derive from the most unequivocal assurances of my standing in the
place of, and becoming to him, a father, friend, protector, and
supporter. But, secondly, for prudential motives, as they relate to
myself, his mother and friends whom he has left behind, and to my
official character, it would be best not to make these sentiments
public; and of course it would be ineligible that he should come to
the seat of the general government, where all the foreign
characters (particularly those of his own nation) are residents,
until it is seen what opinions will be excited by his arrival;
especially, too, as I shall be necessarily absent five or six weeks
from it, on business in several places. Thirdly, considering how
important it is to avoid idleness and dissipation, to improve his
mind, and to give him all the advantages which education can
bestow, my opinion and my advice to him are, if he is qualified for
admission, that he should enter as a student in the university in
Cambridge, although it should be for a short time only; the expense
of which, as also for every other means for his support, I will
pay.... Let me pray you, my dear sir, to impress upon young
Lafayette's mind, and indeed upon that of his tutor, that the
reasons why I do not urge him to come to me have been frankly
related, and that their prudence must appreciate them with caution.
My friendship for his father, so far from being diminished, has
increased in the ratio of his misfortunes; and my inclination to
serve the son will be evidenced by my conduct."

General Knox, then in Boston, took much interest in the young
Lafayette. In a letter to Washington, on the twenty-first of September,
he said, "He goes by the name of Motier [a family name of his father],
concealing his real name, lest some injury should arise to his mother,
or to a young Mr. Russell of this town, now in France, who assisted in
his escape." Knox spoke of the exile as "a lovely young man, of
excellent morals and conduct."

Mr. Cabot readily undertook the duty solicited by Washington. He found
Lafayette and his tutor in much perplexity. The attempt at concealment
was futile. "Already M. Motier is known to too many persons," wrote Mr.
Cabot, "and a public festival announced by the French consul for Monday
next, at which all their citizens in this vicinity are expected to
attend,