The Rule of Law or the Rule of Men

George Washington's Correspondence...
On the Nature and Use of Power

As Commander in Chief during the Revolutionary War and then as the first president, Washington held the most powerful positions in the new nation. In May 1775, at the Second Continental Congress, John Adams lobbied for Washington’s selection as Commander in Chief. But Adams knew that throughout history strong political men usually grasped for power when given the opportunity. He commented that Washington would be remarkable if he did not use his command of the army to seize power for himself. (Source: http://www.pbs.org/georgewashington/classroom/rule_of_law3.html)

Notes of William Pierce from the Constitutional Convention, 1787
General Washington is well known as the commander in chief of the recent American army. He conducted these states to independence and peace. And he now appears to help in forming a government to make the people happy. Like Gustavus Vasa of Sweden, he may be called the deliverer of this country. Like Peter the Great of Russia, he appears as the politician and the statesman. And like Cincinnatus, contented with being only a plain citizen after enjoying the highest honor of the country And now he only seeks the approval of his countrymen by being virtuous and useful. The General was made President of the Constitutional Convention by the unanimous voice of its members. He is fifty-two years old.

George Washington Circular Letter to the Governors of the States, 11 June 1783

Farewell Address to the Army, 2 November 1783

Resignation from the Army, 23 December 1783

Congress's Answer to Washington, 23 December 1783