LAD: #6: Washington's Farewell Address 1796

Washington's Farewell Address 1796
Friends and Citizens,
With the time of re-election approaching, for the citizen administering the executive government of the United States, I would ask that I not be among the noble men considered for the position. Be assured that I have nothing but grateful respect and support for this great nation and its citizens, yet, after being called to serve twice by popular consent, the time has come for my inclination. Although mature reflection, the critical posture of our affairs with foreign nations, and the unanimous advice of various persons had brought me to this conclusion, I appreciate and will address all external and internal concerns and with regard to duty, property, and my retirement.
I leave the government and administration in very capable hands, as the United States of America is now a land of pride and security. At the end of my career now, I am filled with a feeling of gratitude towards this great nation of faithful service, praise, strength, and brotherly love. To succeed throughout the ages of time, we must carry on into tomorrow with honor as a unified community. I am confident in all of you as I know that you have come to love liberty as much as I. In proof of this, we have triumphed as one in gaining independence, joint counsels, and suffrage. The pillars of independence, and truth, will hold tight against our enemies, and the name “American” will carry the pride and patriotism of us all. With sympathy and interest, the North and South will be equal, bound together by the esteemed common laws, government, and union. Each half with something to offer to the other, the North will extend its additional resources of maritime and commercial enterprise and precious materials of manufacturing industry, and the South seeing its agriculture grow and its commerce expand.
The basis of our cherished political system stems from the Constitution. This prized document appeals to all Americans, embodying the natural rights of each citizen. With these laws and regulations, we will preserve the government and balance, and steadily check opposition to its authority, dangers within the states, and problems with geological locations. Political prosperity, freedom of religion, and morality will reign, portraying the overall security of life. Good faith and justice will also be key to the further development of society, along with the respect for foreign policy and treaties made, such as with Spain and Great Britain. In closing I would simply as that all continue to observe good faith and justice towards all nations; cultivate peace and harmony with one another.