Washington will experience a similar historical scene again in 1797 after resigning as commander-in-chief of 14.

He is really old and white-haired, reflecting his tired appearance. The president's eight years of hard work exhausted him more than the war. There was no tension and smoke on the battlefield, but the establishment of the political system of the new country, the choice of diplomatic stance and the balance among cabinet members all troubled him, forcing him to show more wisdom and talents, including convincing virtues.

Originally, from the beginning, he was unwilling to hold such an important and difficult position. After returning from disarmament, the management of Vernon Manor enriched his heart. Farming, hunting, accounting, etc., made him gradually forget the tension of war and truly realized the pleasure of being an official. He leisurely described his comfortable family life to his friends: in a small villa, farm tools were placed around and sheepskin was hung. When it is hot in summer, he enjoys the cool in the fig shade under his own cooking grape trellis. He said that he just wanted to walk quietly and calmly along the river of life until he was buried next to the silent mansion of his ancestors.

However, his mood is not beyond the fate of the country. He can't set his will against the people's choice. In the end, he reluctantly left the manor and returned to politics to become the first president of the United States. It was the spring of 1789, and four years later, he had to be re-elected. Now, eight years later, Washington has to make a decision that no one can change: not to run for the third president, even though the people will still support him.

He decided to leave, even more unwilling to let power be concentrated in one person's hands for so long. His ideal democratic society should limit individual power and let more talented people stand out. Aging has gradually made him feel weak. The leisure of the manor is so attractive. He must go back there, where is his real destination.

1March 3, 797 was Washington's last day in office. Prior to this, he had already delivered a resignation speech in the newspaper and had a final meeting with members of both houses of Congress. From then on, he counted on the last day of leaving office, and this day finally came, and he held a farewell banquet as scheduled. The next day, March 4th, he wanted to appear as the former president at the inauguration ceremony of the new President Adams.

At the banquet, diplomatic envoys, wives and political celebrities in the capital gathered together to accompany Washington and say goodbye to him.

Washington stood by with a smile. This is an intoxicating moment. At the thought of bidding farewell to the brilliant but noisy and complicated political arena, he felt irresistible joy. This longing has been around for a long time, and now it has become a reality. He frequently raised his glasses and exchanged pleasantries with the guests around him. He remembered what he said to people nine months ago, and today these words seem to better reflect his mood at the moment:

"... my long-cherished wish is to retire to my hometown and enjoy my old age. With great comfort, I think I have done my best for the motherland within my power-not to make a fortune, not to make a fortune, not to arrange cronies, so that they can get positions that are not commensurate with their talents, and certainly not to seek high positions and high salaries for their relatives. "

He will leave here peacefully.

At the end of the banquet, Washington filled his own wine, just like when he said goodbye to the officers four years ago. He kindly raised his glass and said:

"Ladies and gentlemen, this is the last time I propose a toast to everyone's health as a public servant. I sincerely drink to everyone's health and wish everyone happiness! "

People suddenly fell into silence, until now, they seem to realize that this is an unforgettable solemn moment, and the happy atmosphere of the other party suddenly turned into a rare seriousness and tranquility. The women could not restrain their sudden excitement and shed tears.

The party ended silently. How people hope that it will not end, and even hope that it has never been held.

The next morning, at 1 1, Washington appeared in the Capitol for the last time. People who heard the news gathered around the building; The auditorium is also crowded with people who want to say goodbye to Washington for the last time.

People cheered, and women kept waving handkerchiefs to greet Washington who walked slowly into the hall. Washington didn't speak, just as an ordinary citizen, watching the new President Adams take the oath of office. In his inaugural speech, Adams spoke highly of Washington. He knows that everyone in the hall will feel the great and ordinary charm of Washington like him. He praised Washington for its foresight, selfless dedication, perseverance and great actions, which "won the gratitude of compatriots, the warmest praise from foreign countries and the eternal glory" for a long time.

Nothing can more accurately express people's reverence for Washington in the hall than these few words. Warm applause echoed in the hall and the hearts of Washington. He waved gratefully to people.

After the ceremony, Washington left first. Walking to the door, the graceful gentlemen and ladies suddenly lost control and rushed to him and the corridor. The crowded crowd almost caused casualties, and they all wanted to see the dear old man again.

Washington took to the streets, waving hats and greeting the crowd. People followed his carriage reluctantly until they reached the door of his apartment. This is a scene that no language can describe, and it is a sincere cheer that no man-made scene can replace. At this moment, leaders and people, greatness and ordinary, history and future can be perfectly and uniformly reflected.

Washington cried, and he could no longer keep calm. He didn't expect the enthusiasm of the masses to be so strong. He walked to the door and turned around. People found him in tears and his face looked serious and sad. He couldn't speak for a moment, but waved his hand to thank others, leaving white hair fluttering in the breeze. He will cherish everything he feels at this moment in his memory.

He walked into the apartment. Outside, the crowd has not dispersed for a long time.