoted to the welfare and happiness of his country, to
know that they were truly appreciated and gratefully
remembered, affords no inconsiderable consolation.
Taught by the great example which I have so long had before
me, never to oppose my private wishes to the public will, I
must consent to the request made by Congress, which you
have had the goodness to transmit to me; and, in doing
this, I need not, I cannot, say what a sacrifice of
individual feeling I make to a sense of public duty.
With grateful acknowledgments, and unfeigned thanks, for
the personal respect and evidences of condolence, expressed
by Congress and yourself, I remain, very respectfully, sir,
your most obedient, humble servant.