Part II:

The Real George Washington,

The Real George Washington, p.825

WASHINGTON (George), His Activities in Retirement.—For myself, having turned aside from the broad walks of political [life] into the narrow paths of private life, I shall leave it with those whose duty it is to consider subjects of this sort [i.e., public affairs], and (as every good citizen ought to do) conform to whatsoever the ruling powers shall decide. To make and sell a little flour annually, to repair houses (going fast to ruin), to build one for the security of my papers of a public nature, and to amuse myself in agricultural and rural pursuits will constitute employment for the few years I have to remain on this terrestrial globe. If, [in addition] to these, I could now and then meet the friends I esteem, it would fill the measure and add zest to my enjoyments; but, if ever this happens, it must be under my own vine and fig tree.—To Oliver Wolcott. Fitzpatrick 35:447. (1797.)