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.