Under these circumstances, it will readily be perceived that I could not appear at the same time and place on any other occasion, without giving offence to a very respectable and deserving part of the community--the late officers of the American army." [Sidenote: Washington chosen one of them.] Notwithstanding this letter, the name of General Washington was not withdrawn, and he was unanimously chosen a member of the convention.
On receiving private information of this appointment, he addressed a second letter to his confidential friend, in which he detailed more at large, the motives which induced him to decline a service, the importance of which he felt sensibly, and which he would willingly have undertaken but for the peculiar circumstances which were stated.
His name, however, was continued in the appointment.

The gloomy aspect of affairs in the north rendered this the more necessary, and it was thus explained by his correspondent.

"I have considered well the circumstances which it (your letter) confidentially discloses, as well as those contained in your preceding favour.

The difficulties which they oppose to an acceptance of the appointment in which you are included, can as little be denied, as they can fail to be regretted.
But I still am inclined to think, that the posture of our affairs, if it should continue, would prevent any criticism on the situation which the contemporary meetings would place you in; and wish that at least a door could be kept open for your acceptance hereafter, in case the gathering clouds should become so dark and menacing as to supersede every consideration but that of our national existence or safety.

A suspense of your ultimate determination would be nowise inconvenient in a public view, as the executive are authorized to fill vacancies, and can fill them at any time; and in any event, three out of seven deputies are authorized to represent the state.