I can not, in justice to my own
belief, and what I have great reason to conceive is the intention
of Congress, conclude this address, without giving it as my decided
opinion that that honorable body entertains exalted sentiments of the
services of the army, and, from a full conviction of its merits
and sufferings, will do it complete justice; that their endeavors
to discover and establish funds for this purpose have been
unwearied, and will not cease till they have succeeded, I have not
a doubt. But, like all other large bodies, where there is a variety
of different interests to reconcile, their determinations are slow.
Why, then, should we distrust them, and, in consequence of that
distrust, adopt measures which may cast a shade over that glory
which has been so justly acquired, and tarnish the reputation of an
army which is celebrated through all Europe for its fortitude and
patriotism? And for what is this done? To bring the object we seek
nearer? No; most certainly, in my opinion, it will cast it at a
greater distance. For myself (and I take no merit in giving the
assurance, being induced to it from principles of gratitude,
veracity, and justice, a grateful sense of the confidence you have
ever placed in me), a recollection of the cheerful assistance and
prompt obedience I have experienced from you under every
vicissitude of fortune, and the sincere affection I feel for an
army I have so long had the honor to command, will oblige me to
declare, in this public and solemn manner, that in the attainment
of complete justice for all your toils and dangers, and in the
gratification of every wish, so far as may be done consistently
with the great duty I owe my country; and those powers we are bound
to respect, you may freely command my services to the utmost extent
of my abilities.

"While I give you these assurances, and pledge myself in the most
unequivocal manner to exert whatever ability I am possessed of in
your favor, let me entreat you, gentlemen, on your part, not to
take any measures, which, viewed in the calm light of reason, will
lessen the dignity and sully the glory you have hitherto
maintained. Let me request you to rely on the plighted faith of
your country, and place a full confidence in the purity of the
intentions of Congress,