From George Washington to Philip Nagel, 1 December 1783

Gentlemen

New York Decr 1st 1783

While you speak the language of my heart, in acknowledging the magnitude of our obligations to the Supreme Director of all human events; suffer me to join you in celebration of the present glorious and ever memorable Æra, and to return my best thanks for your kind expressions in my favour.

I cannot but rejoice sincerely that the national dignity & glory will be greatly encreased, in consequence of the good order and regularity which have prevailed universally, since the City of New York has been repossessed by us—This conduct exhibits to the world a noble instance of magnanimity and will doubtless convince any who from ignorance or prejudice may have been of a different sentiment; that the Laws do govern, and that the Civil Magistrates are worthy of the highest respect & confidence.

For my own part, Gentlemen, in whatever situation I shall be hereafter, my supplications will ever ascend to Heaven, for the prosperity of my Country in general; and for the individual happiness of those who are attached to the Freedom, and Independence of America.

Go: Washington

DLC: Papers of George Washington.

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