George Washington to Chastellux, 14 December 1782

Newburgh Decr 14th 1782

My dear Chevr

I felt too much to express anything, the day I parted with you; A Sense of your public Services to this Country, & gratitude for your private friendship, quite overcame me at the moment of our seperation—But I should be wanting to the feelings of my heart, & should do violence to my inclination, was I to suffer you to leave this Country without the warmest assurances of an affectionate regard for your person & character.

Our good friend the Marqs de la Fayette prepared me (long before I had the honor to see you) for those Impressions of esteem which opportunities, & your own benevolent Mind has since improved into a deep, & lasting friendship, a friendship which neither time nor distance can ever eradicate.

I can truly say, that never in my life did I part with a Man to whom my soul clave more sincerely than it did to you. My warmest wishes will attend you in your voyage across the Atlantic—to the rewards of a generous Prince—the Arms of Affectionate friends. And be assured that it will be one of my highest gratifications to keep up a regular intercourse with you by Letter. I have the honr to be &c.

G. Washington