My movements to the chair of Government will be accompanied by feelings not unlike those of a culprit, who is going to the place of his execution: so unwilling am I, in the evening of a life nearly consumed in public cares, to quit a peaceful abode for an Ocean of difficulties, without that competency of political skill, abilities, and inclination, which is necessary to manage the helm.

George Washington (1732–1799) American military leader, Founding Father, US President (1789–1797)

Letter to Henry Knox (1 Apr 1789)

To the Acting Secretary of War, just prior to Washington's assuming the Presidency.