In later years, when Giles's opinions had been modified by experience and reflection, he regretted his attitude towards Washington.

It is due to Giles to say that he did not stab in the dark.

He had qualities of character that under better constitutional arrangements would have invigorated the functions of the House as an organ of control, but at that time, with the separation that had been introduced between the House and the Administration, his energy was mischievous and his intrepidity was a misfortune to himself and to his party.
Washington's term dragged to its close like so much slow torture.

Others might resign, but he had to stand at his post until the end, and it was a happy day for him when he got his discharge.

His elation was so manifest that it was noticed by John Adams.