Sir,

On the 8^th. inst: I received the favor of your letter of the 30^th. of May: In answer to it I can only say, that your own good judgment must direct you in the publication of the manuscript papers of Genl. Lee.* I can have no request to make concerning the work.

I never had a difference with that Gentleman but on public grounds, and my conduct towards him upon this occasion, was such only, as I conceived myself indispensably bound to adopt in discharge of the public trust reposed in me. If this produced in him unfavourable sentiments of me, I yet can never consider the conduct I pursued, with respect to him, either wrong or improper; however I may regret that it may have been differently viewed by him, and that it excited his censure and animadversions. Should there appear in Genl. Lee’s writings any thing injurious or unfriendly to me, the impartial and dispassionate world, must decide how far I deserved it from the general tenor of my conduct.

I am gliding down the stream of life, and wish as is natural, that my remaining Days may be undisturbed and tranquil; and conscious of my integrity, I would willingly hope that nothing would occur tending to give me anxiety; but should any thing present itself in this or any other publication, I shall never undertake the painful task of recrimination, nor do I know that I should ever enter upon my justification. I consider the communication you have made as a mark of great attention, and the whole of your letter as a proof of your esteem. I am, &c.

G:^o Washington