The New Hampshire Gazette And General Advertiser

PHILADELPHIA. December 7.

Yesterday the SPEAKER, accompanied by several MEMBERS of the House of Assembly, waited on his Excellency General Washington; and presented the following ADDRESS.

To His Excellency GEORGE WASHINGTON, Esq. Commander in Chief of the Armies of the United States of America.

SIR,

The Representatives of the freemen of Pennsylvania, in general assembly met, wish to express their sincere joy on your Excellency's arrival in this city.

The very great events that have lately taken place in Virginia under your command, have fully justified the expectations formed by your country, of your abilities and patriotism; to add to her esteem for you was impossible.

Humbly depending on the protection of Providence, we entertain the strongest hopes, and your distinguished qualities---the wise and generous exertions of our illustrious Ally--the glorious behaviour of his forces, and the gallantry and good conduct of the American armies, will bring the present contest to such a conclusion, as will establish the freedom, independence, and prosperity of the United States on a permanent foundation.

That, amidst the public happiness, to which you have so eminently contributed, and the grateful praises and affections which you have so well deserved, you may enjoy every private felicity, is one of the first and warmest wishes of our hearts.

(Copy.) Signed by order of the House,

FREDERICK A. MUHLENBERG, Speaker.

To which His Excellency was pleased to return the following ANSWER.

GENTLEMEN,

I esteem myself highly honored by the Address of so respectable a body as the Representatives of the freemen of Pennsylvania, in general assembly met. While I confess that it is extremely pleasing to me, to know that my conduct, in the late successful enterprise against the enemy in Virginia, meets the approbation of my fellow-citizens: I think it a duty incumbent upon me to declare, that great part of the merit of that important event, was owing to the assistance I received from the good conduct and bravery of the officers and men under my command.

The powerful succours which we received from the land and sea forces of our great, good and generous Ally, ought so, and I am sure does, make the most grateful impression upon the heart of every true American.

In return for your warm expressions of personal regard, permit me most sincerely to assure you that with nothing more ardently than the peace and prosperity of the state which you represent.

With all possible respect,

I am, Gentlemen,

Your most obedient servant,

(Signed.)

GEORGE WASHINGTON.

The honourable the Speaker, and Representatives of the freemen of the state of Pennsylvania, in general assembly met.

(Copy)