December 23, 1783, General Washington presented himself to "The United States in Congress Assembled," at Annapolis, Maryland, and resigned his Commission that he had received on June 17, 1775, as Commander-in-Chief of the Armies of the United States.
Upon Christmas Eve he returned to Mount Vernon, whereupon the Brethren at Alexandria, who, it must be remembered, were working under a Pennsylvania Warrant, at once sent the following Address signed by the Officers of Lodge No. 39, to Brother Washington at Mount Vernon,[20] viz.:
"Sir: Whilst all denominations of people bless the happy occasion of your excellency's return to enjoy private and domestic felicity, permit us, sir, the members of Lodge No. 39, lately established in Alexandria, to assure your excellency, that we, as a mystical body, rejoice in having a brother so near us, whose preeminent benevolence has secured the happiness of millions; and that we shall esteem ourselves highly honored at all times your excellency shall be pleased to join us in the needful business."
"We have the honor to be, in the name and behalf of No. 39, your excellency's
"Devoted friends and brothers,
"Robert Adam, M.
"E. C. Dick, S. W.
"J. Allison, J. W.
"Wm. Ramsay, Treas."
"His Excellency General Washington."
Two days later Brother Washington sent following reply,[21] viz.:
"Mount Vernon 28th Decr. 1783.