To George Washington from James McHenry, 31 July 1783

You will forgive me for not writing to you sooner and attribute it to its real cause, not want of the sincerest inclination, but of Censure. Perhaps before this reaches you the president will have transmitted our resolve for bringing you here and relieving you from that disagreable situation of which you have so justly complained in your letter to Congress. I was chairman of the committee on that letter and reported the substance of the resolve which will give us the pleasure of your company. The original resolve was that we should avail ourselves of your experience and advice in the formation of the peace establishment—but this was looped off in order to get Rhode Island to agree to the other. This State is opposed to a peace establishment. You will however prepare yourself on this subject as you will be consulted on it, and bring with you such papers as may be necessary. To-morrow we shall make a motion to have proper accomodations provided. You will be pleased to make my respects to Mrs Washington and believe me sincerely and with real attatchment, yours