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Put none but Americans on guard tonight.

— George Washington Attributed

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Source, in full

. The only basis for this order seems to be found in Washington's circular letter to regimental commanders, dated April 30, 1777, regarding recruits for his body guard. "You will therefore send me none but natives." A few months before, Thomas Hickey, a deserter from the British army, had tried to poison Washington, had been convicted and hanged.

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Patriotism

More quotes by George Washington

Arbitrary power is most easily established on the ruins of liberty abused to licentiousness.

Observe good faith and justice towards all Nations; cultivate peace and harmony with all.

Farewell Address (1796)

Discipline is the soul of an army. It makes small numbers formidable; procures success to the weak, and esteem to all.

Of all the dispositions and habits, which lead to political prosperity, Religion and Morality are indispensable supports.

Farewell Address (1796)

To be prepared for war is one of the most effectual means of preserving peace.

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Attribution

Quote text and notes from Wikiquote: George Washington (page history), available under CC BY-SA 4.0. Source quality and labels are our own summary of what Wikiquote records.