George Washington actually said...

"It is with great concern that I communicate to you the information received from Major-General St. Clair of the misfortune which has befallen the troops under his command."

"Excepting as to the brave men who have fallen on the occasion, and who are a subject of public as well as private regret."

"Although the national loss is considerable according to the scale of the event, yet it may be repaired without great difficulty."

"I received yesterday from the judge of the district of South Carolina a letter,..."