The address with which you have honored me by your chairman and secretary contains Congratulations & Assurances which I recieve with Gratitude.1 I view the Conduct of France the French D France ^The french Directory^ towards this Country in the same Light that You do; and observe with pleasure that your Sentiments and Resolutions as respecting it are such as ^particularly^ become Americans ^the People of a County which bears the name of Washington^ ^Americans^. It is worthy of Consideration, that we have no Liberty to acquire, but much to preserve; for we already possess all the Liberty that men can have, the entire and perfect Liberty of governing ourselves. [illegible] Every Principle of Honor and Interest calls upon us to use this Liberty wisely, and to defend it at every Risque ^unite us in resolving^ and preparing to defend it at every Risque ^it^ with the like Spirit and Perseverance with with ^which^ it was obtained— accept my best wishes for the Prosperity of your County; and it may as may ever be distinguished by the noble ^excellent^ Principles as well as ^the Example of the^ virtuous manner of Washington ^that as it bears the name so it may also follow^ cherish the Patriotism & other virtues which distinguish the illustrious Washington.