The extract from Mr. Higgenson’s letter, which you were so obliging as to send me, places the proceedings of the town of Boston in a different point of view than might have been entertained from the resolutions wch. were sent to me by Express, accompanied with a letter from the Selectmen of that place. But (much indeed to be regretted!) party disputes are now carried to that length, and truth is so enveloped in mist, and false representation that it is extremely difficult to know through what channel to seek it. This difficulty to one, who is of no party, and whose sole wish is to pursue, with undeviating steps a path which would lead this Country to respectability, wealth and happiness is exceedingly to be lamented. But such (for wise purposes it is presumed) is the turbulence of human passions in party disputes; when victory, more than truth, is the palm contended for, “that the Post of honor is a private Station.” With much esteem & regard I am—Affectly yours

G:^o Washington