especially, who led our armies, will that aspect belong; and
it is not in nature for one with my feelings to revere the
Revolution, without including him who stood foremost in its
establishment.

Every insinuation that taught me to believe I had forfeited
the good-will of that personage, to whom the world had
agreed to ascribe the appellation of good and great, must
needs give me pain; particularly as he had opportunities of
knowing my character both in public and in private life. The
intimation now given me, that there was no ground to believe
I had incurred his censure, gives very great pleasure.

Since the adoption of the present Constitution, I have
generally moved in a narrow circle. But in that I have never
omitted to inculcate a strict adherence to the principles of
it. And I have the satisfaction to think, that in no part of
the Union have the laws been more pointedly obeyed, than in
that where I have resided and spent my time. Projects,
indeed, of a contrary tendency have been hinted to me; but
the treatment of the projectors has been such as to prevent
all intercourse with them for a long time. Although a
democrat myself, I like not the late democratic societies.
As little do I like their suppression by law. Silly things
may amuse for awhile, but in a little time men will perceive
their delusions. The way to preserve in men's minds a value
for them, is to enact laws against them.

My present views are to spend my days in privacy. If,
however, it shall please God, during my life, so to order
the course of events as to render my feeble efforts
necessary for the safety of the country, in any, even the
smallest degree, that little which I can do shall be done.
Whenever you may have an opportunity, I shall be much
obliged by your presenting my best respects and duty to the
President, assuring him of my gratitude for his favorable
sentiments towards me.

Be assured, my dear sir, of the esteem and regard with which
I am yours, etc.,

PATRICK HENRY.[458]

After seeing this letter, Washington took an opportunity to convey to
Patrick Henry a strong practical proof of his confidence in him, and
of his cordial friendship. The office of secretary of state having
become vacant, Washington thus ten