Declines accepting a donation made to him by his native state....

The society of the Cincinnati....

He is elected President....

The causes which led to a change of the government of the United States....

Circular letter of General Washington to the governors of the several states.
{1783 to 1787} [Sidenote: After retiring to private life, General Washington devotes his time to rural pursuits, to the duties of friendship, and to institutions of public utility.] When an individual, long in possession of great power, and almost unlimited influence, retires from office with alacrity, and resumes the character of a private citizen with pleasure, the mind is gratified in contemplating the example of virtuous moderation, and dwells upon it with approving satisfaction.