The members of the Congress, although they were ostensibly devoting themselves to the common affairs of the United Colonies, were really intriguing each for the interests of his special colony or section.

Washington thought this an ominous sign, as indeed it was, for since the moment when he joined the Revolution he threw off all local affiliation.

He did his utmost to perform his duty, clinging as long as he could to the hope that there would be no final break with England.

Throughout the winter, however, from almost every part of the country the demands of the Colonists for independence became louder and more urgent and these he heard repeated and discussed during his visit to the Congress.

On May 31st he wrote his brother John Augustine Washington: Things have come to that pass now, as to convince us, that we have nothing more to expect from the justice of Great Britain; also, that she is capable of the most delusive acts; for I am satisfied, that no commissioners ever were designed, except Hessians and other foreigners; and that the idea was only to deceive and throw us off our guard.