S6 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE OF THE [1782 



To the gentlemen who moved the matter, and to the Assembly for 

 adopting it, I am much indebted for the honor conferred on me, by- 

 giving my name to the College at Chester. At the same time that I 

 acknowledge the honor, I feel a grateful sensibility for the manner of 

 bestowing it ; which, as it will remain a monument of their esteem, can- 

 not but make a deep impression on my mind, only to be exceeded by the 

 flattering assurance of the lasting and extensive usefulness of the Seminary. 



If the trifling sum of Fifty Guineas will be considered as an Earnest 

 of my wishes for the prosperity of this Seminary, I shall be ready to pay 

 that sum to the order of the Visitors, whenever it is their pleasure to call 

 for it — It is too trifling to stand in any other point of view — nor would 

 I wish it to do so. 



With much pleasure should I consent to have my name enrolled 

 among the worthy Visitors and Governors of this College; but con- 

 vinced as I am that it will never be in my power to give the attendance 

 which by law is required, my name could only be inserted to the exclu- 

 sion of some other, whose abilities and proximity might enable him to 

 become a more useful member. 



When that period shall arrive when v/e can hail the blest return of 

 peace, it will add to my pleasure, to see this infant seat of learning 

 rising into consistency and proficiency in the sciences, under the 

 nurturing hands of its founders. 



I have the honor to be. Reverend Sir, 



Your most obedient Servant, 



George Washington. 

 To THE Rev. Dr. Smith, at Chester, in Kent County, Maryland. 



The following proceedings in the House of Delegates, of Mary- 

 land, November 27th, 1782, will conclude our narrative of the 

 establishment by Dr. Smith of Washington College ; a narrative 

 somewhat long we fear, but necessary fully to exhibit the abilities 

 of Dr. Smith and his undisturbed equanimity and courage under 

 trials and adversities, which would have driven most men into 

 despondency or recklessness: 



The Address in behalf of the Visitors and Governors of Washington 

 College and their Declaration of Trust, with the list of subscriptions 

 towards founding and supporting the said College, and copies of the 

 letter from the Visitors of Kent County School, to his Excellency 

 General Washington, and his answer, being read. 



Resolved, That- the Visitors of Kent County School have exerted 

 themselves with a laudable diligence and address in the execution of the 

 trust committed to them for founding the said College. 



Resolved, That the numerous subscribers towards founding this Col- 



