George Washington: “I will proceed to take measures for the ransom of our citizens in captivity at Algiers.”

A good government must be founded on the principle of justice and liberty for all its citizens.

I have finally determined to accept the commission of Commander in Chief of the armies of the United States.

I must not conceal from you my earnest wish that the choice had fallen upon a man less declined in years and better qualified to encounter the usual vicissitudes of war.

I can not express how greatly affected I am at this new proof of public confidence.