at once, with full
powers to plan and perform the expedition."

"And what are your wishes about the time of starting?" inquired
Washington.

"As soon as your preparations can be consummated," Governor Dinwiddie
answered. "Winter is near by, and the sooner you can start the better."

"I can be ready within a few days," replied Washington, his answer
furnishing a good illustration of his promptness.

"Just as you please; the whole responsibility is with you, and I will
forward your commission as soon as possible," the governor said.

We are able to furnish the commission under which Washington acted on
that important mission, as follows:

I, reposing especial trust in the ability, conduct, and fidelity
of you, the said George Washington, have appointed you my
express messenger; and you are hereby authorized and empowered
to proceed hence, with all convenient and possible despatch, to
that part or place on the River Ohio where the French have
lately erected a fort or forts, or where the commandant of the
French forces resides, in order to deliver my letter and message
to him; and, after waiting not exceeding one week for an answer,
you are to take leave and return immediately back.

To this commission I have set my hand, and caused the great seal
of this Dominion to be affixed, at the city of Williamsburg, the
seat of my government, this thirtieth day of October, in the
twenty-seventh year of the reign of King George the Second, King
of Great Britain, Annoque Domini, 1753. ROBERT DINWIDDIE.

The news of Washington's voluntary offer to act as commissioner to the
French on the Ohio was received with great satisfaction by the
Colonists. They took occasion both in public and private to extol his
bravery and unselfishness. To a less humble and modest young man the
enthusiastic demonstration in his honor would have proved too
flattering; but no amount of such praise could develop vanity in
Washington.

Hastily he prepared for the expedition. When ready to start, the company
consisted of eight persons, as follows: Washington; Christopher Gist;
John Davidson, an interpreter for the Indians; Jacob Van Braam, his old
fencing-master, who could speak French; Henry Steward and William
Jenkins, experienced "woodsmen;" and two Indian guides, Barnaby Currin
and John McQuire. Mr. Gist was eminently qualified for the post given to
him; for having made a settlement betw