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Lot #4001
George Washington Historic Autograph Letter Signed as President, Acknowledging the Senate's Message on His Reelection

President Washington warmly acknowledges the Senate's message on his reelection: "If this be an event which promises the smallest addition to the happiness of our country, as it is my duty so shall it be my study to realize the expectation"

Estimate: $60000+

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Description

President Washington warmly acknowledges the Senate's message on his reelection: "If this be an event which promises the smallest addition to the happiness of our country, as it is my duty so shall it be my study to realize the expectation"

Historic ALS as president, signed “Go: Washington,” one page, 9 x 14.75, [December 10, 1793]. Handwritten letter acknowledging the United States Senate's message upon his reelection, and referring to the Senates approbation of his neutrality proclamation. In full: "The pleasure, expressed by the Senate, on my reelection to the station, which I fill, commands my sincere and warmest acknowledgments.—If this be an event which promises the smallest addition to the happiness of our country, as it is my duty so shall it be my study to realize the expectation.

The decided approbation, which the proclamation now receives from your house, by completing the proof, that this measure is considered, as manifesting a vigilant attention to the welfare of the United States, brings with it a peculiar gratification to my mind.—The other important subjects, which have been communicated to you, will, I am confident, receive a due discussion; and the result will, I trust, prove fortunate to the United States." In fine condition, with light toning and small repairs to partial fold splits.

On December 9th, Vice President John Adams, in his capacity as president of the United States Senate, transmitted a message to Washington to thank him for delivering a speech at the opening session of Congress, congratulating him on his reelection as president, and expressing the broad approval of his position on neutrality. Adams wrote, in part: 'Your reelection to the Chief Magistracy of the United States gives us sincere pleasure. We consider it as an event every way propitious to the happiness of our country, and your compliance with the call as a fresh instance of the patriotism which has so repeatedly led you to sacrifice private inclination to the public good. In the unanimity which a second time marks this important national act we trace with particular satisfaction, besides the distinguished tribute paid to the virtues and abilities which it recognizes, another proof of that just discernment and constancy of sentiments and views which have hitherto characterized the citizens of the United States.

As the European powers with whom the United States have the most extensive relations were involved in war, in which we had taken no part, it seemed necessary that the disposition of the nation for peace should be promulgated to the world, as well for the purpose of admonishing our citizens of the consequences of a contraband trade and of acts hostile to any of the belligerent parties as to obtain by a declaration of the existing legal state of things an easier admission of our right to the immunities of our situation. We therefore contemplate with pleasure the proclamation by you issued, and give it our hearty approbation. We deem it a measure well timed and wise, manifesting a watchful solicitude for the welfare of the nation and calculated to promote it.'

In this remarkable handwritten reply, President George Washington affirms his steadfast devotion to his nation and his enduring commitment to the welfare of the United States. An extraordinary rarity penned by Washington as he continued his patriotic duty as president of the United States of America.

Auction Info

  • Auction Title: Remarkable Rarities
  • Dates: January 24, 2025 - February 20, 2025





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