I must add, that no man possesses a more sincere wish to see ample justice done to the army than I do; and, as far as my powers and influence, in a constitutional way, extend, they shall be employed to the extent of my abilities to effect it, should there be any occasion.

Let me conjure you, then, if you have any regard for your country, concern for yourself or posterity, or respect for me, to banish these thoughts from your mind and never communicate, as from yourself to any one else, a sentiment of the like nature.[1] [Footnote 1: Sparks, 355.] The turmoil of the army continued throughout the year and into the next.

The so-called "Newburgh Address" set forth the quarrel of the soldiers and Washington's discreet reply.

On April 19, 1783, the eighth anniversary of the first fighting at Concord, a proclamation was issued to the American army announcing the official end of all hostilities.

In June Washington issued a circular letter to the Governors of the States, bidding them farewell and urging them to guard their precious country.