George Washington actually said...

"this new state of things suggests the propriety of placing the United States in a posture of effectual preparation for an event which, notwithstanding the endeavors making to avert it, may by circumst..."

"Peace ought to be pursued with unremitted zeal before the last resource, which has so often been the scourge of nations, is contemplated."

"I have thought proper to nominate, and do hereby nominate, John Jay as envoy extraordinary of the United States to His Britannic Majesty."

"A mission like this will announce to the world a solicitude for a friendly adjustment of our complaints and a reluctance to hostility."