"From the instant of our parting, Gentlemen, I have been eagerly looking
forward to this period. How far my pleasure is completed by your kind
welcome, I leave, my beloved friends, to your own hearts to determine.

"While your affection and confidence ever made me happy, let me gratefully
acknowledge, that, for the marks of our beloved General's approbation, I
felt myself wholly obliged to the gallant troops I commanded. Could my
conduct, in any degree justify your partiality, it will be the pride of my
heart to think the American camp was my school, every one of you my
brothers, and that I was adopted as a disciple and son, by our immortal
Commander in Chief.

"In the interposition of my Sovereign and nation, I enjoyed more than I
could express; every French citizen felt with a patriotic King in this
happy alliance; and from those troops who shared in our dangers, you meet
with a peculiar regard and attachment.

"During my absence, gentlemen, my heart has been constantly with you. As an
army, we are separated. But forever, I hope, shall unite in a brotherly
affection: and now that a glorious peace has terminated your labours, I
rejoice to find your attachment to those principles for which you have
conquered, ranks you among the most virtuous citizens of the Commonwealth.

"LAFAYETTE."

At the public dinner given by the officers of the late army to this
distinguished friend of American Independence, were also invited the
Governor and Council, and many others of high rank and distinction. It may
be gratifying to some who peruse this volume to know the sentiments offered