21 July 1799
Washington, George, 1732-1799
Autograph letter signed
Title: to Jonathan Trumbull re: unwillingness to accept a 3d term, political attacks
Explaining unwillingness to accept a third term, describing political attacks, etc.: "Let that party [the Democrats] set up a broomstick, and call it a true son of Liberty, a Democrat, or give it any other epithet that will suit their purpose, and it will command their votes in toto!* [Washington's footnote, written at bottom of page: * As an analysis of this position, look to the pending Election of Governor in Pennsylvania.] Will not the Federalists meet, or rather defend their cause on the opposite ground? Surely they must, or they will discover a want of Policy, indicative of weakness…
GLC05787