^ .'•-.. >> ^ \^^ ■"^^r ,^ y ^. " .0' <^. '^'\ f * • " ^^ '^ -r^^ .^' "'^. o *77; s * -'V \ ^, .y^^_ .^* ,'>/i:^ - ' ^ r~^ .0^ ■>•"•. "c) J* Lib / MARTHA WASHINGTON George Washington the Christian By «y^lv-.^^3Co-vxi2«^ WILLIAM J, JOHNSON THE ABINGDON PRESS NEW YORK CINCINNATI 7) J-^r Copyright. 1919, by WILLIAM J. JOHNSON Ubl -3^H|3 (an; A^noiao ^ a > ^ :/• i To THE Memory of Brison Blair and Lydia Overton Johnson My Father and Mother who taught their children from earliest childhood to Revere the Name and Emulate the Character OF GEORGE WASHINGTON CONTENTS CHAPTER PAOB The Reason 13 I. Religious Foundation 16 II. Washington's Prayers 23 III. A Christian Soldier 36 IV. The Active Churchman 48 V. The Commander-in-Chief Trusts in God 68 VI. Washington Attends Communion Service 85 VII. Prayer at Valley Forge 102 VIII. Washington Not Profane 115 IX. General Washington a Man of Prayer 122 X. Washington and Divine Providence 133 XI. Church Attendance at Home 146 XII. A Christian President 159 XIII. How Washington Spent Sunday .... 175 XIV. Washington a Communicant 187 XV. Did Washington Swear ? 203 XVI. Religion Indispensable to Political Prosperity 210 XVII. Even Down to Old Age 226 XVIII. Washington's Will 237 XIX. His Religious Habits 242 XX. Estimate of His Character 250 XXI. The Verdict 262 Sources of Information 270 Where Found 276 Names of the Deity 288 Index 292 ILLUSTRATIONS George Washington ) r. ^ • • ^^ i Frontispieces Martha Washington ) FACING PAGE PoHiCK Church, Virginia 54 ^^ The First Prayer in Congress 64 ^ Washington Receiving Communion 88 Washington's Prayer at Valley Forge 102- Christ Church, Alexandria, Virginia 146 Washington and His Mother 156 Saint Paul's Chapel, New York 178 Christ Church, Philadelphia 192 Portrait of Washington in 1794 214 Room in which Washington Died 234 In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. — Proverbs 3. 6. THE REASON My earliest recollection of the picture of the face of any man is that of the Father of his Country. The first and for many years the only pictures that hung on the wall of the old- fashioned sitting room in our southern Indiana home were those of George and Martha Washing- ton. The story of the hatchet and cherry tree was one of the constructive influences in my life. As children we never tired of hearing stories of this great man. Later, in school, as we studied the history of our country, and his part in it, he became to us a sort of demigod. Could a real man do what Washington did.? He seemed to be the special care of Providence. Afterward came the period of questioning. Wliat made Washington great.? What gave him his mighty power.? What produced that in- comparable character.? Research disclosed that the supreme factor in his life was an unwavering faith in God and a strict adherence to his teach- ings. Religion is the chief asset in any character. We cannot rightly estimate the character of any person until we know the religious belief of that 13 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN person. Christianity is the basis of all true character and the foundation of all true great- ness. We have not tried to analyze the religious side of Washington's character, but to study its de- velopment and its expression. The chronological order has been followed, from birth to death. Our purpose is to place before the reader the evidence, and let him form his own conclusion. This evidence consists of what Washington him- self said in his letters, diary, "orders" to the army, addresses and state papers, and authentic incidents in his life, gathered from many sources. Some things have been introduced which do not bear directly upon his religious belief or charac- ter, but they are interesting and suggestive sidelights. Not finding any book which gave a complete and comprehensive study of the religious side of Washington's life, it seemed worth while to pre- pare such a work, that the young people of America may know the real secret of Washing- ton's character and achievements. This is "The Reason" for adding one more book to the long list about Washington. It is one hundred eighty-seven years since Washington was born in a humble Virginia pio- neer's cabin, and one hundred twenty years since his body was laid in the tomb at Mount 14 THE REASON Vernon. All that can ever be known of him was written long ago. The only thing that can be done now is to gather the facts in his life into such an arrangement as will most clearly exhibit to the student the true George Washington. This we have endeavored to do, so far as it relates to that matchless character which made possible such marvelous achievement. The index numbers throughout the book will direct the reader to the sources of information under the heading "Where Found/' in the back part of the book. At the bottom of the page are given the date and the age of Washington at the time the incidents referred to on that page occurred. All except the shorter quotations from Washington are in smaller type. "The history of George Washington is not always a recital of brilliant exploits in the field — the cunning strategy of the commander; nor is it always a narrative of startling movements in the cabinet — the secret diplomacy of the Statesman; but it is always the consistent record of a man true to himself, true to his country, true to his God." Merriam Park, Saint Paul, Minnesota, February 23, 1919. 15 CHAPTER I RELIGIOUS FOUNDATION Christian Ancestry George Washington descended from a long line of excellent churchmen. His great-great- grandfather was the Rev. Lawrence Washington, a clergyman in the Church of England. His great-grandfather, John Washington, "a man of military talent and high in the government," came to America in 1657, settling in Virginia. He founded a parish which was named for him — "The parish of Washington." "He was also a sincerely pious man." In his will, he left a gift to the church, of "a tablet with the Ten Com- mandments," and recorded his faith in this manner: "being heartily sorry from the bot- tome of my hart for my sins past, most hum- bly desireing forgiveness of the same from the Almighty god (my saviour) and redeimer, in whom and by the meritts of Jesus Christ, I trust and believe assuredly to be saved, and to have full remission and forgiveness of all my sins." His grandfather, also named Lawrence Wash- ington, similarly expresses his faith in his will. 16 RELIGIOUS FOUNDATION His father, Augustine Washington, was active in parish affairs, and became a vestryman in Truro Parish, Virginia, November 18, 1735, when his son George was three years old. On the mother's side the Hne of churchmen is equally strong. Grandfather Ball was a vestry- man, and Great-Grandfather Warner left his slender but excellent record by presenting to the parish church a set of silver for the holy com- munion. "The family of Balls was very active in promoting good things." Washington's uncle Joseph, in 1729, took the lead in a movement to educate young men for the ministry of the church. Mary Ball Washington (George's mother), says Henry Cabot Lodge, "was an im- perious woman, of strong will, ruling her king- dom alone. Above all she was very dignified, very silent, and very sober-minded. That she was affectionate and loving cannot be doubted, for she retained to the last a profound hold upon the reverential devotion of her son." If Washington's military character was devel- oped out of materials which came to him by inheritance from both sides of his family, so too was his religious character. That love of the church which we have seen as a distinguishing mark in his family became a strong inheritance which his own will and intelligence did not set aside.^ 17 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN Church Membership The parents of Washington were members of the Church of England, which was almost the only denomination of Christians then known in Virginia.^ His Baptism The birth record of Washington is found in an old family Bible of quarto form, dilapidated by use and age, and covered with Virginia striped cloth, which record is in the handwriting of the patriot's father, in these words: George William, son to Augustine Washington, and Mary, his wife, was born the eleventh day of February, 1731-2, about ten in the morning, and was baptized the 3rd April following, Mr. Bromley Whiting, and Captain Christopher Brooks god- fathers, and Mrs. Mildred Gregory godmother.^ According to the present style of reckoning, the birthday was February 22, and the baptismal day April 14. His Father There are many stories of Washington's boy- hood which show that his father took great pains to teach George to be unselfish, inspire him with a love of truth, and teach him to know and worship God. When George was eleven years old, his father died. Some months later he was sent to West- 1732] 18 RELIGIOUS FOUNDATION moreland to live with his half-brother, Augus- tine, who occupied the family seat in that county. What the religious advantages were, which awaited him in his new situation, we have not the means to ascertain. There is no doubt that he enjoyed the privilege of public worship at the parish church, known then and now as Pope's Creek Church. Here his attendance was probably habitual, as it was an age in which everybody in that region frequented the house of God whenever service was performed.^ Religious Teaching by His Mother In addition to instruction in the Bible and Prayer Book, which were her daily companions, it was Mrs. Washington's custom to read some helpful books to her children at home, and in this way they received much valuable instruction. Among the volumes which she used for this pur- pose was one entitled Contemplations: Moral and Divine, by Sir Matthew Hale^ — an old, well-worn copy, which still bears on its title-page the name of its owner, "Mary Washington." Those who are familiar with the character of Washington will be struck, on reading these "Contemplations," with the remarkable fact that the instructions contained in them are most admirably calculated to implant and foster such principles as he is known to have possessed. Age 11] 19 [1743 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN The volume was found in the Hbrary at Mount Vernon, after Washington's death, and it ap- pears to have been used by him through hfe.^ There are many pencil marks in it noting choice, passages. "From that volume the mother of Washington undoubtedly drew, as from a living well of sweet water, many of the maxims which she instilled into the mind of her first-born."^ "Let those who wish to know the moral foun- dation of his character consult its pages. "^ Washington's Rules In 1745, thirteen years old, Washington copied many things in a little book of thirty folio pages. One part was headed, "Rules of Civility and Decent Behavior in Company and Conversa- tion." There were one hundred and ten of these maxims. "Scarcely one rule is there that does not involve self-restraint, modesty, habitual consideration of others, and, to a large extent, Hving for others."^ The last three rules are as follows : 108th. When you speak of God or his Attributes, let it be Seriously & [with words of] Reverence, Honor & Obey your Natural Parents altho they be poor 109th. Let your Recreations be Manful not Sinful 110th. Labor to keep alive in your Breast that little Spark of Celestial fire called Conscience. ^° 1745] 20 f Age 13 RELIGIOUS FOUNDATION Poem on "Christmas Day" When Washington was thirteen years of age he copied some verses on "Christmas Day," beginning, "Assist me, Muse divine, to sing the Morn, On Which the Saviour of Mankind was born."^^ Some think that he composed poems himself, but it is more Hkely that he copied them from an unknown source. It shows what manner of Christian training he had received at home. He had absorbed "the spirit of the Day and the facts of the faith, as well as the rule and model of Christian life." Godfather In 1747, at the age of fifteen years, young Washington was godfather to a child in baptism. In 1748, at sixteen, he was godfather to his niece, Frances Lewis. In 1751, at nineteen, to his nephew. Fielding Lewis, his sister's first child, and his mother was godmother. In 1760, at twenty-eight, he again became sponsor for another nephew, Charles Lewis. ^^ Goes to Mount Vernon In the summer of 1746, he finds his way to the home of his brother Lawrence, at Mount Vernon. From then until March, 1748, "George, it is believed, resided at Mount Vernon, and with his mother at her abode opposite to Fredericks- Age 14] 21 [1746 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN burg. In that town he went to school, and as Mrs. Washington was connected with the church there, her son no doubt shared, under her own eye, the benefits of divine worship, and such rehgious instruction as mothers in that day were eminently accustomed to give their chil- dren. It was the habit to teach the young the first principles of religion according to the formu- laries of the church, to inculcate the fear of God, and strict observance of the moral virtues, such as truth, justice, charity, humility, modesty, temperance, chastity, and industry. "^^ Trip to the West Indies In 1751 Lawrence Washington, on the advice of his physicians, decided to pass a winter in the West Indies, taking with him his favorite brother George as a companion. George kept a journal of this trip. They arrived on Saturday, No- vember 3. The second Sunday we find this entry in his diary, which shows his habit of church attendance: "Sunday, 11th — Dressed in order for Church but got to town too late. Dined at Major Clarke's with ye SeG. Went to Evening Serv- ice and return'd to our lodgings."^^ Before the next Sunday he was stricken with smallpox. A few days after his recovery he sailed for home. 1751] 22 1^8® 1^ CHAPTER II WASHINGTON'S PRAYERS On April 21, 22, 23, 1891, there was sold at auction in Philadelphia a remarkable collection of Washington relics owned by Lawrence Wash- ington, Bushrod C. Washington, Thomas B. Washington, and J. R. C. Lewis. Among them was found a little manuscript book entitled Daily Sacrifice. "This gem is all in the handwriting of George Washington, when about twenty years old, and is, without exception, the most hallowed of all his writings. It is neatly written on twenty- four pages of a little book about the size of the ordinary pocket memorandum." ^^ "The occasional interlineations and emenda- tions indicate that it was prepared for his own use." Whether Washington composed the prayers himself or copied them from some source as yet unknown has not been determined; but they are a revelation of that striking character which has been the wonder of the world. Professor S. F. Upham, professor of practical theology in Drew Theological Seminary, wrote: "The *Daily Prayers' of George Washington abound in Age 201 2S tl'^^'* / GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN earnest thought, expressed in simple, beautiful, fervent and evangelical language. They reveal to us the real life of the great patriot, and attest his piety. None can read those petitions, which bore his desires to God, and often brought answers of peace, without having a grander con- ception of Washington's character." "The prayers are characterized by a deep con- sciousness of sin and by a need of forgiveness, and by a recognition of dependence upon the merits and mercies of our Lord. They contain fervent applications for family, friends, and rulers in church and state." The prayers are as follows (by special permission of Rev. Dr. W. Herbert Burk): (1) Sunday Morning Almighty God, and most merciful father, who didst command the children of Israel to oflFer a daily sacrifice to thee, that thereby they might glorify and praise thee for thy protection both night and day; receive, O Lord, my morning sacrifice which I now offer up to thee; I yield thee humble and hearty thanks that thou has preserved me from the dangers of the night past, and brought me to the light of this day, and the comforts thereof, a day which is con- secrated to thine own service and for thine own honor. Let my heart, therefore. Gracious God, be so affected with the glory and majesty of it, that I may not do mine own works, but wait on thee, and discharge those weighty duties thou requirest of me; 1752] 24, [Age 20 WASHINGTON'S PRAYERS and since thou art a God of pure eyes, and wilt be sanctified in all who draw near unto thee, who doest not regard the sacrifice of fools, nor hear sinners who tread in thy courts, pardon, I beseech thee, my sins, remove them from thy presence, as far as the east is from the west, and accept of me for the merits of thy son Jesus Christ, that when I come into thy temple, and compass thine altar, my prayers may come before thee as incense; and as thou wouldst hear me calling upon thee in my prayers, so give me grace to hear thee calling on me in thy word, that it may be wisdom, righteousness, reconciliation and peace to the saving of my soul in the day of the Lord Jesus. Grant that I may hear it with reverence, receive it with meekness, mingle it with faith, and that it may accomplish in me, Gracious God, the good work for which thou has sent it. Bless my family, kindred, friends and country, be our God & guide this day and for ever for his sake, who lay down in the Grave and arose again for us, Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen. (2) Sunday Evening O most Glorious God, in Jesus Christ my merciful and loving father, I acknowledge and confess my guilt, in the weak and imperfect performance of the duties of this day. I have called on thee for pardon and forgiveness of sins, but so coldly and carelessly, that my prayers are become my sin and stand in need of pardon. I have heard thy holy word, but with such deadness of spirit that I have been an un- profitable and forgetful hearer, so that, O Lord, the' Age 20] 25 11752 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN I have done thy work, yet it hath been so negh- gently that I may rather expect a curse than a bless- ing from thee. But, O God, who art rich in mercy and plenteous in redemption, mark not, I beseech thee, what I have done amiss; remember that I am but dust, and remit my transgressions, negligences & ignorances, and cover them all with the absolute obedience of thy dear Son, that those sacrifices which I have offered may be accepted by thee, in and for the sacrifice of Jesus Christ offered upon the cross for me; for his sake, ease me of the burden of my sins, and give me grace that by the call of the Gospel I may rise from the slumber of sin into the newness of life. Let me live according to those holy rules which thou hast this day prescribed in thy holy word; make me to know what is acceptable in thy sight, and therein to delight, open the eyes of my understanding, and help me thoroughly to examine myself concerning my knowledge, faith and repen- tance, increase my faith, and direct me to the true object Jesus Christ the way, the truth and the life, bless, O Lord, all the people of this land, from the highest to the lowest, particularly those whom thou hast appointed to rule over us in church & state, continue thy goodness to me this night. These weak petitions I humbly implore thee to hear accept and ans. for the sake of thy Dear Son Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen. (3) Monday Morning O eternal and everlasting God, I presume to pre- 1762] 26 l^ge 20 WASHINGTON'S PRAYERS sent myself this morning before thy Divine majesty, beseeching thee to accept of my humble and hearty thanks, that it hath pleased thy great goodness to keep and preserve me the night past from all the dangers poor mortals are subject to, and has given me sweet and pleasant sleep, whereby I find my body refreshed and comforted for performing the duties of this day, in which I beseech thee to defend me from all perils of body and soul. Direct my thoughts, words and work, wash away my sins in the immacu- late blood of the lamb, and purge my heart by thy holy spirit, from the dross of my natural corruption, that I may with more freedom of mind and liberty of will serve thee, the ever lasting God, in righteous- ness and holiness this day, and all the days of my life. Increase my faith in the sweet promises of the gospel; give me repentance from dead works; pardon my wanderings, & direct my thoughts unto thyself, the God of my salvation; teach me how to live in thy fear, labor in thy service, and ever to run in the ways of thy commandments; make me always watchful over my heart, that neither the terrors of conscience, the loathing of holy duties, the love of sin, nor an unwillingness to depart this life, may cast me into a spiritual slumber, but daily frame me more & more into the likeness of thy son Jesus Christ, that living in thy fear, and dying in thy favor, I may in thy appointed time attain the resurrection of the just unto eternal life bless my family, friends & kin- dred unite us all in praising & glorifying thee in all our works begun, continued, and ended, when we Age 20] 27 [1752 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN shall come to make our last account before thee blessed saviour, who hath taught us thus to pray, our Father, &c. (4) Monday Evening Most Gracious Lord God, from whom proceedeth every good and perfect gift, I offer to thy divine majesty my unfeigned praise & thanksgiving for all thy mercies towards me. Thou mad'st me at first and hast ever since sustained the work of thy own hand; thou gav'st thy Son to die for me; and hast given me assurance of salvation, upon my repentance and sincerely endeavoring to conform my life to his holy precepts and example. Thou art pleased to lengthen out to me the time of repentance and to move me to it by thy spirit and by thy word, by thy mercies, and by thy judgments; out of a deepness of thy mercies, and my own unworthiness, I do appear before thee at this t'me; I have sinned and done very wickedly, be merciful to me, God, and pardon me for Jesus Christ sake; instruct me in the particulars of my duty, and suffer me not to be tempted above what thou givest me strength to bear. Take care, I pray thee of my affairs and more and more direct me in thy truth, defend me from my enemies, especially my spiritual ones. Suffer me not to be drawn from thee, by the blandishments of the world, carnal desires, the cunning of the devil, or deceitfulness of sin. work in me thy good will and pleasure, and discharge my mind from all things that are displeasing to thee, of all ill will and discontent, 1752] ^8 [Age 20 WASHINGTON'S PRAYERS wrath and bitterness, pride & vain conceit of myself, and render me charitable, pure, holy, patient and heavenly minded, be with me at the hour of death; dispose me for it, and deliver me from the slavish fear of it, and make me willing and fit to die when- ever thou shalt call me hence. Bless our rulers in church and state, bless O Lord the whole race of mankind, and let the world be filled with the knowl- edge of Thee and thy son Jesus Christ. Pity the sick, the poor, the weak, the needy, the widows and fatherless, and all that morn or are broken in heart, and be merciful to them according to their several necessities, bless my friends and grant me grace to forgive my enemies as heartily as I desire forgive- ness of Thee my heavenly Father. I beseech thee to defend me this night from all evil, and do more for me than I can think or ask, for Jesus Christ sake, in whose most holy name & words, I continue to pray. Our Father, &c. (5) Tuesday Morning O Lord our God, most mighty and merciful father, I thine unworthy creature and servant, do once more approach thy presence. Though not worthy to ap- pear before thee, because of my natural corruptions, and the many sins and transgressions which I have committed against thy divine majesty; yet I beseech thee, for the sake of him in whom thou art well pleased, the Lord Jesus Christ, to admit me to render thee deserved thanks and praises for thy manifold mercies extended toward me, for the quiet rest & Age 20] 29 U752 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN repose of the past night, for food, raiment, health, peace, Hberty, and the hopes of a better Hfe through the merits of thy dear son*s bitter passion, and O kind father continue thy mercy and favor to me this day, and ever hereafter; prosper all my lawful undertakings; let me have all my directions from thy holy spirit, and success from thy bountiful hand. Let the bright beams of thy light so shine into my heart, and enlighten my mind in understanding thy blessed word, that I may be enabled to perform thy will in all things, and effectually resist all tempta- tions of the world, the flesh and the devil, preserve and defend our rulers in church & state, bless the people of this land, be a father to the fatherless, a comforter to the comfortless, a deliverer to the cap- tives, and a physician to the sick, let thy blessings be upon our friends, kindred and families. Be our guide this day and forever through J. C. in whose blessed form of prayer I conclude my weak petitions — Our Father, &c. (6) Tuesday Evening Most gracious God and heavenly father, we can- not cease, but must cry unto thee for mercy, because my sins cry against me for justice. How shall I address myself unto thee, I must with the publican stand and admire at thy great goodness, tender mercy, and long suffering towards me, in that thou hast kept me the past day from being consumed and brought to nought. O Lord, what is man, or the son of man, that thou regardest him; the more days 1752] 30 [Age 20 WASHINGTON'S PRAYERS pass over my head, the more sins and iniquities I heap up against thee. If I should cast up the ac- count of my good deeds done this day, how few and small would they be; but if I should reckon my mis- carriages, surely they would be many and great. O, blessed Father, let thy son's blood wash me from all impurities, and cleanse me from the stains of sin that are upon me. Give me grace to lay hold upon his merits; that they may be my reconciliation and atonement unto thee, — That I may know my sins are forgiven by his death & passion, embrace me in the arms of thy mercy; vouchsafe to receive me unto the bosom of thy love, shadow me with thy wings, that I may safely rest under thy protection this night; and so into thy hands I commend myself, both soul and body, in the name of thy son, J. C, beseeching Thee, when this life shall end, I may take my everlasting rest with thee in thy heavenly kingdom, bless all in authority over us, be merciful to all those afflicted with thy cross or calamity, bless all my friends, forgive my enemies and accept my thanksgiving this evening for all the mercies and favors afforded me; hear and graciously answer these my requests, and whatever else thou see'st needful grant us, for the sake of Jesus Christ in whose blessed name and words I continue to pray. Our Father, &c. (7) A Prayer for Wednesday Morninu Almighty and eternal Lord God, the great creator of heaven & earth, and the God and Father of our Age 20] 31 [1752 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN Lord Jesus Christ; look down from heaven, in pity and compassion upon me thy servant, who humbly prostrate myself before thee, sensible of thy mercy and my own misery; there is an infinite distance between thy glorious majesty and me, thy poor creature, the work of thy hand, between thy infinite power, and my weakness, thy wisdom, and my folly» thy eternal Being, and my mortal frame, but, O Lord, I have set myself at a greater distance from thee by my sin and wickedness, and humbly ac- knowledge the corruption of my nature and the many rebellions of my life. I have sinned against heaven and before thee, in thought, word & deed; I have contemned thy majesty and holy laws. I have likewise sinned by omitting what I ought to have done, and committing what I ought not. I have rebelled against light, despised thy mercies and judg- ments, and broken my vows and promises; I have neglected the means of Grace, and opportunities of becoming better; my iniquities are multiplied, and my sins are very great. I confess them, O Lord, with shame and sorrow, detestation and loathing, and desire to be vile in my own eyes, as I have rendered myself vile in thine. I humbly beseech thee to be merciful to me in the free pardon of my sins, for the sake of thy dear Son, my only saviour, J. C, who came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance; be pleased to renew my nature and write thy laws upon my heart, and help me to live, righteously, soberly and godly in this evil world; make me humble, meek, patient and contented, and 1752] ao [Age 20 .1 WASHINGTON'S PRAYERS work in me the grace of thy holy spirit, prepare me for death and judgment, and let the thoughts thereof awaken me to a greater care and study to approve myself unto thee in well doing, bless our rulers in church & state. Help all in affliction or adversity — give them patience and a sanctified use of their affliction, and in thy good time deliverance from them; forgive my enemies, take me unto thy protection this day, keep me in perfect peace, which I ask in the name & for the sake of Jesus. Amen. (8) Wednesday Evening Holy and eternal Lord God who art the King of heaven, and the watchman of Israel, that never slumberest or sleepest, what shall we render unto thee for all thy benefits; because thou hast inclined thine ears unto me, therefore will I call on thee as long as I live, from the rising of the sun to the going down of the same let thy name be praised, among the infinite riches of thy mercy towards me, I desire to render thanks & praise for thy merciful preserva- tion of me this day, as well as all the days of my life; and for the many other blessings & mercies spiritual & temporal which thou hast bestowed on me, con- trary to my deserving. All these thy mercies call on me to be thankful and my infirmities & wants call for a continuance of thy tender mercies; cleanse my soul, O Lord, I beseech thee, from whatever is offensive to thee, and hurtful to me, and give me what is convenient for me. watch over me this night, and give me comfortable and sweet sleep to Age 20] 33 [17.52 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN fit me for the service of the day following. Let my soul watch for the coming of the Lord Jesus; let my bed put me in mind of my grave, and my rising from there of my last resurrection; O heavenly Father, so frame this heart of mine, that I may ever delight to live according to thy will and command, in holiness and righteousness before thee all the days of my life. Let me remember, O Lord, the time will come when the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall arise and stand before the judgment seat, and give an account of whatever they have done in the body, and let me so prepare my soul, that I may do it with joy and not with grief, bless the rulers and people of this and forget not those who are under any affliction or oppression. Let thy favor be extended to all my relations friends and all others who I ought to remember in my prayer and hear me I beseech thee for the sake of my dear redeemer in whose most holy words, I farther pray, Our Father, &c. (9) Thursday Morning Most gracious Lord God, whose dwelling is in the highest heavens, and yet beholdest the lowly and humble upon earth, I blush and am ashamed to lift up my eyes to thy dwelling place, because I have sinned against thee; look down, I beseech thee upon me thy unworthy servant who prostrate myself at the footstool of thy mercy, confessing my own guilti- ness, and begging pardon for my sins; what couldst thou have done Lord more for me, or what could I 1752J 34j [Age 20 WASHINGTON'S PRAYERS have done more against thee? Thou didst send me thy Son to take our nature upon *'Note: The manuscript ended at this place, the close of a page. Whether the other pages were lost or the prayers were never completed, has not been determined. "^^ 55 CHAPTER III A CHRISTIAN SOLDIER His Mother Advises Secret Prayer In November, 1753, then twenty-one years of age, Washington was commissioned by Governor Dinwiddie, of Virginia, to be the bearer of dis- patches to the French commander St. Pierre. He called to see his mother and explained the nature of his mission. "With her farewell kiss she bade him 'remember that God only is our sure trust. To Him I commend you.' "^^ As he left the paternal roof, his mother's part- ing charge was, "My son, neglect not the duty of secret prayer." Never did a mother give better advice to her son, and never did a son more con- scientiously follow it.^^ "His uniform practice from youth to hoary age, furnished, it would seem, a consistent exem- plification of this duty in its double aspect of public and private prayer." Prayers at Fort Necessity The first decisive indication of his principles on this subject, with which we are acquainted, appeared during the encampment at the Great 1753] 3g [Age 21 A CHRISTIAN SOLDIER Meadows, in the year 1754. While occupying Fort Necessity it was his practice to have the troops assembled for public worship. This we learn from the following note, by the publisher of his writings: "While Washington was en- camped at the Great Meadows, Mr. Fairfax wrote to him: 'I will not doubt your having public prayers in the camp, especially when the Indian families are your guests, that they, seeing your plain manner of worship, may have their curiosity excited to be informed why we do not use the ceremonies of the French, which being well explained to their understandings, will more and more dispose them to receive our baptism, and unite in strict bonds of cordial friendship.' It may be added that it was Wash- ington's custom to have prayers in the camp while he was at Fort Necessity. "^^ Here we are informed not only of the pious custom of the youthful cammander, at the time and place mentioned, but are enabled to gather from the communication of Mr. Fairfax much that was highly favorable to the character of his young friend. Mr. Fairfax says, 'T will not doubt your having public prayers in the camp." Intimate as this gentleman was with Washing- ton, he would scarcely have so addressed him had he not felt encouraged to do so by his known sentiments of piety, if not his own habits. Mr. Age 21] 37 11753 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN Fairfax was the father-in-law of Lawrence Wash- ington, the brother of George, and had possessed every opportunity of learning the character and conduct of the latter. Assured of his pious and serious deportment, he did not feel any hesi- tation in suggesting to him the expediency of the duty in question. ^^^ "It certainly was not one of the least striking pictures presented in this wild campaign — the youthful commander, presiding with calm serious- ness over a motley assemblage of half -equipped soldiery, leathern-clad hunters and woodsmen, and painted savages with their wives and chil- dren, and uniting them all in solemn devotion by his own example and demeanor."^^ Acknowledges an Act of Providence In a letter to Governor Dinwiddie, dated Great Meadows, June 10, 1754, when twenty- two years of age, we have the following striking acknowledgment of a particular providential interposition in supplying with provisions the troops recently placed under his command : We have been six days without flour, and there is none upon the road for our relief that we know of, though I have by repeated expresses given him timely notice. We have not provisions of any sort enough in camp to serve us two days. Once before we should have been four days without pro- 1754] 38 l^g^ *^ A CHRISTIAN SOLDIER visions, if Providence had not sent a trader from the Ohio to our rehef, for whose flour I was obHged to give twenty-one shiUings and eight-pence per pound.^^ His Custom to Attend Church That it was customary with him to frequent the house of God when in his power, appears from the record made by him of an occurrence among his soldiers, while encamped in Alexan- dria, Virginia, in the summer of 1754, having himself returned but lately on a recruiting expe- dition from the Great Meadows: "Yesterday, while we were at church, twenty-five of them col- lected, and were going off in the face of their officers, but were stopped and imprisoned be- fore the plot came to its height. "^^ His Trust in God In April, 1755, the newly arrived General Braddock offered him an important command. His mother opposed his going to the war. In the final discussion, the son said to his mother: "The God to whom you commended me, madam, when I set out upon a more perilous errand, defended me from all harm, and I trust he will do so now. Do not you.'^"^'* Conducts Braddock's Funeral General Braddock being mortally wounded in Age 23J 39 [1755 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN the battle of the Monongahela, July 9, 1755, died on Sunday night, July 13. He was buried in his cloak the same night in the road, to elude the search of the Indians. The chaplain having been wounded, Washington, on the testimony of an old soldier, read the funeral service over his remains, by the light of a torch. Faithful to his commander while he lived, he would not suffer him to want the customary rites of religion when dead. Though the probable pursuit of 'savages threatened, yet did his humanity and sense of decency prevail, to gain for the fallen soldier the honor of Christian burial. ^^ Letter to His Brother He wrote to his brother, John A. Washington, July 18, 1755, following Braddock's defeat, in which he says: As I have heard, since my arrival at this place [Fort Cumberland], a circumstantial account of my death and dying speech, I take this early oppor- tunity of contradicting the first, and of assuring you, that I have not as yet composed the latter. But, by the all-powerful dispensations of Providence, I have been protected beyond all human probability or expectation; for I had four bullets through my coat, and two horses shot under me, yet escaped unhurt, although death was leveling my companions on every side of me!"^^ 1755] 40 l^S« 28 A CHRISTIAN SOLDIER The Great Spirit Protects Him — Testimony of Indian Chief Fifteen years after this battle Washington and Dr. Craik, his intimate friend from his boy- hood to his death, were travehng on an expedi- tion to the western country, for the purpose of exploring wild lands. While near the junction of the Great Kanawha and Ohio Rivers a com- pany of Indians came to them with an interpre- ter, at the head of whom was an aged and ven- erable chief. The council fire was kindled, when the chief addressed Washington through an in- terpreter to the following effect : "I am a chief, and ruler over my tribes. My influence extends to the waters of the great lakes, and to the far blue mountains. I have traveled a long and weary path, that I might see the young warrior of the great battle. It was on the day when the white man's blood mixed with the streams of our forest, that I first beheld this chief. I called to my young men and said, mark yon tall and daring warrior .^^ He is not of the red-coat tribe — he hath an Indian's wisdom, and his warriors fight as we do — himself is alone exposed. Quick, let your aim be certain, and he dies. Our rifles were leveled, rifles which, but for him, knew not how to miss — 'twas all in vain, a power mightier far than we, shielded him from harm. He cannot Age 23] 41 [1755 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN die in battle. I am old, and soon shall be gath- ered to the great council fire of my fathers in the land of shades, but ere I go, there is some- thing bids me speak in the voice of prophecy. Listen! The Great Spirit protects that man, and guides his destinies — he will become the chief of nations, and a people yet unborn will hail him as the founder of a mighty empire .'"^'^ Discourages Gambling in the Army In a letter to Governor Dinwiddie, from Alex- andria, Virginia, February 2, 1756, regarding operations in the army, he says, "I have always, so far as was in my power, endeavored to dis- courage gambling in camp, and always shall while I have the honor to preside there. "^^ Intemperance and Profanity Discounte- nanced The following letter to Governor Dinwiddie, written from Winchester, Virginia, April 18, 1756, shows his attitude toward intemperance and profanity: It gave me infinite concern to find in yours by Governor Innes that any representations should in- flame the Assembly against the Virginia regiment, or give cause to suspect the morality and good be- havior of the officers. How far any of the individ- uals may have deserved such reflections, I will not 1756] 42 [Age 24 A CHRISTIAN SOLDIER take upon me to determine, but this I am certain of, and can call my conscience, and what, I suppose, will be still more demonstrative proof in the eyes of the world, my orders, to witness how much I have, both by threats and persuasive means, endeavored to discountenance gambling, drinking, swearing, and irregularities of every other kind; while I have, on the other hand, practised every artifice to inspire a laudable emulation in the officers for the service of their country, and to encourage the soldiers in the unerring exercise of their duty. How far I have failed in this desirable end I cannot pretend to say. But it is nevertheless a point which does, in my opinion, merit some scrutiny, before it meets with a final condemnation. Yet I will not undertake to vouch for the conduct of many of the officers, as I know there are some who have the seeds of idleness very strongly implanted in their natures; and I also know that the unhappy difference about the com- mand which has kept me from Fort Cumberland, has consequently prevented me from enforcing the orders which I never failed to send. However, if I continue in the service, I shall take care to act with a little more rigor than has hitherto been practised, since I find it so necessary. ^^ Intemperance Punished His orders for preserving discipline must be allowed to have been suflSciently rigid. The following given in 1756 is a specimen: Any commissioned officer, who stands by and sees Age 24] 43 [1756 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN irregularities committed, and does not endeavor to quell them, shall be immediately put under arrest. Any non-commissioned officer present, who does not interpose, shall be immediately reduced, and receive corporal punishment. Any soldier who shall presume to quarrel or fight shall receive five hundred lashes, without the benefit of a court-martial. The offender, upon complaint made, shall have strict justice done him. Any sol- dier found drunk shall receive one hundred lashes, without benefit of a court-martial.^*' Profanity Forbidden In June, 1756, while at Fort Cumberland, he issued the following order : Colonel Washington has observed that the men of his regiment are very profane and reprobate. He takes this opportunity to inform them of his great displeasure at such practices, and assures them, that, if they do not leave them off, they shall be severely punished. The officers are desired, if they hear any man swear, or make use of an oath or execration, to order the offender twenty-five lashes immediately, without a court-martial. For the second offense, he will be more severely punished. ^^ Protection of Providence From Winchester, Virginia, where he was stationed as commander of the troops, he writes to Governor Dinwiddie, about a year after Braddock's defeat: 1756] 44 [Age 24 A CHRISTIAN SOLDIER With this small company of irregulars, with whom order, regularity, circumspection, and vigilance were matters of derision and contempt, we set out, and by the protection of Providence, reached Augusta Court House in seven days, without meeting the enemy; otherwise we must have fallen a sacrifice through the indiscretion of these whooping, hallooing, gentlemen soldiers. ^^ Chaplain for Army While embarked in the French and Indian War, as commander of the Virginia forces, he earnestly sought of Governor Dinwiddie the supply of a chaplain to his regiment. He writes from Mount Vernon, Virginia, September 23, 1756, as follows: "The want of a chaplain, I humbly conceive, reflects dishonor on the regi- ment, as all other officers are allowed. The gentlemen of the corps are sensible of this, and proposed to support one at their private expense. But I think it would have a more graceful ap- pearance were he appointed as others are."^^ To this the Governor replied: "I have recom- mended to the commissary to get a chaplain, but he cannot prevail w^ith any person to accept of it. I shall again press it to him."^"* In answer to which Washington wrote, No- vember 9, 1756 : "As to a chaplain, if the govern- ment will grant a subsistence, we can readily get a person of merit to accept the place, without Age 24] 45 [1756 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN giving the commissary any trouble on that point. "3^ With this letter, of which this was part, the Governor seemed not to have been well pleased. In his reply, among other things, indicating dis- pleasure, he says, November 24, 1756: "In regard to a chaplain, you should know that his qualifications and the Bishop's letter of license should be produced to the commissary and my- self; but this person is also nameless. "^^ Washington answered, Nov. 24, 1756: "When I spoke of a chaplain, it was in answer to yours. I had no person in view, though many have offered; and I only said if the country would provide sub- sistence, we could procure a chaplain, without thinking there was offense in expression. "^^ Notwithstanding the importunity of Wash- ington, no chaplain was provided by the govern- ment. His solicitude on the subject continuing at the recall of Dinwiddie, he wrote to the presi- dent of the Council from Fort Loudoun, April 17, 1758, as follows: "The last Assembly, in their Supply Bill, provided for a chaplain to our regiment. On this subject I had often without any success applied to Governor Dinwiddie. I now flatter myself, that your honor will be pleased to appoint a sober, serious man for this duty. Common decency. Sir, in a camp calls for the services of a divine, which ought not to 1756] 46 [Age 24 A CHRISTIAN SOLDIER be dispensed with, although the world should be so uncharitable as to think us void of religion, and incapable of good instructions."^^ Conducts Religious Service in the Army "I have often been informed," says the Rev. Mason L. Weems, "by Colonel B. Temple, of King William County, Virginia, who was one of his aides in the French and Indian War, that he has 'frequently known Washington, on the Sab- bath, read the Scriptures and pray with his regi- ment, in the absence of the chaplain;' and also that, on sudden and unexpected visits to his marque, he has, 'more than once, found him on his knees at his devotions. '"^^ Letter to His Fiancee In the only known letter to Mrs. Martha Cus- tis, to whom he was engaged, written from Fort Cumberland, July 20, 1758, he recognizes an all- powerful Providence: We have begun our march for the Ohio. A courier is starting for Williamsburg, and I embrace the op- portunity to send a few lines to one whose life is now inseparable from mine. Since that happy hour when we made our pledges to each other, my thoughts have been continually going to you as to another Self. That an All-powerful Providence may keep us both in safety is the prayer of your ever faithful and ever affectionate Friend.'*^ Age 26] 47 [1758 CHAPTER IV THE ACTIVE CHURCHMAN Marriage He was married January 6, 1759, just after the battle of Fort Duquesne, to Mrs. Martha Custis, by the Rev. David Mossom, rector of Saint Peter's Episcopal Church, New Kent County, Virginia. Immediately they took up their residence at Mount Vernon, and became very active in church affairs. Buys Bibles and Prayer Books for Step- children When John Parke was eight years old, and his sister Patsey six, their kind stepfather, writing to London in October, 1761, for articles of cloth- ing and other things for the two children, in- cludes the following for Master John: A small Bible neatly bound in Turkey, and John Parke Custis wrote in gilt letters on the inside of the cover. A neat small Prayer Book bound as above, with John Parke Custis as above. And the following for Miss Patsey: 1759] 48 [Age 27 THE ACTIVE CHURCHMAN A neat, small Bible, bound in Turkey, and Martha Parke Custis wrote on the inside in gilt letters. A small Prayer Book neat and in the same man- ner.'*^ A Vestryman From 1748 till 1759 there was little church- going for the young surveyor or soldier, but after his marriage and settling at Mount Vernon he was elected vestryman in the parish of Truro and from that election he was quite active in church affairs. At the time of which we are speaking, "the Established," or Episcopal Church, predomi- nated throughout the ancient "dominion" (Vir- ginia), as it was termed; each county was divided into parishes, as in England, each with its church, its parsonage, and glebe. Truro Parish at that time contained three churches, namely, old Po- hick, the old Falls, and an old church in Alex- andria. (1) Elected and Qualified The old vestry book of Pohick Church has this entry: "At a Vestry held for Truro Parish, October 25, 1762, ordered, that George Wash- ington, Esq. be chosen and appointed one of the Vestry-men of this Parish, in the room of William Peake, Gent, deceased. "^^ The court records show that "At a Court held for the County of Fairfax, 15th February, Age 30] 49 [1762 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN 1763 — George Washington, Esq. took the oaths according to Law, repeated and subscribed the Test and subscribed to the Doctrine and Disci- pline of the Church of England in order to qualify him to act as a Vestryman of Truro Parish." Thus in due form Washington protested his loyalty and his orthodoxy, and took his place as one of the "twelve most able and discreet men of the Parish," whom the old statutes required to form the vestry.^^ Among the manuscripts in the library of the New York Historical Society is a leaf from the church record of Pohick. It contains the names of the first vestry, and a few others. The fol- lowing is a copy from the original. The names were signed at different times, during the sum- mer and autumn of 1765: "I, A B, do declare that I will be conformable to the Doctrine and Discipline of the Church of Eng- land, a.s by law established. "1765. May 20th— Thomsis Withers Coffer, Thomas Ford, John Ford. '^19th August — Geo. Washington, Daniel M'Carty," etc.^^ (2) Vestry Meetings The vestry seems to have met statedly twice a year, and at other times as occasion demanded. The meetings were usually held at one of the 1765] 50 [Age 33 THE ACTIVE CHURCHMAN churches, but occasionally at the house of one or another of the vestrymen; and sometimes they lasted two or three days. Attendance upon these meetings from Mount Vernon involved a ride, going and returning, of from fourteen to forty miles. The vestry records attest, how- ever, the regularity with which Colonel Wash- ington was present; and when it is remembered how frequently his public duties and private interests took him out of the county, one is readily convinced that he brought to the dis- charge of the duties of this office the same con- scientious purpose and fidelity which marked his career in more conspicuous stations. In his diary, though kept irregularly during this period, there are frequent references to his attending .vestry meetings, such as the following: 1768— July 16— Went by Muddy Hole and Dog Run to the vestry at Pohick Church — stayed there till after 3 o'clock and only four members coming, returned by Captain McCartys and dined there. September 9 — proceeded [from Alexandria] to the meeting of our Vestry at the new Church [Payne's] and lodged at Captain Edward Payne's. Nov. 28— Went to the Vestry at Pohick Church. 1769— March 3— Went to the Vestry at Pohick Church and returned at 11 o'clock at night. Sept. 23 — Captain Posey called here in the morn- ing and we went to a Vestry. Age 36] 51 [1768 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN 1772 — June 5 — Met the Vestry at our new Church [Payne's] and came home in the afternoon. 1774 — Feb. 15 — I went to a Vestry at the new Church [Payne's] and returned in the afternoon. Until called to the North in the service of his country, Washington continued in active and untiring service as a vestryman, and nominally held the office during the Revolutionary War."*' Washington resigned from the Vestry in 1782, in a letter to Captain Daniel IVlcCarty, Esq., also a member, after a continuous membership of twenty years. ^^ (3) A Church Warden The Church wardens were generally the ex- ecutive and accounting officers of the vestry, having oversight of the church buildings and making repairs, and being charged with the relief of the poor and binding out orphans and indigent children as apprentices, making careful provision for their moral training and a meager education. They had also to present to the court or grand jury persons guilty of Sabbath- breaking, of not attending church, or disturbing public worship, of drunkenness, profane swear- ing, and other more serious immoralities, and to receive the fines imposed in certain cases for the use of the parish. Church wardens were elected each year; and in Truro the more prominent 1774] 5g [Age 42 THE ACTIVE CHURCHMAN or more willing vestrymen seem to have served in some sort of rotation. Washington held this office for three terms at least within ten years."*^ (4) Falls Church The Falls Church derived its name from one of the falls of the Potomac. Originally it be- longed to Truro Parish, being served by the same rector and the same vestry, of which Wash- ington was a member. Later it became a part of Fairfax Parish, in which was Christ Church, Alexandria. The old Truro Parish Vestry book records a meeting of the vestry at the Falls Church on March 28, 1763, at which George Washington was present. At that meeting it was resolved to erect a new building at the same place. In Washington's diary for 1764 is entered a copy of an advertisement for "undertakers to build Falls Church," showing him to have been on its original building committee. ^^ (5) Payne's Church The vestry records show that "At a Vestry held for Truro Parish, the 28th, 29th and 30th days of November, 1765," George Washington being present, it was decided to build a new church in the upper part of the parish. "At a Vestry held for Truro Parish at Mr. (Age 311) 53 [1763 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN William Gardner's on the 3d and 4th days of February, 1766," the site was chosen and the contract let. George Washington was made chairman of the building committee. The church became known as Payne's Church, from the name of the builder. It is in Fairfax County.^9 (6) Pohick Church Before the Revolution, Washington's regular place of worship was Pohick Church, seven miles west of Mount Vernon, although sometimes he went to the Episcopal Church in Alexandria, Virginia, ten miles north, both being in the same parish. Pohick Church derived its curious name from a small river near it. Mount Vernon was in Truro Parish, and when the old place of worship went to decay (1767) there was considerable ex- citement among the people as to the location of the new one. A meeting for settling the ques- tion was finally held, and after George Mason had made a very pathetic speech, calling upon those present not to desert the spot which had been made sacred by the bones of their ancestors, Washington arose, and drew from his pocket an accurate survey of the whole parish, in which were marked the site of the old church, and the proposed location of the new one, with the resi- dence of each parishioner. Having spread out 1767] 54, [Age 36 THE ACTIVE CHURCHMAN the map, and briefly explained it, he expressed the hope that they would not suffer their better judgments to be overruled by their feelings, and sat down. The silent argument of the map was perfectly convincing and the new site was de- termined on.^^ In the year 1769 the plans of the new building were drawn up, it is said, by Washington.^^ He was chairman of the building committee and supervised its erection. "A large share of the expense incurred in its erection was borne by Washington himself ."^^ Church Attendance He attended at one or the other of these (Pohick or Alexandria) with his family every Sunday, except when the weather was too in- clement, and in such cases he read the church service in the parlor at home. His demeanor in church was always reveren- tial and devout. He bore his part in the re- sponse, and bowed his head at the mention of the name of Jesus in the Creed. Mrs. Wash- ington and himself were both communicants. As soon as the Custis children were old enough they were instructed in the Church Catechism.^^ "Mrs. Washington knelt during the prayers; he always stood, as was the custom at that time."^^ Age 37] 55 [1769 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN Public Worship The Rev. Lee Massey was the rector of the parish (Pohick Church) at the time referred to. He was a highly respectable man and shared much of the esteem of Washington. In regard to the religious deportment of his distinguished friend, especially in the house of God, he was often heard to express himself in the following strain: "I never knew so constant an attendant on church as Washington. And his behavior in the house of God was ever so deeply reverential that it produced the happiest effects on my con- gregation, and greatly assisted me in my pulpit labors."^^ Not Kept from Church by Company "No company ever withheld him from church," says the Rev. Lee Massey. "I have often been at Mount Vernon on the Sabbath morning when his breakfast table was filled with guests, but to him they furnished no pretext for neglect- ing his God, and losing the satisfaction of set- ting a good example. For, instead of staying at home, out of false complaisance to them, he used constantly to invite them to accom- pany him."^^ Extracts from Diary The following extracts from his diary (1768) 1768] 5g [Age 36 THE ACTIVE CHURCHMAN covering a few months are evidence of his faith- ful attendance at church at home or abroad: May 8th, Went to Church from Colonel Bassett's. May 22nd, Went to Church at Nomini. May 29th, church at St. Paul's. June 5th, to church at Alexandria. June 12th, at Pohick. August, Nomini in Westmoreland. November 15th, at Pohick.^^ A Communicant In 1835 the Rev. E. C. M'Guire, rector of the Episcopal church at Fredericksburg, Virginia, writes as follows: Among the aged persons residing in the neighbor- hood of Mount Vernon, and the descendants of such others, as have recently gone down to the grave, there is but one opinion in regard to the fact of his having been a communicant in the Pohick Church, previous to the Revolutionary War. The writer himself had it from a respectable lady, that she had once heard her mother unqualifiedly declare that General Washington was a communicant in that church, in the vicinity of which she had her residence, and on the services of which she attended. A living granddaughter of the Rev. Lee Massey, rector of Mount Vernon Parish for some years after Washing- ton's marriage, says her grandfather on a special occasion told her the same thing in answer to a par- ticular inquiry on the subject.^^ Age 3^] 57 [1768 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN "He partook regularly of the communion un- til he entered the office of general in the Ameri- can Army."^^ It was the custom in the colonial churches to ad- minister communion only at Christmas, Easter, and Whitsuntide, and it was not an uncommon practice for communicants to receive only once a year. Was Not Confirmed There was no bishop in this country, and con- sequently no administration of confirmation until after the Revolution. There were many unconfirmed communicants in the church in the colonial days. The first bishop for the colonies was the Rev. Dr. Samuel Seabury. He was consecrated at Aberdeen, Scotland, No- vember 14, 1784. It was early in 1785 when he arrived in America. Washington was then fifty- three years old. Having been a communicant and active in church affairs all his life, he prob- ably did not feel the necessity of being confirmed at his age. It is very likely that he did not relish having an English-ordanied bishop, for in his diary, October 10, 1785, among other things, he adds, "nor any desire to open corre- spondence with the new ordained bishop."^'' Grace at Table But it was not in the duties of public worship 58 THE ACTIVE CHURCHMAN alone that Washington was careful to bear his part. Probably few Christians have been more attentive to their private devotions, at all times, and in all circumstances. No matter how ur- gent the business which engaged his attention, he never forgot his daily dependence upon God, and that his favor must be sought in earnest prayer. It may be properly added, as an evidence of his devotional habits, that he always said grace at table. On one occasion from the force of habit he performed this duty when a clergyman was present — an instance of indecorum quite unusual with him. Being told of the incivility, after the minister's departure, he expressed his regret at the oversight, but added, "The reverend gentleman will at least be assured that we are not entirely graceless at Mount Vernon."®^ Pew in Episcopal Church, Alexandria The new parish of Fairfax was separated from Truro Parish June 7, 1765. It included Falls Church and the church at Alexandria, Virginia.^^ There is no evidence that Washington was a vestryman in this Parish, as has been stated by some writers. A former attempt had been made to establish Fairfax Parish, and he had been elect- ed a vestryman, but the parish never was organ- ized, nor did the vestry ever meet or qualify.^^ 59 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN A new building was erected in Alexandria. It was completed in 1773. On the day it was turned over to the vestry, February 27, 1773, additional funds being needed, Washington pur- chased for thirty -six pounds, 10 shillings, the pew then known as Number 5, the highest price paid. The Washington pew is the only square pew left, the others having been cut down and divided. He attended this church frequently before the Revolution, and regularly after his retirement to Mount Vernon. ^^ Going to Church in the Family Coach "To the churchgoers the great family coach of the Washingtons was a familiar sight. Made in England, it was both substantial and elegant, if somewhat heavy. Four horses were necessary to draw it, but when the Virginia roads were very bad six were used; and to each span of horses there were the liveried postillion riders. "^^ Prays at Bedside of Dying Stepdaughter Mrs. Washington's only remaining daughter (Martha) died on the 19th of June, 1773, at the age of sixteen. She was naturally of a frail con- stitution, and had for many months been gradu- ally fading away. The heat of summer seemed rapidly to develop the seeds of consumption 1773] ^0 lAge 41 THE ACTIVE CHURCHMAN which were lurking in her system, and when her affectionate stepfather, the only father she had ever known, returned home, after a short ab- sence at Williamsburg on public duty, he was shocked to discover the change. The tender and doting mother, upon whose watchful care the prolonged illness of the feeble child had made large drafts, was nearly overwhelmed with grief, and Washington, falling on his knees at the bedside, with a passionate burst of tears, prayed aloud that the loved one might be spared. ^^ "Upon the wings of that holy prayer her spirit ascended, and when he arose and looked upon her pale and placid face, death had set its seal there." "The sweet, innocent girl," Washington wrote, "entered into a more happy and peaceful abode than she had met with in the afflicted path she had hitherto trod."^^ Fasting In the year 1774 Washington went to Wil- liamsburg as a member of the house of burgesses. The horizon of our country was then becoming dark with clouds, portending the approach of war. In the month of May, a short time after the members had assembled, information was received of an act of Parliament for shutting up the port of Boston — to take effect on the first Age 42] Ql [1774 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN of June. (The purpose was to crush the Httle rebel town of Boston, because of the "Boston Tea Party.") The members being much ex- cited by this hostile proceeding on the part of the British government, when they met on the 24th day of May, passed an order that the 1st day of June "should be set apart by that house as a day of fasting, humiliation, and prayer, devoutly to implore the divine interposition for averting the heavy calamity which threatened destruction to their civil rights, and the evils of civil war, and to give them one heart and one mind, firmly to oppose, by all just and proper means, every injury to American rights." June the first being the day appointed, the following brief entry is found in a diary kept by Washington at that time: "June 1st, Wednesday. — Went to church, and fasted all day,"®^ thus conforming not only to the spirit, but to the strict letter of the order. "He always meant what he said, being of a simple nature, and when he fasted and prayed there was something ominously earnest about it, something that his excellency the Governor, who liked the Society of this agreeable man and wise counselor, would have done well to consider and draw conclusions from, which he probably did not heed at all. He might have reflected, as he undoubtedly failed to do, that when men 1774] QO [Age 42 THE ACTIVE CHURCHMAN of the George Washington type fast and pray on account of political misdoings, it is well for their opponents to look to it carefully. "^^ Announces Decision to Fight After service (at Alexandria) one Sunday morning in the summer of 1774, surrounded by the congregation, every one of whom he well knew, Washington advocated withdrawing alle- giance from King George, and stated that he would fight to uphold the independence of the colonies. No more solemn time or occasion could have been chosen. With calmness, in a spirit of prayerful deliberation, he announced his momentous decision under the very shadow of the church. ^° Washington Kneels During Prayer The first of September, 1774, Washington left home for Philadelphia as a member from Vir- ginia of the First Continental Congress about to meet in that city. It met on the fifth. The first two days were spent in organizing and arranging preliminaries, when it was proposed that the sessions should be opened with prayer. The Rev. Jacob Duche, an Episcopal clergyman, was invited to officiate. The first morning, September 7, 1774, he read the thirty -fifth psalm, which begins as follows: Age 42] 63 [1774 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN "Plead my cause, O Lord, with them that strive with me: fight against them that fight against me. "Take hold of shield and buckler, and stand up for mine help. "Draw out also the spear, and stop the way against them that persecute me: say unto my soul, I am thy salvation." After the Psalm, Mr. Duche offered the fol- lowing prayer: "O Lord our Heavenly Father, high and mighty King of Kings and Lord of Lords, who dost from Thy throne behold all the dwellers on earth, and reignest with power supreme and uncontrolled over all kingdoms, empires and governments; look down in mercy we beseech Thee, on these American States, who have fled to Thee from the rod of the oppressor, and thrown themselves on Thy gracious protec- tion, desiring to be henceforth dependent only on Thee; to Thee they have appealed for the righteousness of their cause; to Thee do they now look up for that countenance and support which Thou alone canst give; take them, there- fore. Heavenly Father, under Thy nurturing care; give them wisdom in council, and valor in the field; defeat the malicious designs of our cruel adversaries, convince them of the un- righteousness of their cause; and if they still persist in their sanguinary purposes, O let the 1774] 54 [Age 42 THE ACTIVE CHURCHMAN voice of Thine own unerring justice sounding in their hearts constrain them to drop the weapons of war from their unnerved hands in the day of battle. Be Thou present, O God of wisdom, and direct the councils of this honorable assem- bly; enable them to settle things on the best and surest foundation, that the scene of blood may be speedily closed, that order, harmony, and peace, may be effectually restored; and truth and justice, religion and piety, prevail and flour- ish amongst Thy people. Preserve the health of their bodies and the vigor of their minds; shower down on them and the millions they here represent, such temporal blessings as Thou seest expedient for them in this world and crown them with everlasting glory in the world to come. All this we ask in the name and through the merits of Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Saviour. Amen."7i John Adams's Letter John Adams, in a letter to his wife on the day following, thus describes the scene: "You must remember this was the morning after we heard the horrible rumor of the cannon- ade of Boston. I never saw a greater effect upon an audience. It seemed as if heaven had ordained that psalm to be read on that morning. After this Mr. Duche unexpectedly to every- Age 42] 65 [1774 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN body struck out into an extemporary prayer, which filled the bosom of every man present. Episcopalian as he is, Doctor Cooper himself never prayed with such fervor, such ardor, such earnestness and pathos, and in language so elo- quent and sublime, for America, for the Con- gress, for the province of Massachusetts Bay, and especially the town of Boston. It had an excellent effect upon everybody here.""^^ "Washington was kneeling, and Henry, and Randolph, and Rutledge, and Lee, and Jay, and by their sides there stood, bowed in reverence, the Puritan patriots of New England." Attends Public Worship The following entries made in his diary, show him still mindful of the Sabbath day, and of the the duty of public worship. Being a stranger in the city, and lodging at a public house, there may not have been the regularity of attendance which usually distinguished him: September 25th — Went to Quaker meeting in the forenoon, and to St. Peter's in the afternoon; dined at my lodgings. October 2d — Went to church, and dined at the new tavern. 9th — Went to the Presbyterian meeting in the afternoon; dined at Bevan's. 16th — Went to Christ church in the morning; after 1774] QQ [Age 42 THE ACTIVE CHURCHMAN which rode to and dined at the Province Island; supped at Byrn's.^^ "He is Always Right" Mrs. Washington ardently sympathized with her husband in his patriotic measures. To a kinswoman who deprecated what she called "his folly" Mrs. Washington wrote in 1774: "Yes, I foresee consequences — dark days, domestic happiness suspended, social enjoyments aban- doned, and eternal separations on earth possible. But my mind is made up, my heart is in the cause. George is right; he is always right. God has promised to protect the righteous, and I will trust Him."^^ Age 42] g7 [1774 CHAPTER V THE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF TRUSTS IN GOD "God on Our Side" When General Washington was told that the British troops at Lexington, on the memorable 19th of April, 1775, had fired on and killed several of the Americans, he rephed: "/ grieve for the death of my countrymen; hut rejoice that the British are still determined to keep God on our side,'' alluding to that noble sentiment which he later so happily expressed, viz : " The smiles of Heaven can never be expected on a nation that disregards the eternal rules of order and right, which Heaven itself has ordained.''"^^ Letters to His Wife In a letter to his wife, on Sunday, June 18, 1775, from Philadelphia, he expresses his trust in God as follows: "I shall rely, therefore, con- fidently on that Providence, which has hereto- fore preserved and been bountiful to me, not doubting but that I shall return safe to you in thefall."^^ Just as he was leaving Philadelphia to take 1775] gg [Age 43 TRUSTS IN GOD command of the army, in another letter to his wife, June 22, 1775, he says: "I go, fully trusting in that Providence which has been more bountiful to me than I deserve, and in full confidence of a happy meeting with you in the fall."^^ First General Order to the Army July 4, 1775, the day after he took command of the army, an order was issued, in which we find the following injunction: The General most earnestly requires and expects a due observance of those articles of war established for the government of the army, which forbid pro- fane cursing, swearing, and drunkenness. And in like manner he requires and expects of all officers and soldiers, not engaged in actual duty, a punctual attendance on Divine service, to implore the blessing of Heaven upon the means used for our safety and defense.^^ Prayers Every Morning A few days after this order was published, the Rev. William Emerson, who was a minister at Concord at the time of the battle, and now a chaplain in the army, writes to a friend: "There is great overturning in the camp as to order and regularity. New lords, new laws. The Gen- erals Washington and Lee are upon the lines every day. New orders from his Excellency are Age 43] 69 U775 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN read to the respective regiments every morning, after pray ers."^^ Orders Army to Attend Divine Service The Continental Congress having ordered a day of fasting and prayer, General Washington issued the following order, July 20, 1775: The General orders this day to be religiously ob- served by the Forces under his Command, exactly in manner directed by the Continental Congress. It is therefore strictly enjoined on all Officers and Soldiers to attend Divine Service; and it is expected that all those who go to worship do take their Arms, Ammunition, and Accoutrements, & are prepared for immediate action if called upon.^° Success Depends Upon All- Wise Disposer Of Events He sends a circular to the major and brigadier- generals, from the camp at Cambridge, Septem- ber 8, 1775, asking their judgment of a proposed attack on the British at Boston, saying: "The success of such an enterprise depends, I well know, upon the All-Wise Disposer of events, and it is not within the reach of human wisdom to fortell the issue. "^^ Rights of Conscience In his instructions to Benedict Arnold for 1775] 70 [Age 43 TRUSTS IN GOD his campaign against Quebec, given at head- quarters, Cambridge, Massachusetts, Septem- ber 14, 1775, the last of fourteen items reads as follows : As the contempt of the religion of a country by ridiculing any of its ceremonies, or affronting its ministers or votaries, has ever been deeply resented, you are to be particularly careful to restrain every officer and soldier from such imprudence and folly, and to punish every instance of it. On the other hand, as far as lies in your power, you are to protect and support the free exercise of the religion of the country, and the undisturbed enjoyment of the rights of conscience in religious matters, with your utmost influence and authority. ^^ "Rights of Conscience" In a letter to Colonel Benedict Arnold the same day, September 14, 1775, he says: I also give it in charge to you to avoid all dis- respect of the religion of the country, and its cere- monies. Prudence, policy, and a true Christian spirit will lead us to look with compassion upon their errors without insulting them. Wiile we are con- tending for our own liberty, we should be very cau- tious not to violate the rights of conscience in others, ever considering that God alone is the judge of the hearts of men, and to Him only in this case they are answerable. ^^ Age 43] 71 [1775 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN Message to the Inhabitants of Canada He sent a message to the inhabitants of Canada, which was printed in handbills before Arnold left Cambridge, with the view of hav- ing the copies distributed as soon as he should arrive in Canada. He says in part: The Colonies, confiding in the justness of their cause, and the purity of their intentions, have re- luctantly appealed to that Being in whose hands are all human events. He has hitherto smiled upon their virtuous efforts, the hand of tyranny has been arrested in its ravages, and the British arms, which have shone with so much splendor in every part of the globe, are now tarnished with disgrace and dis- appointment.^^ Punishes Gambling October 2, 1775, he issued the following order: Any officer, non-commissioned officer, or soldier who shall hereafter be detected playing at toss-up, pitch, and hustle, or any other games of chance, in or near the camp or village bordering on the en- campments, shall without delay be confined and punished for disobedience of orders. The General does not mean by the above to discourage sports of exercise or recreation, he only means to discounte- nance and punish gaming. ^^ Hospitality to the Poor On Sunday, the 26th of November, 1775, the 1776] 72 [Age 43 TRUSTS IN GOD General writes from Cambridge to Lund Wash- ington, Mount Vernon, superintendent of his plantations and business agent during the Revo- lution, giving instructions thus: Let the hospitality of the house, with respect to the poor, be kept up. Let no one go hungry away. If any of this kind of people should be in want of corn, supply their necessities, provided it does not en- courage them in idleness, and I have no objection to your giving my money in charity to the amount of forty or fifty pounds a year when you think it well bestowed. What I mean by having no objection is that it is my desire that it should be done. You are to consider that neither myself nor wife is now in the way to do these good offices. In all other re- spects I recommend it to you, and have no doubt of your observing the greatest economy and frugality; as I suppose you know that I do not get a farthing for my services here, more than my expenses. It becomes necessary, therefore, for me to be saving at home.^^ And while speaking on this subject, it will not be amiss to add, that one of the General's managers, Mr. Peake, a respectable man, after the war, once said in reference to this subject: "I had orders from General Washington to fill a corn -house every year for the sole use of the poor in my neighborhood, to whom it was Age 43] 73 [1775 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN a most seasonable and precious relief, saving numbers of poor women and children from ex- treme want, and blessing with plenty. '*And when, on one occasion, much distress prevailed in the country round, on account of the failure of the harvest, he purchased several bushels of corn at a high price to be given away to those who were most in want, and most deserving of relief. "^^ His benevolence "was a quiet and unfailing stream, which never brawled its way in the noon- day sun, but flowed silently and unseen, and only betrayed its course by the green fertility of its margin. "^^ Attends Church On Sunday, December 3, 1775, he attended service at the Rev. Dr. Appleton's Church; dis- course by Abiel Leonard, chaplain to General Putnam's command. This was the "Old Congre- gational Church," which Washington attended while in Cambridge, the minister being the venerable Nathaniel Appleton.^^ The first Sunday after Mrs. Washington ar- rived at headquarters, Christ Church (Episco- pal) being used for military purposes, they attended the Congregational church, as noted in Dorothy Dudley's diary, as follows : "December 18th — Mrs. Washington was at 1775] 74, [Age 43 TRUSTS IN GOD church yesterday with the General. . . . Dr. Appleton prayed most earnestly for our country and its defenders, alluding pointedly and affec- tionately to the chief ofHcer of the army. . . . Mrs. Washington has expressed a wish that Christ Church may be put in readiness for services, and orders have gone forth to that effect."9o Two weeks later service was held in Christ Church as shown by the following interesting note in the diary of Dorothy Dudley: "January 1, 1776. — Yesterday service was held in Christ Church. I was invited to be present. Colonel William Palfrey, at request of Mrs. Washington, read the service and made a prayer of a form different from that commonly used for the King. . . . General and Mrs. Wash- ington, Mrs. Gates, Mrs. Morgan, Mrs. Mifflin, Mrs. Curtis, and many others, including officers, were present. The General is loyal to his church as to his country, though he had identi- fied himself with our parish [Congregational] during his residence among us. . . . The Gen- eral's majestic figure bent reverently in prayer as with devout earnestness he entered into the service. "^^ Finger of Providence He writes to Joseph Reed on Sunday, January Age 44] 75 [1776 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN 14, 1776, concerning difficulties of the army — lack of food, clothing, guns, etc., as follows : The reflection on my situation, and that of this army, produce many an unhappy hour when all around me are wrapped in sleep. Few people know the predicament we are in, on a thousand accounts; fewer still will believe, if any disaster happens to these lines, from what cause it flows. I have often thought how much happier I should have been, if, instead of accepting the command under such cir- cumstances, I had taken my musket on my shoulder and entered the ranks, or, if I could have justified the measure to posterity and my own conscience, have retired to the back country and lived in a wig- wam. If I shall be able to rise superior to these and many other difficulties which might be enumerated, I shall most religiously believe that the finger of Providence is in it, to blind the eyes of our enemies; for surely if we get well through this month, it must be for want of their knowing the disadvantages we labor under. ^^ Gambling Again Condemned On the 26th of February, 1776, the following orders were issued: All officers, non-commissioned officers, and soldiers are positively forbid playing at cards and other games of chance. At this time of public distress men may find enough to do in the service of their 1776] 7g [Age 44 TRUSTS IN GOD God and their country, without abandoning them- selves to vice and immorahty.^^ Fast Day March 6, 1776, General Washington issued at Cambridge the following order: Thursday, the 7th instant, being set apart by the honorable the Legislature of this Province as a day of fasting, prayer, and humiliation, *'to implore the Lord and Giver of all victory to pardon our manifold sins and wickedness, and that it would please Him to bless the Continental arms with His divine favor and protection," all officers and soldiers are strictly en- joined to pay all due reverence and attention on that day to the sacred duties to the Lord of hosts for His mercies already received, and for those blessings which our holiness and uprightness of life can alone encourage us to hope through His mercy to obtain. ^^ Special Providence In his answer to an address from the General Assembly of Massachusetts, following evacua- tion of Boston by the British, March 17, 1776, he closed : And it being effected without the blood of our soldiers and fellow-citizens must be ascribed to the interposition of that Providence which has mani- festly appeared in our behalf through the whole of this important struggle, as well as to the measures pursued for bringing about the happy event. Age 44] 77 [1776 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN May that Being who is powerful to save, and in whose hands is the fate of nations, look down with an eye of tender pity and compassion upon the whole of the United Colonies; may He continue to smile upon their counsels and arms, and crown them with success, whilst employed in the cause of virtue and mankind. May this distressed colony and its capi- tal, and every part of this wide extended continent, through His divine favor, be restored to more than their former lustre and once happy state, and have peace, liberty, and safety secured upon a solid, per- manent, and lasting foundation.^^ Attends Thanksgiving Service On the same day, a few hours after the de- parture of the British, Washington and his officers attended thanksgiving service, and lis- tened to the Rev. Dr. Abiel Leonard preach from Exodus 14. 25: "And he took off their chariot wheels, that they drave them heavily; so that the Egyptians said, Let us flee from the face of Israel; for the Lord fighteth for them against theEgyptians."^^ Asks for Thanksgiving Sermon In his journal for March 23, 1776, Dr. James Thacher says that when Washington entered Boston after the evacuation by the British, "He [W^ashington] requested Reverend Doctor [An- drew] Eliot, at the renewal of his customary 1776] 78 [Age 44 TRUSTS IN GOD Thursday lecture, to preach a thanksgiving ser- mon, adapted to the joyful occasion. Accord- ingly, on the 28th, this pious divine preached an appropriate discourse. "^^ The Thanksgr^ixg Service A newspaper at the time gave the following account of the service: Thursday [March 28] the Lecture, which was es- tablished, and has been observed from the first settle- ment of Boston, without interruption, until within these few months past, was opened by the Reverend Doctor Eliot. His Excellency General Washington, the other General Officers and their suites, having been previously invited, met in the Council Chamber, from whence, preceded by the Sheriff with his Wand, attended by the members of the Council, who had had the smallpox, the Committee of the House of Representatives, the Selectmen, the Clerg;v% and many other Gentlemen, they repaired to the old Brick Meeting House, where an excellent and well adapted discourse was dehvered from those words in the XXXIII chapter of Isaiah, and 20th verse. After divine service was ended his Excellency, attended and accompanied as before, returned to the Council Chamber, from whence they proceeded to the Bunch of Grapes tavern, where an elegant dinner was pro\'ided at the public expense. . . . Joy and grati- tude sat on every countenance, and smiled in every eye.^^ Age 44] 79 [1776 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN Interposition of Providence In a letter to his brother, John Augustine Washington, written from Cambridge, Massa- chusetts, March 31, 1776, speaking of the evacu- ation of Boston, he says: Upon their discovery of the works next morning, great preparations were made for attacking them; but not being ready before the afternoon, and the weather getting very tempestuous, much blood was saved, and a very important blow, to one side or the other, was prevented. That this most remarkable interposition of Providence is for some wise purpose, I have not a doubt. ^^ No Kind of Amusements Washington was very strict in his deportment in the army. Concerning horse-racing, gam- bling, etc., in a letter to the President of Congress, dated New York, April, 1776, he thus writes: "I give in to no kind of amusements myself and consequently those about me [alluding to his aids] can have none."^'^ Prayers for King to be Omitted Soon after Washington assumed command in New York he sent word to Dr. Inglis, then as- sistant rector of the Trinity Church in that city, that he would be glad to have the prayers for the king and the royal family omitted. The 1776] 80 [Age 44 TRUSTS IN GOD American general was sincerely desirous to be present at the services of his own church; but a person of even less ingrained veracity than Gen- eral Washington would have scrupled to join in supplications for the victory of a monarch against whom he had set in line of battle twenty thousand soldiers, carrying pouches filled with bullets which had been cast from the metal of his Majesty's statue. ^^^ Observance of a Fast May 15, 1776, he issued the following order: The Continental Congress having ordered Friday the 17th instant to be observed as a day of fasting, humiliation, and prayer, humbly to supplicate the mercy of Almighty God, that it would please Him to pardon all our manifold sins and transgressions, and to prosper the arms of the United Colonies, and finally establish the peace and freedom of America upon a solid and lasting foundation; the General com- mands all oflScers and soldiers to pay strict obedience to the orders of the Continental Congress; that, by their unfeigned and pious observance of their re- ligious duties, they may incline the Lord and Giver of victory to prosper our arms.^^^ Believes Cause Just In a letter to John Augustine Washington, written from Philadelphia, May 31, 1776, speak- ing of the army being unprepared for the bloody Age 44] SX [l'^76 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN campaign which was evidently before it, he says, "However, it is to be hoped, that, if our cause is just, as I do most rehgiously beheve it to be, the same Providence, which has in many in- stances appeared for us, will still go on to afford its aid."io^ Relies upon Supreme Being In view of an expected attack from the com- bined forces of the enemy, the following order was issued, July 2, 1776: The time is now near at hand which must prob- ably determine whether Americans are to be freemen or slaves; whether they are to have any property they can call their own; whether their houses and farms are to be pillaged and destroyed, and they consigned to a state of wretchedness, from which no human efforts will probably deliver them. The fate of unborn millions will now depend, under God, on the courage and conduct of this army. Our cruel and unrelenting enemy leaves us no choice but a brave resistance or the most abject submission. This is all that we can expect. We have, therefore, to resolve to conquer or die. Our own country's honor calls upon us for a vigorous and manly exertion, and if we now shamefully fail, we shall become infamous to the whole world. Let us rely upon the goodness of the cause, and the aid of the Supreme Being, in whose hands victory is, to animate and encourage us to great and noble actions, etc.^°^ 1776] 82 [Age 44 4 TRUSTS IN GOD "A Christian Soldier" On July 9, 1776, General Washington issued the following order: The honorable Continental Congress having been pleased to allow a chaplain to each regiment, with the pay of thirty-three dollars and one-third per month, the colonels or commanding officers of each regiment are directed to procure chaplains accordingly, per- sons of good characters and exemplary lives, and to see that all inferior officers and soldiers pay them a suitable respect. The blessing and protection of Heaven are at all times necessary, but especially so in times of public distress and danger. The General hopes and trusts, that every officer and man will en- deavor so to live and act as becomes a Christian sol- dier, defending the dearest rights and liberties of his country. ^^^ Profanity Condemned August 3, 1776, he issued the following order: That the troops may have an opportunity of attending public worship, as well as to take some rest after the great fatigue they have gone through, the General in future excuses them from fatigue duty on Sundays, except at shipyards, or on special occasions, until further orders. The General is sorry to be in- formed that the foolish and wicked practice of pro- fane cursing and swearing, a vice heretofore little known in an American Army, is growing into fashion; he hopes the officers will by example as well as in- Age 44] 83 [1776 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN fluence, endeavor to check it; and that both they and the men will reflect that we can have little hope of the blessing of Heaven on our arms if we insult it by our impiety and folly; added to this, it is a vice so mean and low, without any temptation, that every man of sense and character detests and despises it.^°^ Prayer Before Battle Just before the engagement on the battlefield of Chatterton Hill, October 28, 1776, it is said that in the home where he was entertained, he wrestled in prayer with the God of battles. "His loyal heart, stung with the epithet 'rebel' hurled at patriots, was, at the family altar, poured out into the language of the very 'Bible hero without a flaw' he is said to resemble. His words were those of the 22d verse of chapter 22 of the book of Joshua: 'The Lord, God of gods, he knoweth, and Israel he shall know; if it be in rebellion, or if in transgression against the Lord."'io^ 1776] 84 [Age 44 CHAPTER VI WASHINGTON ATTENDS COMMUNION SERVICE (1) Army Encamped at Morristown, New Jersey "During his sojourn at Morristown, New Jersey, in the winter of 1777, Washington had been severely tried. A scourge of smallpox, the prevalence of other fatal diseases, the privations and sufferings of the soldiers, frequent desertions and Washington himself seriously ill with quinsy sore throat, when his death seemed imminent — these were the causes of a depression of spirit on the part of the Commander-in-chief, which only appeal (as he came at last to realize) to a higher than merely human power could adequately relieve. To that higher power, Washington, like many before and since, turned in his ex- tremity for support and consolation. "It was, presumably, while experiencing the depression of spirit consequent upon the sug- gested multiplicity of diflSculties confronting him, that the Commander-in-chief, one morning, after his accustomed daily inspection of camp at Lowantica Valley (now Spring Valley), called Age 45] 85 [1777 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN upon Tarson Johnes' at his home. These two men were no strangers to each other; neither was this the initial visit to the Presbyterian par- sonage of the Commander of the American army, encamped at the country seat of Morris. Association in the work of devising means and methods for the control of the smallpox and other diseases in the army and in the village; occasional, and perhaps frequent, attendance upon religious services conducted on Sunday by the beloved pastor of the only Presbyterian church then in Morristown; and association, also, in the important deliberations at the Presbyterian parsonage of the New Jersey Council of Safety, in which both Washington and Dr. Johnes had participated, had doubtless resulted in a mutual acquaintance of these two men, which had ripened into a friendship of no ordinary character." ^°^ (2) • Testimony of Reverend Samuel H. CoxE, D.D. It was during this time that Washington par- took of the communion. The story was first published in Dr. Hosack's Life of DeWitt Clin- ton in 1829, and related in the words of the' Rev. Samuel H. Coxe, D.D. (pastor of Laight Street Presbyterian Church, New York city), and father of the late Bishop Coxe, of the Epis- 1777] 86 [Age 45 ATTENDS COMMUNION SERVICE copal Church. Dr. Coxe received the account from Dr. Hilly er, who had it directly from Dr. Timothy Johnes: "It was on a morning of a week previous to the semiannual celebration of the Lord's Supper in the Presbyterian church, that Washington drove up to the home of Dr. Johnes. He left his hand- some bay horse in charge of his mounted orderly, and with stately but heavy tread, ascended the steps of the front veranda and lifted the old- fashioned brass knocker on the door, whose short,' distinct rap would gain him admis- sion."^o« "I have the following anecdote," says Dr. Coxe, "from unquestionable authority. It has never, I think, been given to the public; but I received it from a venerable clergyman, who had it from the lips of the Rev. Dr. Jones [Johnes] himself. To all Christians, and to all Ameri- cans, it cannot fail to be acceptable: "While the American army, under the com- mand of Washington, lay encamped at Morris- town, New Jersey [winter of 1776-7], it occurred that the service of the communion [then ob- served semiannually only] was to be adminis- tered in the Presbyterian church of that village. In a morning of the previous week the General, after his accustomed inspection of the camp, Age 45] 87 tl''"^''' GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN visited the house of the Rev. Doctor Jones [Johnes], then pastor of the church, and, after the usual preHminaries, thus accosted him: " 'Doctor, I understand that the Lord's Sup- per is to be celebrated with you next Sunday. I would learn if it accords with the canon of your church to admit communicants of another denomination .f^' "The Doctor rejoined, 'Most certainly; ours is not the Presbyterian table. General, but the Lord's table; and we hence give the Lord's invi- tation to all his followers, of whatever name.' "The General replied, T am glad of it; that is as it ought to be; but, as I was not quite sure of the fact, I thought I would ascertain it from yourself, as I propose to join with you on that occasion. Though a member of the Church of England, I have no exclusive partialities.' "The Doctor reassured him of a cordial wel- come, and the General was found seated with the communicants the next Sabbath. "^^^ This incident in the life of Washington shows his own unpressions that he was a religious man, entitled to the privileges of the household of faith. The circumstance that makes it remark- able is, that it was the only time during the Revo- lutionary War that he is certainly known'to have celebrated the sacrament of the Lord's Supper. 1777] 88 [Age 45 ATTENDS COMMUNION SERVICE (3) Regular Attendant at Church "The pulpit of the Morristown Presbyterian Church was occupied by Doctor Timothy Johnes, whose contemporaries describe him as a mild but eminently persuasive preacher, and as a most admirable pastor. Washington was a con- stant attendant on his preaching, both winters he spent in Morristown."^^^ "That Washington and other American offi- cers and soldiers occasionally attended open-air services, held in the orchard in the rear of the Presbyterian parsonage, is now too well authen- ticated to question. "^^2 (4) Sacrament under an Apple Tree The Reverend E. C. M'Guire, an Episcopal clergyman of Fredericksburg, Virginia, in 1835, obtained some valuable information, which is given herewith. Mr. M'Guire married Judith, the daughter of Robert Lewis, Washington's nephew and agent, and for a time his private secretary, and had unusually good sources of information. It seems that the communion was held under an apple tree, and that Washington wrote the pastor a note instead of calling on him personally. Dr. M'Guire's statement follows: "That he partook of the communion at Mor- ristown, New Jersey, during the encampment of the army there, in 1780 [1777], has long been an Age 45] 89 [1777 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN accredited tradition. Some few, indeed, have been doubtful, but it would seem without any good ground. That the account as generally stated, is in the main correct, let the following communications attest. They were written in answer to letters requesting information on the point to which they refer. The high respecta- bility of the writers will gain for their testimony the utmost confidence of those who know them."ii3 (5) Testimony of Mr. Asa A. Coulton MoRRiSTOWN, March 26, 1836. Rev. and Dear Sir, Yours was duly received, and ought perhaps to have been sooner answered; but I have delayed a little hoping to make my statements the stronger biy additional testimony. I do not learn that any living witness to the fact in question can be found in this vicinity, though it is believed there are such. I have called on Mr. Wm. Johnes, a son of Reverend Doctor Johnes, to whom you refer. By reason of his great age, he can say nothing upon the subject, but Mrs. Johnes, who is much younger, gives it as an unquestioned family tradition, that General Washington wrote the note in question, and partook of the sacrament as it has been commonly reported. Mrs. Johnes refers directly to her father-in-law, the Reverend Doctor Johnes. The family are still in possession of the orchard, and point out the very tree under which the 1777] 90 [Age 45 ATTENDS COMMUNION SERVICE sacrament was then administered, the church being at that time occupied as a hospital. The fact in question is regarded as certain by the older residents of the place, beyond all room for doubt. It is thought by some, that the Reverend Doctor Richards, of Auburn Theological Seminary, New York, is in possession of the very note, written by General Washington to Doctor Johnes, relative to his admission to the communion. Respectfully, Sir, I am truly yours, Asa S. CouLTON.^^* (6) Testimony of Rev. James Richards, D.D. The following letter is from Dr. Richards, the gentleman referred to in the foregoing letter: Auburn, 14th of April, 1836. Dear Sir, Yours of the 5th has just been received. I can only say in reply, that I never saw the note to which you allude, — but have no doubt that such a note was addressed by Washington to Doctor Johnes, of Morristown, on the occasion to which you refer. I became a resident in that town in the summer of 1794, while Doctor Johnes was still living — and was afterwards the regular pastor of that congregation for about fourteen years. The report that Wash- ington did actually receive the communion from the hands of Doctor Johnes, was universally current during that period, and so far as I know, never con- tradicted. I have often heard it from the members of Doctor Johnes' family, while they added that a Age 45] 91 [1777 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN note was addressed by Washin^on to their father, requesting the privilege, and stating that though con- nected with the Episcopal Church, he felt a freedom and desire to commune with those of another name, if acceptable to them. Very often, too, have I heard this circumstance spoken of as evidence of that great man's liberality, as well as piety. There were hundreds at Morristown during the time of which I speak, who might, if the fact of Wash- ington's receiving the communion there be true, have witnessed that fact — and who would not be slow to contradict it, on the supposition that it had not been witnessed by them or their friends. It is barely possible, that such a report might be put in circulation through error or mistake, and afterwards gain credit by time; but in my judgment in no degree probable, when all the circumstances of the case are duly considered. The family of Doctor Johnes, sons and daughters, were of mature age, and some of them active members of society, when this note is said to have been written, and the fact to which it related took place. It is scarcely possible that they should have been deceived ; and their characters are too well known to suppose them willing to deceive others. Very respectfully yours, James Richards. ^^^ (7) The Lord's Supper "It is the Sabbath. The congregation are as- sembled in an orchard, in a natural basin which Providence had made for them, to pay their 1777] 9^ [Age 45 ATTENDS COMMUNION SERVICE homage to the Most High, and to commemorate the love of the Redeemer, even in the winter. Among their number is the commander-in-chief of the American army. With a willing and de- vout spirit he unites with the people of God in the ordinances of religion. After a solemn ser- mon from a venerable minister, a hymn is sung, and the invitation given to the members of sister churches to unite in the celebration of the Lord's Supper. A well-known military form rises in response to the invitation. With solemn dignity and Christian meekness he takes his seat with Christ's people and partakes of the bread and wine. It is Washington at the com- munion table. "^^^ (8) Testimony of Rev. O. L. Kirtland The following letter of the Rev. O. L. Kirt- land, who came to Morristown in 1837, pastor of the Second Presbyterian Church at Morris- town, who married into the family of the Rev. Dr. Johnes, was written to the editor of the Presbyterian Magazine in 1851. Rev. and Dear Brother: The father of Mrs. Kirtland was the son of the Reverend Doctor Timothy Johnes — lived with him, and took care of him in his old age, and till his death — remained in the homestead of his father, and died there in his 83rd year, November, 1836. Mrs. Kirt- Age 45] 93 [1777 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN land was born in the same house, and never had her home elsewhere till a short time since. She recollects very distinctly that she was accustomed to hear her father apeak of the fact that the religious services of the congregation were conducted in the orchard, in the rear of the house, whilst Washington was here during the Revolutionary War. This was one of the famil- iar facts often repeated during her early years. She has no doubt that a part of the familiar subject of the conversation of her father with the family, and with visitors, was, that the communion which General Washington attended was held in the orchard. In the orchard there is a natural basin several feet deep, and a few rods in diameter. The basin was formerly considerably deeper than at present, having been partly filled in the process of tilling ever since the Revolution. Mrs. Kirtland recollects that her father used to say, that when the people assembled for worship, they occupied the bottom of that basin for their place of meeting. The minister stood on one side of the basin, so as to be elevated above his congregation. The whole field inclines towards the morning and mid-day sun. The rising grounds in the rear would, to a great extent, shield the congre- gation from the usuaj winds of winter. Indeed, the basin was formerly so deep, that the wind from any direction would mainly pass over them. A brother of Mrs. Kirtland, several years older than herself, and other members of the family, tell me that their recollections are distinct, and in har- mony with hers, touching the meetings in the orchard, 1777] 94, [Age 45 ATTENDS COMMUNION SERVICE the communion, and the presence of Washington there. John B. Johnes, M.D., now Hving in this place [1851], and over sixty years of age, grandson of the old minister, and cousin of Mrs. Kirtland, recollects it as the familiar talk of his father, and also of his uncle, Mrs. Kirtland's father, that the religious ser- vices, whilst Washington was here, were in that orchard. ^^^ (9) Testimony of Charlotte Morrell Brackett Here is an extract from a letter written May 19, 1902, by Charlotte Morrell Brackett, a great- great-granddaughter of Doctor Johnes: "It is not a matter of tradition only, but of pure authentic history — in fact, a part of the history of the First Presbyterian Church of Morristown — as it was the first pastor of the church, the Reverend Doctor Timothy Johnes (my great-great-grandfather), who administered the rite to Washington. ... To me it has al- ways been a matter of family history."^^^ (10) Why Service in Open Air "There was a vast amount of sickness and suffering in the army; the smallpox prevailed fearfully, the Presbyterian and Baptist churches, and courthouse, were occupied as hospitals — Age 45] 95 [1777 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN the father of Mrs. Kirtland having, the latter part of the time, the supervision of the hospitals — so that there was no place for the meeting of the congregation, except in the open air."^^^ In commemoration of this event the spot has been marked by a sundial, placed there by the Daughters of the American Revolution. Remained Standing During Service The Rev. O. L. Kirtland, in his letter to the editor of the Presbyterian Magazine, also men- tions the following interesting incident: "Mrs. Scofield, wife of one of our lawyers, and grand- daughter of a Mrs. Ford,^-^ whose name has been handed down to us fragrant with piety, informs me that her grandmother used to tell her about attending the meetings in the orchard. On one occasion, when the old lady was present, Washington was there sitting in his camp chair, brought in for the occasion. During the service, a woman came into the congregation with a child in her arms; Washington arose from his chair and gave it to the woman with the child. "^-^ A writer in 1833 says that all the seats were occupied, and Washington remained standing throughout the whole service. Withdraws from Communion Service The circumstance of his withdrawing him- 1777] 9(3 [Age 45 ATTENDS COMMUNION SERVICE self from the communion service at a certain period of his hfe has been remarked as singular. This may be admitted, and regretted, both on account of his example, and the value of his opinion as to the importance and practical ten- dency of this rite. It does not follow, however, that he was an unbeliever, unless the same charge is proved to rest against the numerous class of persons, who believe themselves to be sincere Christians, but who have scruples in regard to the ordinance of the communion. Whatever his motives may have been, it does not appear that they were ever explained. Nor is it known, or to be presumed, that any occasion offered. It is probable that, after he took com- mand of the army, finding his thoughts and attention necessarily engrossed by the business that devolved upon him, in which frequently little distinction could be observed between the Sabbath and other days, he may have believed it improper publicly to partake of an ordinance which, according to the ideas he entertained of it, imposed severe restrictions on outward con- duct, and a sacred pledge to perform duties impracticable in his situation. Such an im- pression would be natural to a serious mind; and, although it might be an erroneous view of the nature of the ordinance, it would not have the less weight with a man of a deli- Age 45] 9Y [1777 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN cate conscience and habitual reverence for religion. ^22 Because he was so regular and devoted in his Christian life and habits of devotion, "it was the more noticeable that he ceased to be a regular communicant as long as the war lasted. Wash- ington always had his reasons for what he did, or left undone; but he seldom gave them; and his ^ motive for abstaining from the sacrament was not a subject on which he would be inclined to break his ordinary rule of reticence. "^^^ His partaking of the communion at Morristown throws some light upon his inward convictions. Vice and Immorality Discouraged In a circular to the brigadier-generals, dated May 26, 1777, are the following instructions: Let vice and immorality of every kind be dis- couraged as much as possible in your brigade; and, as a chaplain is allowed to each regiment, see that the men regularly attend divine worship. Gaming of every kind is expressly forbidden, as being the foundation of evil, and the cause of many a brave and gallant officer's ruin. Games of exercise for amusement may not only be permitted but en- couraged. ^^^ Mark of Providence In writing to General Armstrong, from Mor- ristown, New Jersey, July 4, 1777, he says: 17771 98 [Age 45 ATTENDS COMMUNION SERVICE The evacuation of Jersey [by the British troops] at this time is a peculiar mark of Providence, as the inhabitants have an opportunity of securing their harvests of hay and grain, the latter of which would, in all probability, have undergone the same fate with many farmhouses, had it been ripe enough to take fire. The distress of many of the inhabitants, who were plundered not only of their effects but of their provision of every kind, was such, that I sent down several wagon-loads of meat and flour to supply their present wants. ^^^ The reader will observe in this extract striking proof of the writer's unqualified faith in the im- mediate and particular agency of the Almighty in the affairs of men. By this agency, a plun- dering army had been forced to leave the agri- cultural districts of the country at a period the most critical to the farmer. It was near the season of harvest when they evacuated the State, but the grain was in too green a state to be burnt. But for this the dependence for bread in that region would have been cut off. This interposition was indeed "a peculiar mark of Providence," and the reverential notice of it a commendable instance of devout feeling. ^^^ Divine Service Not to Be Omitted October 7, 1777, Washington issued the fol- lowing order: Age 45] 99 [1777 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN The situation of the army frequently not admitting of the regular performance of divine service on Sun- days, the chaplains of the army are forthwith to meet together and agree on some method of performing it at other times, which method they will make known to the Commander-in-chief.^^^ Signal Stroke of Providence To his brother John A. Washington, he writes, October 18, 1777, announcing the capitulation of Burgoyne's army at Saratoga, in which he says, "I most devoutly congratulate my country, and every well-wisher to the cause, on this signal stroke of Providence. "^^^ Sympathy for General Putnam He sent a letter to Major-General Putnam Sunday, October 19, 1777, in which he says: The defeat of General Burgoyne is a most important event, and such as must afford the highest satisfac- tion to every well-affected American. Should Provi- dence be pleased to crown our arms in the course of the campaign with one more fortunate stroke, I think we shall have no great cause for anxiety re- specting the future designs of Britain. I trust all will be well in His good time. . . The letter closes with a word of sympathy: I am exceedingly sorry for the death of Mrs. Put- man, and sympathize with you upon the occasion. Remembering that all must die, and that she had lived to an honorable age, I hope you will bear the 1777] 100 [Age 45 ATTENDS COMMUNION SERVICE misfortune with that fortitude and complacency of mind that become a man and a Christian. ^^^ Superintending Providence In a letter to Landon Carter, of Sabine Hall, Richmond county, Virginia, October 27, 1777, he says : I have this instant received an account of the prisoners taken by the northern army (including tories in arms against us) in the course of the cam- paign. This singular instance of Providence, and of our good fortune under it, exhibits a striking proof of the advantages which result from unanimity and a spirited conduct in the militia. ... I flatter myself that a superintending Providence is ordering everything for the best, and that, in due time, all will end well.^^° Thanksgiving and Praise He issued the following order on December 17, 1777, near Valley Forge: To-morrow being the day set apart by the honor- able Congress for public thanksgiving and praise, and duty calling us devoutly to express our grateful acknowledgments to God for the manifold blessings he has granted us, the General directs that the army remain in its present quarters, and that chaplains perform divine service with their several corps and brigades; and earnestly exhorts all officers and sol- diers, whose absence is not indispensably necessary, to attend with reverence the solemnities of the day.^^^ Age 45] 101 [1777 CHAPTER VII PRAYER AT VALLEY FORGE (1) Reverend Mason L. Weems' Account In the winter of 1777-78, while Washington, with the American army, was encamped at Valley Forge, amidst all the perplexities and troubles and sufferings, the Commander-in-chief sought for direction and comfort from God. He was frequently observed to visit a secluded grove. One day a Tory Quaker by the name of Isaac Potts "had occasion to pass through the woods near headquarters. Treading in his way along the venerable grove, suddenly he heard the sound of a human voice, which, as he ad- vanced, increased in his ear; and at length became like the voice of one speaking much in earnest. As he approached the spot with a cautious step, whom should he behold, in a dark natural bower of ancient oaks, but the Com- mander-in-chief of the American armies on his knees at prayer! Motionless with surprise. Friend Potts continued on the place till the general, having ended his devotions, arose, and, with a countenance of angelic serenity, retired to headquarters. 1778] 102 [Age 46 WASHINGTON'S PRAYER AT VALLEY FORGE PRAYER AT VALLEY FORGE Friend Potts then went home, and on entering his parlor called out to his wife, "Sarah! my dear Sarah! All's well! all's 'well! George Wash- ington will yet prevail." "What's the matter, Isaac?" replied she; "thee seems moved." "Well, if I seem moved, 'tis no more than what I really am. I have this day seen what I never expected. Thee knows that I always thought that the sword and the gospel were utterly inconsistent; and that no man could be a soldier and a Christian at the same time. But George Washington has this day convinced me of my mistake." He then related what he had seen, and con- cluded with this prophetical remark! "If George Washington be not a man of God, I am greatly deceived — and still more shall I be deceived, if God do not, through him, work out a great sal- vation for America. "^^^ (2) Benson J. Lossing's Account Isaac Potts, at whose house Washington was quartered, relates that one day, while the Ameri- cans were encamped at Valley Forge, he strolled up the creek, when, not far from his den, he heard a solemn voice. He walked quietly in the direction of it, and saw Washington's horse tied to a sapling. In a thicket near by was the Age 46] 103 [1778 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN beloved chief upon his knees in prayer, his cheeks suffused with tears. Like Moses at the bush, Isaac felt the he was upon holy ground, and withdrew unobserved. He was much agi- tated, and, on entering the room where his wife was, he burst into tears. On her inquiring the cause, he informed her of what he had seen, and added, "If there is anyone on this earth whom the Lord will listen to, it is George Washington; and I feel a presentiment that under such a com- mander there can be no doubt of our eventually establishing our independence, and that God in his providence has willed it so."^^^ (3) Testimony of Devault Beaver Extract of a letter from a Baptist minister to the editor of the (Boston) Christian Watchman, dated Baltimore, January 13, 1832: "The meetinghouse (which is built of stone) belonging to the church just alluded to is in sight of the spot on which the American army, under the command of General Washington, was encamped during a most severe winter. This, you know, was then called 'Valley Forge.' It is affecting to hear the old people narrate the sufferings of the army, when the soldiers were frequently tracked by the blood from the sore and bare feet, lacerated by the rough and frozen roads over which they were obliged to pass. 1778] 104 [Age 46 PRAYER AT VALLEY FORGE "You will recollect that a most interesting incident, in relation to the life of the great American commander-in-chief, has been related as follows: That while stationed here with the army he was frequently observed to visit a secluded grove. This excited the curiosity of a Mr. Potts, of the denomination of 'Friends' who watched his movements at one of these seasons of retirement, till he perceived that he was on his knees and engaged in 'prayer. Mr. Potts then returned, and said to his family, 'Our cause is lost' (he was with the Tories), assigning his reasons for this opinion. There is a man by the name of Devault Beaver, now living on this spot (and is eighty years of age), who says he has this statement from Mr. Potts and his family. "I had before heard this interesting anecdote in the life of our venerated Washington, but had some misgivings about it, all of which are now fully removed."^^^ (4) Testimony of Doctor Snowden The following note was written to the Rev. T. W. J. Wylie, D.D., pastor of the First Re- formed Presbyterian Church, of Philadelphia, February 28, 1862: My Dear Sir — Referring to your request, I have to say that I cannot lay my hands at present upon my father's papers. I recollect that among his Age 46] 105 tl778 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN manuscript **Reminiscences," was a statement of his interview with Mr. Potts, a Friend, near Valley Forge, who pointed out to him the spot where he saw General Washington at prayer in the winter of 1777. This event induced Friend Potts to become a Whig; and he told his wife Betty, that the cause of America was a good cause, and would prevail, and that they must now support it. Mr. Weems, in his "Life of Washington," mentions this incident a little differently; but my father had it from Mr. Potts per- sonally, and the statement herein made may there- fore be relied on as accurate. I am, with great regard. Yours truly, James Ross Snowden. Dr. Wylie says, "We have heard the incident just related from the lips of the late Dr. N. R. Snowden, who was informed of it by the person himself."i35 (5) General Knox a Witness It may be added that besides the individual named above as having witnessed the private devotions of General Washington at Valley Forge, it is known that General Knox also was an accidental witness of the same, and was fully apprised that sprayer was the object of the Com- mander's frequent visits to the grove. This officer was especially devoted to the person of the Commander-in-chief, and had very free and 1778] 106 t^g^ ^^ PRAYER AT VALLEY FORGE familiar access to him, which may in some meas- ure account for his particular knowledge of his habits. That an adjacent wood should have been selected as his private oratory, while regularly encamped for the winter, may excite the inquiry of some. The cause may possibly be found in the fact that, in common with the officers and soldiers of the army, he lodged during that win- ter in a log hut, which, from the presence of Mrs. Washington, and perhaps other inmates, and the fewness of the apartments, did not admit of that privacy proper for such a duty.^^^ (6) Independence Born of Prayer "Few scenes have had so much moral grandeur in them as this. Repeated disaster and defeat had disappointed the army and the nation. Suffering, to an extreme degree, was in the camp, and thousands of brave men were without the necessities of life. The independence of the nation was in jeopardy. Attempts were made to stab the reputation of the commander, and to degrade him from office. Provision for the army was to be made, murmurs and discontents sup- pressed, calumny to be met, plans formed for a future campaign, the nation to be inspirited and aroused; an active enemy was in the neighbor- hood, flushed with recent victory, and preparing Age 46] 107 [1778 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN to achieve new triumphs; and in these circum- stances the Father of his Country went alone and sought strength and guidance from the God of armies and light. The ear of Heaven was pro- pitious to his prayer; and who can tell how much of the subsequent brilliant success of the Ameri- can armies was in answer to the prayers of the American general at Valley Forge? To latest times it will and should be a subject of the deep- est interest that the independence of our country was laid, not only in valor and patriotism and wisdom, but in prayer. The example of Wash- ington will rebuke the warrior or the statesman who never supplicates the blessing of God on his country. It will be encouragement for him who prays for its welfare and its deliverance from danger. "^^^ "Example of Christian Charity" Whileen camped at Valley Forge one day a Tory who was well known in the neighborhood was captured and brought into camp. His name was Michael Wittman, and he was ac- cused of having carried aid and information to the British in Philadelphia. He was taken to West Chester and there tried by court-martial. It was proved that he was a very dangerous man and that he had more than once attempted to do great harm to the American army. He was 1778] 108 [Age 46 PRAYER AT VALLEY FORGE pronounced guilty of being a spy and sentenced to be hanged. On the evening of the day before that set for the execution, a strange old man appeared at Valley Forge. He was a small man with long, snow-white hair falling over his shoulders. His face, although full of kindliness, was sad-looking and thoughtful; his eyes, which were bright and sharp, were upon the ground and lifted only when he was speaking. . . . His name was announced. "Peter Miller?" said Washington. "Certainly. Show him in at once." "General VS^ashington, I have come to ask a great favor of you," he said, in his usual kindly tones. "I shall be glad to grant you almost any- thing," said Washington, "for we surely are in- debted to you for many favors. Tell me what it is." "I hear," said Peter, "that Michael Wittman has been found guilty of treason and that he is to be hanged at Turk's Head to-morrow. I have come to ask you to pardon him." Washington started back, and a cloud came over his face. "That is impossible," he said. "Wittman is a bad man. He has done all in his power to betray us. He has even offered to join Age 46] 109 11778 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN the British and aid in destroying us. In these times we dare not be lenient with traitors; and for that reason I cannot pardon your friend." "Friend!" cried Peter. "Why, he is no friend of mine. He is my bitterest enemy. He has persecuted me for years. He has even beaten me and spit in my face, knowing full well that I would not strike back. Michael Wittman is no friend of mine." Washington was puzzled. "And still you wish me to pardon him?" he asked. "I do," answered Peter. "I ask it of you as a great personal favor." "Tell me," said Washington, with hesitating voice, "why is it that you thus ask the pardon of your worst enemy?" "I ask it because Jesus did as much for me," was the old man's brief answer. Washington turned away and went into an- other room. Soon he returned with a paper on which was written the pardon of Michael Witt- man. "My dear friend," he said, as he placed it in the old man's hands, "I thank you for this ex- ample of Christian charity. "^^^ Acknowledges Receipt of Sermon On March 13, 1778, he writes from Valley 17781 110 [Age 46 PRAYER AT VALLEY FORGE Forge to the Reverend Israel Evans, acknowl- edging the receipt of his sermon, as follows : Your favor of the 17th ultimo, enclosing the Dis- course which you delivered on the 18th of December, the day set apart for a general thanksgiving, never came to my hands till yesterday. I have read this performance with equal attention and pleasure; and at the same time that I admire and feel the force of your reasoning which you have displayed through the whole, it is more especially incumbent upon me to thank you for the honorable but partial mention you have made of my character, and to assure you that it will ever be the first wish of my heart to aid your pious endeavors to inculcate a due sense of the dependence we ought to place in the all-wise and powerful Being, on whom alone our success de- pends. ^^^ Fasting An order issued at Headquarters, Valley Forge, April 12, 1778, includes the following directions for a day of fasting and prayer: The Honorable the Congress having thought prop- er to recommend to the United States of America to set apart Wednesday, the 22nd inst., to be observed as a day of Fasting, Humiliation and Prayer, that at one time, and with one voice, the righteous dispen- sations of Providence may be acknowledged, and His goodness and mercy towards our arms supplicated and implored: Age 461 111 [1778 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN The General directs that the day shall be most re- ligiously observed in the Army; that no work shall be done thereon, and that the several chaplains do prepare discourses suitable to the occasion. ^''° Christian Above Patriot The following order was issued at Headquar- ters, Valley Forge, May 2, 1778: The Commander-in-chief directs that Divine serv- ice be performed every Sunday at 11 o'clock, in each Brigade which has a Chaplain. Those Brigades which have none will attend the places of worship nearest to them. — It is expected that officers of all ranks will, by their attendance, set an example for their men. While we are duly performing the duty of good soldiers we certainly ought not to be inat- tentive to the higher duties of religion. To the dis- tinguished character of a Patriot it should be our highest glory to add the more distinguished character of a Christian. The signal instances of Providential goodness which we have experienced, and which have almost crowned our arms with complete success, demand from us, in a peculiar manner, the warmest returns of gratitude and piety to the Supreme Author of all Good.i^i Thanksgiving Ordered An order issued at Valley Forge, May 5, 1778, begins as follows: 1778] 112 [Age 46 PRAYER AT VALLEY FORGE It having pleased the Almighty Ruler of the Uni- verse propitiously to defend the cause of the United American States, and finally by raising us up a pow- erful friend among the Princes of the earth, to es- tablish our Liberty and Independence upon a lasting foundation; it becomes us to set apart a day for gratefully acknowledging the Divine Goodness, and celebrating the event, which we owe to His benign interposition. The several brigades are to be as- sembled at nine o'clock to-morrow morning, when their Chaplains will communicate the intelligence contained in the Postscript of the Gazette of 2nd inst., and offer up a thanksgiving, and deliver a dis- course suitable to the occasion. ^"^^ "Washington, with his lady, and suite, Lord Stirling and his lady, with other general oflficers and ladies, attended the religious services of the Jersey brigade, when the Rev. Mr. Hunter delivered a discourse. "^^^ Recognizes Protection of Providence In a letter to Landon Carter, written from Valley Forge, May 30, 1778, he says: My friends, therefore, may believe me sincere in my professions of attachment to them, whilst Provi- dence has a just claim to my humble and grateful thanks for its protection and direction of me through the many diflScult and intricate scenes which this contest has produced; and for its constant interposi- Age 46] 113 [1778 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN tion in our behalf, when the clouds were heaviest and seemed ready to burst upon us. To paint the distresses and perilous situation of this army in the course of last winter, for want of clothes, provisions, and almost every other necessary essential to the well-being, I may say existence, of an army, would require more time and an abler pen than mine; nor, since our prospects have so miracu- lously brightened, shall I attempt it, or even bear it in remembrance, further than as a memento of what is due to the great Author of all the care and good that have been extended in relieving us in dif- ficulties and distresses. ^'*^ 1778] 114 [Age 46 CHAPTER VIII WASHINGTON NOT PROFANE (1) Battle of Monmouth An effort has been made by some, holding in- fidel views, to bring down Washington to the common level of other men, by conveying the impression that he was in the habit of swearing. He was a man of strong passions, we will allow (and few very great men have been otherwise), but they were wonderfully regulated and con- trolled by religious principle. Two occasions have been named, when, it is asserted by some, Washington used profane language. One was at the battle of Monmouth and the other was when he received the news of St. Clair's defeat by the Indians. Concerning the incident at Monmouth, the following testimony seems con- clusive: (2) Personal Witnesses The following interesting communication from General Joseph G. Swift, of Geneva, New York, will be read with interest: "I had long ago heard of Washington's using harsh language to Lee at Monmouth (June 28, Age 461 115 11778 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN 1778) ; and having, in 1804, a letter of introduc- tion to General Marshall, at Richmond, I in- quired as to the facts. The general said that the story of coarse language between Wash- ington and Lee was not true. General Marshall was captain on the field of Monmouth, and near Washington. He stated that Lee's language was decorous, and that W^ashington's manner and language was austere, but not profane. In the year 1803, I was in Albany with my then chief. Colonel Williams, and there heard General Alex- ander Hamilton say to General Schuyler and Colonel Williams that the story of General Washington's profanity at Fort Lee, on a visit of inspection, was not true. Washington was dis- appointed at not finding the commandant at his post, and expressed his displeasure in strong language but not with an oath. Wliile a member of General Thomas Pinckney's military family in South Carolina, 1812, I heard his brother. General C. C. Pinckney, frequently mention conversations with General Washington. He said that he was habitually grave in discourse, cautious in expression, slow and accurate in judgment, but with intimate friends, easy, though rarely jocose. Now, General C. C. Pinckney was remarkable for facetiousness and humor, and at the table of his brother was fond of conversing with young men; neither of these 1778] 116 [Age 46 WASHINGTON NOT PROFANE brothers believed the story of Washington's swearing at Lee. At the meeting of Washington and Lee, the language of the former might be more to undo the evil then in progress, than to expend words on Lee. It is fair to conclude that Washington's mind, so well known for coolness in battle, would be far more engaged in restoring the order of the day in pursuit of the enemy, than in applying epithets to Lee."^^^ (3) Testimony at the Court-Martial The scenes and events of that day were the subject of a prolonged and very critical investi- gation while the actors in them were still within reach and, as it were, fresh from the field. General Lee's trial by a general court-martial, beginning on the 4th of July, six days after the battle, ended on the 12th of August, with his suspension from any command in the armies of the United States of North America, for the term of twelve months. The statements of General Washington and General Lee in the cor- respondence which led to the court-martial, the sworn testimony of the witnesses upon the trial, and the defense of General Lee himself, furnish conclusive evidence of the utter falsehood of these pretended traditions which have gained entrance where they ought never to have been received for a moment. ^'^^ Age 46] 117 [1778 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN (4) Statement of General Scott General Charles Scott had a most inveterate habit of swearing; whether in private or public society, on his farm, or the field of battle, every other word was an oath. On the night preceding the battle of Princeton, Scott received an order from the Commander-in-chief in person to defend a bridge to the last extremity. "To the last man, your excellency," replied Scott; and, forgetting the presence of the chief, accompanied the words with tremendous oaths. The general, as may be well supposed, had but little time, on that eventful evening, to notice or chide this want of decorum in his brave and well-tried soldier. After the war, a friend of the gallant general, anxious to reform his evil habits, asked him whether it was possible that the man so much beloved, the admired Washington, ever swore.'' Scott reflected for a moment, and then exclaimed, "Yes, once. It was at Monmouth, and on a day that would have made any man swear. Yes, sir, he swore on that day, till the leaves shook on the trees, charming, delightful. Never have I enjoyed such swearing before, or since. Sir, on that ever memorable day he swore like an angel from heaven. "^^^ It is more than likely that the profane general fully recognized the vast difference between his own language and that of the high-minded 1778] 113 [Age 46 WASHINGTON NOT PROFANE Washington. Hence, he likens him to an "angel," saying, "He swore like an angel from heaven." As much as to say, the provocation was "enough to make an angel swear, but Wash- ^' ington swore no more than an angel from heaven." How would an angel from heaven swear.f^ General Scott really paid the great Washington the highest compliment and in a very delicate manner denied the accusation of profanity. Never-Failing Providence In a letter to John Augustine Washington, July 4, 1778, telling of the battle of Monmouth and General Lee's retreat, he says: The disorder arising from it [the retreat] would have proved fatal to the army had not that bounti- ful Providence, which has never failed us in the hour of distress, enabled me to form a regiment or two [of those that were retreating] in the face of the enemy and under their fires. ^^^ Worse Than an Infidel In a letter to Brigadier-General Nelson, of Virginia, written from White Plains, New York, August 20, 1778, he says: The hand of Providence has been conspicuous in all this, that he must be worse than an infidel that lacks faith, and more than wicked that has not Age 46] 119 [l'^78 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN gratitude enough to acknowledge his obhgations. But it will be time enough for me to turn preacher when my present appointment ceases; and there- fore I shall add no more on the doctrine of Provi- dence.^^^ Morals Irreproachable In a letter from "a gentleman of Maryland" to a friend in Europe, written May 3, 1779, is the following: "He is strictly just, vigilant, and generous; an affectionate husband, a faithful friend, a father to the deserving soldiers; gentle in manners, in temper rather reserved; a total stranger to re- ligious prejudices, which have so often excited Christians of one denomination to cut the throats of those of another; in his morals irre- proachable; he was never known to exceed the bounds of the most rigid temperance. "^^° Character Sketch In a sketch written in 1779, "by an American Gentleman now in London, who is well ac- quainted with him," we find the following: "He punishes neglect of duty with great se- verity, but is very tender and indulgent to re- cruits until they learn the articles of war and their exercises perfectly." "He regularly attends divine service in his 1779] 120 [Age 47 WASHINGTON NOT PROFANE tent every morning and evening, and seems very fervent in his prayers." "He is so tender-hearted that no soldiers must be flogged nigh his tent; or if he is walking in the camp and sees a man tied to the halberds, he will either order him to be taken down or walk another way to avoid the sight." "He is humane to the prisoners who fall into his hands, and orders everything necessary for their relief."i^i Age 47] 121 [1779 CHAPTER IX GENERAL WASHINGTON A MAN OF PRAYER (1) At a Farmer's House The Rev. E. C. M'Guire, often quoted in this volume, relates an additional example of Wash- ington engaged in prayer as occurring during the war, which, he says, was taken from a respectable literary journal published in New York. It is here inserted as having in its promi- nent points all the appearance of truth: "One pleasant evening in the month of June, in the year 1779 (?), a man was observed enter- ing the borders of a wood, near the Hudson River, his appearance that of a person above the common rank. The inhabitants of a coun- try village would have dignified him with the title of squire, and from his manner, have pro- nounced him proud; but those more accus- tomed to society would inform you, there was something like a military air about him. His horse panted as if it had been hard pushed for some miles, yet from the owner's frequent stops to caress the patient animal, he could not be charged with want of humanity, but seemed to 1779] 122 [Age 47 A MAN OF PRAYER be actuated by some urgent necessity. The rider's forsaking a good road for the bypath leading through the woods indicated a desire to avoid the gaze of other travelers. He had not left the house where he inquired the direction of the above mentioned path more than two hours before the quietude of the place was broken by the noise of distant thunder. He was soon after obliged to dismount, traveling becoming danger- ous, as darkness concealed surrounding objects, except when the lightning's terrific flash afforded a momentary view of his situation. A peal louder and of longer duration than any of the preceding, which now burst over his head, seem- ing as if it would rend the woods asunder, was quickly followed by a heavy fall of rain, which penetrated the clothing of the stranger ere he could obtain the shelter of a large oak, which stood at a little distance. "Almost exhausted with the labors of the day, he was about making such disposition of the saddle and his own coat, as would enable him to pass the night with what comfort cir- cumstances would admit, when he espied a light glimmering through the trees. Animated with the hope of better lodgings, he determined to proceed. The way, which was somewhat steep, became attended with more obstacles the farther he advanced, the soil being composed of clay, Age 471 123 [1779 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN which the rain had rendered so soft that his feet sHpped at every step. By the utmost perse- verance, this difficulty was finally overcome without any accident, and he had the pleasure of finding himself in front of a decent looking farmhouse. The watchdog began barking, which brought the owner of the mansion to the door. " 'Who is there.?' said he. " *A friend who has lost his way, and in search of a place of shelter,' was the answer. " 'Come in, sir,' added the first speaker, 'and whatever my house will afford, you shall have with welcome.' " 'I must first provide for the weary com- panion of my journey,' remarked the other. "But the former undertook the task, and after conducting the newcomer into a room where his wife was seated, he led the horse to a well- stored barn, and there provided for him most bountifully. On rejoining the traveler, he ob- served, 'that is a noble animal of yours, sir.' " 'Yes,' was the reply, 'and I am sorry that I was obliged to misuse him so, as to make it nec- essary to give you much trouble with the care of him; but I have yet to thank you for your kindness to both of us.' " 'I did no more than my duty, sir,' said the entertainer, 'and therefore I am entitled to no thanks. But Susan,' added he, turning to the 1779] 124 [Age 47 A MAN OF PRAYER hostess, with a half-reproachful look, 'why have you not given the gentleman something to eat?' "Fear had prevented the good woman from exercising her well-known benevolence, for a robbery had been committed by a lawless band of depredators but a few days before, in that neighborhood, and as report stated that the ruf- fians were all well dressed, her imagination sug- gested that this man might be one of them. "At her husband's remonstrance, she now readily engaged in repairing her error, by pre- paring a plentiful repast. During the meal, there was much interesting conversation among the three. As soon as the worthy countryman perceived that his guest had satisfied his appetite he informed him that it was now the hour at which the family usually performed their even- ing devotions, inviting him at the same time to be present. The invitation was accepted in these words : " 'It would afford me the greatest pleasure to commune with my heavenly Preserver, after the events of the day; such exercises prepare us for the repose we seek in sleep.' "The host now reached his Bible from the shelf, and after reading a chapter and singing, concluded the whole with a fervent prayer; then lighting a pine-knot, conducted the person he had entertained to his chamber, wished him a Age 47] 125 [1779 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN good night's rest, and retired to the adjoining apartment. " *John,' whispered the woman, *that is a good gentleman, and not one of the highwaymen as I supposed.' " 'Yes, Susan,' said he, 'I Hke him better for thinking of his God, than for all his kind in- quiries after our welfare. I wish our Peter had been home from the army, if it was only to hear this good man talk; I am sure Washington him- self could not say more for his country, nor give a better history of the hardships endured by our brave soldiers.' " *Who knows now,' inquired the wife, *but it may be he himself, after all, my dear, for they do say, he travels just so, all alone, sometimes. Hark! what's that.?' "The sound of a voice came from the chamber of their guest, who was now engaged in his pri- vate religious worship. After thanking the Crea- tor for his many mercies, and asking a blessing on the inhabitants of the house, he continued: 'And now. Almighty Father, if it is Thy holy will, that we shall obtain a place and a name among the nations of the earth, grant that we may be enabled to show our gratitude for Thy goodness, by our endeavors to fear and obey Thee. Bless us with wisdom in our councils, success in battle, and let all our victories be tempered with 1779] 126 [Age 47 A MAN OF PRAYER humanity. Endow also our enemies with en- Hghtened minds, that they may become sensible of their injustice, and willing to restore our lib- erty and peace. Grant the petition of Thy ser- vant for the sake of Him whom Thou hast called Thy Beloved Son; nevertheless, not my will, but Thine be done. Amen.' "The next morning, the traveler, declining the pressing solicitations to breakfast with his host, declared it was necessary for him to cross the river immediately; at the same time offering a part of his purse, as a compensation , for the attention he had received, which was refused. " 'Well, sir,' concluded he, *since you will not permit me to recompense you for your trouble, it is but just that I should inform you on whom you have conferred so many obligations, and also add to them by requesting your assistance in crossing the river. I had been out yesterday, endeavoring to obtain some information respect- ing our enemy, and being alone, ventured too far from the camp; on my return I was surprised by a foraging party, and only escaped by my knowl- edge of the roads and the fleetness of my horse. My name is George Washington.' "Surprise kept the listener silent for a mo- ment; then, after unsuccessfully repeating the in- vitation to partake of some refreshment, he hastened to call two negroes, with whose assist- Age 471 127 U'^79 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN ance he placed the horse on a small raft of timber, that was lying in the river near the door, and soon conveyed the General to the opposite side, where he left him to pursue his way to the camp, wishing him a safe and prosperous jour- ney. On his return to the house he found that while he was engaged in making preparations for conveying the horse across the river his illustrious visitor had persuaded his wife to accept a token of remembrance, which the family are proud of exhibiting to this day [1835]. "^^^ (2) Another Instance Here is another instance of General Washing- ton's habit of prayer, witnessed during the war : In the year 1820, a clergyman of his state (Virginia), being in company with Major , a relative of General Washington, had an acci- dental conversation with him on the subject of Christianity. The conversation was of a con- troversial nature in the beginning, and as no good seemed to ensue, but some warmth of feel- ing, an effort was made to arrest the unprofitable discussion by an inquiry made of the Major, as to the religious opinions of his distinguished kinsman. This was done in part as knowing his veneration for Washington, and for informa- tion too, as he had been captain of the General's bodyguard during a greater part of the war, 128 A MAN OF PRAYER and possessed the best opportunities of learning his views and habits. In answer to the question, he observed, after hesitating for a moment, "General Washington was certainly a pious man, his opinions being in favor of religion, and his habits all of that character and description." Being further interrogated as to his habits, he replied that his uncle, he knew, was in the habit of praying in private; and with the animation of an old soldier, excited by professional recollec- tions rather than Isympathy with the subject, he related the circumstances of the following occurrence : "While encamped at (year and place forgotten by the writer), New Jersey, a soldier arrived one morning, about daybreak, with despatches for the Commander-in-chief, from a distant division of the army. As soon as his business was known he was directed to me as captain of the body- guard, to whom he came forthwith, and giving me his papers, I repaired at once to the General's quarters. On my way to his room after reach- ing the house I had to go along a narrow passage of some length. As I approached his door, it being yet nearly dark, I listened for a moment, when I distinguished it as the General's voice, and in another moment found that he was en- gaged in audible prayer. As in his earnestness he had not heard my footsteps, or if he heard 129 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN me did not choose to be interrupted, I retired to the front of the dwelling, till such time as I sup- posed him unengaged; when returning, and no longer hearing his voice, I knocked at the door, which being promptly opened, I delivered the despatches, received an answer, and dismissed the soldier."i53 (3) Heard at Prayer A writer says that the Rev. D. D. Field men- tioned to her the following: "Mrs. Watkins, a daughter of Governor Liv- ingston, being at my house in Stockbridge, some twenty years since [this was published in 1857], said that when she was a girl General Wash- ington lived four months at her father's during the Revolution, and that she had been by the side of his room and heard him at prayer. My impression is that she did this repeatedly. She said that his room was in a distant part of the building, and that she had to pass through several rooms to get by the side of the General's room. She stated that her sisters used to go with her and listen, and that their father, learn- ing what they were doing, checked them for it."^^^ (4) Saw Him on His Knees General Robert Porterfield, who was brigade- inspector under General Washington in the 130 A MAN OF PRAYER Revolution, told General S. H. Lewis that "upon one occasion, some emergency (which he men- tioned) induced him to dispense with the usual formality, and he went directly to General Washington's apartment, where he found him on his knees, engaged in morning devotions. He said that he mentioned the circumstances to General Hamilton, who replied that such was his constant habit. "^^^ (5) Another Witness Mr. Cornelius Doremus, who as a boy was fond of waiting on Washington, who lived part of a winter (1781) at his father's house in Pequannock, New Jersey, states that his bed- chamber was directly over that of the Com- mander-in-chief, and that he often distinctly heard the sound of that deep and earnest voice in private prayer. ^^^ (6) Daily Prayer "Throughout the war, as it was understood in his military family, he gave a part of every day to private prayer and devotion."^" Regular Attendant at Divine Service The interruptions which sometimes occurred, preventing divine service being performed in camp, did not interfere with attention to the 131 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN duty on the part of the Commander-in-chief, for one of his secretaries, Jud,^e Harrison, has often been heard to say that "whenever the General could be spared from camp on the Sabbath, he never failed riding out to some neighboring church, to join those who were publicly wor- shiping the Great Creator. "^^^ "During the war he not unfrequently rode ten or twelve miles from camp to attend public worship; and he never omitted this attendance when opportunity presented. "^^^ Open-Air Service In Thacher's Military Journal is found a rec- ord of a religious service in the open field on Sunday, July 23, 1780, as follows: "I attended a sermon preached by Mr. Blair, chaplain of the artillery. The troops were paraded in the open field, the sermon was calculated to inculcate religious principles and the moral virtues. His Excellency General Washington, Major-Gen- erals Greene and Knox, with a number of other officers, were present. "^^^ 1780] 132 [Age 48 CHAPTER X WASHINGTON AND DIVINE PROVIDENCE Providence His Only Dependence Writing to William Gordon, March 9, 1781, from Newport, Rhode Island, he says: We have, as you very justly observe, abundant reasons to thank Providence for its many favorable interpositions in our behalf. It has at times been my only dependence, for all other resources seemed to have failed us.^^^ Hand of Providence Recognized Writing to Major-General Armstrong, March 26, 1781, he says: Our affairs are brought to a perilous crisis, that the hand of Providence, I trust, may be more conspicu- ous in our deliverance. The many remarkable inter- positions of the Divine government in the hours of our deepest distress and darkness, have been too luminous to suffer me to doubt the happy issue of the, present contest; but the period for its accom- plishment may be too far distant for a person of my years, who in his morning and evening hours, and every moment un< ccupied by business, pants for Age 49] 133 [1781 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN retirement, and for those domestic and rural enjoy- ments, which in my estimation far surpass the high- est pageantry of this world. ^^^ Attends Church with Washington Governor Jonathan Trumbull tells in his diary of attending church with Washington on Sunday, May 20th, 1781, at Wethersfield, Connecticut: "Attended divine service with General Wash- ington per tot diem [through the whole day]. Mr. Marshall preached. Matt. 7:3, 'Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.' "^^^ Thanksgiving Service After Cornwallis' Surrender The closing part of the orders issued by Gen- eral Washington to the army the day after the capitulation of Yorktown, October 20, 1781, is as follows: Divine service is to be performed to-morrow in the several brigades or divisions. The Commander- in-chief earnestly recommends that the troops not on duty should universally attend with that seriousness of deportment and gratitude of heart which the rec- ognition of such reiterated and astonishing interpo- sition of Providence demands of us.^^^ Adopts Children John Parke Custis, his step-son, and the only 1781] 134, [Age 49 DIVINE PROVIDENCE son of Mrs. Washington, was aide-de-camp to General Washington at the siege of Yorktown. He was seized with a violent attack of camp- fever, and removed to Eltham, Virginia, thirty miles from Yorktown, to the home of Colonel Bassett, who married Mrs. Washington's sister. After the surrender of Cornwallis, Washington hastened to his bedside. Mrs. Washington was already there. He was present at his death, November 5, 1781. "The chief bowed his head, and in tears gave vent to his deep sorrow; then turning to the weeping mother, he said, *I adopt the two younger children as my own' " [Eleanor Parke and George Washington Parke Custis, the former usually called "Nelly"]. ^^^ Belief in Overruling Providence He writes from Mount Vernon to the Presi- dent of Congress, November 15, 1781, as follows: Sir, I have the honor to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 31st ultimo, covering the resolu- tions of Congress of the 29th, and a proclamation for a day of public prayer and thanksgiving; and have to thank you, sir, most sincerely, for the very polite and affectionate manner in which those en- closures have been conveyed. The success of the combined arms against our enemies at York and Gloucester, as it affects the welfare and independence of the United States, I viewed as a most fortunate Age 49] 135 [1781 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN event. In performing my part towards its accom- plishment, I consider myself to have done only my duty, and in the execution of that, I ever feel myself happy; and at the same time, as it augurs well to our cause, I take a particular pleasure in acknowledging that the interposing hand of Heaven, in the various instances of our extensive preparations for this opera- tion, has been most conspicuous and remarkable. ^^^ Intemperance Discouraged While intoxicating liquor was in general use in Washington's time, being regarded as beneficial, he discouraged intemperance in the army, as shown in the following "order," issued at Head- quarters, Newburgh, New York, May 16, 1782: The General is extremely concerned to learn that an article so salutary as that of distilled liquor was expected to be when properly used, and which was designed for the refreshment and comfort of the troops, has been in many instances productive of very ill consequences. He calls the attention of officers of every grade to remedy these abuses, and to watch over the health of their men; for which purpose he suggests the ex- pedient of keeping liquor rolls in every corps, from which the name of every soldier shall be struck off who addicts himself to drunkenness, or injures his constitution by intemperance. Such soldiers as are struck off are not to draw liquor on any occasion, but are to receive other arti- cles in lieu thereof. The Quartermasters, upon re- 1782] 136 lAg^ 50 DIVINE PROVIDENCE ceiving commuted articles, are to receipt for the full amount of rations included in the returns, that there may be no irregularity in the returns. The evil practice of swallowing the whole ration of liquor at a single draught is also to be prevented, by causing the sergeants to see it duly distributed daily, and mixed with water at stated times; in which case, instead of being pernicious, it will become very refreshing and salutary. An object so essential to the health of the men ought not only to be superintended by the officers of police, but to be deemed worthy to attract the attention of every officer who is anxious for the reputation of the corps to which he belongs, the wel- fare of individuals, and the good of the service. But it rests principally with the commandants of corps to have so useful a regulation carried effectually into execution, as well as to observe cleanliness and econ- omy and good order within the spheres of their respective commands. Major-General Heath will be pleased to settle with the brigadiers and commanding officers of brigades, the quantity of liquor proper to be drawn in kind by the troops; after which, he is authorized to commute, by agreement with the contractors, the rations of whiskey, or such proportion of them, as may be judged necessary, for vegetables or other articles, agreeably to the prices fixed in the contract to the component parts of a ration.^^^ Not W^aiting for Miracles In a "Circular to the States," dated Philadel- Age 50] 137 U782 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN phia, January 31, 1782, addressed to Meshech Weare, President of New Hampshire, occur the following sentiments: Although we cannot, by the best concerted plans, absolutely command success; although the race is not always to the swift, nor the battle to the strong; yet, without presumptuously waiting for miracles to be wrought in our favor, it is our indispensable duty, with the deepest gratitude to Heaven for the past, and humble confidence in its smiles on our future operations, to make use of all the means in our power for our defense and security. ^^^ Divine Service Every Sunday While encamped at Newburgh, New York, he gave the following order, Saturday, February 15, 1783: The New Building being so far finished as to admit the troops to attend public worship therein, after to-morrow it is directed that divine service should be performed there every Sunday by the several chap- lains of the New Windsor Cantonment in rotation.^^^ Commends the Chaplains March 22, 1783, in the Orderly Book, New- burgh, New York, appears the following: In justice to the zeal and ability of the Chaplains, as well as to his own feelings, the Commander-in- Chief thinks it a duty to declare that the regularity 1783] 138 [Age 51 DIVINE PROVIDENCE and decorum with which Divine Service is per- formed every Sunday, will reflect great credit on the army in general, tend to improve the morals, and the same time increase the happiness of the soldiery, and must afford the most pure, rational entertainments for every serious and well-disposed mind.^^° Regard for Clergy "The high respect in which the clergy of the American army was held by Washington was known to every oflScer and soldier in the ranks. "^^^ Thanksgiving in the Army Ordered April 18, 1783, on proclaiming to the army the cessation of hostilities, at the end of the war, he said in the general orders: The proclamation, which will be communicated herewith, will be read tomorrow evening at the head of every regiment and corps in the army; after which the chaplains with the several brigades will render thanks to Almighty God for all his mercies, particu- larly for his overruling the wrath of man to his own glory, and causing the rage of war to cease among the nations. ^^^ Valedictory Message to the Governors of THE States From his Headquarters at Newburgh, New York, Sunday, June 8, 1783, General Washing- ton issued a circular letter on disbanding the army, which was addressed to the governors of Age 51] 139 11783 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN all the States. The following extracts show his deep religious sentiments: When we consider the magnitude of the prize we contended for, the doubtful nature of the contest, and the favorable manner in which it has terminated, we shall find the greatest possible reason for grati- tude and rejoicing. This is a theme that will afford infinite delight to every benevolent and liberal mind, whether the event in contemplation be considered as the source of present enjoyment or the parent of future happiness; and we shall have equal occasion to felicitate ourselves on the lot which Providence has assigned us, whether we view it in a natural, a political, or moral point of light. . . . They [the citizens of America] are from this period to be considered as the actors on a most conspicuous theatre, which seems to be peculiarly designated by Providence for the display of human greatness and felicity. Here they are not only surrounded with everything, which can contribute to the completion of private and domestic enjoyment, but Heaven has crowned all its other blessings, by giving a fairer opportunity for political happiness, than any other nation has ever been favored with. . . . The free cultivation of letters, the unbounded extension of commerce, the progressive refinement of manners, the growing liberality of sentiment and, above all, the pure and benign light of Revelation, have had a meliorating influence on mankind and increased the blessings of society. 1783] 140 lAge 51 DIVINE PROVIDENCE It remains, then, to be my final and only request, that your Excellency will communicate these senti- ments to your Legislature at their next meeting, and that they may be considered as the legacy of one who has ardently wished, on all occasions, to be useful to his country, and who, even in the shade of retirement, will not fail to implore the Divine benediction upon it. I now make it my earnest prayer, that God would have you and the State over which you pre- side, in his Holy protection; that He would incline the hearts of the citizens to cultivate a spirit of sub- ordination and obedience to government; to entertain a brotherly affection and love for one another, for their fellow citizens of the United States at large, and par- ticularly for their brethren who have served in the field; and finally, that He would most graciously be pleased to dispose us all to do justice, to love mercy, and to demean ourselves with that charity, humility, and pacific temper of mind, which are the character- istics of thepivine Author of our blessed religion, and without an humble imitation of whose example in these things we can never hope to be a happy nation.^^^ Thanks God W^ashington never failed to render thanks unto God for his guidance. August 26, 1783, he appeared before Congress, in session at Princeton, New Jersey. General Washington entered the hall of Congress, and a brief address was made to him by the President. In his re- sponse General Washington said: Age 511 141 Il'^S^ GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN Notwithstanding Congress seems to estimate the value of my Hfe beyond any services I have been able to render the United States, yet I must be per- mitted to consider the wisdom and unanimity of our national councils, the firmness of our citizens, and the patience and bravery of our troops, who have produced so happy a termination of the war, as the most conspicuous effect of the Divine inter- position, and the surest presage of our future hap- piness. . . . Perhaps, sir, no occasion may offer more suitable than the present to express my humble thanks to God, and my grateful acknowledgments to my country, for the great and uniform support I have received in every vicissitude and fortune, and for the many distinguished honors which Congress has been pleased to confer upon me in the course of the Under the Control of Providence During the war Washington established head- quarters at nearly two hundred and fifty houses, which in eight years averages about twelve days to a house. He longed to retire to his home and private life. Addressing sundry individuals and bodies of men, near the close of the war, he uses the following language: I anticipate with pleasure the day, and that I trust not far off, when I shall quit the busy scenes of a military employment and retire to the more tran- 1783] 14,2 I'^ge 51 DIVINE PROVIDENCE quil walks of domestic life. In that, or whatever other situation Providence may dispose my future days, the remembrance of the many friendships and connections I have had the happiness to contract with the gentlemen of the army, will be one of my most grateful reflections. Under this contemplation, and impressed with the sentiments of benevolence and regard, I commend you, my dear sir, my other friends, and with them the interest and happiness of our dear country, to the keeping and protection of Almighty God.i" Thanksgiving for Treaty of Peace October 31, 1783, General and Mrs. Washing- ton, and many other distinguished people, attended the services in Princeton College Chap- el, in celebration and thanksgiving for the sign- ing at. Versailles, September 3, of the "Defini- tive Treaty of Peace" between the United States and Great Britain. "The oflScial Proclamation of Peace was the signal for rejoicing that beggars description. "^^^ Military Farewell Address In his farewell address to the armies of the United States at Rock Hill, near Princeton, New Jersey, November, 1783, he does not fail to express again in unmistakable terms his recog- nition of divine guidance and help: The singular interpositions of Providence in our Age 51] 143 [1783 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN feeble conditions were such as could scarcely escape the attention of the most observing. And being now to conclude these his last orders, to take his [Washington's] ultimate leave in a short time of the military character, and to bid a final adieu to the armies he has so long had the honor to command, he can only again offer in their behalf his recommen- dations to their grateful country, and his prayers to the God of armies. May ample justice be done them here, and may the choicest of Heaven's favors, both here and hereafter, attend those who, under Divine auspices, have secured innumerable blessings for others. With these wishes and this benediction, the Commander-in-chief is about to retire from serv- ice. The curtain of separation will soon be drawn, and the military scene to him will be closed for- Thanksgiving for End of War December 11, 1783, General and Mrs. Wash- ington, at Philadelphia, took part in the service of thanksgiving which had been recommended by Congress on the eighteenth of October, to be observed upon the ending of the great struggle. ^^^ Resigns His Commission In his address to Congress on resigning his commission at Annapolis, Maryland, December 23, 1783, his last oflScial act as Commander-in- 1783] 144 [Age 51 DIVINE PROVIDENCE chief, once more he acknowledges the guidance and protection of Providence: Happy in the confirmation of our independence and sovereignty, and pleased with the opportunity offered the United States of becoming a respectable nation, I resign with satisfaction the appointment I accepted with diffidence, a diffidence in my abilities to accomplish so arduous a task, which, however, was superseded by a confidence in the rectitude of our cause, the support of the supreme power of the Union, and the patronage of Heaven. The successful termination of the war has verified the most sanguine expectations; and my gratitude for the interposition of Providence, and the assistance I have received from my countrymen, increases with every review of the momentous contest. I consider it an indispensable duty to close this last solemn act of my official life, by commending the interests of our dearest country to the protection of Almighty God, and those who have the superinten- dence of them to His holy keeping. ^^^ Age 51] 145 [1783 CHAPTER XI CHURCH ATTENDANCE AT HOME Christmas at Church During the eight years of the war Washington visited Mount Vernon only twice. The first was on Sunday, the 9th of September, 1781, on his way south for the campaign against Corn- walHs. After an absence of six years he re- mained only three days, leavmg on the 12th. The other time was after the surrender of Corn- wallis, stopping for a week on his way north again. Immediately after resigning his com- mission as Commander-in-chief he returns to Mount Vernon, arriving on Christmas Eve, Wednesday, December 24, 1783. The next day he attends church at Alexandria, in the Episco- pal church, where he owned a pew, purchased ten years before, "and no one bowed in deeper gratitude than the great general, who came as humbly as a little child to this, his Father's house. In addition to the Christmas service, the rector, the Reverend David Griffith, who served as chaplain of the Third Virginia Regi- ment in the Revolutionay war, read the exultant song of Moses and the children of Israel: *I will 1783] 146 [Age 51 CHURCH ATTENDANCE AT HOME sing unto the Lord, for he hath triumphed glo- riously: the horse and his rider hath he thrown into the sea'; and the sermon he preached was from the 128th Psalm: *Yea, thou shalt see thy children's children and peace upon Israel.' "^^° Supporting the Ministry The following interesting document will fur- nish very striking proof of his unfeigned desire for the respectable support of the Christian min- istry, and perpetual maintenance of religious in- stitutions and services. The design of the paper was, as the reader will observe, to subject the pews of the church to an annual rent, by a vol- untary subscription thereto on the part of the pewholders. Its language is: "We, the subscribers, do hereby agree that the pews we now hold in the Episcopal church at Alexandria, shall be forever charged with an annual rent of five pounds, Virginia money, each; and we hereby promise to pay (each for himself separately promising to pay), annually, for- ever, to the minister and vestry of the Protes- tant Episcopal Church in Fairfax parish; or, if the parish should be divided, to the minister and vestry of the Protestant Episcopal Church in Alexandria, the said sum of five pounds for each pew, for the purpose of supporting the ministry in the said church: Provided, nevertheless, that Age 53] 147 [1785 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN if any law of this Commonwealth should here- after compel us, our heirs, executors, adminis- trators, or assigns, to pay to the support of re- ligion, the pew rent hereby granted, shall, in that case, be considered as part of what we may by such law be required to pay : Provided, also, that each of us pay only in proportion to the part we hold of the said pews. For the performance of which payment, well and truly to be made, for- ever, annually, within six months after demanded, we hereby bind ourselves (each for himself separ- ately) , our heirs, executors, administrators, and as- signs, firmly by these presents. In witness where- of, we have hereunto set our hands and seals, this 25th day of April, in the year of our Lord 1785." The above is an attested copy of the original, now on record in the vestry book of Christ Church, Alexandria. The article was signed by a number of the pewholders, the name of "G. Washington" being at the head of the list, in his own handwriting, with the seal attached. ^^^ Member of Church His adopted son says, "Washington was a member in full communion of the Protestant Episcopal Church. "^^2 Family Prayers "Washington had prayers morning and evening 1785] 148 [Age 53 CHURCH ATTENDANCE AT HOME and was regular in attendance at the church in which he was a communicant. "^^^ How He Spent Sunday "Every Sunday morning the family went to church (when the weather and the roads per- mitted a ride of ten miles), and in the evening, the general read a sermon, or something else appropriate to the day, for the benefit of the household."i«4 His adopted son says: "Washington was a strict and decorous observer of the Sabbath. He always attended divine service in the morn- ing and read a sermon or some portion of the Bible to Mrs. Washington in the afternoon. "^^^ Does Not Forget Falls Church "Mr. John Lynch, now an old man, who once served the Falls Church as sexton for over forty years, told the writer that in his younger days he learned from a number of aged persons that it was Washington's custom, while giving his regular attendance to Christ Church, Alex- andria, also to visit and worship at the Falls Church at least four times a year, this being part of his parish. The particular pew and place in church he usually occupied were said to have been marked and kept for him. . . . "Several residents of this village now living, 149 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN whose mother, Mrs. Sarah Maria Sewell, died many years since at the age of ninety-seven, still delight and repeat her description of the great hero, whom in her childhood she had seen worshiping in this church. She remembered also his dining occasionally at her home near the church, and his taking her up in his arms and playfully caressing her."^^^ Dispenser of Human Events In a letter to Major-General Knox, written from Mount Vernon, February 20, 1784, he says: I feel now, however, as I conceive a wearied traveler must do who, after treading many a painful step with a heavy burden on his shoulders, is eased of the latter, having reached the haven to which all the former were directed; and from his housetop is looking back, and tracing with an eager eye the meanders by which he escaped the quicksands and mires which lay in his way; into which none but the all-powerful Guide and Dispenser of human events could have prevented his falling. ^^^ Entertains Ministers In his diary is the following entry: 1785. Sunday, October 2— Went with Fanny Bassett, Burwell Bassett, Doctor Stuart, G. A. Washington, Mr. Shaw & Nelly Custis to the Pohick Church; to hear a Mr. Thompson preach, who 1784] 150 [Age 52 CHURCH ATTENDANCE AT HOME returned home with us to dinner, where I found Reverend Mr. Jones [David Jones of Chester Co., Pa.], formerly a chaplain in one of the Pennsylvania Regiments.^^^ Wants Slavery Abolished In a letter to John F. Mercer, September 9, 1786, written from Mount Vernon, he says: I never mean, unless some particular circum- stances should compel it, to possess another slave by purchase, it being among my first wishes to see some plan adopted, by which slavery in this country may be aboHshed by law.^^^ PoHicK Church Again He writes in his diary, Sunday, October 15, 1786, "Accompanied by Major Washington, his ^if^_Mr. Lear and the two children Nelly and Washington Custis— went to Pohick Church and returned to dinner."^^"^ The Rev. Mason L. Weems at Mount Vernon It has been claimed by some that the Rev. Mr. Weems, author of the cherry tree and hatchet story, never met Washington, but in this they are mistaken. After the Revolution, Mr. Weems preached at Pohick Church. Wash- ington's diary records that he attended church there several times during this period, at which time, no doubt, Mr. Weems was the preacher. Age 541 - 151 ^^'^^^ GEORGE, WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN On one occasion at least, Mr. Weems was enter- tained at Mount Vernon, of which the following entry in Washington's diary is indisputable evi- dence: "Saturday, March 3, 1787— The Rev. Mr. Weems and ye Doctor Craik who came here yesterday in the afternoon left about noon for Port Tobacco [Mary land], "^^^ President of Constitutional Convention May 25, 1787, Washington was elected "Presi- dent of the Constitutional Convention," which met in Philadelphia. When he took the chair, he said, "Let us raise the standard to which the wise and honest can repair; the event is in the hands of God."i92 Goes to Church From the following entries in his diary we learn that during the convention he did not neglect attendance at church : 1787. May 26 [Saturday]— Went to the Romish Church to high mass.^^^ Sunday, June 17, Went to [Christ] Church — heard Bishop White preach, and see him ordain two gentlemen Deacons.^®^ Prayer for Continued Protection of Providence In a letter to Jonathan Trumbull, written from Mount Vernon, July 20, 1787, he says: 1787] 152 [Age 55 CHURCH ATTENDANCE AT HOME Your friend Colonel Humphreys informs me, from the wonderful revolution of sentiment in favor of federal measures, and the marvelous change for the better in the elections of the State, that he shall be- gin to suspect that miracles have not ceased. In- deed, for myself, since so much liberality has been displayed in the construction and adoption of the proposed general government, I am almost disposed to be of the same opinion. Or at least we may, with a kind of pious and grateful exultation, trace the fingers of Providence through those dark and mysterious events which first induced the States to appoint a general convention, and then led them one after another, by such steps as were best calculated to effect the object into an adoption of the system recommended by that general convention; thereby in all human probability laying a lasting foundation for tranquillity and happiness, when we had but too much reason to fear that confusion and misery were coming rapidly upon us. That the same good Provi- dence may still continue to protect us, and prevent us from dashing the cup of national felicity, just as it has been lifted to our lips, is the earnest prayer of, my dear sir, your faithful friend, etc., etc.^^^ Toleration in Religion In a letter to the Marquis de Lafayette, written from Philadelphia, August 15, 1787, he says: I am not less ardent in my wish that you may succeed in your plan of toleration in religious matters. Age 55] 153 [1787 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN Being no bigot myself to any mode of worship, I am disposed to indulge the professors of Christianity in the church with that road to Heaven which to them shall seem the most direct, plainest and easiest, and the least liable to exception. ^^^ Goes to Pohick Church Although an attendant at the Episcopal church at Alexandria, we learn from an occa- sional entry in his diary that he did not lose in- terest in the old church at Pohick: "Sunday, October 28 [1787]— Went to Pohick church- Mr. Lear and Washington Custis in the carriage with me."^^^ Church at Alexandria We know from the diaries of some of his con- temporaries that W^ashington did not note in his diary every time he attended church, nor is it clear that there was always a particular reason for mentioning the fact of going to church. However, the entries are very interesting: "Sun- day, April 13 [1788]— Went to church at Alex- andria, accompanied by Col. Humphrey, Mr. Lear and Washington Custis. "^^^ Panic in Church While visiting his mother at Fredericksburg, Virginia, he attends the village church. The people, knowing he was to be there, crowded 1788] 154) [Age 56 CHURCH ATTENDANCE AT HOME into the church until it seemed that the floor would give way. In his diary we find this record for Sunday, June 15, 1788: On Sunday we went to church — the congregation being alarmed (without cause) and supposing the gallery at the north end was about to fall, were thrown into the utmost confusion; and in the precip- itate retreat to the doors many got hurt.^^^ Omnipotent Being Never Deserted America Writing from Mount Vernon to James Mc- Henry, July 31, 1788, he says in closing: "I earnestly pray that the Omnipotent Being, who has not deserted the cause of America in the hour of its extremest hazard, may never yield so fair a heritage of freedom a prey to anarchy or despotism."^ An Honest Man Writing to Alexander Hamilton from Mount Vernon, August 28, 1788, he closes with this: "Still I hope I shall always possess firmness and virtue enough to maintain what I consider the most enviable of all titles, the character of an honest man.^'^^ Right vs. Popularity In a letter to Henry Lee, in Congress, written Age 66] 155 (1788 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN from Mount Vernon, September 22, 1788, in reply to a letter urging him to accept the presi- dency, he says: Nor will you conceive me to be solicitous for repu- tation. Though I prize as I ought the good opinion of my fellow citizens, yet, if I know myself, I would not seek to retain popularity at the expense of one social duty or moral virtue. While doing what my conscience informed me was right, as it respected my God, my country, and my- self, I could despise all the party clamor and unjust censure which might be expected from some whose personal enmity might be occasioned by their hos- tility to the government. 2°^ Goes to Pohick Church Again In his diary for Sunday, October 26, 1788, he writes: "Went to Pohick Church and returned home to dinner."^"^ His Last Visit to His Mother Just before his departure for New York to take the oath of office, and to enter upon his new duties, Washington, actuated by that filial rev- erence and regard which always distinguished him, hastened to Fredericksburg to visit his mother. She was then four score and two years old, bowed with age and the ravages of that terrible disease, a deep-rooted cancer in the breast. Their interview was deeply affecting. 1788] 156 [Age 56 WASHINGTON AND HIS MOTHER By courtesy of Mr. Henry F. Scheetz, Philadelphia, Pa., owner of original steel engraving. CHURCH ATTENDANCE AT HOME After the first emotions incident to the meeting had subsided, Washington said: "The people, Madam, have been pleased, with the most flat- tering unanimity, to elect me to the chief magis- tracy of these United States; but before I can assume the functions of my office, I have come to bid you an affectionate farewell. So soon as the public business, which must necessarily be encountered in arranging a new government, can be disposed of, I shall hasten to Virginia, and — " Here the matron interrupted him with, "And you will see me no more. My great age, and the disease which is fast approaching my vitals, warn me that I shall not be long in this world. I trust in God that I may be somewhat pre- pared for a better. But go, George, fulfill the high destinies which Heaven appears to have intended you for; go, my son, and may that / Heaven's and a mother's blessing be with you always." Washington wept. His head rested upon the shoulder of his mother, whose aged arm feebly, yet fondly encircled his neck. The great man was again a little child, and he kissed the furrowed cheek of his parent with all the tender affection and simplicity of a loving boy. With full heart he went forth to "fulfill the destiny" which heaven assigned him, and he saw his mother no more.^°^ Age 57] 157 fl'^S^ GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN Takes No Credit to Himself In an address to mayor, recorder, aldermen and Common Council of the city of Philadel- phia, at a great civic banquet, April 20, 1789, in reply to a congratulatory address on his election to be President, he says: When I contemplate the interposition of Provi- dence, as it was manifested in guiding us through the Revolution, in preparing us for the reception of a general government, and in conciliating the good will of the people of America towards one another after its adoption, I feel myself oppressed and almost overwhelmed with a sense of the divine munificence. I feel that nothing is due to my personal agency in all these complicated and wonderful events, except what can simply be attributed to the exertions of an honest zeal for the good of my country. If I have distressing apprehensions, that I shall not be able to justify the too exalted expectations of my countrymen, I am supported under the pressure of such uneasy reflections by a confidence that the most gracious Being, who has hitherto watched over the interests and averted the perils of the United States, will never suffer so fair an inheritance to be- come a prey to anarchy, despotism, or any other species of oppression. ^^^^ 1789] 168 [Age 57 CHAPTER XII A CHRISTIAN PRESIDENT Inauguration Thursday, April 30, 1789, was the day of in- auguration. At nine o'clock in the morning, religious services were held in the churches, and God's blessing invoked in behalf of the new gov- ernment. At twelve, the President-elect moved in procession to Federal Hall, in Wall Street, where the United States Sub-Treasury Building, formerly the customhouse, now stands, and was received at the door and conducted to the chair by Mr. Adams, the Vice-President. A solemn silence prevailed when Mr. Adams rose and in- formed him that all things were prepared for him to take the oath of office required by the constitution. Washington then proceeded to a balcony in front of the senate chamber, in view of an immense crowd of people, who hailed him with loud applause. He laid his hand upon his heart, and having bowed several times, he took his seat in an armchair, near a table covered with crimson velvet, on which a superbly bound Bible had been placed. Washington was dressed in a full suit of dark Age 57] 159 [1789 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN brown cloth, with white silk stockings, all of American manufacture, silver shoe-buckles, his hair tied and powdered, and a steel-hilted dress sword by his side. After a few moments he rose and came for- ward to the front of the balcony, Mr. Otis, the secretary of state, holding up the Bible on its crimson cushion. Chancellor Livingston, of New York, ad- ministered the oath, which was read slowly and distinctly, Washington laying his hand on the open Bible, and at the conclusion, answering with great solemnity, "I swear — so help me God!" He then bowed down reverently and kissed the Bible. The chancellor now stepped forward, waved his hand, and said, "Long live George Wash- ington, President of the United States." The crowds below sent up a loud shout of joy, while the merry peal of church bells and the roar of artillery spread the news abroad, that the birth of a new nation was accom- plished. Returning to the senate chamber, the Presi- dent delivered his inaugural address, and then proceeded with the whole assembly on foot to Saint Paul's Church, where divine service was celebrated by Mr. Samuel Provoost, Bishop of the Protestant Episcopal Church in New York, 1789] 1(30 [Age 57 A CHRISTIAN PRESIDENT who had been appointed by the Senate one of the chaplains of Congress. ^^^ First Inaugural Address The first inaugural address was delivered to both Houses of Congress, April 30, 1789. It was in part as follows: Such being the impressions under which I have, in obedience to the public summons, repaired to the present station/ it would be peculiarly improper to omit, in this first official act, my fervent supplica- tions to that Almighty Being, who rules over the universe, who presides in the councils of nations, and whose providential aids can supply every human de- fect, that His benediction may consecrate to the liberties and happiness of the people of the United States a government instituted by themselves for these essential purposes and may enable every instrument employed in its administration to execute with success the functions allotted to his charge. In tendering this homage to the great Author of every public and private good, I assure myself that it expresses your sentiments not less than my own, nor those of my fellow citizens at large, less than either. . . . No people can be bound to acknowl- edge and adore the invisible hand which conducts the affairs of men more than the people of the United States. Every step by which they have advanced to the character of an independent nation seems to have been distinguished by some token of provi- Age57] 161 [1789 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN dential agency. . . . These reflections, arising out of the present crisis, have forced themselves too strongly on my mind to be suppressed. You will join with me, I trust, in thinking that there are none, under the influence of which the proceedings of a new and free government can more auspiciously commence. . . . We ought to be no less persuaded that the propitious smiles of Heaven can never be expected on a nation that disregards the eternal rules of order and right, which Heaven itself has ordained. Having thus imparted to you my sentiments, as they have been awakened by the occasion which brings us together, I shall take my present leave; but not without resorting once more to the benign Parent of the human race, in humble supplication that, since He has been pleased to favor the American people with opportunities for deliberating in perfect tranquillity, and dispositions for deciding with un- paralleled unanimity on a form of government for the security of their union and the advancement of their happiness, so His divine blessing may be equally conspicuous in the enlarged views, the tem- perate consultations, and the wise measures, on which the success of this government may depend. ^^^ Grace at State Dinner Mrs. Washington left Mount Vernon for New York on the 19th of May, 1789. On her arrival the President gave a semi-oflScial dinner. From one who was present (Mr. Wingate) we have the following account : 1789] 162 [Age 57 A CHRISTIAN PRESIDENT "The guests consisted of the Vice-President, the foreign ministers, the heads of departments, the speaker of the House of Representatives, and the senators from New Hampshire and Georgia, the then most Northern and Southern States. It was the least showy dinner that I ever saw at the President's table, and the com- pany was not large. As there was no chaplain present, the President himself said a very short grace as he was sitting down."^^^ Address to Methodist Episcopal Church After his inauguration many formal addresses were sent to President Washington by the vari- ous religious societies. His replies form an illu- minating commentary on his religious character. The following address was delivered to the bishops of the Methodist Episcopal Church in the United States in May, 1789: Gentlemen I return to you individually, and through you, to your society collectively in the United States, my thanks for the demonstrations of affection and the expressions of joy, offered in their behalf, on my late appointment. It shall still be my endeavor to manifest by overt acts the purity of my inclinations for promoting the happiness of man- kind, as well as the sincerity of my desires to con- tribute whatever may be in my power towards the preservation of the civil and religious Hberties of the Age 57] lg3 [1789 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN American people. In pursuing this line of conduct, I hope, by the assistance of Divine Providence, not altogether to disappoint the confidence which you have been pleased to repose in me. It always affords me satisfaction when I find a concurrence in sentiment and practice between all conscientious men in acknowledgments of homage to the great Governor of the Universe, and in pro- fessions of support to a just civil government. After mentioning that I trust the people of every denomi- nation who demean themselves as good citizens will have occasion to be convinced that I shall always strive to prove a faithful and impartial patron of genuine, vital religion, I must assure you in particu- lar, that I take in the kindest part the promise you make of presenting your prayers at the throne of grace for me, and that I likewise implore the divine benediction on yourselves and your religious com- munity.^^^ Address to Baptist Churches An address was delivered to the General Committee, representing the United Baptist Churches in Virginia, in May, 1789, as follows: Gentlemen : I request that you will accept my best acknowledgments for your congratulation on my ap- pointment to the first office in the nation. The kind manner in which you mention my past conduct equally claims the expression of my gratitude. After we had, by the smiles of Heaven on our ex- ertions, obtained the object for which we contended, 1789] 164 [Age 57 A CHRISTIAN PRESIDENT I retired, at the conclusion of the war, with the idea that my country could have no farther occasion for my services, and with the intention of never entering again into public life; but, when the exigencies of my country seemed to require me once more to engage in public affairs, an honest conviction of duty super- seded my former resolution, and became my apology for deviating from the happy plan which I had adopted. If I could have entertained the slightest appre- hension that the constitution framed in the con- vention where I had the honor to preside might pos- sibly endanger the religious rights of any ecclesias- tical society, certainly I would never have placed my signature to it; and, if I could now conceive that the general government might ever be so administered as to render the liberty of conscience insecure, I beg you will be persuaded that no one would be more zealous than myself to establish effectual barriers against the horrors of spiritual tyranny and every species of religious persecution. For you doubtless remember, that I have often expressed my senti- ments that every man conducting himself as a good citizen, and being accountable to God alone for his religious opinions, ought to be protected in wor- shiping the Deity according to the dictates of his own conscience. While I recollect with satisfaction that the reli- gious society of which you are members have been, throughout America, uniformly and almost unani- mously the firm friend to civil liberty, and the per- Age57] 165 [1789 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN severing promoters of our glorious Revolution, I can- not hesitate to believe that they will be the faithful supporters of a free, yet efficient general government. Under this pleasing expectation I rejoice to assure them, that they may rely on my best wishes and en- deavors to advance their prosperity. In the meantime, be assured. Gentlemen, that I en- tertain a proper sense of your fervent supplications to God for my temporal and eternal happiness. ^^^ Presbyterian Church Sends Address to Washington The first meeting of the "General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in the U. S. A.," adopted an address to the President of the United States, on the 26th of May, 1789, and who, no doubt, expressed what they knew of his religious character. It is a splendid testimony to his faith in Christianity : "But we derive a presage even more flattering from the piety of your character. Public vir- tue is the most certain means of public felicity, and religion is the surest basis of virtue. We therefore esteem it a peculiar happiness to be- hold in our Chief Magistrate, a steady, uniform, avowed friend of the Christian religion; w^ho has commenced his administration in rational and exalted sentiments of piety; and who, in his pri- vate conduct, adorns the doctrines of the gospel of Christ; and on the most public and solemn 1789] IQQ [Age 57 A CHRISTIAN PRESIDENT occasions, devoutly acknowledges the govern- ment of Divine Providence/'^n Address to Presbyterian Church He delivered the following reply to the ad- dress of the General Assembly of the Presby- terian Church in the United States of America, in May, 1789: Gentlemen: I receive with great sensibility the testimonial given by the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in the United States of America, of the lively and unfeigned pleasure experienced by them on my appointment to the first office of the nation. Although it will be my endeavor to avoid bemg elated by the too favorable opinion which your kind- ness for me may have induced you to express of the importance of my former conduct and the effect of my future services, yet, conscious of the disinterest- edness of my motives, it is not necessary for me to conceal the satisfaction I have felt upon finding that my compUance with the call of my country and my dependence on the assistance of Heaven to support me in my arduous undertakings have, so far as I can learn, met the universal approbation of my country- men. While I reiterate the professions of my dependence upon Heaven as the source of all public and private blessings, I will observe that the general prevalence of piety, philanthropy, honesty, industry, and Age 57] 167 ^^'^^^ GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN economy seems, in the ordinary course of human affairs, particularly necessary for advancing and con- firming the happiness of our country. While all men within our territories are protected in wor- shiping the Deity according to the dictates of their consciences, it is rationally to be expected from them in return that they will all be emulous of evincing the sanctity of their professions, of the innocence of their lives, and the beneficence of their actions; for no man who is profligate in his morals, or a bad member of the civil community, can possibly be a true Christian or a credit to his own religious society. I desire you to accept my acknowledgments for your laudable endeavors to render men sober, honest, and good citizens, and the obedient subjects of a law- ful government, as well as for your prayers to Al- mighty God for His blessings on our common country, and the humble instrument which He has been pleased to make use of in the administration of its government.^^2 Address to the United Brethren The following address was given to the Direc- tors of the Society of the United Brethren for Propagating the Gospel among the Heathen, in July, 1789: Gentlemen: I receive with satisfaction the con- gratulations of your society, and of the Brethren's congregations in the United States of America. For you may be persuaded that the approbation and good 1789] 168 [Age 57 A CHRISTIAN PRESIDENT wishes of such a peaceable and virtuous community cannot be indifferent to me. You will also be pleased to accept my thanks for the treatise you presented, ("An account of the man- ner in which the Protestant Church of the Unitas Fratrum, or United Brethren, preach the Gospel and carry on their mission among the Heathen,") and be assured of my patronage in your laudable under- takings. In proportion as the general government of the United States shall acquire strength by duration, it is probable they may have it in their power to extend a salutary influence to the aborigines in the extremi- ties of their territory. In the meantime it will be a desirable thing, for the protection of the Union, to co- operate, as far as the circumstances may conveni- ently admit, with the disinterested endeavors of your Society to civilize and Christianize the savages of the wilderness. Under these impressions, I pray Almighty God to have you always in his Holy keeping. ^^^ Address to Protestant Episcopal Church An address to the Bishops, Clergy, and Laity of the Protestant Episcopal Church in the States of New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Dela- ware, Maryland, Virginia and North Carolina, in General Convention Assembled, August 19, 1789, is as follows: Gentlemen: I sincerely thank you for your af fee- Age 57] 169 [1789 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN tionate congratulations on my election to the chief magistracy of the United States. After having received from my fellow-citizens in general the most liberal treatment, after having found them disposed to contemplate, in the most flattering point of view, the performance of my mili- tary services, and the manner of my retirement at the close of the war, I feel that I have a right to con- sole myself in my present arduous undertakings with a hope that they will still be inclined to put the most favorable construction on the motives which may influence me in my future public transactions. The satisfaction arising from the indulgent opinion entertained by the American people of my conduct will, I trust, be some security for preventing me from doing anything which might justly incur the for- feiture of that opinion. And the consideration that human happiness and moral duty are inseparably connected, will always continue to prompt me to promote the progress of the former by inculcating the practice of the latter. On this occasion it would ill become me to conceal the joy I have felt in perceiving the fraternal affec- tion which appears to increase every day among the friends of genuine religion. It affords edifying pros- pects, indeed, to see Christians of different denomina- tions dwell together in more charity, and conduct themselves in respect to each other with a more Christian-like spirit, than ever they have done in any former age, or in any other nation. I receive with the greater satisfaction your con- 1879] 170 [^^ge 57 A CHRISTIAN PRESIDENT gratulations on the establishment of the new con- stitution of government, because I believe its mild yet efficient operations will tend to remove every remaining apprehension of those with whose opinions it may not entirely coincide, as well as to confirm the hopes of its numerous friends; and because the mod- eration, patriotism, and wisdom of the present fed- eral Legislature seem to promise the restoration of order and our ancient virtues, the extension of genu- ine religion, and the consequent advancement of oiu* respectability abroad, and of our substantial happi- ness at home. I request, most reverend and respected Gentlemen, that you will accept my cordial thanks for your de- vout supplications to the Supreme Ruler of the Uni- verse in behalf of me. May you, and the people whom you represent, be the happy subjects of the divine benedictions both here and hereafter.^ ^^ Sickness Soon after his inauguration Washington, wearied by labor and excitement, was seized with a violent illness which lasted for six weeks. One day, being alone with Dr. Samuel Bard, his physician, he requested to be told, without hesita- tion, what would be the probable result of this dangerous attack, saying, "Do not flatter me with vain hopes; I am not afraid to die, and therefore can bear the worst." The doctor's answer, while it expressed hope, acknowledged his apprehensions. The Presi- Age 57] 171 [1789 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN dent replied, "Whether to-night, or twenty years hence, makes no difference; I know that I am in the hands of a good Providence."^^^ Death of His Mother Before the President had entirely recovered he received intelligence of the death of his mother on the 25th of August, 1789, at the age of eighty-two. The following extract from a letter, written by General Washington to his only sister, Mrs. Betty Lewis, of Fredericksburg, Virginia, will attest the filial sensibility with which he re- garded the death of his mother, and the pious resignation cherished by him in reference to the event : Awful and affecting as the death of a parent is, there is consolation in knowing that Heaven has spared ours to an age beyond which few attain, and favored her with the full enjoyment of her mental faculties, and as much bodily strength as usually falls to the lot of fourscore. Under these considera- tions, and the hope that she is translated to a happier place, it is the duty of her relatives to yield due sub- mission to the decrees of the Creator. When I was last at Fredericksburg I took a final leave of my mother, never expecting to see her more.^^^ First National Thanksgiving The proclamation for the first national thanks- 1789] 17^ [Age 57 A CHRISTIAN PRESIDENT giving day in the new republic was issued Oc- tober 3, 1789, as follows: Whereas, it is the duty of all nations to acknowl- edge the Providence of Almighty God, to obey his will, to be grateful for his benefits, and humbly to implore his protection and favor; and, whereas, both Houses of Congress have, by their joint committee, re- quested me "to recommend to the people of the United States a day of public thanksgiving and prayer, to be observed by acknowledging with grate- ful hearts the many and signal favors of Almighty God, especially by affording them an opportunity peaceably to establish a form of government for their safety and happiness;" Now, therefore, I do recommend and assign Thursday, the twenty-sixth day of November next, to be devoted by the people of these States to the service of that great and glorious Being, who is the Beneficent Author of all the good that was, that is, or that will be; that we may then all unite in render- ing unto Him our sincere and humble thanks for His kind care and protection of the people of this country, previous to their becoming a nation; for the signal and manifold mercies, and the favorable interposi- tions of His providence, in the course and conclusion of the late war; for the great degree of tranquillity, union, and plenty, which we have since enjoyed; for the peaceable and rational manner in which we have been enabled to establish constitutions of govern- ment for our safety and happiness, and particularly the national one now lately instituted; for the civil Age 57] 173 [1789 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN and religious liberty with which we are blessed, and the means we have of acquiring and diffusing useful knowledge; and, in general, for all the great and various favors, which He has been pleased to confer upon us. And, also, that we may then unite in most humbly offering our prayers and supplications to the great Lord and Ruler of Nations, and beseech Him to par- don our national and other transgressions; to enable us all, whether in public or private stations, to per- form our several and relative duties properly and punctually; to render our national government a blessing to all the people, by constantly being a gov- ernment of wise, just, and constitutional laws, dis- creetly and faithfully executed and obeyed; to pro- tect and guide all sovereigns and nations (especially such as have shown kindness to us), and to bless them with good governments, peace, and concord; to promote the knowledge and practice of true religion and virtue, and the increase of science, among them and us; and, generally, to grant unto all mankind such a degree of temporal prosperity as He alone knows to be best. Given under my hand, at the city of New York, the third day of October, in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and eighty-nine.^^^ 1789] 174 [Age 67 CHAPTER XIII HOW WASHINGTON SPENT SUNDAY Sundays Away from Home As soon as his health was restored, after the severe attack we have mentioned, in the first year of his presidency. President Washington made a long-intended tour by carriage through the New England States, travehng in his own chariot, attended on horseback by his secre- taries. The following extracts from his diary show how he spent the Sundays away from home, including the last two Sundays at home in New York: October, 1789 Sunday, 4th Went to St. PauFs Chappel in forenoon. Sunday, 11th At home all day — writing private letters. Thursday, 15th Commenced my journey about 9 o'clock for Boston and tour through the Eastern States. At New Haven, Connecticut Sunday, 18th [October] Went in the forenoon to the Episcopal Church, and Age 57] 175 [1789 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN in the afternoon to one of the Congregational Meet- ing-Houses.^^^ At Boston^ Massachusetts Sunday, 25th [October] Attended Divine Service at the Episcopal Church, whereof Doctor Samuel Parker is the Incumbent, in the forenoon, and the Congregational Church of Mr. Thatcher [Rev. Peter Thatcher] in the afternoon.^^^ At Portsmouth^ New Hampshire November 1st, 1789 I went in the forenoon to the Episcopal Church, under the incumbency of a Mr. Ogden; in the after- noon to one of the Presbyterian or Congregational Churches, in which a Mr. Buckminster [Rev. Joseph Buckminster] preached. ^^^ (See p. 178.) A Sunday in Connecticut Sunday, 8th [November] It being contrary to law and disagreeable to the People of this State [Connecticut] to travel on the Sabbath Day — and my horses, after passing through such intolerable roads, wanting to rest, I stayed at Perkins' tavern (which, by the by, is not a good one) all day — and a meeting-house being within a few rods of the door, I attended morning and evening service, and heard very lame discourses from a Mr. Pond [Rev. Enoch Pond].22i Halted by Officer On this Sunday, Washington came near being 1789] 176 [Age 57 HOW WASHINGTON SPENT SUNDAY arrested, as related in the following very inter- esting incident: "In the town of , in Connecticut, where the roads were extremely rough, Wash- ington was overtaken by night, on Saturday, not being able to reach the town, where he designed to rest on the Sabbath. Next morn- ing about sunrise, his coach was harnessed, and he was proceeding onward to an inn, near the place of worship, which he proposed to attend. "A plain man, who was an informing officer, came from a cottage, and inquired of the coach- man whther there were any urgent reasons for his traveling on the Lord's Day. The General, instead of resenting this as impertinent rudeness, ordered the coachman to stop, and with great civility explained the circumstances to the of- ficer, commending him for his fidelity, and as- sured him that nothing was farther from his in- tention than to treat with disrespect the laws and usages of Connecticut, relative to the Sab- bath, which met with his most cordial approba- tion."222 Sundays at Home How Washington spent his Sundays at home in New York, as shown by a few extracts from his diary: Age 57] 177 ^^'^^^ GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN Sunday, 15th [November, 1789] Went to St. Paul's Chapel in the forenoon. Sunday, 22nd Went to St. Paul's Chapel in the forenoon — heard a charity sermon for the benefit of the Orphan's School of this city. Thursday, 26th Being the day appointed for a thanksgiving, I went to St. Paul's Chapel, though it was most inclement and stormy — but few people at church. Sunday, 29th Went to St. Paul's Chapel in the forenoon.^^^ December, 1789 Sunday, 6th Went to St. Paul's Chapel in the forenoon. Sunday, 13th Went to St. Paul's Chapel in the forenoon. Sunday, 20th Went to St. Paul's Chapel in the forenoon. ^^'* Letter to Rev. Joseph Buckminster The following letter was written from New York, December 23, 1789, to Rev. Joseph Buck- minster, D.D., of Portsmouth, New Hampshire, whose church Washington attended November 1, 1789, during his New England trip (see page 176) : Your letter of the 27th of November and the dis- 1789] 178 [Age 57 ST. PAUL'S CHAPEL, NEW YORK HOW WASHINGTON SPENT SUNDAY course which it enclosed has been duly read. I con- sider the sermon on the death of Sir William Pepper- ell, which you were so good as to send me by the de- sire of Lady Pepperell, his relict, as a mark of atten- tion from her which required my particular acknowl- edgements; and I am sorry that the death of that lady, which I see announced in the public papers, prevents my thanks being returned to her for her respect and good wishes. You, sir, will please ac- cept them for yourself in forwarding the discourse, and my request that they may be added to the Reverend Clark with my approbation of the doctrine therein inculcated. This letter to Doctor Buckminster is especially notable, because, though the larger part was dictated, Washington has added in his own hand his "approbation of the doctrine" of the dis- course. It is doubtful if in all his writings simi- lar approval of any statement of doctrine can be found. The title of the able discourse alluded to is "A Sermon occasioned by the death of the Honorable Sir William Pepperell, Bart., Lieutenant General in His Majesty's Service, etc., who died at his seat in Kittery (near Portsmouth, N. H.), July 6, 1759; Preached the next Lord's Day after his funeral by Benjamin Stevens, A. M., Pastor of the First Church in Kittery, Boston, etc., 1759." The text selected for this most eminent per- Age 57] 179 tl'^8^ GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN sonage of Maine — the only native of America ever baroneted, though two were knighted (Fitch and Randolph) — was from the 82d psalm, "But ye shall die like men" (v. 7.) Referring to the previous verse, "I have said, Ye are gods," the preacher said that rulers might in a sense be properly so styled, because government being appointed of God, magistrates were his repre- sentatives. He defined God as a moral Gov- ernor, engaged in a great plan of wisdom and benevolence. "As this world is not a state of Retribution, it is requisite that these earthly Gods should be removed by Death as well as other Men, in order to complete the Plan of the Divine Government. Indeed, the great ends of the moral administration of God seem to require this, to suppress the progress of vice and promote virtue and goodness in the present state, but especially for the final adjustment of all things with equity. "^^ Diary (continued) Friday, 25th — Christmas Day Went to St. Paul's Chapel in the forenoon. Sunday, 27th At home — all day — weather being bad. January, 1790 Sunday, 3d Went to St. Paul's Chapel. 1790] 180 [Age 58 HOW WASHINGTON SPENT SUNDAY Sunday, 10th Went to St. Paul's Chapel in the forenoon. Sunday, 17th At home all day — ^not well. Sunday, 24th Went to St. Paul's Chapel in the forenoon. Sunday, 31st Went to St. Paul's Chapel in the forenoon. February, 1790 Sunday, 7th Went to St. Paul's Chapel in the forenoon. Sunday, 14th At home all day. Writing private letters to Vir- ginia. Sunday, 21st Went to St. Paul's Chapel in the forenoon. Sunday, 28th Went to St. Paul's Chapel in the forenoon. March, 1790 Sunday, 7th At home all day — writing letters on private busi- ness. Sunday, 14th Went to St. Paul's Chapel in the forenoon— wrote letters on private business afterwards. Age 58] 181 [17»<> GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN Sunday, 21st Went to St. Paul's Chapel in the forenoon — wrote private letters in the afternoon. Received Mr. Jefferson, Minister of State, about one o'clock. Sunday, 28th Went to St. Paul's Chapel in the forenoon.^^^ Consecration of Trinity Church Wednesday, March 24, 1790, the new Trinity Church, New York, was consecrated; Bishop Samuel Provoost officiated. The President, Mrs. Washington, and their two children occupied a handsomely draped pew, which the wardens, John Jay and James Duane, had selected and arranged for the Executive family. ^^^ Diary (continued) It will be observed that hereafter he attends the new Trinity Church. April, 1790 Sunday, 4th At home all day — unwell. Sunday, 11th Went to Trinity Church in the forenoon, and wrote several private letters in the afternoon. Sunday, 18th At home all day — the weather being very stormy & bad, wrote private letters. 1790] 182 [Age 58 HOW WASHINGTON SPENT SUNDAY Sunday, 25th Went to Trinity Church, and wrote letters home after dinner. ^^^ May, 1790 Sunday, 2d Went to Trinity Church in the forenoon — ^writ- ing letters on private business in the afternoon. Sunday, 9th Indisposed with a bad cold, and at home all day writing letters on private business. June, 1790 Sunday, 27th Went to Trinity Church in the forenoon — and em- ployed myself in writing business in the afternoon. July, 1790 Sunday, 4th Went to Trinity Church in the forenoon. This day being the Anniversary of the Declaration of In- dependency the celebration of it was put off until to-morrow. Monday, 5th About one o'clock a sensible oration was delivered in St. Paul's Chapel by Rev. Brockholst Levingston, on the occasion of the day. Sunday, 11th At home all day — dispatching some business rela- tive to my own private concerns.^^^ Age 58] 183 [1790 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN By the extracts from his diary, which we have quoted, it is seen that during the seven and a third months, from October 1 to May 9, of the thirty-two Sundays, Washington attended church on twenty -five of them. He also at- tended three times on week days, making twenty- eight times in all. He remained at home seven Sundays — three because he was not well, and two on account of stormy weather; the other two, apparently, because it was necessary to attend to private correspondence. Washington considered that his time during the week be- longed to public business, and, therefore, was obliged to attend to private matters on Sunday. It will be noticed from his diary that, after Sun- day, May 2, he did not attend church again for several weeks. He states that he became very ill on May 10 and was convalescent for several weeks, during which time his diary was sus- pended. As soon as he is able, he is again found in his place of worship on the last Sunday in June. No Sunday Visiting Though he had, as we have seen, paid a marked respect to the claims of the Sabbath throughout his previous life, there seemed to be, during his Presidency, an increased regard and deference for the same. Not only was he most punctual in his attendance on the public worship 1790] 184 l^s® ^^ HOW WASHINGTON SPENT SUNDAY of God, whenever it was possible, but the dis- cipline of his house was strictly conformed to the obligations and proprieties of the day. It was an established rule of his mansion that visi- tors could not be admitted on Sundays. It is understood that an exception to the rule was made in the case of one individual, namely, Mr. Trumbull, speaker of the House of Representa- tives. He often spent an hour on Sunday even- ings with the President; and so entirely was the privilege confined to him that it was usual with the house servant when he heard the door-bell ring, on those evenings, to call it the "Speaker's bell." After spending a part of the day at church, and occasionally an hour in the evening with Mr. Trumbull, one of the most pious men of his age, the rest of the time preceding the hour of repose was occupied, as previously mentioned, by the President's reading to Mrs. Washington a sermon or a portion of the Holy Scriptures. ^^^ Church Subscriptions November 20, 1790, President Washington reminded his manager at Mount Vernon that on Monday the annual church subscriptions were due, mentioning among other items, ten pounds to the Rev. Thomas Davis, rector of Christ Church, Alexandria. ^^ Age 58] 185 [1790 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN Church Attendance in New York While he resided in New York, Washington was a regular worshiper at St. Paul's Chapel and Trinity Episcopal Church, and he highly es- teemed Bishop Provoost, the rector of Trinity parish, not only as a clergyman, but because he had taken such a bold stand for his country dur- ing the Revolution. 186 CHAPTER XIV WASHINGTON A COMMUNICANT The President was not only a regular atten- dant at church, but he was a communicant. This fact is conclusively established by the following creditable evidence: (1) Statement by Dr. Chapman The following extract is from a volume of ser- mons published in 1836 by the Rev. George Thomas Chapman, D.D. It is here given be- cause of the authenticity and conclusiveness of the testimony furnished by it: "He [George Washington] lived at a period when there were less verbal pretensions on the subject of religion, than have become exceed- ingly fashionable in modern times, and the con- sequence is that in his life we have more of the substance than the parade of piety. Still he was an open and avowed follower of the Lord of glory. From the lips of a lady of undoubted veracity, yet living [1835] and a worthy com- municant of the church, I received the interest- ing fact that soon after the close of the Revolu- tionary War she saw him partake of the conse- 187 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN crated symbols of the body and blood of Christ, in Trinity Church, in the city of New York."232 (2) Testimony of Major Popham Further direct testimony is given by Major Popham, a competent witness, as shown by the following extract from a letter of the Rev. Dr. Berrian, of New York, to Mrs. Jane Washington, of Mount Vernon, in answer to some inquiries about General Washington during his residence in New York as President of the United States : "About a fortnight since I was administering the communion to a sick daughter of Major Popham, and, after the service was over, hap- pening to speak on this subject, I was greatly rejoiced to obtain the information which you so earnestly desired. "Major Popham served under General Wash- ington during the Revolutionary War, and I believe he was brought as near to him as their difference of rank would admit, being himself a man of great respectability, and connected by marriage with the Morrises, one of the first fami- lies in the country. He has still an erect and military air, and a body but little broken at his advanced age. His memory does not seem to be impaired nor his mind to be enfeebled. "^^^ "To the above," says Bishop Meade, of the Episcopal Church, "I can add my own testi- 188 WASHINGTON A COMMUNICANT mony, having in different ways become ac- quainted with the character of Major Popham, and having visited him about the same time mentioned by Dr. Berrian." (3) Extract from Major Popham's Letter TO Mrs. Jane Washington New York, March 14, 1839. My Dear Madam: You will doubtless be not a little surprised at receiving a letter from an individual whose name may possibly never have reached you; but an accidental circumstance has given me the extreme pleasure of introducing myself to your notice. In a conversation with the Reverend Doctor Berrian, a few days since, he informed me that he had lately paid a visit to Mount Vernon, and that Mrs. Wash- ington had expressed a wish to have a doubt re- moved from her mind, which had long oppressed her, as to the certainty of the General's having attended the communion while residing in the city of New York subsequent to the Revolution. As nearly all the remnants of those days are now sleeping with their fathers, it is not very probable that at this late day an individual can be found who could satisfy this pious wish of your virtuous heart except the writer. It was my great good fortune to have at- tended St. Paul's Church in this city with the General during the whole period of his residence in New York as President of the United States. The pew of Chief-Justice Morris was situated next to that of the President, close to whom I constantly sat in 189 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN Judge Morris's pew, and I am as confident as a mem- ory now laboring under the pressure of fourscore years and seven can make me, that the President had more than once — I beheve I may say often — at- tended at the sacramental table, at which I had the privilege and happiness to kneel with him. And I am aided in my associations by my elder daughter, who distinctly recollects her grandmamma — Mrs. Morris — often mentioned that fact with great pleasure. In- deed, I am further confirmed in my assurance by the perfect recollection of the President's uniform deport- ment during divine service in church. The steady seriousness of his manner, the solemn, audible, and subdued tone of voice in which he read and repeated the responses, the Chrisitan humility which over- spread and adorned the native dignity of the saviour of his country, at once exhibited him a pattern to all who had the honor of access to him. It was my good fortune, my dear madam, to have had frequent inter- course with him. It was my pride and boast to have seen him in various situations — in the flush of victory, in the field, and in the tent — in the church and at the altar, always himself, ever the same.^^* Church Attendance in Philadelphia (1) Testimony of Reverend E. C. M'Guire "In December, 1790, Congress met at Phila- delphia, and the President, of course, removed there [August 30, 1790]. His conduct con- tinued to be distinguished by the same uniform 1790] 190 [Age 58 WASHINGTON A COMMUNICANT and punctual observance of religious duties which has always marked his life. He had a pew in Christ Church of that city, of which the venerable Bishop White was then the rector. During all the time that he was in the govern- ment Washington was punctual in his attend- ance on divine worship. His pew was seldom vacant when the weather would permit him to attend."235 (2) Testimony of George Washington Parke Custis In regard to his habit at that time (writes the Rev. E. C. M'Guire, in 1835), the living grand- son of Mrs. Washington, Geo. W. P. Custis, Esq., of Arlington, Virginia, bears the following testi- mony: "On Sundays, unless the weather was uncommonly severe, the President and Mrs. Washington attended divine service at Christ Church; and in the evenings the President read to Mrs. Washington, in her chamber, a sermon, or some portion from the Sacred Writings. No visitors, with the exception of Mr. Speaker Trumbull, were admitted to the president's house on Sundays. "^^^ (3) Statement of Bishop White The Reverend WiHiam White, D.D., bishop of the Protestant Episcopal Church in the Com- 191 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN monwealth of Pennsylvania, was the rector of Christ Church when Washington resided in Philadelphia. In a letter to the Rev. B. B. C. Parker, November 28, 1832, he says: "The father of our country, as well during the Revolu- tionary War as in his Presidency, attended divine service in Christ Church in this city [Phila- delphia] except during one winter (1781-82), when, being here for the taking of measures with Congress towards the opening of the next cam- paign, he rented a house near St. Peter's Church, then in parochial union with Christ Church. During that season he attended regularly at St. Peter's. His behavior was always serious and attentive; but as your letter seems to intend an inquiry on the point of kneeling during service, I owe it to the truth to declare, that I never saw him in that attitude. During his Presidency our vestry provided him with a pew not ten yards in front of the desk. It was habitually occupied by himself, by Mrs. Washington, who was regularly a communicant, and by his sec- retaries. "^^^ The fact that Dr. White never saw Wash- ington kneel is of little consequence. The testimony of other worshipers is that he did kneel. A minister seldom knows the posture of individuals in his congregation during prayer. 192 tt- CHRIST CHURCH, PHILADELPHIA ST. PAUL'S CHAPEL, NEW YORK WASHINGTON A COMMUNICANT (4) Washington at Church "My next view of him was a nearer and more distinct one — it was as a worshiper. My parents, who were Episcopalians, had a front pew in the gallery of Christ Church, in Philadel- phia; and from that favorable post of observa- tion I noticed, in the middle aisle, a pew lined with crimson velvet fringed with gold, into which I saw a highly dignified gentleman enter, ac- companied by two others, younger than him- self, and most respectful in their deportment towards him. These as I have since learned, were members of his military family. I was but a young boy, and the impression, as I well remember, on my youthful mind was, that I had never seen so grand a gentleman before. Everybody else seemed to be of the same mind; for I do not consider it a slander on the very respectable congregation worshiping in that church to say that far more looks were fixed upon that pew than on the pulpit (unless, in- deed, it happened to be occupied by that most excellent and venerable of prelates, Bishop White). The deportment of Washington was reverent and attentive; his eyes, when not on the prayer-book, were on the officiating clergy- man, and no witless or irreverent worshiper could plead Washington's example. I have since been in the church at Alexandria, in Vir- 193 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN ginia, which was his parish church — have handled the prayer-book he used, and seen his well-known autograph in front of his Bible; and here the same impression existed as to his regu- lar and exemplary attendance and demeanor. He could not always be present in the church at Philadelphia, in the afternoon, being pressed by the exigency of public affairs, which, in the mind of Washington, were ever held to be mat- ters of necessity. Hence he gave orders that in case certain important despatches were re- ceived during his attendance in church, they should be brought to him there; and I have seen them delivered into his hands. He opened them immediately, and deliberately and atten- tively read them through; then laying them on the seat by his side, he resumed his prayer-book, and, apparently, gave his mind to the solemni- ties of the place and the hour."^^^ (5) Takes Communion General Robert Porterfield, of Augusta, Georgia, was brigade-inspector under General Washington in the Revolution. His duties brought him in close contact with Washington. General S. H. Lewis, of Augusta County, Georgia, in a letter to the Rev. Mr. Dana, of Alexandria, Virginia, December 14, 1855, says that General Porterfield said to him: 194 WASHINGTON A COMMUNICANT "General Washington was a pious man, and a member of your church [Episcopal]. I saw him myself on his knees receive the sacrament of the Lord's Supper in Church, in Phila- delphia. "He specified the time and place. My im- pression is that Christ Church was the place, and Bishop White, as he afterward was, the minister. This is, to the best of my recollec- tion, an accurate statement of what I heard from General Porterfield on the subject."239 (6) Withdraws from Communion "It is certainly a fact," says Bishop Meade, of the Episcopal Church, "that for a certain period of time during his Presidential term, while Con- gress was held in Philadelphia, he did not com- mune. This fact rests on the authority of Bishop White, under whose ministry the President sat, and who was on the most intimate terms with himself and Mrs. Washington. I will relate what the Bishop told myself and others in rela- tion to it. During the session or sessions of Congress held in Philadelphia, General Wash- ington was, with his family, a regular attendant at one of the churches under the care of Bishop White and his assistants. On communion days, when the congregation was dismissed (except the portion which communed), the General left 195 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN the church, until a certain Sabbath on which Dr. Abercrombie, in his sermon, spoke of the impropriety of turning our backs on the Lord's table, that is, neglecting to commune; from which time General Washington came no more on communion days. Bishop White supposes that the General understood the words * turning our backs on the Lord's table' in a somewhat different sense than was designed by the preacher; that he supposed it was intended to censure those who left the church at the time of its administration, and in order not to seem to be disrespectful to that ordinance, thought it better not to be present at all on such occasions. It is needless to attempt to conjecture what may have been the reason of this temporary suspen- sion of the act of communicating. A regard for historic truth has led to the mention of this sub- ject. The question as to his ever having been a communicant has been raised on this fact, as stated by Bishop White, and we have thought it best to give the narrative as we heard it from the lips of the Bishop himself-''^^^ (7) Bishop Meade s Comment Referring to the foregoing statement of Bishop White, and the fact of Washington's withdrawing from the communion. Bishop Meade says: "He may have communed in Philadelphia on some 196 WASHINGTON A COMMUNICANT occasion and yet not been seen by Bishop White, who had the care of two or three churches, at which he officiated alternately in conjunction with one or more ministers. He may have retired, and doubtelss did, at other times, and was seen by Bishop White. If it be asked how we can reconcile this leaving of the church at any time of the celebration of the Lord's Supper with a religious character, we reply by stating a well-known fact, viz. : that in former days there was a most mistaken notion, too prevalent both in England and America, that it was not so necessary in the professors of religion to com- municate at all times, but that in this respect persons might be regulated by their feelings, and perhaps by the circumstances in which they were placed. I have had occasion to see much of this in my researches into the habits of the mem- bers of the old Church of Virginia. Into this error of opinion and practice General Washing- ton may have fallen, especially at a time when he was peculiarly engaged with the cares of gov- ernment and a multiplicity of engagements, and when his piety may have suffered some loss thereby."24i Private Prayer During his residence in Philadelphia, as Presi- dent of the United States, it was the habit of Washington, winter and summer, to retire to his 197 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN study at a certain hour every night. He usually did so at nine o'clock — always having a lighted candle in his hand, and closing the door care- fully after him. A youthful member of the household whose room was near the study, being just across the passage, observing this constant practice of the President, had his thoughts ex- cited in reference to the cause of so uniform a custom. Accordingly, on one occasion, in the in- dulgence of a juvenile curiosity, he looked into the room, some time after the President had gone in ; and to his surprise, saw him upon his knees at a small table, with a candle and open Bible thereon. In these facts we have all the evidence we could ask of his uniform attention to the divinely commanded observance of private prayer. The evidence too embraces a very large portion of his life. Our limited and partial information comprehends a period of forty years — that is, from his twenty-third to beyond his sixtieth year. It was his habit while engaged in the French and Indian war; it was so also during the Revo- lutionary War; and it was the same during his Presidential terms, and no doubt it was so to the end of his life.^"*^ Asked Blessing at Table He was in the habit of asking the divine bless- ing at his table, although, when a minister of the 198 WASHINGTON A COMMUNICANT gospel was present, he requested him to officiate. The late venerable Dr. Ashabel Green, who was one of the chaplains of Congress from 1792 to 1800, says, "It was the usage under President Washington's administration, that the chap- lains of Congress should dine with him once in every month, when Congress was in session." He mentions, "that the place of the chaplain was directly opposite to the President. The company stood while the blessing was asked, and on a certain occasion, the President's mind was probably occupied with some interesting con- cern, and on going to the table he began to ask a blessing himself. He uttered but a word or two, when, bowing to me," says Dr. Green, "he re- quested me to proceed, which I accordingly did. I mention this," he continues, "because it shows that President Washington always asked a bless- ing himself when a chaplain was not present. "^'^^ In some reminiscences of Washington by the Rev. Ashabel Green, we learn that "he always, unless a clergyman was present, at his own table, asked a blessing, in a standing posture. If a clergyman was present, he was requested both to ask a blessing and to return thanks after dinner."244 Temperance (1) His Personal Habits The "Temperance Cause," as such, had never 199 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN been heard of in Washington's day, yet he was strictly temperate. "Not only was he addicted to no kind of intemperance, scarcely ever tasting ardent spirits or exceeding two glasses of wine — which was equal to total abstinence in our day — and not using tobacco in any shape, but he used his authority in the army to the utmost to put down swearing, games of chance, and drinking, and irregularities of every kind."^"^^ (2) His Views In a letter to one of his overseers, Washington gives emphatic expression of his views regarding the use of intoxicating liquors, as follows: I shall not close this letter without exhorting you to refrain from spirituous liquors; they will prove your ruin if you do not. Consider how little a drunken man differs from a beast; the latter is not endowed with reason, the former deprives himself of it; and when that is the case, acts like a brute, annoy- ing and disturbing every one around him; nor is this all, nor, as it respects himself, the worst of it. By degrees it renders a person feeble, and not only un- able to serve others but to help himself; and being an act of his own, he falls from a state of usefulness into contempt, and at length suffers, if not perishes, in penury and want. Don't let this be your case. Show yourself more of a man and a Christian than to yield to so intolerable a vice, which cannot, I am certain (to the greatest ^00 i;! WASHINGTON A COMMUNICANT lover of liquor), give more pleasure to sip in the poison (for it is no better) than the consequence of it in bad behavior at the moment, and the more serious evils produced by it afterwards, must give pain. I am your Friend, George Washington. ^*^ Attends Dutch Reformed Church In his diary we find the following for Sunday, July 3, 1791, at Lancaster, Pennsylvania: "There being no Episcopal minister present in this place, I went to hear morning service per- formed in the Dutch Reformed Church — which, being in that language not a word of which I understood, I was in no danger of becoming a proselyte to its religion by the eloquence of the preacher. "^^^ Letter to LaFayette Writing to the Marquis LaFayette, July 28, 1791, concerning the revolutionary troubles in France, he says, "We must, however, place a confidence in that Providence who rules events, trusting that out of confusion He will produce order, and, notwithstanding the dark clouds which may threaten at present, that right will ultimately be established. "^^^ On the Death of a Child September 8, 1791, President Washington Age 59] 201 [1791 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN wrote to General and Mrs. Knox on the death of their child, who had been named for him. On this occasion, as on every other when oppor- tunity offered, he gave assurance of his abiding faith in God. He said: "He that gave, you know, has the right to take way. His ways are wise — they are inscrutable — and irresistible. "^^^ 1791] 202 l^g« ^^ CHAPTER XV DID WASHINGTON SWEAR? In relation to what is sometimes said about the paroxysms of passion and terrible swearing of General Washington, a complete account of the particular instance which has been so grossly magnified and distorted, is of much interest. It was when Washington received the news of General St. Clair's defeat by the Indians, which occurred November 4, 1791. (1) Statement by His Private Secretary The following extract from a synopsis of Gen- eral Washington's private letters to his secre- tary, Mr. Tobias Lear, by the Hon. Richard Rush, of Philadelphia, will throw some light on the subject : "An anecdote I derived from Colonel Lear shortly before his death in 1816 may here be related, showing the height to which his [Gen- eral Washington's] passion would rise, yet be controlled. It belongs to his domestic life which I am dealing with, having occurred under his own roof, whilst it marks public feeling the most intense ftnd points to the moral of his life. Age 59] 203 U791 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN I give it in Colonel Lear's words as nearly as I can, having made a note of them at the time. "Toward the close of a winter's day in 1791, an officer in uniform was seen to dismount in front of the President's in Philadelphia, and, giving the bridle to his servant, knock at the door of his mansion. Learning from the porter that the President was at dinner, he said he was on public business and had dispatches for the President. A servant was sent into the dining room to give the information to Mr. Lear, who left the table and went into the hall, when the officer repeated what he had said. Mr. Lear replied that, as the President's secretary, he would take charge of the dispatches and deliver them at the proper time. The officer made answer that he had just arrived from the West- ern army, and his orders were to deliver it with all promptitude, and to the President in person; but that he would wait his directions. Mr. Lear returned, and in a whisper imparted to the Presi- dent what had passed. General Washington rose from the table and went to the officer. He was back in a short time, made a word of apology for his absence, but no allusion to the cause of it. He had company that day. Everything went on as usual. Dinner over, the gentlemen passed into the drawing room of Mrs. Washington, which was open in the evening. The General 1791] 204 [Age 59 DID WASHINGTON SWEAR? spoke courteously to every lady in the room, as was his custom. His hours were early, and by ten all the company had gone. Mrs. Washing- ton and Mr. Lear remained. Soon Mrs. Wash- ington left the room. The General now walked backward and forward slowly for some minutes without speaking. Then he sat down on a sofa by the fire, telling Mr. Lear to sit down. To this moment there had been no change in his manner since his interruption at table. Mr. Lear now perceived emotion. This rising in him, he broke out suddenly: ^Ifs all over — St, Clair's defeated, routed; the officers nearly all killed, the men by wholesale; the rout complete — too shocking to think of — and a surprise into the bargain !' "He uttered all this with great vehemence, then he paused, got up from the sofa and walked about the room several times, agitated, but saying nothing. Near the door he stopped short and stood still for a few seconds, when his wrath became terrible. " ^Yes,' he burst forth, 'here, on this very spot, I took leave of him: I wished him success and honor. ''You have your instructions,'' I said, ''from the Secretary of War; I had a strict eye to them, and will add but one word — beware of a surprise! / repeat it, BEWARE OF A SUR- PRISE; you know how the Indians fight us." He Age 59] 205 [1791 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN went off with that as my last solemn warning thrown into his ears. And yet! to suffer that army to be cut to pieces, hacked, butchered, tomahawked, by a surprise — the very thing I guarded him against! God, God, he's worse than a mur- derer! How can he answer it to his country? The blood of the slain is upon him — the curse of the widows and orphans — the curse of Heaven!' "This torrent came out in tones appalling. His very frame shook. 'It was awful,' said Mr. Lear. More than once he threw his hands up as he hurled imprecations upon St. Clair. Mr. Lear remained speechless, awed into breathless silence. "The roused chief sat down on the sofa once more. He seemed conscious of his passion, and uncomfortable. He was silent. His warmth be- ginning to subside, he at length said in an altered voice, 'This must not go beyond this room.' Another pause followed — a longer one — when he said in a tone quite low: ^General St, Clair shall have justice; I looked hastily through the dis- patches, saw the whole disaster, but not all the par- ticulars. I will receive him without displeasure; I will hear him urithout prejudice; he shall have full justice.' " 'He was now,' said Mr. Lear, 'perfectly calm.' Half an hour had gone by. The storm was over; and no sign of it was afterwards seen 1791] 206 (Age 59 DID WASHINGTON SWEAR? in his conduct or heard in his conversation. The whole case was investigated by Congress. St. Clair was exculpated, and regained the con- fidence Washington had in him when appointing him to that command. He had put himself into the thickest of the fight and escaped unhurt, though so ill as to be carried on a litter, and un- able to mount his horse without help."^^^ (2) Bishop Meade's Comment "In relation to the above, let it be granted that Mr. Lear (who did not sympathize with General Washington's religious opinions), after the lapse of more than twenty years, retained an accurate recollection of all his words, and that Mr. Rush fully understood them and truly recorded them, as doubtless he did; yet what do they amount to? Is the exclamation, 'O God! O God !' under his aroused feelings, that swearing since imputed to him, but which from his youth up he had so emphatically condemned in his sol- diers as impious and ungentlemanly?"^^^ (3) Testimony of Nephews The Rev. Dr. M'Guire of Fredericksburg, Vir- ginia, while preparing his volume on the Re- ligious Opinions and Character of Washington, having heard this report emanating from some of the enemies of Washington and too readily ad- 207 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN mitted by some of his friends, made a particular inquiry of Mr. Robert Lewis (his father-in-law), of Fredericksburg, and Mr. Laurence Lewis, of Woodlawn, Virginia, two gentlemen as compe- tent to know the private habits of Washington as any others in the land. They were nephews of General Washington. The former lived in the family of Washington for some time as pri- vate secretary; the latter was his near neighbor, living on a farm given him by the General. Both of them were men of the highest character, and pious members of the Episcopal Church, and both declared that they had never heard an oath from the lips of their uncle. ^^^ (4) Testimony of General Porterfield In a letter of General S. H. Lewis, referred to on p. 194 telling of a conversation with General Robert Porterfield, he says: "I remarked that I had lately heard Mr. say, on the authority of Mr. , that General Washing- ton was subject to violent fits of passion, and that he swore terribly. General Porterfield said the charge was false; that he had known General Washington personally for many years, and had never heard him swear an oath, or in any way to profane the name of God. *Tell Mr. for me,' said he, *that he had much better be reading his Bible than repeat- 208 DID WASHINGTON SWEAR? ing such slanders on the character of General Washington.' "253 (5) Rebukes Swearing So far back as 1756 we find him endeavoring to impress upon the soldiers under his command a profound reverence for the name and the majesty of God, and repeatedly, in his public orders during the Revolution, the inexcusable offense of profaneness was rebuked. On a certain occasion he had invited a number of oflficers to dine with him. While at table one of them uttered an oath. General Wash- ington dropped his knife and fork in a moment, and in his deep undertone, and characteristic dignity and deliberation, said, "I thought that we all supposed ourselves gentlemen." He then resumed his knife and fork and went on as be- fore. The remark struck like an electric shock, and, as was intended, did execution, as his ob- servations in such cases were apt to do. No person swore at the table after that. When dinner was over, the officer referred to said to a companion that if the General had given him a blow over the head with his sword, he could have borne it, but that the home thrust which he received was too much — it was too much for a gentleman I^^^ 209 CHAPTER XVI RELIGION INDISPENSABLE TO POLITI- CAL PROSPERITY God Alone Able to Protect United States Writing from Philadelphia to John Arm- strong, March 11, 1792, he says: I am sure there never was a people who had more reason to acknowledge a divine interposition in their affairs than those of the United States, and I should be pained to believe that they had forgotten that agency, which was so often manifested during our Revolution, or that they failed to consider the omnipotence of that God, who is alone able to pro- tect them.2" Trusts God for Guidance Edmund Randolph, attorney-general, had written Washington, urging him to accept a re- election. Writing from Mount Vernon, Sunday, August 26, 1792, Washington said, "But as the All-wise Disposer of events has hitherto watched over our steps, I trust that, in the important one I may soon be called upon to take, he will mark the course so plainly that I cannot mistake the way."256 1792] 210 [Age 60 RELIGION INDISPENSABLE Deprecates Religious Disputes Writing from Philadelphia to Sir Edward Newenham, October 20, 1792, he says: Of all the animosities which have existed among mankind, those which are caused by a difference of sentiments in religion appear to be the most invet- erate and distressing, and ought most to be depre- cated. I was in hopes that the enlightened and lib- eral policy which has marked the present age would at least have reconciled Christians of every denomi- nation so far that we should never again see their religious disputes carried to such a pitch as to en- danger the peace of society. ^^^ Gift to Charity Following the terrible epidemic of yellow fever, the President wrote to William White, Bishop of Pennsylvania, December 31, 1793, concerning a contribution for the relief of the needy in Philadelphia, as follows: It has been my intention ever since my return to the city, to contribute my mite towards the relief of the most needy inhabitants of it. The pressure of public business hitherto has suspended but not altered my resolution. I am at a loss, however, for whose benefit to apply the little I can give, and in whose hands to place it; whether for the use of the fatherless children and widows, made so by the late calamity, who may find it difficult, whilst provisions, wood, and other necessaries are so dear, to support Age 60] 211 [1^92 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN themselves; or to other and better purposes, if any, I know not, and therefore have taken the hberty of asking your advice. I persuade myself justice will be done to my mo- tives for giving you this trouble. To obtain informa- tion, and to render the little I can, without ostenta- tion or mention of my name, are the sole objects of these inquiries. ^^^ Donation for the Education of Orphan Children February 24, 1794, the President writes to the Rev. James Muir, pastor of the Presbyterian Church at Alexandria, Virginia, in regard to his annual subscription to the Orphan School under the care of Mr. Muir, as follows: I have received your letter of the 12th instant, and will direct my manager, Mr. Pearce, to pay my an- nual donation for the education of orphan children, or the children of indigent parents, who are unable to be at the expense themselves. I had pleasure in appropriating this money to such uses, as I always shall in that of paying it. I con- fess, however, I should derive satisfaction from know- ing what children have heretofore received the bene- fit of it, and who are now in the enjoyment thereof. Never, since the commencement of this institution, have I received the least information, except in a single instance, on this head, although application for it to individuals has been frequently made. As 1794] 212 tAge 62 RELIGION INDISPENSABLE you, Sir, appear to be in the exercise of this trust, let me pray you to have the goodness to gratify this wish of mine. In reply to this letter, Mr. Muir gave a par- ticular account of each of the children who were assisted in their education by President Wash- ington's donation to the school. They were mostly from the poorest class, and some of them entirely destitute of any other aid. For many years he had given fifty pounds (two hundred and fifty dollars) a year for this purpose, which he continued till his death; and by will he left to the trustees of the Academy in the town of Alexandria four thousand dollars, "towards the support of a free school, established at, and an- nexed to, the said Academy, for the purpose of educating orphan children, or the children of such poor and indigent persons, as are unable to accomplish it by their own means." This sum was bequeathed in perpetuity, and the income only for the time being was to be appropriated by the trustees. ^^^ On the same day, February 24, 1794, Wash- ington wrote to his manager, William J^earce, "Enclosed you will find three bajfc notes of one hundred dollars each; out of%. which pay the Rev. Mr. Muir, of Alexandria, fifty pounds, and take his signature to the enclosed receipt. "^^° Age 62] 213 [1794 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN God Knows Best In a letter written from Philadelphia to his manager, Mr. William Pearce, on Sunday, May 25, 1794, concerning injury to crops by the drought, he says, "At disappointments and losses which are the effects of Providential acts, I never repine; because I am sure the all wise Disposer of events knows better than we do what is best for us, or what we deserve. "^^^ Attends Presbyterian Church On a trip to the western part of Pennsylvania in connection with the "Whiskey Rebellion,'' he spends a Sunday, October 5, 1794, at Carlisle, Pennsylvania. The following entry is found in his diary: "Went to the Presbyterian Meeting and heard Doctor Davidson preach a political sermon, recommendatory of order and good gov- ernment; and the excellence of that of the United States."262 Speech to Congress He closes a speech to both Houses of Con- gress, November 19, 1794, saying: Let us unite, therefore, in imploring the Supreme Ruler of nations to spread His holy protection over these United States; to turn the machinations of the wicked to the confirming of our constitution; to en- able us at all times to root out internal sedition, and 1794] 214, [Age 62 r PORTRAIT OP WASHINGTON Painted from life in 1794. In Masonic uniform. Original painting in Masonic Lodge, Alexandria, Va. Mrs. Washington said after his death that it was the best picture of him, showing the real Washington, not the idealized Washington. RELIGION INDISPENSABLE put invasion to flight; to perpetuate to our country that prosperity, which His goodness has already con- ferred; and to verify the anticipations of this gov- ernment being a safeguard to human rights. ^^^ Second National Thanksgiving The Proclamation for a second National Thanksgiving was issued January 1, 1795, as follows : When we review the calamities which aflflict so many other nations, the present condition of the United States affords much matter of consolation and satisfaction. Our exemption hitherto from for- eign war, and increasing prospect of the continuance of that exemption, the great degree of internal tran- quillity we have enjoyed, the recent confirmation of that tranquillity by the suppression of an insurrec- tion, which so wantonly threatened it, the happy course of our public affairs in general, the unexam- pled prosperity of all classes of our citizens, are cir- cumstances which peculiarly mark our situation with indications of the Divine Beneficence towards us. In such a state of things it is in an especial manner our duty as a people, with devout reverence and af- fectionate gratitude, to acknowledge our many and great obligations to Almighty God, and to implore Him to continue and confirm the blessings we ex- perience. Deeply penetrated with this sentiment, I, George Washington, President of the United States, do rec- ommend to ail religious societies and denominations, Age 63] 215 U795 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN and to all persons whomsoever within the United States, to set apart and observe Thursday, the 19th day of February next, as a day of public thansksgiv- ing and prayer, and on that day to meet together and render their sincere and hearty thanks to the Great Ruler of nations for the manifold and signal mercies which distinguish our lot as a nation; particularly for the possession of constitutions of government, which unite, and by their union establish, hberty with order; for the preservation of our peace, foreign and domestic; for the seasonable control which has been given to a spirit of disorder in the suppression of the late insurrection; and, generally, for the pros- perous course of our affairs public and private; and at the same time humbly and fervently to beseech the kind Author of those blessings graciously to prolong them to us; to imprint on our hearts a deep and sol- emn sense of our obligations to Him for them; to teach us rightly to estimate their immense value; to preserve us from the arrogance of prosperity, and from hazarding the advantages we enjoy by the de- lusive pursuits, to dispose us to merit the continu- ance of His favors by not abusing them, by our grati- tude for them, and by a correspondent conduct as citizens and as men; to render this country more and more a safe and propitious asylum for the unfortu- nate of other countries; to extend among us true and useful knowledge; to diffuse and establish habits of sobriety, order, morality, and piety; and finally to impart all the blessings we possess, or ask for our- selves, to the whole family of mankind. 1796] 216 [Age 63 RELIGION INDISPENSABLE In testimony whereof, I have caused the seal of the United States of America to be affixed to these pres- ents, and signed the same with my hand. Done at the city of Philadelphia, this first day of January, one thousand seven hundred and ninty-five and of the independence of the United States of America the nineteenth.^^^ Observes Thanksgiving Day Thursday, February 19, 1795, being the day appointed for "public thanksgiving and prayer," President Washington attends service in Christ Church.26^ Speech to Congress A speech to both Houses of Congress, De- cember 8, 1795, begins as follows: I trust I do not deceive myself while I indulge the persuasion that I have never met you at any period when, more than at present, the situation of our public affairs has afforded just cause for mutual congratulation,^ and for inviting you to join with me in profound gratitude to the Author of all good, for the numerous and extraordinary blessings we enjoy. ^^^ Religion Indispensable to Political Pros- perity September 17, 1796, President Washington issued what is known as his Farewell Address to Age 63] 217 [1795 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN the people of the United States. The following extracts show his deep religious spirit: Of all the dispositions and habits which lead to ..^ political prosperity, Religion and Morality are in- dispensable supports. In vain would that man claim the tribute of Patriotism, who should labor to subvert these great pillars of human happiness, these firmest props of the duties of Men and Citizens. The mere Politician, equally with the pious man, ought to respect and to cherish them. A volume could not trace all their connections with private and public felicity. Let it simply be asked. Where is the security for property, for reputation, for life, if the sense of religious obligation desert the oaths which are the instruments of investigation in Courts of Jus- V tice? And let us with caution indulge the supposi- tion that morality can be maintained without religion. Whatever may be conceded to the influence of refined education on minds of peculiar structure, reason and experience both forbid us to expect that national morality can prevail in exclusion of religious principle. It is substantially true that virtue or morality is a necessary spring of popular government. The rule, indeed, extends with more or less force to every species of free government. Who, that is a sincere friend to it, can look with indifference upon attempts to shake the foundation of the fabric? Observe good faith and justice towards all Nations; cultivate peace and harmony with all. Religion and Morality enjoin this conduct; and can it be that good 1796] glS [Age 64 RELIGION INDISPENSABLE policy does not equally enjoin it? It will be worthy of a free, enlightened, and, at no distant period, a great Nation, to give to mankind the magnanimous and too novel example of a people always guided by an exalted justice and benevolence. Who can doubt, that, in the course of time and things, the fruits of such a plan would richly repay any temporary ad- vantages, which might be lost by a steady adherence to it? Can it be that Providence has not connected the permanent felicity of a Nation with its Virtue? The experiment, at least, is recommended by every sentiment which ennobles human nature.^®'^ The Great High Priest of the Nation "No candid man can read these and other ex- pressions in the public addresses of Washing- ton, without acknowledging that, as though he were the great high priest of the nation, availing himself of his position and of the confidence reposed in him, he was raising his warning voice against that infidelity which was desolating France and threatening our own land." "Is is too much to say that the communica- tions of no king, ruler, general, or statesman in Christendom," except Abraham Lincoln, "ever so abounded in expressions of pious dependence on God?"268 Letter to Adopted Son in School Extract from a letter to George Washington Age 64] 219 11796 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN Parke Custis, his adopted son, written from Philadelphia, November 28, 1796, showing the high value he places upon religious obligations: The assurances you give me of applying diligently to your studies, and fulfilling those obligations which are enjoined by your Creator and due to His creatures, are highly pleasing and satisfactory to me. I rejoice in it on two accounts; first, as it is the sure means of laying the foundation of your own happiness, and rendering you, if it should please God to spare your life, a useful member of society hereafter; and secondly, that I may, if I live to enjoy the pleasure, reflect that I have been, in some degree, instrumental in affecting these purposes.^^^ Last Speech to Congress He begins his last speech to both Houses of Congress, December 7, 1796, saying: In recurring to the internal situation of our coun- try, since I last had the pleasure to address you, I find ample reason for a renewed expression of that gratitude to the Ruler of the Universe, which a con- tinued series of prosperity has so often and so justly called forth. He closes by saying: The situation in which I now stand, for the last time, in the midst of the representatives of the people of the United States, naturally recalls the period when the administration of the present form of gov- 1796] 220 I^^ge 64 RELIGION INDISPENSABLE ernment commenced; and I cannot omit the occasion to congratulate you and my country, on the success of the experiment, nor to repeat my fervent suppHca- tions to the Supreme Ruler of the Universe and Sov- ereign Arbiter of the United States, that the virtue and happiness of the people may be preserved; and that the government, which they have instituted for the protection of their liberties, may be per- petual.270 Another Letter to His Adopted Son Writing from Philadelphia to George Wash- ington Parke Custis, December 19, 1796, he em- phasizes again "duties to God and man": But as you are well acquainted with my sentiments on this subject, and you know how anxious all your friends are to see you enter upon the grand theatre of life, with the advantages of a finished education, a highly cultivated mind, and a proper sense of your duties to God and man, I shall only add one sentiment more before I close this letter (which, as I have others to write, will hardly be in time for the mail), and that is, to pay due respect and obedience to your tutors, and affectionate reverence to the president of the college, whose character merits your highest re- gards. ^^^ Address of Philadelphia Clergy (1) Written by the Rev. Ashabel Green, D,D. "On the 4th of March [1797], when he carried Age 64] 221 [1796 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN into effect his purpose of retirement, which he had previously announced, the city clergy waited on him with an address; which, with his answer, was published in the newspapers of the day. Mr. Jefferson, in a letter pubHshed after his death, speaks of the design of this address, and of the character of its answer, as indicating that Washington was suspected of infidelity, and broadly intimates that such a suspicion was just. As to the design of the address, I may be allowed to say that Mr. Jefferson's remarks are incorrect, since by the appointment of my cleri- cal brethren, it was penned by myself, and I have not a doubt that the whole imputation is utterly groundless."^^^ (2) The Address to Washington The address shows how the clergy regarded Washington's religious character. It is as fol- lows: To George Washington, President of the United States : On this day, which becomes important in the an- nals of America, as marking the close of a splendid public life devoted for near half a century to the service of your country, we, the undersigned clergy of different denominations residing in and near the city of Philadelphia, beg leave to join the voice of our fellow-citizens, in expressing a deep sense of your 1797] 222 fAge 65 RELIGION INDISPENSABLE public services, in every department of trust and authority committed to you. But in our special character as ministers of the gospel of Christ, we are more immediately bound to acknowledge the coun- tenance which you have uniformly given to His holy religion. In your public character we have uniformly beheld the edifying example of a civil ruler always acknowl- edging the superintendence of divine Providence in the affairs of men; and confirming that example by the {/ powerful recommendation of religion and morality, as the firmest basis of social happiness — more espe- cially in the following language of your affectionate parting address to your fellow-citizens: **0f all the dispositions and habits which lead to political prosperity, religion and morality are indis- pensable supports. In vain would that man claim the tribute of patriotism who should labor to subvert these great pillars of human happiness, these firmest props of the duties of men and citizens. The mere politician, equally with the pious man, ought to re- spect and to cherish them. A volume could not trace all their connections with private and public felicity. Let us with caution indulge the supposition that morality can be maintained without religion. Reason and experience both forbid us to expect that national morality can prevail in exclusion of religious principles." Should the importance of these just and pious sen- timents be duly appreciated and regarded, we con- fidently trust that the prayers you have offered for Age 651 223 ^^'^^'^ GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN the prosperity of our common country will be answered. In these prayers we most fervently unite; and with equal fervor we join in those which the numerous public bodies that represent the citizens of these States are offering for their beloved chief. We most devoutly implore the divine blessing to attend you in your retirement, to make it in all respects comfortable to you, to satisfy you with length of days; and finally to receive you into hap- piness and glory infinitely greater than this world can bestow. 2^^ This address was signed by William White (Episcopal bishop), Ashabel Green, and twenty- three other ministers. (3) Washington's Reply Not to acknowledge, with gratitude and sensibility, the affectionate addresses and benevolent wishes of my fellow-citizens on my retiring from public life would prove that I have been unworthy of the confi- dence which they have been pleased to repose in me. And among those public testimonies of attachment and approbation none can be more grateful than that of so respectable a body as yours. Believing, as I do, that Religion and Morality are the essential pillars of civil society, I view with un- speakable pleasure that harmony and brotherly love which characterizes the clergy of different denomina- tions, as well in this as in other parts of the United States, exhibiting to the world a new and interesting 1797] 224, [Age 65 RELIGION INDISPENSABLE spectacle, at once the pride of our country and the surest basis of universal harmony. That your labors for the good of mankind may be crowned with success, that your temporal employ- ments may be commensurate with your merits, and that the future reward of good and faithful servants may be yours, I shall not cease to supplicate the Divine Author of life and felicity."* Age 65] 225 11797 CHAPTER XVII EVEN DOWN TO OLD AGE Forsakes Not the House of God Even down to his old age the Sabbath day finds him in his place in church. In his diary is this entry: "1798. Sunday, September 30 — Went to Church in Alexandria. "^^^ Letter to President Adams In a letter dated Mount Vernon, July 13, 1798, to John Adams, President of the United States, General Washington said: Satisfied, therefore, that you have sincerely wished and endeavored to avert war, and exhausted, to the last drop, the cup of reconciliation, we can, with pure hearts, appeal to Heaven for the justice of our cause; and may confidently trust the final result to that kind Providence who has, heretofore, and so often, signally favored the people of these United States. 276 Will Not Sell Slaves August 17, 1799, General Washington wrote his nephew Robert Lewis in regard to slavery, saying: 1798] ggg [Age 66 EVEN DOWN TO OLD AGE To sell the overplus I cannot because I am preju- diced against this kind of traflBc in the human species; to hire them out is almost as bad, because they can- not be disposed of in families to any advantage, and to divide families I have an aversion. ^^^ Death of His Brother Sunday, September 22, 1799, he writes to Colonel Burgess Ball concerning the death of his [Washington's] brother, the last of the fam- ily except himself, as follows: Your letter of the 16th inst. has been received, in- forming me of the death of my brother [Charles]. The death of relations always produces awful and affecting emotions under whatever circumstances it may happen. That of my brother has been long ex- pected; and his latter days, so uncomfortable to himself, must have prepared all around him for the stroke, though painful in effect. I was the first, and am, now, the last of my father's children, by the second marriage, who remain. When I shall be called upon to follow them is known only to the Giver of Life. When the summons comes I shall endeavor to obey it with a good grace. ^^^ Attends Christ Church Again After his retirement from the chair of state, Washington still continued his religious habits in spirit and practice. The church in Alexan- dria was again his place of worship. The dis- Age 67] 227 [1799 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN tance, indeed, was ten miles, and yet his pew was seldom unoccupied on the Lord's Day.^^^ Washington at Church in Alexandria Reverend M'Guire, Episcopal rector at Fred- ericksburg, Virginia, says that, many years since [this was written in 1835], he had the following circumstances from a valued female friend, in relation to the churchgoing habit of the Ex- President : "In the summer of 1799," said Mrs. M., "I was in Alexandria, on a visit to the family of Mr. H., with whom I was connected by the ties of relationship. Whilst there I expressed a wish to see General Washington, as I had never enjoyed that pleasure. My friend, Mrs. H., observed, *You will certainly see him on Sunday, as he is never absent from church when he can get there; and as he often dines with us, we will ask him on that day, when you will have a better opportunity of seeing him.' Accordingly, we all repaired to church on Sunday, and seated in Mr. H.'s large double pew, I kept my eyes upon the door, looking for the venerable form of him I had so long desired to see. Many persons entered the doors, but none came up to my im- pressions of General Washington's appearance. At length, a person of noble and majestic figure entered, and the conviction was instantaneous 1799] 228 [Age 67 EVEN DOWN TO OLD AGE that I beheld the Father of his Country. It was so! — ^my friend at that moment intimated the fact to me. He walked to his pew, at the upper part of the church, and demeaned himself throughout the services of the day with that gravity and propriety becoming the place and his own high character. After the services were concluded we waited for him at the door, for his pew being near the pulpit he was among the last that came out — when Mrs. H. invited him to dine with us. He declined, however, the in- vitation, observing, as he looked at the sky, that he thought there were appearances of a thunder- storm in the afternoon, and he believed he would return home for dinner." This occurrence is introduced, not for any peculiar interest belonging to it, but merely for confirmation: showing the punctuality and conscientiousness with which Washington at- tended to the duty in question, even to old age. He was now within six months of his death, having reached his sixty-eighth year; and yet he is not to be detained on the Sabbath from the house of God, either by distance or the fer- vors of a summer sun.^^ Private Devotions "It may most positively be affirmed that the impression on the minds of his family was that Age 67] 229 [1799 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN when on each night he regularly took his candle and went to his study at nine o'clock and re- mained there until ten, it was for the purpose of reading the Scriptures and prayer. It is af- firmed by more than one that he has been seen there on his knees and also been heard at his prayers. In like manner it is believed that when at five o'clock each morning, winter and summer, he went to that same study, a portion of time was then spent in the same way. It is also well known that it was the impression in the army that Washington, either in his tent or in his room, practiced the same thing. One testi- fies to having seen him on more than one occa- sion thus engaged on his bended knees. It is firmly believed that when in crowded lodgings at Valley Forge, where everything was unfavor- able to private devotions, his frequent visits to a neighboring wood were for this purpose. It is also a fact well known to the family that, when prevented from public worship, he used to read the Scriptures and other books with Mrs. Wash- ington in her chamber."^^^ Grace at Table Washington's religious habits were the same in private life as when he occupied his official position. The artist. Sharpies, who spent some time at Mount Vernon painting Washington's 230 EVEN DOWN TO OLD AGE picture, says: "I take all my meals with the Chief at Mount Vernon; they are most elegantly served, but without the least profusion, and the attendance is of military precision. I observed that we never partook of food without the Gen- eral offering grace to the Giver, so also at the close of every repast. "^^^ Impressed by a Dream For several months before his death Washing- ton appears to have had at times a presentiment of near approaching death. July 9th he exe- cuted his last will and testament. He seems to have communicated his forebodings to Mrs. Washington, who, when she was recovering from a severe illness, wrote to a kinswoman in New Kent, Virginia, September 18, 1799: "At midsummer the General had a dream so deeply impressed on his mind that he could not shake it off for several days. He dreamed that he and I were sitting in the summer-house, con- versing about the happy life we had spent, and looking forward to many more years on the earth, when suddenly there was a great light all around us, and then an almost invisible figure of a sweet angel stood by my side and whispered in my ear. I suddenly turned pale and then began to vanish from his sight and he was left alone. I had just risen from the bed when he Age 67] ^31 [1799 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN awoke and told me his dream, saying, *You know a contrary result indicated by dreams may be expected. I may soon leave you,^ I tried to drive from his mind the sadness that had taken possession of it, by laughing at the ab- surdity of being disturbed by an idle dream, which, at the worst, indicated that I would not be taken from him; but I could not, and it was not until after dinner that he recovered any cheerfulness. I found in the library, a few days afterwards, some scraps of paper which showed that he had been making a Will, and had copied it. When I was so very sick, lately, I thought of this dream, and concluded my time had come, and that I should be taken first. "^^^ "I Die Hard" About five o'clock [Saturday, December 14, 1799] Dr. Craik [the family physician] came again into the room, and, upon going to the bedside, the General said to him, "Doctor, I die hard, but I am not afraid to go."^^^ "Not Afraid to Die" Silent and sad his physicians sat by his bed- side, looking on him as he lay panting for breath. They thought on the past, and the tears welled in their eyes. He marked it, and, stretching out his hand to them, and shaking his head, said, 1799] 030 [Age 67 EVEN DOWN TO OLD AGE "0 no! don't! donV then with a delightful smile he added, "I am dying, gentlemen, but, thank God, I am not afraid to die/'^ss "For My Good" Once or twice he was heard to say, "I should have been glad, had it pleased God, to die a little easier, but I doubt not it is for my good/'^se Wished to Be Left Alone "Feeling that the hour of his departure out of this world was at hand, he desired that every- body would quit the room. They all went out; and, according to his wish, left him — with his God. "There, by himself, like Moses alone on the top of Pisgah, he seeks the face of God."^^^ It seems that he desired to be alone a little while for private prayer. " 'Tis Well" His secretary, Tobias Lear, says that "about ten o'clock he made several attempts to speak to me before he could effect it. At length he said: 'I am just going. Have me decently buried; and do not let my body be put into the vault in less than three days after I am dead.' "I bowed assent, for I could not speak. He Age 67J 233 ^^'^^^ GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN then looked at me again and said: *Do you understand me?' "I replied, *Yes!' " ' 'Tis well,' said he/'^ss Last Words of Washington "Feeling that the silver cord of life is loosing, and that his spirit is ready to quit her old com- panion, the body, he extends himself on his bed — closes his eyes for the last time with his own hands — folds his arms decently on his breast, then breathing out, *Father of mercies, take me to thyself,' — ^he falls asleep. "^^^ Submission to the Divine Will "He expired in the sixty-eighth year of his age, and in full possession of his mental faculties; ex- hibiting in his short and painful illness, and in his death, the same example of patience, forti- tude, and submission to the divine will, which he had shown in all the acts of his life."-^° Mrs. Washington in Prayer Mrs. Washington's grandson, who lived at Mount Vernon, says: "In that last hour, prayer was not wanting at the throne of grace. Close to the couch of the sufferer, resting her head upon that ancient book, with which she had been wont to hold pious communion a portion of 1799] 234 tAge 67 EVEN DOWN TO OLD AGE every day for more than half a century, was the venerable consort pVirs. Washington] absorbed in silent prayer. "2^^ " 'Tis Well" At the moment of her husband's departure, Mrs. Washington, having arisen from her knees, was sitting near the foot of the bed, where she had been much of the time for almost twenty- four hours. "While we were all fixed in silent grief," wrote Mr. Lear, "Mrs. Washington asked, with a firm and collected voice, 'Is he gone?' I could not speak, but held up my hand as a signal that he was no more. ' 'Tis well,' she said in the same voice; *all is now over. I shall soon follow him; I have no more trials to pass through.' "292 Mrs. Washington's Daily Devotions Mrs. Washington's grandson, who was adopted by Mr. Washington when he was six months old, and who was in his nineteenth year when Washington died, says of his grandmother's life- long habit: "After breakfast she retired for an hour to her chamber, which hour was spent in prayer and reading the Holy Scriptures, a prac- tice that she never omitted during half a century of her varied life."^^^ Age 67] 235 [1799 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN Death of Mrs. Washington Her grandson gives the following account of her death: "In a little more than two years from the demise of the chief Mrs. Washington became alarmingly ill from an attack of bilious fever. From her advanced age, the sorrow that had preyed upon her spirits, and the severity of the attack, the family physician gave but little hope of a favorable issue. The lady herself was per- fectly aware that her hour was nigh; she as- sembled her grandchildren at her bedside, dis- coursed to them on their respective duties through life, spoke of the happy influence of re- ligion upon the affairs of this world, of the con- solations they had afforded her in many and try- ing afflictions, and the hopes that they held out of a blessed immortality; and then, surrounded by her weeping relatives, friends, and domestics, the venerable relict of Washington resigned her life into the hands of her Creator, in the seventy- first year of her age."^^^ 236 CHAPTER XVIII WASHINGTON'S WILL Probably there is no better index to a man's life and the secret of his heart than his "last will and testament," when he calmly faces death and the realities of the hereafter. In the final accounting of his stewardship, his true character is manifested. Four items in his will are of special interest at this time, as they indicate his benevolent char- acter: (1) Gives Bible "To the reverend, now Bryan Lord Fairfax, I give a Bible, in three large folio volumes, with notes presented to me by the Rt. Rev. Thomas Wilson, bishop of Sodor and Man."^^^ (2) Provides for Release of Debt and Slaves *'Item. — ^The balance due me from the estate of Bartholomew Dandridge, deceased (my wife's brother), and which amounted, on the first day of October, 1795, to 425 1. [pounds] (as will appear by an account rendered by his deceased son, John Dandridge, who was the acting executor of his father's will), I release and acquit from the payment thereof. And the ^37 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN negroes (then 33 in number) formerly belonging to the said estate, who were taken in execution, sold, and purchased in on my account, in the year , and ever since have remained in the possession and to the use of Mary, widow of the said Earth. Dan- dridge, with their increase, it is my will and desire, shall continue and be in her possession, without pay- ing any hire, or making compensation for the same, for the time past or to come, during her natural life; at the expiration of which, I direct, that all of them who are 40 years old and upwards, shall receive their freedom; all under that age and above 16, shall serve seven years, and no longer; and all under 16 years, shall serve until they are 25 years of age, and then be free. And to avoid disputes respecting the ages of any of these negroes, they are to be taken into the court of the county in which they reside, and the judgment thereof, in this relation, shall be final and record made thereof, which may be adduced as evi- dence at any time thereafter, if disputes should arise concerning the same. And I further direct, that the heirs of the said Barth. Dandridge shall equally share the benefits arising from the services of the said negroes, according to the tenor of this devise, upon the decease of their mother. "^^^ (3) Provides for Freedom of Slaves ^'Itern. — Upon the decease of my wife, it is my will and desire, that all the slaves which I hold in my own right, shall receive their freedom. To emancipate them during her life, would, though earnestly wished WASHINGTON'S WILL by me, be attended with such insuperable diflScul- ties, on account of their intermixture by marriages with the dower negroes, as to excite the most painful sen- sations, if not disagreeable consequences to the latter, while both descriptions are in the occupancy of the same proprietor; it not being in my power, under the tenure by which the dower negroes are held, to manumit them. And whereas, among those who will receive freedom according to this devise, there may be some who, from old age or bodily infirmities, and others who, on account of their infancy, will be unable to support themselves, it is my will and desire, that all who come under the first and second descrip- tion, shall be comfortably clothed and fed by my heirs while they live; and that such of the latter de- scription as have no parents living, or, if living, are unable or unwilling to provide for them, shall be bound by the court until they shall arrive at the age of 25 years; and in cases where no record can be pro- duced, whereby their ages can be ascertained, the judgment of the court, upon its own view of the sub- ject, shall be adequate and final. The negroes thus bound, are, (by their masters or mistresses,) to be taught to read and write, and be brought up to some useful occupation, agreeably to the laws of the com- monwealth of Virgina, providing for the support of orphan and other poor children. And I do hereby expressly forbid the sale or transportation out of the said commonwealth of any slave I may die possessed of, under any pretence whatsoever. And I do more- over most pointedly and most solemnly enjoin it upon 239 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN my executors hereafter named, or the survivors of them, to see that this clause respecting slaves, and every part thereof, be religiously fulfilled at the epoch at which it is directed to take place, without evasion, neglect, or delay, after the crops which may then be on the ground are harvested, particularly as it respects the aged and infirm; seeing that a regu- lar and permanent fund be established for their sup- port as long as they are subjects requiring it, not trusting to the uncertain provisions made by indi- viduals. — And, to my mulatto man, William (calling himself William Lee) I give immediate freedom, or if he should prefer it, (on account of the accidents which have befallen him, and which have rendered him incapable of walking, or of any active employ- ment,) to remain in the situation he now is, it shall be optional in him to do so; in either case, however, I allow him an annuity of 30 dollars during his nat- ural life, which shall be independent of the victuals and clothes he has been accustomed to receive, if he chooses the latter alternative; but in full with his freedom, if he prefers the first; and this I give him as a testimony of my sense of his attachment to me, and for his faithful services during the revolutionary war."297 (4) Bequest to Academy at Alexandria **Item. — ^To the trustees, governors, or by whatso- ever other name they may be designated, of the academy in the town of Alexandria, I give and be- queath, in trust, four thousand dollars, or in other MO WASHINGTON'S WILL words, twenty of the shares which I hold in the bank of Alexandria, toward the support of a free school, established at, and annexed to the said academy, for the purpose of educating orphan children, or the children of such other poor and indigent persons as are unable to accomplish it with their own means, and who, in the judgment of the trustees of the said seminary, are best entitled to the benefit of this donation. The aforesaid twenty shares I give and bequeath in perpetuity, the dividends only of which are to be drawn for, and applied by the said trustees, for the time being, for the uses above mentioned, the stock to remain entire and untouched, unless indica- tions of failure of the said bank should be so apparent, or a discontinuance thereof shall render a removal of this fund necessary. In either of these cases, the amount of the stock here devised is to be vested in some other bank or public institution, whereby the interest may with regularity and certainty be drawn and applied as above. And, to prevent misconcep- tion, my meaning is, and is hereby declared to be, that these twenty shares are in lieu of, and not in addition to, the 1000 pounds given by a missive let- ter some years ago, in consequence whereof an an- nuity of 50 pounds has since been paid towards the support of this institution. "^^^ 241 CHAPTER XIX HIS RELIGIOUS HABITS No attempt has been made to group the facts in Washington's religious life so as to emphasize any particular phase. We have fol- lowed him step by step, and year by year, letting him speak and act for himself. The careful student cannot fail to be impressed with the continuity and steady development of his religious character, and the fullness of its expression throughout his whole life. The evidence is all in. The reader is the judge. Some corroborative testimony and the opin- ions of others may help to form a right con- clusion. A Letter by Miss Nelly Custis I shall here insert a letter on this subject, written to the historian Jared Sparks, by Nelly Custis, who lived twenty years in Washington's family, and who was his adopted "daughter, and the granddaughter of Mrs. Washington. The testimony it affords, and the hints it contains respecting the domestic habits of Washington, are interesting and valuable. 2n HIS RELIGIOUS HABITS WooDLAWN, 26 February, 1833. Sir: I received your favor of the 20th instant last even- ing, and hasten to give you the information which you desire Truro Parish is the one in which Mount Vernon, Pohick Church, and Woodlawn are situated. Fair- fax Parish is now Alexandria. Before the Federal District was ceded to Congress Alexandria was in Fairfax County. General Washington had a pew in Pohick Church, and one in Christ Church at Alex- andria. He was very instrumental in establishing Pohick Church, and I believe subscribed largely. His pew was near the pulpit. I have a perfect recol- lection of being there, before his election to the presi- dency, with him and my grandmother. It was a beautiful church, and had a large, respectable and wealthy congregation, who were regular attendants. He attended the church at Alexandria when the weather and roads permitted a ride of ten miles. In New York and Philadelphia he never omitted attend- ance at church in the morning, unless detained by indisposition. The afternoon was spent in his own room at home; the evening with his family, and with- out company. Sometimes an old and intimate friend called to see us for an hour or two; but visiting and visitors were prohibited for that day. No one in church attended to the service with more reveren- tial respect. My grandmother, who was eminently pious, never deviated from her early habits. She always knelt. The General, as was then the custom, 243 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN stood during the devotional parts of the service. On communion Sundays he left the church with me, after the blessing, and returned home, and we sent the carriage back for my grandmother. It was his custom to retire to his library at nine or ten o'clock, where he remained an hour before he went to his chamber. He always rose before the sun, and remained in his library until called for breakfast. I never witnessed his private devotions. I never inquired about them. I should have thought it the greatest heresy to doubt his firm belief in Christianity. His life, his writings, prove that he was a Christian. He was not one of those who act or pray, "that they may be seen of men." He com- muned with his God in secret. My mother resided two years at Mount Vernon, after her marriage with John Parke Custis, the only son of Mrs. Washington. I have heard her say that General Washington always received the sacrament with my grandmother before the Revolution. When my aunt, Miss Custis, died suddenly at Mount Ver- non, before they could realize the event, he knelt by her and prayed most fervently, most affectingly, for her recovery. Of this I was assured by Judge Washington's mother, and other witnesses. He was a silent, thoughtful man. He spoke little generally; never of himself. I never heard him re- late a single act of his life during the war. I have often seen him perfectly abstracted, his lips moving, but no sound was perceptible. I have sometimes made him laugh most heartily from sympathy with 244 HIS RELIGIOUS HABITS my joyous and extravagant spirits. I was, prob- ably, one of the last persons on earth to whom he would have addressed serious conversation, particu- larly when he knew that I had the most perfect model of female excellence ever with me as my monitress, who acted the part of a tender and devoted parent, loving me as only a mother can love, and never ex- tenuating or approving in me what she disapproved in others. She never omitted her private devotions, or her public duties; and she and her husband were so perfectly united and happy that he must have been a Christian. She had no doubts, no fears for him. After forty years of devoted affection and un- interrupted happiness, she resigned him without a murmur into the arms of his Saviour and his God, with the assured hope of eternal felicity. Is it neces- sary that any one should certify, "General Washing- ton avowed himself to me a believer in Christianity''? As well may we question his patriotism, his heroic, disinterested devotion to his country. His mottoes were, ''Deeds, Not Words''; and, 'Tor God and My Country.'* With sentiments of esteem, I am, etc.2^^ Testimony of Mr. Robert Lewis Mr. Jared Sparks, the historian, adds the fol- lowing: "It seems propei to subjoin to this letter what was told to me by Mr. Robert Lewis, at Fred- U5 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN ericksburg, in the year 1827. Being a nephew of Washington, and his private secretary during the first part of his presidency, Mr. Lewis Hved with him on terms of intimacy, and had the best opportunity for observing his habits. Mr. Lewis said he had accidentally witnessed his private devotions in his library both morning and even- ing; that on those occasions he had seen him in a kneeling posture with a Bible open before him, and that he believed such to have been his daily practice. Mr. Lewis is since dead, but he was a gentleman esteemed for his private worth and respectability. I relate the anecdote as he told it to me, understanding at the time that he was willing it should be made public on his authority. He added, that it was the Presi- dent's custom to go to his library in the morn- V "^ ing at four o'clock, and that, after his devotions, he usually spent his time till breakfast in writ- ing letters."3oo A Letter by Bishop White The following letter from the venerable Bishop White was written to the Rev. B. C. C. Parker, then rector of Trinity Church in Lenox, Massa- chusetts : Philadelphia, 28 November, 1832. Dear Sir: I have received your letter of the 20th instant, 246 HIS RELIGIOUS HABITS and will furnish you with what information I possess on the subject of it. [The first paragraph of this letter is quoted on page 238.] Although I was often in company with this great man, and had the honor of dining often at his table, I never heard anything from him which could mani- fest his opinions on the subject of religion. I knew no man who so carefully guarded against the dis- coursing of himself, or of his acts, or of any thing that pertained to him; and it has occasionally occurred to me when in his company that, if a stranger to his person were present, he would never have known from anything said by the President that he was con- scious of having distinguished himself in the eye of the world. His ordinary behavior, although excep- tionally courteous, was not such as to encourage obtrusion on what he had on his mind. Within a few days of his leaving the Presidential chair our vestry waited on him with an address, pre- pared and delivered by me. In his answer he was pleased to express himself gratified by what he had heard from our pulpit; but there was nothing that committed him relatively to religious theory. With- in a day or two of the above there was another ad- dress by many ministers of different persuasions, being prepared by Doctor Green and delivered by me. It has been a subject of opposite statements, owing to a passage in the posthumous works of Mr. Jefferson. He says (giving Doctor Rush for his author, who is said to have it from Doctor Green), 247 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN that the said address was intended to elicit the opin- ion of the President on the subject of the Christian reHgion. Doctor Green has denied this in his period- ical work called ''The Christian Advocate^'' and his statement is correct. Doctor Rush may have mis- understood Doctor Green, or the former may have been misunderstood by Mr. Jefferson; or the whole may have originated with some individual of the assembled ministers, who mistook his own concep- tions for the sense of the body. The said two docu- ments are in the Philadelphia newspapers of the time. On a thanksgiving day, appointed by the President for the suppression of the Western insurrection, I preached in his presence. The subject was the Con- nection between Religion and Civil Happiness. It was misrepresented in one of our newspapers. This induced the publishing of the sermon, with a dedica- tion to the President, pointedly pleading his pro- clamation in favor of the connection affirmed. It did not appear that he disallowed the use made of his name. Although, in my estimation, entire sepa- ration between Christianity and civil government would be a relinquishment of religion in the abstract; yet, that this was the sentiment of the President, which may have been, I have no light positively to infer. There do not occur to me any other particulars meeting your inquiry, confined to my knowledge. Accordingly I conclude with writing myself, very respectfully, your humble servant, William White.^°^ S48 HIS RELIGIOUS HABITS Claimed to Be a Churchman When Washington was passing through Litch- field, Connecticut, during the war, there was some desecration of the church, recalHng the treatment of the cathedral in old Litchfield, England, by the soldiers of Cromwell. Wash- ington himself saw some of his soldiers throw a shower of stones at the church, and at once rebuked them. He did not put forward the merely just argument that such acts were dis- orderly, but he put his personal feeling into what he said: "I am a churchman, and wish not to see the church dishonored and desolated in this 249 CHAPTER XX ESTIMATE OF HIS CHARACTER Sermons and orations by divines and states- men were delivered all over the land at the death of Washington. A large volume of such was published. I have seen and read them, and the religious character of Washington was a most prominent feature in them; and for this there must have been some good cause. "That Wash- ington was regarded throughout America, both among our military and political men, as a sin- cere believer in Christianity, as then received among us, and a devout man, is as clear as any fact in our history."^"^ Declarations of His Contemporaries (1) Major-General Henry Lee Major-General Henry Lee, member of Con- gress from Virginia, who served under him dur- ing the war, and afterward in the civil depart- ment, and who was chosen by Congress to de- liver his funeral oration, Thursday, December 26, 1799, at Philadelphia, in the German Lutheran Church, says in that oration: "First in war, first in peace, and first in the hearts of his country- 250 ESTIMATE OF HIS CHARACTER men, he was second to none in the humble and endearing scenes of private life. Pious, just, humane, temperate, and sincere; uniform, dig- nified, and commanding, his example was edify- ing to all around him, as were the effects of that example lasting. "^^^ (2) Jonathan Mitchell Sewall On Tuesday, December 31, 1799, Jonathan Mitchell Sewall delivered an oration at Ports- mouth, New Hampshire, at the request of the inhabitants, in which he says : "To crown all these moral virtues, he had the deepest sense of religion impressed on his heart — the true foundation-stone of all the moral virtues. "This he constantly manifested on all proper occasions. He was a firm believer in the Chris- tian religion; and, at his first entrance on his civil administration he made it known, and ad- hered to his purpose, that no secular business could be transacted with him on the day set apart by Christians for the worship of Deity. "Though he was, from principle, a member of the Episcopal Church, he was candid and liberal in the highest degree, not only to all sects and denominations of Christians but to all religions, where the possessors were sincere, throughout the world. "He constantly attended the public worship 251 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN of God on the Lord's Day, was communicant at His table, and, by his devout and solemn deport- ment, inspired every beholder with some portion of that awe and reverence for the Supreme Being of which he felt so large a portion. "For my own part, I trust I shall never lose the impression made on my own mind in behold- ing in this Jbiouse of prayer [see page 176], the venerable hero, the victorious leader of our hosts, bending in humble adoration to the God of armies, and great Captain of our salvation. Hard and unfeeling indeed must that heart be that could sustain the sight unmoved, or its owner depart unsoftened and unedified. "Let the deist reflect on this, and remember that Washington, the saviour of his country, did not disdain to acknowledge and adore a great Saviour, whom deists and infidels affect to slight and despise."^^^ (3) Reverend John Thornton Kirkland In a discourse on the death of Washington, delivered by the Rev. John Thornton Kirkland, minister of the New South Church, Boston, Massachusetts, December 29, 1799, he says: "The virtues of our departed friend were crowned with piety. He is known to have been habitually devout. To Christian institutions he gave the countenance of his example; and no one ESTIMATE OF HIS CHARACTER could express more fully his sense of the Provi- dence of God, and the dependence of man."^°^ (4) Captain Josiah Dunham Josiah Dunham, Captain of the 16th U. S. Regiment of the Revolution, in his funeral ora- tion pronounced at Oxford, Massachusetts, at the request of the field oflBcers of the brigade, stationed at that place, on the 15th of January, 1800, says of him: "A friend to our holy reli- gion, he was ever guided by its pious doctrines. He had embraced the tenets of the Episcopal Church; yet his charity, unbounded as his im- mortal mind, led him equally to respect every denomination of the followers of Jesus."^^^ (5) The Hon. David Ramsay The Hon. David Ramsay, M.D., of South Carolina, the historian, in his oration on the death of Washington, delivered at Charleston, South Carolina, on January 15, 1800, at the request of the inhabitants, says: "He was the friend of morality and religion; steadily at- tended on public worship; encouraged and strengthened the hands of the clergy. In all his public acts he made the most respectful mention of Providence, and, in a word, carried the spirit of piety with him, both in his private life and public administration. He was far from being 253 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN one of those minute philosophers who believe that 'death is an eternal sleep;' or, of those, who, trusting to the sufficiency of human reason, discard the light of divine revelation. "^^^ (6) The Rev. John M, Mason, D.D. The Rev. Doctor John M. Mason, pastor of the Associate Reformed Church in the city of New York, in the funeral eulogy delivered by appointment of a number of the clergy of New York City, February 22, 1800, uses this lan- guage: "That invisible hand which guarded him at first continued to guard and to guide him through the successive stages of the Revolution. Nor did he account it a weakness to bend the knee in homage to its supremacy, and prayer for its direction. This was the armor of Washing- ton, this the salvation of his country. "^°^ (7) Jeremiah Smith In an oration delivered by Jeremiah Smith at Exeter, New Hampshire, February 22, 1800, he says: "He had all the genuine mildness of Chris- tianity with all its force. He was neither os- tentatious, nor ashamed of his Christian profes- sion. He pursued in this, as in every thing else, the happy mean between the extremes of levity and gloominess, indifference and austerity. His 254 ESTIMATE OF HIS CHARACTER religion became him. He brought it with him into office, and he did not lose it there. His first and his last official acts (as he did all the intermediate ones) contained an explicit ac- knowledgment of the overruling providence of the Supreme Being; and the most fervent sup- plication for His benediction on our government and nation. "Without being charged with exaggeration, I may be permitted to say, that an accurate knowledge of his life, while it would confer on him the highest title to praise, would be pro- ductive of the most solid advantage to the cause of Christianity."3io (8) President Timothy Dwight Timothy Dwight, D.D., president of Yale College, in a discourse on "The Character of Washington," February 22, 1800, says: "For my own part, I have considered his numerous and uniform public and most solemn declara- tions of his high veneration for religion, his ex- emplary and edifying attention to public wor- ship, and his constancy in secret devotion, as proofs, sufficient to satisfy every person, willing to be satisfied. I shall only add that if he was not a Christian, he was more like one than any man of the same descriptioi^ whose life has been hitherto recorded."^^^ 255 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN (9) Reverend Devereux Jarratt In an address delivered by the Rev. Devereux Jarratt, in Dinwiddie County, Virginia, he says: "Washington was a professor of Christianity and a member of the Protestant Episcopal Church. He always acknowledged the super- intendence of Divine Providence; and from his inimitable writings we find him a warm advo- cate for a sound morality founded on the prin- ciples of religion, the only basis on which it can stand. Nor did I ever meet with the most dis- tant insinuation that his private life was not a comment on his own admired page."^^^ Testimony of an English Sympathizer The testimony of the Rev. Jonathan Boucher, who, to say the least, was not prejudiced in favor of Washington, is very interesting. He was a minister in the Episcopal Church at Annapolis, Maryland. During the first six months of 1775 he always preached with a pair of loaded pistols lying on the cushion in front of him; and indeed, with no aid from fire arms, he was well known to be more than a match for any single member of his congregation. He opposed the independ- ence of the colonies, and returned to England in 1775. He was for a time private tutor to John Parke Custis, the son of Mrs. Washington. His acquaintance with Washington was prior to 256 ESTIMATE OF HIS CHARACTER the Revolution, and, in his own words, he "did know Washington well." In 1776 he writes concerning him: "In his moral character he is regular, temperate, strictly just and honest (ex- cept that as a Virginian he has lately found out that there is no moral turpitude in not paying what he confesses he owes to a British creditor), and, I always thought, religious; having hereto- fore been pretty constant and even exemplary in his attendance on public worship in the Church of England/'^is Such was his character, "that even in England not one reflection was ever cast, or the least dis- respectful word uttered against him."^^^ Testimony of Others (1) President Madison President Madison says, "Washington was constant in the observance of worship, accord- ing to the received forms of the Episcopal Church."3i5 (2) RoheH C, Winthrop Robert C. Winthrop, acknowledging the re- ceipt of the Rev. Philip Slaughter's oration on Washington, says, "It confirms all my opinions of the character of Washington, and leaves no loop to hang a doubt upon that Christianity was the key to that character."^^^ 257 -y GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN (3) Bushrod Washington Washington bequeathed Mount Vernon, four thousand acres, including the Mansion House to his nephew, Bushrod Washington, who after- wards became a judge of the Supreme Court of the United States. In 1826 the latter was elected a vice-president of the American Sunday School Union. In replying to an address he said, "Upon the well-intended efforts I have made to secure the due observance of the Sab- bath day, upon a spot, where, I am persuaded, it was never violated during the life and with the permission of its venerable owner."^^^ Tradition of the New York Indians The New York Indians hold this tradition of Washington: "Alone, of all white men, he has been admitted to the Indian Heaven, because of his justice to the Red Men. He lives in a great palace, built like a fort. All the Indians, as they go to Heaven, pass by, and he himself is in his uniform, a sword at his side, walking to and fro. They bow reverently with great humility. He returns the salute, but says nothing." Such is the reward of his justice to the Red Man.'^^^ Abraham and Washington The Rev. Israel Evans was a chaplain in the United States army through nearly the entire ^58 ; I ESTIMATE OF HIS CHARACTER Revolutionary service. He was a native of New Jersey, a man of education, and capable of ap- preciating such a character as that of Washing- ton. The opportunities he enjoyed for social intercourse with him, as well as with other patriots of the Revolution, were very frequent and favorable, and his reverence for Washington was very great. "It is related of Mr. Evans that during his last sickness, thirty years or more after the Revolu- tion, his successor in the ministry, in the New England village where he had been settled, was called in by the family to pray with him, in the evident near approach of the dying hour. Mr. Evans had lain some considerable time in a stupor, apparently unconscious of anything around him, and his brother clergyman was pro- ceeding in a fervent prayer to God, that, as his servant was evidently about departing this mortal life, his spirit might be conveyed by angels to Abraham's bosom. Just at this point, the dying man for the first time and for the moment revived, so far as to utter, in an interval of his delirium, ^and Washington s, too' — and then sunk again into apparent unconsciousness. As if it was not enough to *have Abraham to his father,' and on whose bosom to repose, but he must have Washington, too, on whom to lean. A signal manifestation of *the ruling passion 259 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN strong in death' — and of the lasting hold which that great man had on the mind and heart of one of his early and devoted friends."^^^ Judgment of Historians (1) Mason L. Weems "The noblest, the most efficient element of his character was that he was an humble, earnest Christian."32o (2) Aaron Bancroft "In principle and practice he was a Chris- tianr^^^ (3) Cyrus R. Edmonds "The elements of his greatness are chiefly to be discovered in the moral features of his charac- ter."322 (4) John Marshall Chief Justice John Marshall, who had been the personal friend and frequent associate of Washington, says in his biography, "Without making ostentatious professions of religion, he was a sincere believer in the Christian faith, and a truly devout man."^^^ (5) George Bancroft "Belief in God and trust in His overruling power, formed the essence of his character. . . . His whole being was one continued act of faith in the eternal, intelligent and moral order of the universe. "^^"^ 260 ESTIMATE OF HIS CHARACTER (6) Jared Sparks "A Christian in faith and practice, he was habitually devout. His reverence for religion is seen in his example, his public communications, and his private writings. He uniformly as- cribed his successes to the beneficent agency of the Supreme Being. Charitable and humane, he was liberal to the poor and kind to those in dis- tress. As a husband, son, and brother, he was tender and affectionate. "^^^ "If a man spoke, wrote, and acted as a Chris- tian through a long life, who gave numerous proofs of his beheving himseK to be such, and who was never known to say, write or do a thing contrary to his professions, if such a man is not to be ranked among the behevers of Christianity, it would be impossible to establish the point by any train of reasoning. ... "After a long and minute examination of the writings of Washington, public and private, in print and in manuscript, I can affirm that I have never seen a single hint or expression from which it could be inferred that he had any doubt of the Christian revelation, or that he thought with indifference or unconcern of that subject. On the contrary, whenever he approaches it, and, indeed, whenever he alludes in any manner to religion, it is done with seriousness and rever- ence."326 261 CHAPTER XXI THE VERDICT (1) David Ramsay Doctor David Ramsay was a celebrated phy- sician of Charleston, South Carolina. He was a delegate to the Continental Congress in 1782-86. In his biography of Washington, one of the best ever published, he says: "There are few men of any kind, and still fewer of those the world calls great, who have not some of their virtues eclipsed by corresponding vices. But this was not the case with General Washington. He had religion without austerity, dignity with- out pride, modesty without diffidence, courage without rashness, politeness without affectation, affability without familiarity. His private char- acter, as well as his public one, will bear the strictest scrutiny. He was punctual in all his engagements; upright and honest in his dealings; temperate in his enjoyments; liberal and hos- pitable to an eminent degree; a lover of order; systematical and methodical in his arrange- ments. He was a friend of morality and re- ligion; steadily attended on public worship; en- couraged and strengthened the hands of the 262 \ / THE VERDICT clergy. In all his public acts he made the most respectful mention of Providence; and, in a word, carried the spirit of piety with him both in his private life and public administration. "^^^ (2) James K. Paulding "It is impossible to read the speeches and let- ters of Washington and follow his whole course of life, without receiving the conviction of his steady, rational, and exalted piety. Every- where he places his chief reliance, in the diffi- cult, almost hopeless circumstances in which he was so often involved, on the justice of that great Being who holds the fate of men and of nations in the hollow of His hand. His hopes for his country are always founded on the right- eousness of its cause, and the blessing of Heaven. His was the belief of reason and revelation; and that belief was illustrated and exemplified in all his actions. No parade accompanied its exer- cises, no declamation its exhibition; for it was his opinion that a man who is always boasting of his religion, is like one who continually proclaims his honesty — ^he would trust neither one nor the other. He was not accustomed to argue points of faith, but on one occasion, in reply to a gentle- man who expressed doubts on the subject, thus gave his sentiments: " 'It is impossible to account for the creation 263 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN of the universe without the agency of a Supreme Being. " 'It is impossible to govern the universe with- out the aid of a Supreme Being. " *It is impossible to reason without arriving at a Supreme Being. Religion is as necessary to reason as reason is to religion. The one can- not exist without the other. A reasoning being would lose his reason in attempting to account for the great phenomena of nature, had he not a Supreme Being to refer to; and well has it been said, that if there had been no God, mankind would have been obliged to imagine one.' "^^^ "On this basis of piety was erected the super- structure of his virtues. He perceived the har- monious affinity subsisting between the ■ duties we owe to Heaven and those we are called upon to sustain on earth, and made his faith the foun- dation of his moral obligations. He cherished the homely but invaluable maxim that 'honesty is the best policy,' and held that the temporal as well as eternal happiness of mankind could never be separated from the performance of their du- ties to Heaven and their fellow creatures. He believed it to be an inflexible law that, sooner or later, a departure from the strict obligations of truth and justice would bring with it the loss of confidence of mankind, and thus deprive us of our best support for prosperity in this world, as 264i THE VERDICT well as our best hope of happiness in that to come. In short, he believed and practiced on the high principle, that the invariable conse- quence of the performance of a duty was an in- crease of happiness. What others call good for- tune, he ascribed to a great and universal law, establishing an indissoluble connection between actions and their consequences, and making every man responsible to himself for his good or ill success in this world. Under that superin- tending Providence which shapes the ends of men, his sentiments and actions show that he believed, that, as a general rule, every rational being was the architect of his own happiness. "^^^ (3) Sir George Otto Trevelyan The following, by this noted English writer, is very interesting: "A better churchman — or, at all events, a better man who ranked himself as a churchman — than George Washington it would have been hard indeed to discover. When at home on the bank of the Potomac, he had always gone of a Sunday morning to what would have been called a distant church by any one except a Virginia equestrian; and he spent Sunday afternoons, alone and unapproachable, in his library. In war he found time for daily prayer and medita- tion (as, by no wish of his, the absence of privacy, 265 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN which is a feature in camp Hfe, revealed to those who were immediately about him) ; he attended public worhsip himself; and by every available means he encouraged the practice of religion in his soldiers, to whom he habitually stood in a Icind of fatherly relation. There are many pages in his Orderly Books which indicate a determina- tion that the multitude of young fellows who were intrusted to his charge should have all pos- sible facilities for being as well-behaved as in their native villages. "The troops were excused fatigue duty in order that they might not miss church. If pub- lic worship was interrupted on a Sunday by the call to arms, a service was held on a convenient day in the ensuing week. The chaplains were exhorted to urge the soldiers that they ought to live and act like Christian men in times of dis- tress and danger; and after every great victory, and more particularly at the final proclamation of Peace, the Commander-in-chief earnestly recommended that the army should universally attend the rendering of thanks to Almighty God Vith seriousness of deportment and grati- tude of heart.' "^^o "Washington loved his own church the best, and had no mind to leave it; but he was not hos- tile to any faith which was sincerely held, and which exerted a restraining and correcting in- 266 THE VERDICT fluence upon human conduct. 'I am disposed,' he once told Lafayette, *to indulge the profes- sors of Christianity with that road to Heaven which to them shall seem the most direct, plain- est, easiest, and least liable to exception.' His feeling on this matter was accurately expressed in the instructions which he wrote out for Bene- dict Arnold, when that officer led an armed force of fierce and stern New England Protestants against the Roman Catholic settlements in Canada. The whole paper was a lesson in the statesmanship which is founded on respect and consideration for others, and still remains well worth reading. In after years, as President of the United States, Washington enjoyed fre- quent opportunities for impressing his own senti- ments and policy, in all that related to religion, upon the attention of his compatriots. The churches of America were never tired of framing and presenting addresses which assured him of their confidence, veneration, and sympathy; and he as invariably replied by congratulating them that in their country worship was free, and that men of every creed were eligible to every post of honor and authority. "^^^ (4) Henry Cabot Lodge "He had the same confidence in the judgment of posterity that he had in the future beyond the 267 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN grave. He regarded death with entire calm- ness, and even indifference, not only when it came to him, but when in previous years it had threatened him. He loved life and tasted of it deeply, but the courage which never forsook him made him ready to face the inevitable at any moment with an unruffled spirit. In this he was helped by his religious faith, which was as simple as it was profound. He had been brought up in the Protestant Episcopal Church, and to that church he always adhered, for its splendid hturgy and stately forms appealed to him and satisfied him. He loved it too as the church of his home and his childhood. Yet he was as far as possible from being sectarian, and there is not a word of his which shows anything but the most entire liberality and toleration. He made no parade of his religion, for in this, as in other things, he was perfectly simple and sin- cere. He was tortured by no doubts or ques- tionings, but believed always in an overruling Providence and in a merciful God, to whom he knelt and prayed in the day of darkness or in the hour of triumph with a supreme and child- like confidence. "^^^ What Made Him Great "When the children of the years to come, hear- ing his great name re-echoed from every lip, shall 268 THE VERDICT say to their fathers, 'What was it that raised Washington to such height of glory?' let them be told that it was HIS GREAT TALENTS, CON- STANTLY GUIDED AND GUARDED BY RELIGION."333 "The purest and noblest character of modern time — possibly of all time." — Duke of Wel- lington, %m SOURCES OF INFORMATION Following are the titles of the seventy-five vol- umes from which the material in this book has been drawn. The first word is the surname of the author, or a part of the title of the book, magazine, etc. It is the *'key-word'* used in "Where Found" on p. 276. The date given is the date of publication, although it is not in every case the date of the first edition. Appleton: Appleton's Cyclopaedia of American Bi- ography, Vol. VI, 1889. Baker: Character Portraits of Washington, by Wil- liam S. Baker, 1887. Early Sketches of George Washington, by WilUam S. Baker, 1894. Itinerary of General Washington, 1775-1783, by WiUiam S. Baker, 1892. Washington after the Revolution, 1784-1799, by William S. Baker, 1897. Baldwin: An American Book of Golden Deeds, by James Baldwin, 1907. Bancroft: Life of George Washington, by Aaron Bancroft, 1807. Bancroft: History of the United States, by George Bancroft, Vol VII, 1888. Barnes: Christian Keepsake, by Rev. Albert Barnes, D.D., 1840. 270 SOURCES OF INFORMATION Bubk: Washington's Prayers, by W. Herbert Burk, 1907. Dr. Burk very graciously gave per- mission to reprint these "Prayers" in this book. Butler: Washington at Valley Forge, by J. M. Butler, 1858. Chronicle: London Chronicle, September 21-23, 1779. Clark: Colonial Churches, by W. M. Clark, 1907. Conway: George Washington's Rules of Civility, by Moncure D. Conway, 1890. CusTis: Recollections and Private Memoirs of Wash- ington, by George Washington Parke Cus- tis, Edited by Benson J. Lossing, 1860. Much of the material in this book appeared in dif- ferent publications as early as 1827. George Washington Parke Custis was the grandson of Mrs. Washington. He was born in 1781. Six months later his father died. His father was the son of Mrs. Washington by a former marriage. Upon the death of his father he was adopted by General Washington, and lived with him at Mount Vernon as his own son. Mr. Custis died in 1857 in the seventy-seventh year of his age. He was, therefore, in his nineteenth year when Washington died. Dl^jiy: The Diary of George Washington, from 1789 to 1791, Edited by Benson J. Lossing, 1860. Dudley: The Cambridge of 1776, with the Diary of Dorothy Dudley, 1876. 271 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN Edmonds: Life and Times of General Washington, by Cyrus R. Edmonds (England), 2 Vols., 1835. Eulogies and Orations: Eulogies and Orations on the Life and Death of General George Wash- ington, 1800. Ford: The True George Washington, by Paul Lei- cester Ford, 1903. Green: The Life of Ashabel Green, by Himself, 1849. Hale: Contemplations: Moral and Divine, by Sir Matthew Hale, Knight; late Chief Justice of the King's Bench. Printed in London, 1695. EUrland : The Story of Mary Washington, by Mar- ion Harland, 1892. Harper: Harper's Magazine, 1859. Hosack: Memoir of DeWitt Clinton, by David Hosack,M.D.,1829. Hough : Memorials of the Death of Washington, by Franklin B. Hough, 1865. Irving : Life of George Washington, by Washington Irving, 5 Vols., 1857. Johnston: George Washington, Day by Day, by Elizabeth Bryant Johnston, 1894. Kirkland: Memoirs of Washington, by Mrs. C. M. Kirkland, 1857. 272 SOURCES OF INFORMATION Littell: George Washington: Christian, by Rev. John Stockton Littell, D.D., 1913. Lodge : George Washington, by Henry Cabot Lodge, 2 Vols., 1898. Long Island: Memoirs of the Long Island Histori- cal Society, Vol. IV, 1889. LossiNG : Mary and Martha Washington, by Benson J. Lossing, 1886. The Pictorial Field-Book of the Revolu- tion, by Benson J. Lossing, 2 Vols., 1860. Marshall: The Life of George Washington, by John Marshall, Abridged Edition, 2 Vols., 1832. (First edition in 1804-7,5 Vols.) He was chosen by the Washington Family to write the biography of George Washington. Meade: Old Churches, Ministers and Families of Virginia, by Bishop Meade, 2 Vols., 1872. The author was Bishop of Virginia for 33 years (1829-1862). M'GuiRE : The Religious Opinions and Character of Washington, by Rev. E. C. M'Guire, 1836. Mr. M*Guire married the daughter of Mr. Robert Lewis, the nephew and private secretary of Washing- ton, and thus he had exceptional sources of informa- tion. Moore: Libels on George Washington, by George H. Moore, 1889. 273 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN Norton: Life of General Washington, by John N. Norton, 1870. PAULDESfG : A Hf e of Washington, by James K. Paul- ding, 2 Vols., 1836. Post: Pennsylvania Evening Post, Philadelphia, April 9, 1776. Potter: Washington in His Library and Life, by President Eliphalet Nott Potter, 1895. Presbyterian: The Presbyterian Magazine, Edited by C. Van Rensselaer, Philadel- phia, Pa., February, 1851. Prtor: The Mother of George Washington and Her Times, by Mrs. Roger A. Pryor, 1903. Ramsay: Life of George Washington, by David Ramsay, M.D., 1807. Rush: Washington in Domestic Life, by Richard Rush, 1857. Sherman: Historic Morristown, New Jersey, by An- drew M. Sherman, 1905. Smith : Orderly Book of the Siege of Yorktown, Ed- ited by Horace W. Smith, 1865. Sparks: The writings of George Washington, by Jared Sparks, 12 Vols., 1834-7. Thacher: Military Journal during the American Revolutionary War, from 1775 to 1783, by James Thacher, M.D., 1823. Toner: Washington's Barbadoes Journal, 1751-2, Edited by J. M. Toner, M.D., 1892. Trevelyan : The American Revolution, by the Right Hon. Sir George Trevelyan, Bart., 1908. 274 SOURCES OF INFORMATION Tribune: New York Tribune, May 26, 1902. Vernon: General Washington, the American Soldier and Christian, by Merle Vernon. Walter: Memorials of Washington and Mary, His Mother, and Martha, His Wife, by James Walter, 1887. Weems: The Life of General Washington, by the Rev. Mason L. Weems, 1808. Two editions were published before Washington's death. These were brief biographical sketches only. The third edition, in 1800, was dedicated to Mrs. Washington. The fourth edition was in 1804. The cherry tree, cabbage seed, and other stories, which made the book famous, first appeared in the fifth edition, in 1806. Whiting: Revolutionary Orders of General Wash- ington, selected from MSS. of John Whiting, Edited by Henry Whiting, 1844. Colonel John Whitmg fought through all the Revo- lutionary War. Wylie: Washington, A Christian, by the Rev. Theo- dore Wm. John Wylie, 1862. 275 WHERE FOUND The following is a complete list of references to books, magazines, and papers, with volume and page, from which the material used in this book has been taken, together with explanatory notes. The numbers correspond to the index numbers throughout the book. A "key-word" is used, by means of which the full title of the book or magazine from which the material is taken, may readily be found by reference to the same word under "Sources of Information" on page 270. Illustration: On page 69 is the index number "77" Turning to "Where Found" we find opposite 77, "Norton, p. 145." Under "Sources of Information," opposite the word "Norton," is "Life of General Washington, by John N. Norton, 1870." This is the book, published in 1870, from which the extract is taken, and it is found on page 145. 1 Littell, p. 5. 2 M'Guire, p. 31. 3 Walter, p. 123. ^ M'Guire, p. 40. ' Hale. ^ Norton, p. 34. ^ Lossing, p. 27. * Irving, Vol. I, p. 49. 276 WHERE FOUND » Conway, p. 49; 1° pp. 178, 180. 11 Burk, p. 12. 12 Littell, p. 7. i3M'Guire,p.47. 1* Toner, p. 49. 1^ Burk, p. 13. Experts in Washington City, Phila- delphia and New York are satisfied that it is Washington's handwriting without a doubt. 16 Burk, pp. 87-95. 17 Harland, p. 87. 18 Norton, p. 34. ^" 19 Sparks, Vol. II, p. 54. 20 M'Guire, p. 136. 21 Irving, Vol. I, p. 163. 22 Sparks, Vol. II, p. 43. 23 M'Guire, p. 137. 2^ Harland, p. 91. In writing to his mother, Wash- ington always addressed her, "Madam." It is a term of dignity and endearment, customary at that time. 25 M'Guire, p. 137. 26 Sparks, Vol. II, p. 89. 27 Custis, p. 303. This narrative was told Mr. Custis by Dr. Craik. It was first published in 1828. 28 Sparks, Vol. II, p. 132; 29 p. 141; ^o p. 149. 31 Sparks, Vol. II, p. 167. Extract from "Orderly Book," written two days after he reached Fort Cumberland. 32 M'Guire, p. 70. 33 Sparks, Vol. II, p. 188; 3* p. 20O; 35 p. 200; 36 p. 201; 37 p. 203; 38 p. 278. 277 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN '9 Weems, p. 182. *° Lossing: Mary and Martha, p. 99. « Kirkland, pp. 198, 199. 42 Clark, p. 126; « p. 126. 44 Lossing: Field-Book, Vol. II, p. 215. 45 Clark, p. 121; 46 p. 126; 4^ p. 113; 48 p. 130; 49 p, 118. so Norton, p. 112. "Clark, p. 126. ^2 Norton, p. 112; ^s p. 112. 54 Irving, Vol. I, p. 365. 55M'Guire, p. 141; ^e p. 142. " Tribune, p. 7, by the Rev. Randolph H. M'Kim, D.D., Rector of the Church of the Epiphany, Washington, D. C. 58M'Guire,p.411. 59 Presbyterian, p. 70. ®o Baker: After the Revolution, p. 40 (from Wash- ington's Diary). 61 Norton, p. 117. 62 Known simply as the Episcopal Church until 1813; since then as Christ Church. — Clark, p. 137. 63 Clark, p. 135; ^4 p. 118; 65 p. 136. 66 Norton, p. 123; Custis, p. 21. 67 Ford, p. 29. 68 M'Guire, p. 142. 69 Lodge, Vol. I, p. 123. 70 Clark, p. 136. 71 Butler, pp. 48, 49. 72 Irving, Vol. I, p. 461. 73 M'Guire, p. 143. 278 WHERE FOUND ^4 Appleton, Vol. VI, p. 383. ^s Weems, p. 182. 7« Sparks, Vol. Ill, p. 2. ^^ Norton, p. 145. 78 Sparks, Vol. Ill, p. 491; ^9 p. 491. 80 Johnston, p. 107 (from "Orderly Book"). 81 Sparks, Vol. Ill, p. 80; ^^ p. 86; ^^ p. 91; ^^ p. 92. 8^ Johnston, p. 146. 86 Sparks, Vol. Ill, p. 171. Mrs. Washington was on her way to Cambridge to visit General Washing- ton. s^M'Guire, p. 190. 88 Paulding, Vol. II, pp. 226, 227. 89 Baker: Itinerary, Vol. I, p. 22. »o Dudley, p. 48; ^^ p. 49. »2 Sparks, Vol. Ill, p. 240. »^ Sparks, Vol. Ill, p. 296 (from "Orderly Book"). 9^ Dudley, p. 59. 9^ Sparks, Vol. IX, p. 337. ^6 Johnston, p. 41. 97 Thacher, p. 51. 98 Post, April 9, 1776. 99 Sparks, Vol. Ill, p. 341. 100 Meade, Vol. II, p. 251. 101 Trevelyan, Vol. Ill, p. 304. 102 Sparks, Vol. Ill, p. 392; '^^ p. 404; "* p. 449; "^ p. 456. io« Sparks, Vol. IV, p. 26. 107 Potter, p. 124. 108 Sherman, p. 238; lo^ p. 239. "0 Hosack, p. 183. 279 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN 111 Harper, Vol. XVIII, p. "2 Sherman, p. 237. "3, ^S 115 M'Guire, pp. 411-414. 11® Presbyterian, Vol. I, p. 71. 11' Presbyterian, Vol. I, p. 569. 118 Tribune, p. 7. 119 Presbyterian, p. 570, Rev. O. L. Kirtland's letter. 120 Probably the Mrs. Ford in whose house Wash- ington had his headquarters the second winter that the army encamped at Morristown, 1780- 81. 121 Presbyterian, p. 569, Rev. O. L. Kirtland's letter. 122 Sparks, Vol. XII, p. 409. 123 Trevelyan, Vol. Ill, p. 309. 124 Sparks, Vol. IV, p. 436; i25 p. 482. 126 M'Guire, p. 114. 127 Sparks, Vol. V, p. 88; 128 p. 103; 129 p. 105; i^o p. 120; 131 p. 524. 132 Weems, p. 104. 133 Ix>ssing: Field-Book, Vol. II, p. 130. 134 M'Guire, p. 158. 135 Wylie, pp. 28, 29. 136 M'Guire, p. 159. 137 Barnes, p. 265. 138 Baldwin, pp. 102-107. 139 Sparks, Vol. V, 276. 140 T\Tiiting, p. 58; i^i p. 74; 1^2 p. 77. i43Lossing: Field-Book, Vol. II, p. 140. 144 Sparks, Vol. V, p. 388. 145 Norton, p. 253. 146 Moore, p. 6 (p. 5). 280 WHERE FOUND 1*7 Custis, p. 413. General Scott was governor of Kentucky after the war. 148 Sparks, Vol. V, p. 432. 149 Sparks, Vol. VI, p. 36. 150 Baker: Early Sketches, p. 77. 151 Chronicle, Vol. XLVI, p. 228. 152 M'Guire, pp. 162-167. In the summer of 1779 Washington had his Head-Quarters on the Hudson River. That he was in the habit of traveling alone sometimes during the war is well known. The circum- stances mentioned above are said to have occurred in the month of June, — the year it would seem not remembered. It appears from one of his letters that he was absent from camp for a day or two, about that time in 1779. In a letter dated New Windsor, July 9th, he says, *T did not receive intelligence of this till the afternoon of the 7th inst., having been absent from head-quarters from the morn- ing of the preceding day, on a visit to our out- posts below, and those lately estabUshed by the enemy.'*— M'Guire, p. 165. 153 M'Guire, pp. 160, 161. 154 Kirkland, p. 478. 155 Meade, Vol. II, p. 492. 156 Kirkland, p. 479. 157 Custis, p. 493. 158 M'Guire, p. 146. 159 Bancroft (Aaron), 1808, p. 538. 160 Thacher, p. 246. 281 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN 61 Sparks, Vol. VII, p. 449; ^^^ p. 462. 63 Baker: Itinerary, p. 220 (from Diary of (Gov.) Jonathan Trumbull). «^ Smith, p. 47. 6^ Custis, p. 38. «6 Sparks, Vol. VIII, p. 207. 67 Whiting, pp. 205, 206. 68 Sparks, Vol. VIII, p. 234. 69 Baker: After the Revolution, p. 288 (from "Or- derly Book"). 7° Johnston, p. 44. 71 Custis, p. 290. 72 Sparks, Vol. VIII, p. 567; "3 pp. 440, 441, 452. 74 Sparks, Vol. VIII, p. 475. 75 M'Guire, p. 125. 76 Johnston, p. 160. 77 Sparks, Vol. VIII, pp. 492, 496. I i 78 Johnston, p. 182. 79 Sparks, Vol. VIII, pp. 504, 505. 80 Clark, p. 136. 81 M'Guire, p. 147. 82 Custis, p. 173. 83 Vernon, p. 48. 84 Norton, p. 322. 85 Custis, p. 173. 86 Clark, p. 130. Article by Rev. George S. Somer- ville. Rector of Falls Church, Virginia. 87 Sparks, Vol. IX, p. 22. 88 Baker: After the Revolution, p. 39, ^89 p. 62; ^^o p. 63; 191 p. 70. 192 Johnston, p. 70. WHERE FOUND 193 Baker: After the Revolution, p. 77 (from Wash- ington's Diary). 194 Baker: After the Revolution, p. 80. 19^ Sparks, Vol. IX, p. 397; ^'\ p. 262. "^ Baker : After the Revolution, p. 94 (from Wash- ington's Diary). 198 Baker: After the Revolution, p. 100 (from Wash- ington's Diary). 199 Baker: After the Revolution, p. 105. 200 Sparks, Vol. IX, p. 406; ^oi p. 421; 202 p. 431. 203 Baker: After the Revolution, p. 110 (from Wash- ington's Diary). 204Lossing: Field-Book, Vol. II, p. 220. 20f Sparks, Vol. XII, p. 145. 206 Norton, pp. 333, 334. 207 Sparks, Vol. XII, pp. 2, 4, 5. 208 Vernon, p. 44. 209 Sparks, Vol. XII, p. 153; 210 p. 154. 211 Baker: Character Portraits, p. 77 (from Biograph- ical Sketch of General George Washington, by Jedediah Morse, D.D., December 31, 1799). 212 Sparks, Vol. XII, p. 152; 213 p. 160; 21* pp. 162, 163. 215 Irvmg, Vol. V, p. 21. 2i« M'Guire, p. 206. 217 Sparks, Vol. XII, p. 119. 218 Lossing: Diary, pp. 12, 18, 19, 24. 219 Diary, p. 34. 220 Diary, p. 42. 221 Diary, p. 50. 222 M'Guire, p. 175. 223 Diary, pp. 53, 55, 58. 283 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN 224 Diary, pp. 60, 61, 62. 226 Long Island, Vol. IV, p. 311. 226 Diary, pp. 64, 65, 68, 71, 74, 86, 89, 91, 96, 97, 98, 104, 114. 227 Johnston, p. 45. 228 Diary, pp. 116, 118, 121, 128. 229 Diary, pp. 132, 136, 137, 144, 152. 230M'Guire, p. 174. 231 Johnston, p. 171. The Reverend Thomas Davis assisted at Washington's funeral. 232 M'Guire, p. 414. 233 Meade, Vol. II, p. 490; 234 p. 490. 235 M'Guire, p. 153; 236 p. 153. 237 Sparks, Vol. XII, p. 408. 238 Kirkland, p. 486. 239 Meade, Vol. II, p. 492; 240 p. ^55. 241 p 494^ 242 M'Guire, p. 168. 243 Green, p. 267. The Rev. Dr. Green was pastor of the Second Presbyterian Church of Philadel- phia at that time. He became President of Princeton University in 1812, and Moderator of the General Assembly in 1824. 244 Custis, p. 435. 246 Meade, Vol. II, p. 248. 246 Kirkland, p. 208. 247 Baker: After the Revolution, p. 226. 248 Sparks, Vol. X, p. 179. 249 Long Island, Vol. IV, p. 311. 260 Rush, p. Q5. 2" Meade, Vol. II, p. 494; 2^2 p. 494; 253 p^ 492. 2s* Norton, p. 394. 284 \ WHERE FOUND 255 Sparks, Vol. X, p. 222; ^^e p. 286; ^57 p. 309. 258 Sparks, Vol. X, p. 389; 259 p. 393. 260 Baker: After the Revolution, p. 272. 261 Long Island, Vol. IV, p. 76. 262 Baker: After the Revolution, p. 286. 263 Sparks, Vol. XII, p. 54; 26* pp. 132, 134. 265 Baker: After the Revolution, p. 305. 266 Sparks, Vol. XII, pp. 5Q. 60, 64; 267 pp. 227, 228. 268 Meade, Vol. II, p. 243. 269 Custis, p. 75. 270 Sparks, Vol. XII, pp. 65, 74. 271 Custis, p. 78. 272 Green, p. 157; ^73 p. 614; "« p. 615. 275 Baker: After the Revolution, p. 368. 276 Eulogies and Orations, p. 258. 277 Johnston, p. 121. 278Pryor, p.351. 279 M'Guire, p. 154; 28o p. 154. 281 Meade, Vol. II, p. 246. 282 Walter, p. 233. 283 Lossing: Mary and Martha, p. 324. «84 Sparks, Vol. I, p. 558. 285 Weems, p. 168. 286 M'Guire, p. 344. 287 Weems, p. 169. 288 Hough, Vol. I, p. 17. 289 Weems, p. 170. Washmgton died between ten and eleven o'clock Saturday night, December 14, 1799, in the 68th year of his age. 290 Sparks, Vol. I, p. 529. 291 Custis, p. 477. 285 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN 2»2Lossing: Mary and Martha, p. 327. "3 Custis, p. 509; 294 p. 513. Mrs. Washington died Saturday evening, May 22, 1802. 295 Ramsay, p. 361. 296 Ramsay, p. 358; 297 p. 352; 298 p^ 353 299 Sparks, Vol. XII, pp. 405-407; ^oo p. 497; soi p^ 407-8. «02 Littell, p. 14. »03 Meade, Vol. II, p. 243. 30^ Eulogies and Orations, p. 17; ^os p. 37. 306 p^ ^92; »07 p. 279; 308 p. 91; 309 p, 233. 310 p, 199. *^^ Baker: Character Portraits, p. 114 — Timothy D wight, D.D., President of Yale College, in Discourse on the Character of Washington, February 22, 1800. 312 M*Guire, p. 393. 313 Baker: Early Sketches, p. 27. 314 Baker: Early Sketches, p. 74. 315 Tribune, p. 7, quoted by Reverend Doctor Ran- dolph H. McKim;3i6p. 7. 317 Tribune, p. 7, Letter by R. C. L. Vigelius. 318 Baker: Character Portraits, p. 284 — Lecture by Theodore Parker, 1858. 319 Kirkland, p. 480. 320 Weems, p. 62. 321 Bancroft (Aaron), p. 538. 322 Edmonds, Vol. II, p. 304. 323 Marshall, Vol. II, p. 445. 324 Bancroft (George), Vol. VII, p. 398. 325 Sparks, Vol. I, p. 535. 326 Sparks, Vol. XII, p. 411. 286 WHERE FOUND 327 Ramsay, p. 331. 328 Paulding, Vol. II, p. 208; 329 p. 210. 330 Trevelyan, Vol. Ill, p. 308; 33i p, 310. 332 Lodge, Vol. II, p. 387. 333 Weems, p. 174. 287 NAMES OF THE DEITY The terms one uses in referring to the Deity are an indication of his rehgious thinking, and of his con- ception of God and his attributes. In the quota- tions found in this book, Washington uses no less than fifty -four designations. In the following list are twenty-six more, which are found in his writings, but not quoted in this volume. The page on which the name first occurs is given. Almighty. Almighty Being, 161. Almighty Father, 126. Almighty God, 81. Almighty Ruler of the Universe, 113. All-Kind Providence. All-Powerful Guide, 150. All-Powerful Providence, 47. All-Wise Dispenser of Events, 70. All- Wise Disposer of Events, 70. All- Wise and Powerful Being, 111. Author of All Good, 114. Author of Blessings, 216. Being, 72. Beloved Son, 127. Beneficent Author of All Good, 173. 288 NAMES OF THE DEITY Beneficent Being. Benign Parent of the Human Race, 162. Bountiful Providence, 119. Creator, 172. Deity, 165. Dispenser of Human Events, 150. Divine Author of Life and FeHcity, 225. Divine Author of Our Blessed Religion, 141. Divine Author of the Universe. Divine Beneficence, 215. Divine Blessing. Divine Goodness, 113. Divine Government, 133. Divine Providence, 164. Giver of Life, 227. Giver of Victory, 81. God, 39. God of Armies, 144. Good Providence, 172. Gracious and Beneficent Being. Gracious God. Gracious Providence. Grand Architect of the Universe. Great Arbiter of the Universe. Great Author of All the Care and Good, 114. Great Director of Events. Great Disposer of Events. Great Father of the Universe. Great and Glorious Being, 173. 289 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN Great and Good Being, 111 Great Governor of the Universe, 164. Great Power. Great Ruler of Events. Great Ruler of Nations, 216. Great Searcher of Human Hearts. Heaven, 69. Heavenly Preserver, 125. Jehovah. Kind Providence, 226. Lord, 81. Lord and Giver of All Victory, 77. Lord of Hosts, 77. Lord and Ruler of Nations, 174. Maker. Most Gracious Being, 158. Omnipotent Being, 155. Overruling Providence. Parent of the Universe. Power. Providence, 39. Revelation, Pure and Benign Light of, 140. Ruler of the Universe, 220. Source of Blessings. 290 NAMES OF THE DEITY Sovereign Arbiter of the United States, 221, Superintending Providence. Supreme Architect. Supreme Author of All Good, 112. Supreme Being, 82. Supreme Dispenser of Every Good. Supreme Ruler of Nations, 214. Supreme Ruler of the Universe, 171. Wise Disposer of Events. Wonder- Working Deity. 291 INDEX Abercrombie, the Rev. Dr., 196 Abraham and Washington, 258 Adams, John, letter of, 65; at inauguration, 159; let- ter to, 226 Address, farewell to army, 143 Address, first inaugural, 161 Address of Philadelphia cler- gy, 221, 222 Address to Baptist churches, 164 Address to city officials of Philadelphia, 158 Address to Congress, Prince- ton, New Jersey, 141 Address to Methodist Epis- copal Church, 163 Address to Philadelphia cler- gy. 224 Address to Presbyterian church, 167 Address to Protestant Epis- copal church, 169 Address to the United Breth- ren, 168 Adopted son, letter to, 219; another letter, 221 Alexandria, Virginia, Christ Church, 54, 59, 63, 149, 154, 185, 193, 226, 227, 243 All-wise Disposer of events, 70 Ancestry, Christian, 16 Apple orchard, communion service in, 89 Appleton, the Rev. Dr. Na- thaniel, 74 Arnold, Benedict, instruc- tions to, 70 Ball, grandfather, 17 Bancroft, Aaron, judgment of, 260 Bancroft, George, judgment of, 260 Baptism, 18 Baptist churches, address to, 164 Bard, Dr. Samuel, physician, 171 Beaver, Devault, testimony of, 104 Berrian, the Rev. Dr., letter of, 188 Bible, birth record, 18; in- struction in, 19; reads Sunday afternoon, 149; at inauguration, 159; reads Sunday evenings, 185, 191; open on chair, 198; private devotions, 229; gift in will, 237 Bibles, buys for stepchildren, 48 Blair, the Rev. Mr., chap- lain, preaches, 132 Blessing at table, 198 Boucher, the Rev. Jonathan, testimony of, 256 Brackett, Charlotte Morrell, testimony of, 95 Braddock, General, offers . command, 39; funeral, 40 Brother, letter to, 40; death of, 227 Buckminster, the Rev. Jo- seph, heard preach, 176; letter to, 178 Burgoyne's defeat, 100 Burk, the Rev. W. Herbert, gives permission, 24 292 INDEX Canada, message to, 72 Chaplain, asks for, 45 Chaplains, commends, 138 Chapman, the Rev. George Thomas, statement by, 187 Character sketch, 120 "Charity, example of Chris- tian," 108 Charity, to the poor, 72; gift to, 211; bequest, 240 Chatterton Hill, battle of, 84 Children, adopts, 134 Christ Church, Alexandria, Virginia; see "Alexandria, Virginia" Christ Church, Cambridge, Massachusetts, 74 Christ Church, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, attends, 66, 152; pew in, 191, 192, 193 Christian above patriot, 112 Christian, letter of Nelly Custis, 243 Christian soldier, 83 Christmas, poem, 21; at church, 146 Church attendance, 39, 55, 57. 62, 63, 66, 74, 120, 134, 146, 149, 150, 151, 152, 154, 155, 160, 185, 190, 191, 201, 226, 243 Church attendance at home, 153 Church attendance in Phila- delphia, 190, 191 Church, attends at inaugura- tion, 160 Church building committee, member of. Falls Church, 53; chairman, Payne's Church, 54; chairman, Po- hick Church, 55 Church, Christmas at, 146 Church, goes to, 152 Church, going in family coach, 60 Church, his custom to at- tend, 39, 184, 194, 243 Church, not kept from by company, 56 Church, member of, 148 Church membership of par- ents, 18 Church of England, parents members of, 18; subscribes to doctrine and discipline, 50 Church, Falls, 53 Church, panic in, 154 Church, Payne's, 53 Church, Pohick, 54 Church, Pope's Creek, 19 Church, Saint Peter's, Kent County, Virginia, 48 Church, Saint Peter's, Phila- delphia, 66, 192 Church subscriptions, 185 Church, Trumbull attends with Washington, 134 Church, Washington at, in Philadelphia, 193; in Alex- andria, 228 Churchman, claimed to be, 249 Clergy, address of, 221, 222 Clergy, regard for, 139 Communicant, 55, 57, 187 Communion, partook regu- larly, 58; attends at Mor- ristown. New Jersey, 85; withdraws from, 96; par- takes of, 194; always be- fore Revolution, 244 Confirmed, not, 58 Congregational Church, at- tends, 74, 176 Congress, speech to, 217; last speech to, 220 Conscience, rights of, 70 Constitutional convention, president of, 152 Contemplations: Moral and Divine, 19 ^93 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN Cornwallis' surrender, 134 Coulton, Asa A., testimony of, 90 Court-martial at battle of Monmouth, 117 Coxe, the Rev. Samuel H., testimony of, 86 Craik, Dr., family physician, 41, 152, 232 Credit, takes none to himself, I 158 Custis, Eleanor Parke(Nelly), adopts, 135; letter by, 242 Custis, George Washington Parke, adopts, 135; letters to, 220, 221 Custis, John Parke, stepson, Bible bought for, 48; cate- chism taught, 55; death, 134, 244 Custis, Martha Parke, step- daughter, Bible bought for, 48; catechism taught, 55; death, 60, 244 Custis, Mrs. Martha, letter to, 47; marriage, 48 Daily sacrifice, 23 Davidson, the Rev. Dr., 214 Davis, the Rev. Thomas, 185 Death of a child, letter of sympathy, 201 Decision to fight, 63 Diary, extracts from, 51, 52, 57, 62, 66, 150, 151, 152, 154, 155, 156, 175, 176, 178, 180, 181, 182, 183, 201, 214, 226 Dinwiddle, Governor, com- missions Washington, 36; letter to, 44; asks for chap- lain, 45 Die, not afraid to, 232 Die easier, 233 Dies hard, 232 Dispenser of human events, 150 Divine service, orders army to attend, 69, 70; not to be omitted, 99; every Sunday, 112; regular attendant, 131; open-air service, 132; every Sunday, 138 Divine will, submission to, 234 Doctrine, approbation of, 179 Doremus, Cornelius, another witness, 131 Dream, impressed by, 231 Drinking, discountenanced, 43; punished, 44; forbid- den, 69; discouraged, 136 Duche, the Rev. John, 63, 64 Dudley, Dorothy, diary, 74 Dunham, Captain Josiah, testimony of, 253 Dutch Reformed Church, at- tends, 201 Dwight, President Timothy, testimony of, 255 Dying, wished to be alone, 233 Dying words, 233, 234 Edmonds, Cyrus R., judg- ment of, 260 Education, donation for, 212; bequest for, 240 Eliot, Rev. Dr. Andrew, 78 Emerson, Rev. William, 69 Episcopal Church, predom- inated, 49; at Alexandria, Va., 54 Evans, the Rev. Israel, chap- lain, acknowledges receipt of sermon, 110; devotion in death, 259 Fairfax, Mr., quoted, 37 Falls Church, Virginia, 53; does not forget, 149 Farewell address, 143 Fast day, ordered, 77, 111 Fast, observance of, 81 294 INDEX Fasting, 61 Father, George's, 18 Fiancee, letter to, 47 Field, the Rev. D. D., testi- mony of, 130 First Continental Congress, prayer, 63 Fort Necessity, prayer at, 37 Fredericksburg, Virginia, mother's home, 21, 154, 156 Funeral, conducts Brad- dock's, 40 Gambling, discouraged, 42; punished, 72; condemned, 76; not allowed, 80; forbid- den, 98 God, forsakes not house of, 226 God, trust in, 39; on our side," 68; alone able to protect, 210; trusts for guidance, 210; knows best, 214 Godfather, 21 Grace, at table, 58; at state dinner, 162; always, 198; at Mount Vernon, 230 Great Meadows, 36, 39 Great Spirit protects him 41 Green, the Rev. Dr. Ashabel, chaplain, 199; writes ad- dress, 221, 247 Griffith, the Rev. David, 146 Hamilton, Alexander, testi- mony of, 116; Washing- ton's habit of prayer, 131 Harrison, Judge, testimony oU 132 . ^^^ High priest of the nation, 219 Honest man, 155 Hospitality to the poor, 70 Hunter, the Rev. Mr., ser- mon^ 113 Inauguration, 159 Indian chief, testimony of, 40 Indians, tradition of New York, 258 Infidel, worse than, 119 Jarrett, the Rev. Devereux, testimony of, 256 Johnes, John B., M.D., 94 Johnes, the Rev. Timothy, 86 Johnes, William, 90 Just, believes cause, 81 Kirkland, the Rev. John Thornton, testimony of, 252 ^ -r X Kirtland, the Rev. O. L., tes- timony of, 93 Knox, General, a witness, 106, 202 Lafayette, letter to, 153, 201 Lear, Tobias, private secre- tary, 203, 233, 235 Lee, General, at battle of Monmouth, 115 Lee, Major-General Henry, testimony of, 250 Leonard, the Rev. Abiel, 74. 78 Letter to his fiancee, 47 Levingston, the Rev. Brock- hoist, 183 Lewis, Laurence, nephew, 208 Lewis, Robert, nephew and private secretary, 89, 208; letter to, 226; testimony of, 246 Lincoln, Abraham, 219 Livingston, Chancellor, 160 Lodge, Henry Cabot, quoted, 17; opinion of, 267 Lord's Supper, the scene, 92 Lossing, Benson J., account of, 103 .... J Lynch, John, church attend- ance, 149 ^95 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN Madison, President, testi- mony of, 257 Marriage, 48 McGuire, the Rev. E. C, statement of, 57; commun- ion, 89; prayer at former's home, 122; testimony of, 190, 191, 207, 228 Marshall, General, testimony of, 116 Marshall, John, judgment of, 260 Mason, the Rev. John M., testimony of, 254 Massey, the Rev. Lee, testi- mony of, 56 Meade, Bishop, testimony of, 188; Washington with- draws from communion, 195; comment, 196; com- ment on swearing, 207 Message, valedictory, 139 Methodist Episcopal Church, address to, 163 Miller, Peter, visits Wash- ington, 109 Ministers, entertains, 150 Ministry, supporting the, 147 Miracles, not waiting for, 138 Monmouth, battle of, 115 Morals, irreproachable, 120 Morristown, N. J., commun- ion service, 85 Mossora, the Rev. David, 48 Mother, character, 17; reads to children, 19; religious teaching, 21; advises secret prayer, 36; opposes going to war, 39; last visit to, 156; death, 172 Mount Vernon, goes to, 21; residence, 48; visited twice during war, 146 Muir, the Rev. James, 212 New England, visits, 175 New York, residence, 159 Ogden, the Rev., 176 Omnipotent Being never de- serted America, 155 Open-air service, 132 Order to army, first general, 69 Orphan school, donation to, 212 Parker, Dr. Samuel, 176 Paulding, James K., state- ment of, 263 Payne's church, 53 Pew, Alexandria, Virginia, 60, 147; Saint Paul's, New York, 189; Christ Church, Philadelphia, 191, 192; Po- hick, 243 Pinckney, General C. C, tes- timony of, 116 Poem on " Christmas Day," 21 Pohick Church, vestry book, 49; place of worship, 54; attends again, 151; again, 154; again, 156 Pond, the Rev. Enoch, 176 Poor, hospitality to, 72 Pope's Creek Church, 19 Popham, Major, testimony of, 188; letter of, 189 Porterfield, General Robert testimony of, 130; saw take communion, 194; did not swear, 208 Potts, Isaac, heard prayer, 102 Prayerbook, instruction in, 19 Prayerbooks, buys, 148 Prayer, another instance, 128; heard at, 130; saw him on his knees, 130; another witness, 131 Prayer at farmer's house, 122 Prayer at Valley Forge, 102 Prayer before battle, 84 296 INDEX Prayer, daily, 59, 131 Prayer, Independence born of, 107 Prayer, kneels, 63, 65 Prayer, private, 36, 197, 229, 244 Prayer, secret, advised by mother, 36 Prayer, Mrs. Washington in, 234 Prayers at Fort Necessity, 36 Prayers in army every morn- ing, 69 Prayers, family, 148 Prayers, stood during, 55 Prayers, Washington's, 23 Prays at bedside of step- daughter, 60, 244 Presbyterian Church, at- tends, 66; communion, 86; attends, 89; sends address, 166; receives address, 167; orphan school, 212; at- tends, 214 Protestant Episcopal Church, member of, 148; address to, 169 Providence, protection of, 44; finger of, 76; special, 77; interposition of, 80; mark of, 98; signal stroke of, 100; superintending, 101; protection of, 113; never-failing, 119; only de- pendence, 133; hand of rec- ognized, 133; belief in over- ruling, 135; under control of, 142; continued protec- tion of, 153 Provoost, Bishop Samuel, 160, 182, 186 Public worship, deportment, 55, 56, 190, 192, 193; at- tends, 66; attitude, 75; stands, 96, 243 Putnam, General, sympathy for, 100 Quaker meeting, attends, 66 Quarreling and fighting pun- ished, 44 Ramsey, Hon. David, testi- mony of, 253; verdict, 262 Religion indispensable, 217 Religion, toleration in, 153 Religious disputes, depre- cates, 211 Religious service in army conducted, 47 Religious teaching, 19 Resigns his commission, 144 Richards, the Rev. James, testimony of, 91 Right always, 67 Rights of conscience, 71 Right vs. popularity, 155 Romish Church, attends, 152 Rules, Washington's, 20 Sabbath observance, 149, 177, 184, 191, 258 St. Clair, General, 203, 206 Saint Paul's Chapel, New York, attends, 160, 175, 178, 180, 181, 182. 183, 186, 189 Saint Peter's Episcopal Church, New Kent Coun- ty, Virginia, 48 Saint Peter's Episcopal Church, Philadelphia, at- tends, 66, 192 Scott, General Charles, state- ment of, 118 Seabury, the Rev. Dr. Sam- uel, bishop, 58 Sermon, asks for, 78; ac- knowledges receipt of, 110, 178; heard "lame" dis- courses, 176; language not understood, 201; political sermon, 214 Sewall, Jonathan Mitchell, testimony of, 251 297 GEORGE WASHINGTON THE CHRISTIAN Sickness, 171 Slavery, wants it abolished, 151 Slaves, will not sell, 226; re- lease in will, 237; provides freedom, 238 Smith, Jeremiah, testimony of, 254 Snowden, the Rev. James Ross, testimony of, 105 Sparks, Jared, letter to, 242; judgment of, 261 Sunday, how spent, 149 Sunday in Boston, Mass., 176 Sunday in Connecticut, 176; halted by officer, 176 Sunday in Portsmouth, N. H., 176 Sunday visiting, no, 184, 191 Sundays at home, 177 Sundays away from home, 175 Supreme Being, relies upon, 82 Swear, did Washington, 203; statement of private secre- tary, 203; Bishop Meade's comment, 207; testimony of nephews, 207; testimony of General Porterfield, 208 Swearing, discountenanced, 43; punished, 44; forbid- den, 69; condemned, 83; rebukes, 209 Swift, General Joseph G., testimony of, 115 Temperance, personal hab- its, 199; views, 200 Thacher, the Rev. Peter, ser- mon, 176 Thanks God, 141 Thanksgiving after Corn- wallis' surrender, 134 Thanksgiving day, observes, 217 Thanksgiving, first national, 172; second national, 215 Thanksgiving for treaty of peace, 143; for end of war, 144 Thanksgiving and praise or- dered, 101 Thanksgiving sermon, asks for, 78 Thanksgiving service, ac- count of, 76 Thanksgiving service, at- tends, 78 Trevelyan, Sir George Otto, opinion of, 265 Trinity Episcopal Church, New York, prayer for king to be omitted, 80; attends consecration, 182, 183. 186, 187 Trumbull, speaker, 185, 191 Trumbull, Governor Jona- than, attends church with, 134 Truro parish, 17, 49. 52, 53, 59, 243 United Brethren, address to, 168 Upham, Professor S. F.. quoted, 23 Valedictory message, 139 Valley Forge, prayer at, 102 Vestryman, elected, 49; re- signed, 52 Vestry meetings, 50 Vice and immorality discour- aged, 98 Warden, a church, 52 Warner, great-grandfather, 17 Washington, Augustine, fa- ther, 17; instructs George 18; death, 18 Washington, Augustine, half- brother, 19 ^98 i INDEX Washington, Bushrod, neph- ew, testimony of, 258 Washington, John, great- grandfather, 16 Washington, Lawrence, grandfather, 16 Washington, Lawrence, brother, 21; visits West Indies, 22; son-in-law of Mr. Fairfax, 38 Washington, Lund, business agent, 73 Washington, Mary Ball, mother, 17 Washington, Martha, wife, married, 48; always sym- pathized with husband, 67; letters to, 68; asks church be prepared for services, 75; attends church at Cam- bridge, 75; at son's death; 135; goes to New York, 162; attends consecration of Trinity Church, 182; in prayer, 234; at husband's deathbed, 235; daily devo- tions, 235; death, 236; very pious, 243-245. Washington, the Rev. Law- rence, great-great-grand- father, 16 Wellington, Duke of, quoted, 269 West Indies, trip to, 22 "Whiskey Rebellion," 214 White, Bishop William, preaches, 152; statement of, 191, 193, 196; letter, 246 Wife, letters to, 68 Will, Washington's, 237 Winthrop, Robert C, testi- mony of, 257 Wylie, the Rev. T. W. J., tes- timony of, 105 «99 fA9 -• <» V* -/ i \b !^> 4^ ,% V c^ . ^- -^^ .^J^% "% >* c A v" ,• *- ^^ :: ''&''^ - ^!U^^y\-^tf* • <». '•••■ ^^ 4° c° .w; ,^ 4'' 'V . » • o ^^' i°-n^. ^^^' ■<$:-<> > 0^ ..', V ... % <5> ¥-. ■'•^^0^ ^^ .- .♦^^-^. '- -/-'^kX <^^yJ