Washington, George, 1732-1799 to Henry Knox
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02437.09342 Author/Creator: Washington, George, 1732-1799 Place Written: Mount Vernon, Virginia Type: Letter Date: 1 April 1789 Pagination: 2 p. ; 31 x 20.5 cm. Order a Copy
Later copy of a letter written by Washington to Knox, discussing his hesitation to become President. Reads "My movements to the chair of Government will be accompanied with feelings not unlike those of a culprit who is going to the place of his execution: so unwilling am I, in the evening of a life nearly consumed in public cares, to quit a peaceful abode for an Ocean of difficulties, without that competency of political skill, abilities & inclination which is necessary to manage the helm." Copy made 2 February 1854.
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