Title: From George Washington to George Washington Parke Custis, 4 June 1797
From: Washington, George
To: Custis, George Washington Parke

Dear Washington,
Mount Vernon 4th June 1797

Your letter of the 29th Ulto came to hand by the Post of Friday, and eased my mind of many unpleasant Sensations, and reflections on your account. It has indeed done more, it has filled it with pleasure, more easy to be conceived than expressed; and if your sorrow, and repentence for the disquietudes occasioned by the preceeding letter, and your resolution to abandon the ideas which were therein expressed, are sincere, I shall not only heartily forgive, but will forget also, and bury in oblivion, all that has passed.
As a testimony of my disposition to do this; of the hope I had conceived that reflection would overcome an indolent habit, or bad advice; and (to be candid, I ought to add) because I was ashamed to make known the contents of your letter, announcing your indisposition to continue your studies; not a hint, respecting this matter, has been given to any of your friends in this quarter, altho’ Doctr Stuart & your mother (with their Children) left this on thursday last, after a stay of a week, and both Mr Law & Mr Peter have been here, since the receipt of it. In a word, your Grandmama, sister & myself, are all who are acquainted therewith.
You must not suffer the resolution you have recently entered into, to operate as the mere result of a momentary impulse; occasioned by the letters received from hence. This resolution should be founded on sober reflection, and a thorough conviction of your error; and be maintained, & strengthened, by frequent and deliberate reflection on the subject: otherwise it will be as wavering as the Wind, and become the sport of conflicting passions; which will occassion such a lassitude in your exertions, as to render your studies of little avail. To insure permanency, think seriously of the advantages which are to be derived, on the one hand, from the steady pursuit of a course of study, to be marked out by your Preceptor,

whose Judgment, experience and acknowledged abilities, enables him to direct them; and, on the other hand, revolve as seriously on the consequences which would inevitably result from an indisposition to this measure; or from an idle habit & hankering after unprofitable amusements at your time of life (before you have acquired that erudition & knowledge; which would be found beneficial in every walk of life—I use the word before, because it is not my wish that, having gone through the essentials, you should be deprived of any rational amusement afterwards)—or lastly, from dissipation in such company as it is most likely you would under such circumstances keep—who, but too often mistake ribaldry for wit, and rioting, swearing, intoxication and gambling, for manliness.
These things are not without momentary charms to young minds, susceptable of any impression before the judgment in some measure is formed, and reason begins to preponderate. It is on this ground, as well as on account of the intrinsic advantages which you yourself would experience hereafter from it that I am desirous of keeping you to your Studies. And if such characters as I have described have been, or should be found instrumental, either by their advice or example, in giving your mind a wrong biass, shun them as you would do a pestilence, for be assured it is not with such qualities as these you ought to be allied, or with those who possess them to have any friendship.
These sentiments are dictated by the purest regard for your welfare, and from an earnest desire to promote your true happiness; in which all your friends feel an interest, and would be much gratified to see accomplished; while it wd contribute, in an eminent degree to your respectibility, in the eyes of others.
Your endeavours to fulfil these reasonable wishes of your friends, cannot fail of restoring you to all the attentions, protection and affection of one, who ever has been, and will continue to be Your sincere friend

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Reed & Forde, 5 June 1797
From: Reed & Forde
To: Washington, George

Sir
Philad[elphi]a June 5. 1797

We duely received your communication of the 19th and in consequence shall immediately take the necessary means to have the balance of the Columbia Shares transferd to your order, at furthest they shall be sent from this in all next week if not previously obtaind at George Town. We consider’d that we held as many shares in the Columbia Bank as would have compleated your quantity but there has been some error, we have in the hands of Mr Smith some Notes at long dates which we wishd to realise by the purchase of Shares but did not depend on them solely to furnish them as your friend at George Town supposes. You maintain ⟨that⟩ you were compel’d to take these Shares [contra] ry to your wishes and at a high price [we] had neither interest or concern in the Sale made to you, if the purchase was unfortunate to you we fear the Sale will be much more So to us for the notes we received for the 70 you held & upwards of 300 more have become very doubtfull. We trust you will have no further trouble in this business & are Yr Hbe servts

Reed & Forde


Title: To George Washington from Clement Biddle, 8 June 1797
From: Biddle, Clement
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Philad[elphia] June 8. 1797.

By Mr W. Bowie of Georgetown, who Undertakes to forward them, I have sent you the Unguent delamere and Smiths Comparative view of the Constitutions’—The picture frames are in forwardness and shall come by the first Opportunity by Water. I am very respectfully Your most Obedt & very huml. servt

Clement Biddle

Morse’s Gazetteer is not yet published but daily expected here from New York.


Title: To George Washington from George Washington Parke Custis, 8 June 1797
From: Custis, George Washington Parke
To: Washington, George

Dearest Sir
Nassau Hall [Princeton, N.J.]June 8 [1797]

With a heart oerflowing with gratitude, love, and joy, I return you thanks for your favour of the 4th ultimo, and could my words do justice to my feelings I would paint them in their highest tints, but words communicate ideas not sensations! Your letter fraught with what reason, prudence, and affection, only can dictate, is engraven on my mind, and taken root in a soil, which I shall cultivate and which I hope in God may become fruitfull, and Dearest Sir while I look up to that Providence which has preserved me in the late contest with the passions, and which has enabled me to do that which will redound to my honour permit me to make this humble confession, sanctioned by reason and mature deliberation viz. That if in any way or by any mean I depart from your direction or guardianship—Let me suffer as I and such an unprudent act deserve—Unfortunately man never will beleive untill convinced perhaps too late, by his own situation. That your letter and the directions therein contained were merely from the purest motives I cannot admit a doubt from one unto whom I have looked up to for support on earth and from whom I have experienced unbounded generosity[.] These things I am aware of, And let my endeavours to recompence be as great as yours to serve is all I can hope for, and what my conscience tells me I shall attain.
During my recess from College I was by no means idle, having with Doctor Smith compleatly studied the use of the Globes and got a pretty tolerable insight into geography—The course he means to pursue this summer privately I do not know except Priestleys elements of Natural History which I shall begin immediately—together with Smiths Constitutions.
I have at length obtained a room to myself and shall take for a room mate a Mr Cassius Lee son of Richard Henry a young man lately arrived from the Eastward where he has been pursuing his studies privately; he is of an amiable disposition and very well informed —I shall have an opportunity of giving you better information concerning him when he has resided with me some time, as yet he is perfectly agreable and very engaging—The Roman

history my class are now studying and as I am very well acquainted with it from having previously studied it with the Doctor, of course have some time for reading which I shall employ accordingly.
Accept Sir my sincere thanks, for not having revealed my situation to my family, no doubt it was most prudent—I had written to Mrs Law and given her some idea of the thing, supposing she might have gotten wind of it, and will in future endeavour to obliterate it from the memory of every one.
The things with which you commisioned me to obtain I accordingly provided, and suppose you have the accounts now for adjustments They are perfectly suitable and reasonable I hope. I am now in perfect health tho the summer is more disagreable for every thing I shall take particular care in eating fruit and drinking water as I have seen so many fatal instances of intemperance in both—June passes now very pleasantly as the Country affords many inducements to agreable recreation.
I now conclude with expressing what I allways have had nearest my heart, a desire of your esteem & be assured nought shall be wanting on my part for the obtaining of the same, and may That great Parent of the Universe prolong your days is the sincere prayer of your ever affectionate

G. W. P. Custis


Title: To George Washington from John Sinclair, 9 June 1797
From: Sinclair, John
To: Washington, George

Whitehall [London] 9th June 1797

Sir John Sinclair presents his best respects to General Washington, & has the pleasure of sending him by the hands of the gallant Kosciusko the remainder of the Agricultural Surveys.
If General Washington should want any to complete his sett Sir John begs to know the deficient Counties, and he will take particular care to send them to America, for though those Reports are merely to be considered as printed manuscripts for correction, and additional observations, yet they contain a great Mass of valuable Matter, & are the first instance of a whole Country being completed in that Stile—It is therefore worth while to have a complete sett, or two of the original Surveys of Old England preserved in America.


Title: To George Washington from David Henley, 11 June 1797
From: Henley, David
To: Washington, George

Sir
Knoxville State of TennesseeJune 11—1797

After the arduous task of presiding over the government of the United States, you are I trust and hope returned to the bosom of your ancient seat, there to solace yourself upon the noblest of reflections, of having snatched America from the tyranny and oppression of the Brittish sceptre, raising her to empire, establishing her government, and afterwards shielding it from foreign and domestick violence.
These mighty deeds has filled me with respect and reverence towards you, the lustre thereof however does not so far dazzel my mind, as to loose sight of your friendship and notice to me, and I

request you will deign to accept of my sincere thanks of the attention shewn me in the early part of life. And in offering them I would be mindfull also of the kindness and civilities of your Lady, to whom I must request you will also be pleased to tender them, and be assured that whilst memory lasts I shall ever hold you both in reverence and gratitude.
The politicks of this State seem to be as yet unsettled, the runing of the boundary line creates much uneasiness, which I hope will be got over by the wise and judicious conduct of the Commissioners the honorable Mr Hawkins and General Pickens. These gentlemen are now upon the Cumberland upon that duty.
A few days since Mr Byers factor for the United States, intercepted an extraordinary letter of Governor Blounts to Cary one of the interpreters, as I am sensible you are informed of the proceedings of that gentleman in the administration of the government of this Country, and as you are pointed out in the letter, and as the family I am informed have been violent in their speeches against Your administration I have inclosed a Copy of the letter for your perusal. Tho I am sensible you take no pleasure in the misfortunes of your enemies, Yet it gives me satisfaction in detecting those vices, which your virtues have exposed. I am Dear Sir with great respect Your Hum. Servt

David Henley


Title: From George Washington to John Fitzgerald, 12 June 1797
From: Washington, George
To: Fitzgerald, John

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 12th June 1797

If you have had leizure to examine my unimproved lot in Alexa., more attentively, and have digested any plan in your own mind for an advantageous division of it, I would thank you for the result, as I wish to fix on a Plan.
I was informed, when in Town last, that Mr Voss (I think the name is) would give 18d. a sqr. yard for the earth to make bricks—& that he would not deface, or injure the lot in doing so. What is your opinion on this point?
Mr Anderson has engaged me in a distillery, on a small scale, and is very desirous of encreasing it: assuring me from his own experience in this country, & in Europe, that I shall find my acct in it, particularly in the benefits my stock would derive from it. The thing is new to me, in toto; but in a distillery of another kind (Molasses) you must have a good general knowledge of its profits, & whether a ready sale of the Spirit⟨s⟩ is to be calculated on from grain (principally to be raised on my own Farms) and the offal of my Mill. I, therefore, have taken the liberty of asking your opinion on the proposition of Mr Anderson. Such a house as he requires, and everything except the Stills, I could provide at a small expenditure. With very great esteem & regard I am—Dear Sir Yr affecte Hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from John Fitzgerald, 12 June 1797
From: Fitzgerald, John
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Alexandria Monday 5 oClock P.M.[12 June 1797]

I am this moment honor’d by the receipt of your letter of this date. I have had some doubts respecting the most advantageous mode of laying off your lott & have this day advised with Mr Keith about it—We agree in Opinion & I will do myself the pleasure of forwarding to you a Sketch of it as soon as I return from Loudoun which I expect will be on Saturday or Sunday next.
I am fully of opinion that if Mr Voss will give 18d. a square Yard for the Clay he should be indulged in the purchase, binding him to use it in a certain time say 18 Months or at most 2 years & also that he should not dig deeper than the surfaces of the different Streets, & it might be well to insert in the agreement that he should first & in a limited time use the earth from Prince Street to the alley as that part will be most in demand & would immediately rent.
As I have no doubt but Mr Anderson understands the Distillation of Spirit from Grain I cannot hesitate in my Opinion that it might be carried on to great advantage on your Estate—considering that the Grain will be chiefly if not entirely raised on your land & the amazing benefit your Stock of Cattle & Hoggs will receive⟨.⟩ as to a Sale of the Whiskey there can be no doubt if the Quantity was ten times as much as he can make provided it is of a good Quality. With unalterable attachment & respect I am Dear Sir Your mo. Obedt Servt

John Fitzgerald


Title: From George Washington to Timothy Pickering, 12 June 1797
From: Washington, George
To: Pickering, Timothy

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 12th June 1797

Your favour of the 6th instt came by the last Post; and I find by my unacknowledged letters, that I am indebted to you also for your letters of the 27th of April, & 16th Ulto.
For the Mellon, and other seeds which you were so obliging as to send me, I thank you; and when the Barbary Wheat is received, much attention shall be given to the cultivation of it. The Buckles sent by Colo. Humphreys, were delivered Safe by Mrs Harrison; and in a little time I shall take the liberty of committing to your care, to be forwarded to Europe, a few letters in answer to those you have had the goodness to send me, under your covers. The Paper herewith sent, I now request the favor of you to present with my best respects to the President of the United States. It belongs to the files of his office, and is the original of what you put the Seal of your Office to, at my request, since I left Philadelphia.
I had some hope that the late conduct of our Great and Magnanimous Allies, would have produced but one sentiment in the Representatives of the People; I could not be otherwise than disappointed therefore (in a degree, for there are some, I fear, who under all circumstances are resolved to support their measures) at the opposition by so great a minority to the Reported Address. But so it has been—and so it will be—whilst men are actuated by different motives & views. It is to be hoped, notwithstanding, that even those who are so tenacious of the honor, dignity & interest of our good friends, will not be averse from guarding against their enmity, by the adoption of such means as will enable the Executive to defend the country against a continuation of the outrages it has sustained on our Commerce. This being the most effectual, if not the only means to obtain their friendship or forbearance. If Justice is lacking on our part, render it. On the other hand, let our own rights be claimed, & maintained, with a dignified firmness. No just offence can be taken at this conduct by France, whilst it must be approved by all the rest of the world. Mrs Washington joins me in best regards to Mrs Pickering and yourself—and with very great esteem I am always, sincerely & affectionately Yours

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from B. N. M., 13 June 1797
From: B. N. M.
To: Washington, George

Sir
Prince Edward [County] 13th June 1797

Having always had the strongest conviction of the many noble Virtues with which Heaven has endowed you, and particularly the Generosity of your Disposition I am induced to communicate to you, a short history of myself as a necessary Introduction to a request I shall presume to make. Born of Reputable parents who tho’ in moderate Circumstances, have exerted themselves to procure me an Education, I have after the usual course of private Instruction spent some time at college—But unfortunately my more than affectionate father had contracted a British Debt, which honour & conscience obliged him to discharge & consequently his resources have not been sufficient to continue me at college—Anxious to do the best in my power for an honorable support, I removed to an unhealthy part of the State & taught a School; my business was just enough to support upon decently—and having

been some years before attached to an amiable Woman, who had every accomplishment but a large Estate—I married—In a short time both my wife & myself were seized with sickness under which she laboured about 10 months & expired leaving behind a lovely Infant who has lately left me to deplore the loss of both—My Indisposition has continued till about 3 Months ago—since which Time I have been recovering and am now thro the blessing of Providence in good Health—But my losses during the Time of Sickness, application to Phisicians, relinquishment of my business, and the numerous expences incident to those who reside in a populous City—have conspired to plunge me into Embarrassments which I am now unable (without assistance) to surmount.
My Debts with costs of suit &c., amount to nearly £200. And I am unable to raise the twentieth part of that Sum. Since the return of my health I have been engaged in the study of the Law & hope in a few months to acquire a license to practice. But in the mean time Executions are out against my body for I have no Effects.
Now Sir I have only to request after this candid account of my situation that you will afford me some assistance. I have been always determined rather to solicit the assistance of the Virtuous, than to abandon my Integrity or despond under difficulties.
If you could (provided you deem my request worthy your notice) grant some assistance I hope heaven will reward the deed; and be assured my exertions shall be used to prove myself not unworthy the favour. A Bank note enclosed in a letter and directed To B. N. M. To care of the Post master at Prince Edward Courthouse & conveyed by post will be perhaps the most adviseable method. Modesty imposes silence as to my name, But be assured when I have the happiness to prove myself worthy of the favour that shall not be denied.
I write in haste—expecting the Sherrif. But would just observe that should you deem my request impertinent you may consign the letter to oblivion. But should you think of granting your aid—it shall always command my grateful acknowledgements. I beg leave after wishing you all the Happiness your retirement can afford together with your worthy lady to subscribe with every sentiment of respect your hule st

B. N. M.


Title: From George Washington to Jacob Van Vleck, 14 June 1797
From: Washington, George
To: Van Vleck, Jacob

Revd Sir,
Mount Vernon 14 June 1797

It is with regret I find myself under the necessity of being an apologist for others.
Until lately I had no other expectation, or wish, than that the two misses (my nieces and cousin to each other) were preparin for their journey to the establishment at Bethlehem. But I am informed that one of them (Maria Washington) on whose acct the first application was made, is in very declining health (in short that she is in a consumption) and therefore adjudged by her Aunt, with whom she lives, to be unfit for the change which had been contemplated

—and as a principal inducement to the other’s (daughter to Colo. Ball) going, was that they might continue together, I have been advised (both living at a considerable distance from me) that, under the circumstances I have related, it is not intended now, to send either.
I hope, as it always appeared to me that your consent to admit these girls at the time you did, the School being full—was matter of favour, for which I felt the obligation, that no inconvenience will result from the change which has taken plac⟨e.⟩ With very great esteem & respect I am—Revd Sir, Yr obedit & Obliged Hble Ser⟨vt⟩

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 15 June 1797
From: McHenry, James
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Philadelphia 15 June 1797

I have been very much occupied since I had the pleasure to receive your letter of the 29th of May, and even now am very far from being a man of leisure.
From the late events in Europe, there is ground for beleiving that England will be forced to accept of terms of peace, unless indeed France inebriated with victory, should require cessions which even the spirit of opposition would revolt at. Should Canada be among her demands and yielded, our situation would become extremely critical. You will see by the inclosed what use she has made of Spain, and can conjecture as well as any one whether she means to let us alone even should she make peace with England—without Canada. Her internal practices upon our people go on as usual; and it seems to be the determination of a part of Congress to do nothing, which whether they foresee the effects of such conduct or not, must work in favour of her projects and to our disadvantage.
I pray god to keep you in health and that you may long injoy retirement and tranquility. Your affectionate

James McHenry


Title: To George Washington from Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 15 June 1797
From: Wolcott, Oliver Jr.
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir,
Phila[delphia] June 15th 1797

Mr Ross was out of town when I recd your favour of the 7th instant otherwise I should have immediatly answered it—I have delivered to him, your Receipt.
On enquiring at the Bank of Pensylvania this day, I find that no money has been deposited there on your account. Mr Ross says he will receive & prosecute Colo. Shreve’s bond, if you desire it.

We have not much other news than appears in the papers, of national importance: Germany is disorganized, & the affairs of England appear to be tending to some eventful crisis—The French depradations on our Commerce in Europe are increasing—by annulling the validity of Passports granted by our Ministers it is intended to prevent our Citizens from going to France, to pursue their claims—Some of the French cruizers have treated our people with extreme barbarity—Instances have happened of men being tortured with thumb screws to induce declarations injurious to their employers—Congress will do but little this session; as the danger increases, a disposition to inaction appears unfortunately to prevail.
Mrs Wolcott joins me in presenting her most respectful regards, to yourself Mrs Washington & Miss Custis. I am with every sentiment of defference & attachment Dr Sir your obedt servt

Oliv. Wolcott jr


Title: To George Washington from Bartholomew Dandridge, Jr., 18 June 1797
From: Dandridge, Bartholomew Jr.
To: Washington, George

My dear Sir,
The Hague 18 June 1797.

After a very disagreeable and tedious passage of eight weeks from the Delaware, I was landed in Europe, with Mr & Mrs Murray, on the 7th instant, at the mouth of the Texel. We got on shore in the afternoon, & the next day pursued our journey by land towards Amsterdam, where we arrived on the 9th—Several vessels which left Philadelphia after our departure had arrived here ten days before us, and of course the coming of Mr Murray was expected. We have every where been receiv’d with much kindness. Mr Adams was at Amsterdam when we got there, & accompanied us to this place. Mr Murray has waited in an informal way on the Minister for foreign affairs, and tomorrow is appointed for the formal delivery of his credentials to the President of the National Assembly. I had much pleasure in meeting at Amsterdam Mr & Mrs Marshall who had arrived a few days before us from London. Mrs Marshall has two sons & made many kind enquiries concerning Mrs Wn & yourself. at the Hague we found Genl & Mrs Pinckney, who are well & enquired also particularly concerning you. Mr Adams will leave this soon for London, where I believe he is to be united to Miss Johnson & from thence proceed to Lisbon. Be pleased to offer my affectionate regards to my aunt & my best wishes to the family at M. Vernon. With grateful & continued remembrance of your repeated kindnesses, I remain, with sincere respect & attachment Yr oblig’d hble Servt

B. Dandridge


Title: From George Washington to Gustavus Scott, 19 June 1797
From: Washington, George
To: Scott, Gustavus

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 19th June 17⟨97⟩

Your favor of the ⟨16th Inst.⟩ enclosing the letter of Mr Walt⟨er Smith,⟩ to you, has been received. ⟨If Messrs Reed⟩ and Ford trifle much lo⟨nger with me⟩ in the transfer of the ⟨deficient shares,⟩their conduct shall ⟨be exposed in the⟩ light it deserves.
Nothing I more ⟨wish than to⟩ improve the Breed of my Cattl⟨e and Sheeps⟩ and to affect the former, had c⟨aused en⟩quiry to be made of Mr Gough if ⟨he had⟩ any young Bulls (of his English ⟨breed)⟩ for Sale: the result was, that he had ⟨only⟩ one (except calves) of about eight m⟨onths⟩ old; for which he asked 200 dollars. Thinking this high, for one so young, I ⟨have⟩ authorised Mr Peter to buy Mr Thre⟨lkalds⟩ at £75, as he is of sufficient age.

I thank you for your in⟨timati⟩on to Colo. Lloyd (& since to his So⟨n) of what⟩ you supposed my wishes we⟨re but not⟩ knowing on what terms th⟨ey proposed to⟩ supply me—I am at a loss ⟨for the prelimi⟩nary steps on my part. If these Gen⟨tle⟩men intended the calf as a present ⟨wch⟩ costs my feelings more, always, th⟨an any⟩ sum would do my purse; writi⟨ng, to Colo.⟩ Ramsay (whom I should prefer ⟨to the other⟩ Gentleman you have named) ⟨wou’d have⟩ the appearance of a sti⟨mula, which I⟩ should wish to avoid: ⟨And on the other⟩ hand if I am to posse⟨ss him as a Common⟩purchaser, I should li⟨ke to know before⟩ hand, what sum I am to p⟨ay. If you can⟩ give me further inform⟨ation on this⟩ head it would oblige, Dear Sir Your Most Obed⟨t &⟩ Very Hble Servant

Go: Washington


Title: Clement Biddle to GW, 20 June 1797 [letter not found]
From: Biddle, Clement
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: Clement Biddle to GW, 20 June 1797. On 3 July GW wrote Biddle and referred to “your favor of the 20th Ulto.”


Title: To George Washington from James Anderson (of Scotland), 21 June 1797
From: Anderson, James
To: Washington, George

Honoured Sir
Edinburgh 21st June 1797

I am favoured with your letter of the 7th April last, and lose not one moment in acknowledging the receipt of it. I have forwarded the letters inclosed in it—with a request that the persons to whom they are addressed, to communicate with me on the subject. I shall use my best endeavours to find out a person who will suit you—and I hope I shall be able soon to write to you in a satisfactory way on that head—tho’ I am not without doubts as to the amount of the wages—that article having started amazingly within a few years past in this country.
I beg leave to join in heart felt gratulations on your happy retirement from the turbulent scene of public life. I hope you will long be permitted to enjoy that peaceful tranquillity which the good alone know how to prise or to enjoy. It will add to my comfort if

I can indulge the idea of having in any way been aiding in promoting it.
I shall be in this place for only ten days or a fortnight from this date, during which time I hope to get your business finished—after that I propose to take up my residence for the remainder of my life, some where in the neighbourhood of London, where I have already five sons—Two more, who will go thither nearly as soon as myself—one son in India, and one daughter, are all that are left to me of thirteen children—all of which were suckled by their mother—A woman who was an honour to human nature—She is in Heaven—and with her, my attachment to any local situation is altogether dissolved. Her children, I have the happiness to think, are not likely to disgrace her memory—and, I shall feel a comfort in being near them. It is rather singular in this country that out of such a family, there is not one of them bred up either in the army or navy, in the church or at the bar, and that I have never had occasion to solicit a single favour (farther than common civilities) either on their account or my own. They have been blessed with good health, and a spirit of independance—and they have had the good fortune to find that fidelity and industry, are the best friends that ever they could have relied upon. With these dispositions of mind, my heart feels a glow of Gratitude to heaven at seeing them rising into respectability, which gives to the evening of my day, a degree of tranquillity that is highly pleasing. I have now given up with [any] kind of business for the remainder of life—and on a moderate income, above the fear of want, and below the temptations which wealth and power so necessarily engender, I shall have no other inducement to action but those which the heart and the social affections shall produce—The more active these shall prove, the more pleasing⟨.⟩ I have not yet fixed where I shall take up my place of rest—but any letter with which you shall be pleased to honour me will find me, if directed to the care of Mr A. Anderson No. 35 Leadenhall street London.
As I hope to have the honour of addressing you again in a very short time, I shall not enter into particulars at present—farther than barely to take notice, that in regard to the former business you communicated to me, things begin to wear a more favourable aspect than at the time I last wrote to you—This country at present enjoys a state of prosperity much higher than it ever did at any

former period. Its affluence is immense, and the effects of that will soon be felt by a diffusion of it to a much wider extent than is at present suspected—I know that this account is directly contradictory of the common statements, but these, I also know, to be exceedingly fallacious. The stability of our government, and the energy of the people, will soon astonish all nations—Nothing can be immediately done; but the time is not far distant when it may. Our late internal struggles will be productive of very blessed effects—That the struggles of America may terminate in a similar manner is the sincere wish of my heart! and that nothing may ever disturb the tranquillity of your peaceful retreat is the sincere prayer of Sir, your Much obliged—and sincerely respectful Hul. Servt

Jas Anderson


Title: To George Washington from James Anderson, 21 June 1797
From: Anderson, James
To: Washington, George

Sir
Mt Vernon 21 June 1797

Your letter of 18th gave me much Satisfaction every alteration which You think well of will be attended to in the Planing & executeing the Improvement of Your Estate.
And as much Grass seeds as possable saved for every purpose proposed.
Your Excellency’s approbation and mark thereof in allowing me £140 Hire is very agreable for this & future times.
It will please me better than any share, for some reasons besides those mentioned by Your Excellency. & will prevent the most distant Idea (I hope) of Grudge—And I flatter myself that my best endeavours, shall always be directed for Your Interests And whenever they are otherwise, or that I slacken in my Industry I would then be unworthy of continuing in Your Service.
The expence of fixing a house for a Distillery 3 more Stills & a Boiler will be nearly thus 3 stills & one Boiler something about 520 Doll[ar]s Additional Mash Tubs —We have already one Stove which I bought and will do And the mash Tubs purchased are good as well as every other thing.
The Building of a Still house a small malting house & Still, I could not well estimate—Our own people will do the whole excepting

seting up the Stills, A Strong Cellar must be at hand to Lodge the Spirits in—And if such a Work be’s carryd on, the constant Milling of Wheat, Buying Wheat &ca.
I then must move to the place of Action, as the most of the business will be done at that particular Spot.
But this could be done after the work is set fully agoing.
I do think if Mr Stewart will Stay, He can be trusted sooner than many others. And am Satisfied Billy may do at the House and J. Cash do both Union & Doguerun Farms at £60.
Mr Neale refuses staying unless his hire is made larger—My opinion is rather than do so I’d have none—Isaac may have, as at present the charge of the Shop—And James the charge of that without doors—where only 3 & Himself are constantly at work—It will rather increase my labour pursuing these alterations, But that will never be any objection where a saving can be made.
And by this there would be loped off £126 besides the finding of 3 familys—which might be nearly.
My views are not directed by any particular dislike at any of them—Who all obey, & are rather oblidging But in one Hand, I would wish not only to see Your Estate improved but Also to see some handsome profit made. Being with the most sincere esteem Your Excellencys Most Obdt Humble Set

Jas Anderson

a State of the Distillery is herewith handed.


Title: To George Washington from Gustavus Scott, 22 June 1797
From: Scott, Gustavus
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Washington 22d June 1797

I am sorry I was not more full in my Letter respecting Mr Lloyds Bull. It certainly never was intended that you Shoud pay any thing for him. On the contrary both the late and present Mr Lloyd expressed much satisfaction in being able to contribute to the improvement of the Breed of Cattle. The late Collo. Lloyd sold no Calves of his Bakewell Breed but gave many To his friends: And I beleive none more freely than the one destined for you. Had I not been perfectly asurd of this I shou’d have never mentioned the subject to you. The Reason of my mentioning Collo. Ramsey or Genl Swan was that Some person at Baltimore might receive the Bull on his arrival, lest any difficulty shou’d occur on his arrival there. I did not ask [for] a grown Bull but a Calf & expect one will be forwarded about 8 or 10 Months old, & probably not remarkably well raised: So that he wou’d not be fit for immediate use.
I had hoped a ⟨Train⟩ was laid to rid you of Reed & Ford, but I much fear Nothing can be done with them. Col[umbi]a Shares are not to be had at 32 Dollars, & by the time they get into a humour to give 32$ they may rise to 34$. I have a Letter from Walter Smith since my last to you, but it holds out no new Hope of bringing these Gentlemen to a proper Sense of Justice. My affairs will compell me to be at Phila. next Week, & if by a personal Interview or any other way I can clear you of the Incumbrance of these Swindlers

it will give me much pleasure. I think of setting off on Monday & shall probably be a Week at Phila. I have the honor to be with sentiments of perfect Respect Dr Sir Your mo. obt servt

Gusts Scott


Title: To George Washington from Alexander Spotswood, 23 June 1797
From: Spotswood, Alexander
To: Washington, George

Dr Sir
Lexington State of Kentucky June 23d 1797

Haveing already wrote you respecting your lands purchased of general Lee, Laying on Rough Creek—shall now only observe, that I arrived on them with the gentlemen, mutually chosen by Lee and myself, to Vallue the Same; on the 25 of may after traceing the lines so as to Keep us within the bounds of the two tracks; we proceeded to Traverse the Same, and found the two tracts to consist of as follows—1st Rolling land—2d—Very Hilly land runing up into points—3d—Ridges Runing out from the creek—4th—much flat land grown up with Cane—5. very high land with much Hurtleberry land[.] The first described land lays well for the plow. & very rich, but I beleive no great quantity. the 2d d[itt]o poor—here the Setlers Say is much iron ore, and very rich but of this I am no Judge—3d (Ridges) the whole of them do not contain more than 60 acrees—very rich & lays well for the plow—and Surrounded with the flat Caney land which is immensly rich, but every year flooded with the back water from 18 Inches to 2½ feet deep which is of great advantage to the land by leaveing every year a rich coat of Manure—& no disadvantage to the farmer, as the water comeing on gradually and going of as gradual will never Take away fences—and returning to the creek from whence it comes

by the 20 of March, gives the farmer full time to prepare for his crop—the last described land—has very Steep hill Sides, on arriveing at the Top, it becomes ridgey—the Valleys between each ridge is Narrow—on the Top of the ridges, fields may be got from 40 to 50 acrees of good farming land—the assents & decents from ridge to ridge is gradual, (as far as I saw & examined) this land was Vallued at one dollar pr Acree—it is thought here to be of no great Vallue; but with us would be deemed champion land.
had woodrows Survey been in the sale from Lee to me—I beleive the land would have been Vallued to 10/ pr Acree; it is a most Valluable situation for a mill, and (if yours) will render your lands Valluable—but not until the Country about it is Settled; which I am inclined to think will not be the case shortly, as the Country around is held in very large Surveys—belonging cheifly to Such as will not (I am Told) Sell immediatly.
This Mill Seat is claimed, by a Mr Hite in this Country, who Says, Andrew woodrow—Sold the warrant to his father 12 yrs ago. One ⟨Stevens⟩ near Bairds Town Tells me, that he Claims 2600 acrees out of yr two tracts Bought of Lee—he Says the warrants that first obtained these lands, was early laid in 1783—(before his)—but afterwards, the entry was withdrawn, and the warrant laid over again on the land—which then made his the oldest Entry—but for this, I only have his word—however, on examining the auditors Books in Virginia, this bussiness will be explained —The land is well Timbered—The assembly here in there last Session, released all the condemned lands—Colo. Marshall informs me he has pd yr Taxes to 1796 —please to present me affectionately to Mrs Washington & beleive me dr sr to be with much Esteem & affectionate regard yrs Sincerely

A. Spotswood


Title: From George Washington to Dumas, 24 June 1797
From: Washington, George
To: Dumas, Gabriel-Mathieu (Guillaume-Mathieu), comte de

Sir,
Mount Vernon 24th June 1797

Through the medium of General Pinckney, I was honoured with your letter of the 24th of January, accompanying your Pamphlet on the Military and Political situation of France. For both, I pray you to accept my best acknowledgments & thanks. That you should have given me a place in your remembrance, is equally flattering & grateful to my feelings; as I could but esteem you while I had an opportunity of being acquainted with your merits, in our Revolutionary War.
For want of a competent knowledge of the French language I cannot, in reading your treatise on the above subjects, do complete justice to the sentiments it contains; but I know enough to be persuaded of its merits, and to wish that they may contribute to the restoration of that Peace & harmony—whatever the motives may be for carrying on the war, which is so congenial to the feelings of humanity.
That it may (if not sooner accomplished) be the means of restoring our mutual friend Fayette, and his family to their liberty, health & the confidence of their country, is my ardent wish; as it also is that all his friends would exert themselves to effect it: the first if no more. His son (with a Mr Frestal, who appears to have

been his Mentor) are, and have been residents in my family since their arrival in this country, except in the first moments of it, and a modest, sensible, & well disposed youth he is.
I am very glad to hear that my old friend & acquaintance Genl Rochambeau is alive, & in the enjoyment of tolerable good health. It is some years since I had the honor to receive a letter from him; but if it should fall in your way, at any time, to recall me to his remembrance by the presentation of my best regards for him, and which I pray you to accept also yourself, it would oblige me.
This letter will be presented to you by Genl Marshall, one of our compatriots in the American war, & now a joint Envoy with General Pinckney & Mr Dana  (all of whom I beg leave to introduce to your acquaintance as men of honour & worth) appointed for the purpose of adjusting the differences which exist—unfortunately—between our two Nations; & which no man more sincerely regrets than I do; or who more devoutly wishes to have them accomodated upon principles of equity & justice. I have the honour to be Sir Your most Obedt Servant

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Charles Cotesworth Pinckney, 24 June 1797
From: Washington, George
To: Pinckney, Charles Cotesworth

My dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 24 June 1797.

To learn from your favor of the 25th of January that you were well, gave me singular pleasure; but as I had left Philadelphia before your letters dated in Paris had been received at the Secretary of States Office, and not having seen Mr Horry yet, I have only such accounts as have been given to the Public, of the treatment you met with from the French Directory. So extraordinary indeed it is, as to require no comment; nor shall I add any thing more on the subject than that your conduct on the occasion is universally approved: that it deserves to be so, is my decided opinion.
I had nothing more in view by giving you a genuine copy of the intercepted letter from me to Gouvr Morris, than to enable you, if a spurious one should be exhibited for insidious purposes, to place the correspondence in its true light. If the matter sleeps, I have no wish to awaken it. Should it, however, be brought before the public, it will, prima faciæ, carry along with it the mark of private intercourse; but if the case were otherwise, there is no sentiment expressed, that I have a disposition to retract.
I am much obliged to General Dumas for the Pamphlet he had the goodness to send, and for his kind remembrance of me. I recollect

him well, as an Officer of high estimation in the French Army, that served in this country, and hope he, & others, friends to the oppressed, & distressed Fayette, will use their exertions to obtain the release of him, & his family, from the ignominious treatment which has been inflicted with so much rigour on one hand, & borne with so much fortitude on the other.
From the proper Department you will, no doubt, be informed of every thing that is interesting for you, as a public character, to know, & from your friends & connections to the Southward you will I am persuaded, receive all such as concerns you as a private one. As for myself I am now seated in the shade of my vine & Fig tree, and altho’ I look with regret on many transactions which do not comport with my ideas, I shall notwithstanding “view them in the calm lights of mild philosophy”—persuaded, if any great crisis should occur, to require it, that the good sense and spirit of the major part of the people of this country, will direct them properly.
The occupation of my time—unimportant indeed to all but myself—is not spent in idleness, for an absence of eight years (except short occasional visits which allowed me no leisure to inspect matters accurately), has so deranged my private concerns—and committed such depredations on my buildings, and all around them, that I have found as much occasion for workmen of various kinds, and as close employment in looking after them as if I had commenced a new establishment altogether.
This letter will be handed to you by Genl Marshall, who with Mr ⟨illegible⟩ joint Envoys with yourself, to try if the difference between France & America, can be amicably adjusted. You will find him well worthy of your friendship & confidence. He is a firm friend, upon true principles to his country—sensible & discreet.
I pray you to present my best respects to Mrs & Miss Pinckney, in which Mrs Washington joins me, and that you would be assured, always, of the sincere and affectionate regard of Dear Sir Your Obediant Servant

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Gustavus Scott, 24 June 1797
From: Washington, George
To: Scott, Gustavus

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 24th June [17]97.

Your favor of the 22d Inst. was received by the Post of last night, and by Monday’s Mail I will request the favour of Colo. Ramsay to receive, & notify me, of the arrival of any Calf Mr Lloyd may be so good as to forward to Baltimore, on my account.
By the last letter of Reed and Ford, to me, I had an assurance, that under any circumstance the deficient shares should be transferred by this time; if then, before you set out for Philadelphia it should be convenient for you to know whether they have taken effectual measures for this purpose, it would oblige me. If this is done, the matter, as it respects them, will be closed: on the contrary, if you would be so good while in Philadelphia to let those Gentlemen know that their obligation is in your hand⟨s⟩ and that I cannot let the matter rest upon the event of their buying the shares under the Market price, & that I must do my self justice if they will not, it would add to the obligations you have already conferred on me in this business. With great esteem & regard I am Dear Sir Yr most Obedt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to John Quincy Adams, 25 June 1797
From: Washington, George
To: Adams, John Quincy

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 25th June 1797

Your favour of the 11th of Feb: and a duplicate thereof, have been duly received; and I pray you to accept my best thanks for the trouble you have had in tracing to its origen, the history of the Sword which came to my hands last year, in the manner communicated in a former letter. As it is more than probable you will have left Holland before this letter can be received, I shall give you no further trouble in the affair than merely to inform you that I have never seen, or heard more of Alte than the account given of him in your letter of the above mentioned date.
I am now, as you supposed the case would be when you then wrote, seated under my Vine & Fig-tree; where, while I am permitted

to enjoy the shade of it, my vows will be continually offered for the welfare & prosperity of our country; and for the support, ease & honor of the Gentleman to whom the Administration of its concerns are entrusted. I have expressed to him my sentiments, & wishes that you may be induced to continue in the Diplomatic line, and these sentimts and wishes, are the result of the fullest conviction of its utility, as it relates to the public interest.
For the kind expressions which you have extended to me; and the approbation of those sentiments I took the liberty of submitting to my countrymen, in my late Valedictory, I have a grateful sense; and thank you for communicating them; as the approbation of good & virtuous men is the most pleasing reward my mind is susceptible of, for any Services it has been in my power to render my Country. With great truth & sincerity, I have the honor to be Dear Sir Your Most Obedt & Affecte Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Rufus King, 25 June 1797
From: Washington, George
To: King, Rufus

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 25th June—1797.

I have been honoured with your letters of the 12th of Novr of the last, and 6th of Feby & 26th of April in the present year; and feel myself much obliged by your kind & prompt attention to the publication of the Decree of the High Court of Chancery, of the State of Virginia: the evidence of which you were pleased to forward in the London Gazettes.
As you will have the Political situation of this country transmitted to you from the proper Department; and, no doubt, will be informed of the causes wch have produced it, and which create a continual opposition to the Administration, detailed with more accuracy by such of your friends as are at, or near, the fountain of intelligence, than I could do, I shall say but little more on the subject of Politics, than that matters are pretty much in the train you left them; and that it is my firm belief, that no occurrence or event of whatsoever kind or nature it may be, will change the sentiments, or (which perhaps would be more correct) the conduct of some characters amongst us. However much to be regretted this is, by those who think differently, yet, having taken my seat in the shade of my Vine & Fig tree, I shall endeavour to view things in the “Calm lights of mild Philosop[h]y.” Persuaded that if ever a crisis should arise to call forth the good sense & spirit of the People, no dificiency in either, will be found.
For the interesting details you have had the goodness to communicate in your several letters, I pray you to accept my thanks. it is reported, and with a confidence which gives it a currency, that the preliminaries of Peace between France & Austria are actually signed. For the sake of humanity, I hope it is true, but it is an accomodation of the differences between the former & Great Britain that is to produce harmony in this Country; for nothing short of that, while there is a Party determined to advocate French measures

under all circumstances, & to withdraw this country from that strict Neutrality which its policy adopted, & the Administration has adhered to, can effect this purpose.
Let me ask the favor of you to present me in respectful terms to Mrs King, and that you would be assured of the great esteem & regard with which I am—Dear Sir Your Most Obedt Hble Servt

Go: Washington

P.S. The expence of publishing the Decree has not been transmitted; but shall be paid whenever it is made known to G. W——


Title: To George Washington from Gustavus Scott, 25 June 1797
From: Scott, Gustavus
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir.
Rock Hill [Md.] 25th June 1797.

I had the honor of your favor of the 24th Instt by Mr Peter; your Letter to Collo. Ramsey I will take with me to Phila. and deliver to him on my Return Home; as I shall go by the Way of Lancaster and return by Baltimore. In the mean time there can be no danger of any Inconvenience arising from the delay, as I was to give Mr Lloyd notice to what place to forward the Calf; which I shall do from Phila.
Nothing like a disposition, to do the thing that is right, had transpired from Messrs Reed & Ford after the arrival of the Mail on Friday Evening: to be ascertained of the fact I called on Mr Smith on friday Evening. I did not indeed find him at Home but received this information from his brother a young Gentleman Who writes in the Bank; and who woud not speak so confidently without good Ground.
I shall certainly wait on Reed and Ford whilst at Phila. but I must confess I have little hope of doing any good. Men who have so long persisted in Wrong are not easily taken out of the Tract. I have the honor to be with the greatest Respect Dr Sir Yr mo. obt servt

Gusts Scott


Title: From George Washington to William Booker, 26 June 1797
From: Washington, George
To: Booker, William

Sir,
Mount Vernon 26th June 1797

From the good report I have had of your improved threshing machine, I am desirous of getting one or two of them erected; and as expeditiously as possible.
The Scantling for two, upon the Plan of Mr Jefferson & others, of the Scotch machine, had been got before I received the account of yours; and may, I presume, be appropriated to the latter. The purpose therefore of this letter, is to know if you would undertake to erect mine; or, if your other engagements should present your personal attendance, whether a person in whose knowledge & skill in the matter, you cd place entire confidence, could be sent; or, lastly, whether you could spare time to make me a visit for the purpose of directing my own Carpenters (six or 7 in number, & some of them competent to follow any direction) to proceed to the execution, and for which due compensation would be made you.
I must beg the favour of a speedy answer (by Post to Alexandria) that I may know what I have to rely on—for if I cannot have them erected upon your plan in a short time, I shall ⟨proceed⟩ upon the one I had at first contemplated, so desirous am I of getting my Wheat out early. I am—Sir Your Obedt Hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to David Humphreys, 26 June 1797
From: Washington, George
To: Humphreys, David

My dear Humphreys,
Mount Vernon 26th June 1797

Since I did myself the pleasure of writing to you by Captain OBrian, I have been favoured with your letters of the first of Jany and 18th of Feby. The last in date, was the first received; but neither came to hand until long after I had left the Chair of Government, & was seated in the shade of my own Vine & Fig-tree.
The testimony of your politeness and friendship to Mrs Washington and myself, which accompanied the latter, are accepted with the same cordiality and chearfulness, with which I am sure

they were presented. Presents however, to me, are of all things the most painful; but when I am so well satisfied of the motives which dictated yours, my scruples are removed; and I receive the Buckles (which are indeed very elegant) as a token of your regard & attachment; & willkeep, & wear them occasionally, for your sake.
As the Gazettes of this Country are transmitted from the Department of State to all our Diplomatic characters, abroad, you will, of course, have perceived, that the measure, advised by you, relative to the disavowal of the forged letters, (attempted to be imposed on the public as written by me in 1776) had been previously adopted; without any of the accompaniments contained in your draught, wch was received long after the publication of it.
I am clearly in sentiment with you, that every man who is in the vigour of life, ought to serve his country in whatsoever line it requires, and he is fit for; it was not my intention therefore to persuade you to withdraw your services whilst inclination, & the calls of your country demanded your services; but the desire of a companion in my latter days, in whom I could confide, might have induced me to express myself too strongly on the occasion. The change however, which I presume has ’ere this taken place in your domestic concerns, would, of itself, have annihilated every hope of having you as an inmate, if the circumstance had been known at the time.
On this event, which I persuade myself will be fortunate & happy for you, I offer my congratulations with all the sincerity & warmth you can desire; and if ever you should bring Mrs Humphreys to the U. States, no roof will afford her & you a more welcome reception than this, while we are the Inhabitants of it.
To the Department of State, and the Gazettes which will be transmitted from thence, I shall refer you for the political State of our affairs; but in one word I might have added, that nothing short of a general Peace in Europe will produce tranquillity in this country, for reasons which are obvious to every well informed, or observant man, among us. I have a confidence however, in that Providence, which has shielded the U. States from the Evils which have threatned them hitherto: and as I believe the major part of the people of this country are well affected to the Constitution, & government of it, I rest satisfied that if ever a crisis should arise to call forth the sense of the Community it will be strong in support of the honor & dignity of the Nation. Therefore, however much I regret the opposition which has for its object the embarrassment

of the administration, I shall view things in the “Calm lights of Mild Philosophy” and endeavour to finish my course in retirement & ease.
An absence from home of eight years, except short occasional visits to it (which allowed no time to investigate, or look into the real state of my private concerns) has very much deranged them; and occasioned such depredations upon buildings, and all things around them, as to make the expence of repairs almost as great, and the employment of attending to Workmen, almost as much, as if I had commenced an entire new establishment.
The Public buildings in the Federal City go on well: one wing of the Capitol (with which Congress might make a very good shift) and the Presidents house, will be covered in this autumn, or to speak more correctly perhaps, the latter is now receiving its cover, & the former will be ready for it by that epoch. An elegant bridge is thrown over the Potomac at the little Falls, and the navigation of the River above it will be completed, nearly, this season; through which an immensity of Produce must flow to the Shipping Ports thereon. Alexandria you would scarcely know; so much has it increased since you was there; two entire Streets where Shallops then laded & unladed are extended into the River, & some of the best buildings in the Town erected on them. What were the Commons, are now all inclosed, and many good houses placed on them. As my circle is now small, my information will be, of course, contracted; as Alexandria & the federal City will, probably, be the extent of my perambulations. If you have entered the matrimonial list, I pray you to present me in respectful terms to your lady, and at all times, & under all circumstances, that you would believe me to be, as I really am, My dear Sir Your most Obedient and Affectionate Servant

Go: Washington

P.S. The Seal of this Letter being black is occasioned by the death of my only Sister, Mrs Lewis late of Fredericksburgh.


Title: From George Washington to Richard Peters, 26 June 1797
From: Washington, George
To: Peters, Richard

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 26th June 1797

Until last week, I had no suspicion that the Hessian fly was among my Wheat; but upon examination I found there were many. They have come too late, this year, however, to do me much damage; but as I view them as the harbingers of those who will visit me next year, I would guard, as far as it may be in my power, against the threatned evil.
Permit me therefore to ask, if from your own experience, or from that of others on whom you can rely it is ascertained whether Rye or Barley (winter or Summer) is liable to this calamity? In the country above me, the Wheat, I am informed, is entirely destroyed (in places) by this fly; and from the appearances of them among mine, It is but too probable it would be the case with me next year, if I do not substitute other grain in its place. But What grain is the important question. Are oats affected by these flies?
Where this calamity has not visited the Wheat, the grain is remarkably fine, and the quantity not to be complained of. Present me, if you please, in respectful terms to Mrs Peters, and add thereto the compliments of Mrs Washington. With great esteem & regard I am—Dear Sir Your Affecte Hble Servt.

Go: Washington

P.S. Is there any truth in the observation that the yellow bearded Wheat will resist the injury which the common wheat sustains from the above named fly?


Title: From George Washington to Timothy Pickering, 28 June 1797
From: Washington, George
To: Pickering, Timothy

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 28th June 1797

I now, as intimated in my last, take the liberty of committing the letters herewith sent to your care. The one for Genl Marshall contains others for France.
Will you permit me to remind you of the copying machine—the Journals & Laws—which you were so good as to promise you would have the first repaired, an[d] all sent to me. My compliments, in which Mrs Washington joins are offered to Mrs Pickering &ca and I am Dear Sir Your Obedt & Affecte Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Edward Carrington, 30 June 1797
From: Carrington, Edward
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Richmond June 30th 1797

I have had the honor of receiving your letter of the 26th Instant covering one for Mr William Booker; and on conferring with his Freind & immediate correspondent in this place, learn that he will probably return to his residence, about 18 Miles from hence, being now engaged abroad in building Machines, about Sunday or Monday next. I have placed your letter under cover of a few lines from myself, requesting that he will, at all events, let me see him. the letters will be lodged at his House tomorrow.
I am confident that unless he be under ingagements which he

cannot possibly get over, he will immediately attend you; and that, in any event, he will embrace the first opportunity he can seize, of doing so. I expect that in five or six days it will be in my power to forward you the most certain information on the subject, daily experience so fully manifests the advantages of those threshing machines, that Mr Booker is, I believe constantly receiving applications for his personal attendance on the building of them, and I am apprehensive he is under many engagements, but have no doubt of his making an exertion to attend you.
Since General Marshall left this, I have seen the operation of a Machine lately built by Mr Booker for me, in this Country and of another for a neighbour; in both experiments my expectations & wishes have been fully satisfied; indeed I believe there has been no instance of a failure where Mr Booker has attended the building; and I have been informed of successful experiments in the hands of other artists.
I shall, at all times, take great pleasure in rendering you any services in my power, having the Honor to be with the most sincere and unalterable attachment Dear Sir Your Affectionate Humble servt

Ed. Carrington


Title: To George Washington from Charles Carter, Jr., 2 July 1797
From: Carter, Charles Jr.
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Culpeper July 2d 1797

I am favoured with yr letter of the 26th ult. indicating a desire of engaging Mr Booker as Superintendant or Builder of yr threshing

Machine—Mr Booker has not yet arrived in this neighbourhood, but is expected with confidence in the course of a fort night—his engagements in this branch of business (I am told) will carry him as far as Fauquier, and I conjecture that it will not be difficult to prevail on him to extend his ride to Mount Vernon—I shall however refrain from making him any overtures on this subject without further advice from you—The enclosed Bill was given by him to Mr Pollards Manager for his government in providing the Scantling for his Machine—it may perhaps afford a hint to any person, whom you may engage in this business, and in the event of yr employing Mr Booker, be a mean of forwarding the work, by enabling yr people to prepare the Scantling —This part of the country has been visited by an uncommon drought, which has occasiond a total failure of our Meadows, & placed our corn in jeopardy—The wheat has against all calculation resisted its effects, & yeilded a better crop, than we have been accustomed to reap for several years—offer our affectionate respects to Mrs Washington & beleive me with every sentiment of esteem & regard yr Most Ob. Sert

Chas Carter


Title: From George Washington to James Ross, 2 July 1797
From: Washington, George
To: Ross, James

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 2d July 1797.

I have been in continual expectation of hearing that Colo. Shreve had deposited the amount of his second instalment in the Bank of Pennsylvania, agreeably to contract; but as a month has elapsed since it ought to have been done, and no account of a payment there, and as it has been usual with him to offer these in driblets—by any body—at any time—& in any manner—regardless of his obligation; thereby depriving me of the advantage of counting upon the money at the period when it becomes due

(which was a principal inducement to the Sale) I have enclosed you his Bond, with a request that you would put it in suit, or take such other measures to obtain payment at his cost, as you shall deem expedient. Below is the sums which have actually been recd on the Instalments. My best respect are presented to Mrs Ross, & with very great esteem & regard—I am always Dr Sir Yr obedt Hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Clement Biddle, 3 July 1797
From: Washington, George
To: Biddle, Clement

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 3d July 1797

I presume my letter, enclosing the Power of Attorney, had reached your hands before your favor of the 20th Ulto was dispatched, altho’ the rect thereof was not acknowledged; and that the latter has enabled you to draw the interest of my Certificates at the Bank. Presuming on this, the letter to Mr McAlpan is sent, and open for yr perusal.
Mr Morse having sent me his American Gazetteer, supercedes the necessity of your purchasing one for me. The Keys sent by Mr Aikens are returned, being too large, and of course useless to me, although they may be otherwise to him. With esteem I am Dear Sir Yr Obedt Hble Servt

Go: Washington

P.S. When paid, please to send McAlpins acct to me.


Title: From George Washington to David Henley, 3 July 1797
From: Washington, George
To: Henley, David

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 3d July 1797.

Your letter of the 11th Ulto from Knoxville has been duly received, and for the kind & affectionate sentiments expressed therein towards Mrs Washington & myself, we pray you to accept our best acknowledgments, and an assurance of our esteem & regard for you. Should you ever pass, or repass this road, we should be glad to have an opportunity of repeating them to you in person, at this retreat of ours from the bustling scenes of public life.
The interscepted letter, of which you were at the trouble to send me a copy, if genuine, is really an abomination; disgraceful to the Author; and to be regretted, that among us, a man in high trust, and a responsible station, should be found, so debased in his principles as to write it. With respect to the sentiment which relates to

me, as late President of the United States, I hold it, as I shall do the Author, if he uttered it, in the most sovereign contempt; but such an attempt as is therein exhibited to poison the minds of the Indians, and destroy the utility and influence of the Agents employed by Government for the express purpose of preserving Peace & harmony with the Indians, and this too for the avowed design of facilitating a Plan which he is unwilling, or ashamed to express; and more than probable from the complexion of the letter, is of an injurious nature to the Country, deserves an epithet which he can be at no loss to apply.
I hope the original letter, if it carries the marks of genuineness, has been carefully preserved and forwarded to the proper department, that the person guilty of such atrocious conduct may be held to public view in the light he ought to be considered by every honest man, & friend to his Ctry. With great esteem & regard I am—Dear Sir Your Obedt Hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to James McAlpin, 3 July 1797
From: Washington, George
To: McAlpin, James

Sir,
Mount Vernon 3d July 1797.

If you will present your account of the things furnished young Mr Custis (on his return to College in May last) to Colo. Clemt Biddle, he will pay you the amount thereof.
I thank you for the information repecting John Cline, but shall give myself no further concern about him, for it was always my intention to have given him his freedom (as I did by the other Servants under similar circumstances) when I retired from Public life had he remained with me. I wish you well, and am Sir Your very Hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 3 July 1797
From: McHenry, James
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Philadelphia 3 July 1797

You will hardly stand in need of the inclosed paper to convince you of its writers principles altho’ it may be necessary as a proof of his criminal intentions. It is to be laid before Congress to-day. There are some circumstances that would induce a belief that there is more of French in the plot than British; altho’ Chisholm actually had conversation last winter with the British minister on the subject. I expect more information from Tenessee. The plot of our enemy thickens and the storm in all probability will soon burst. Your affectionate

James McHenry


Title: To George Washington from Richard Peters, 3 July 1797
From: Peters, Richard
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Belmont [Pa.] July 3d 1797

I am extremely sorry to find by your Favour of the 26th of June that the Fly extends its Ravages this Year so generally. All our Wheat is either much injured or totally destroyed by it in this Quarter & it is so in every Part of this State, on this Side the Mountains. Delaware & Maryland are in the same Situation. Thus this Insect is defeating French Spoliations, by taking away the Subject of them. This will answer the Purpose of an Embargo, without implicating our Government.
My early Virginia Wheat is less injured than any other. I have about half a Crop. The Rye in the same Field is excellent. Yet a few Stalks are affected by the Fly. I have always percieved this in Fly Seasons. But it has been my Belief & Experience that Rye will withstand

their Attacks. The bearded Wheat (the yellow Bearded) is generally thought safe. A Neighbor of mine has as fine a Field of it as ever I saw; not the least injured by the Fly, tho’ the adjacent Fields of other Wheat are not worth reaping. I sewed yellow-bearded Wheat many Years, & had little Loss from the Fly; but suffered much from Mildew. So that I prefer this Wheat to any other on this former Account, tho’ I do not think it the best Species of that Grain. Late sowing avoids the Fly, but risques the Mildew. So that here is Scylla & Charybidis. I have a small Patch of common Wheat, sowed after Potatoes in November, in rich Ground, prodigiously fine. If it escapes Mildew, & I believe it will, I shall have 30 Bushells to the Acre.
Summer Barley is so uncertain a Crop that I sow little of it, but always have some. I have seen the Fly in it, but not so as to damage it materially. I have also percieved it in Winter Barley. This Grain however will bear late sowing, & must have strong Land well tilled, & therefore is a comparatively safe Crop. I never saw the Fly in Oats. But I have heard of its being in this Grain in small Numbers.
I shall sow little Wheat, & that chiefly for Experiment, this Year. I will try the early Virginia sown late & the yellow bearded. Rye & Winter Barley shall be the great Proportion of my Crops.
The Fly stole a March on us this Year. We had no appearances of it the last Harvest. I wish we could intermit sowing Wheat entirely for a Year or two, that there might be no Pabulum for these Vermin. I know they will attack this Grain & even Grass, such as Timothy if they have no Wheat to feed on, but by no Means in so destructive a Degree. I have troubled you with my experience & Intentions as to my own farming, that you may see my Opinion on the Enquiries you have been pleased to make.
I have just returned from an Excursion thro’ the northern Part of this State, whither I went to look over some of my Lands which I had too long overlooked. This led me to visit many Quarters of the Country & I found their Crops very bad, but the People much mended in their political opinions—in French Affairs particularly. Our people will have to give a Tone to our Government (tho’ the Direction ought to be the reverse) if Matters should come to a Crisis. But I trust Time, & our old Friend Good Fortune, will Dissipate the Clouds which now lower over us. Our State has long had the Misfortune of being misrepresented by those who do not speak the public Opinion. But there is a Lassitude among the People too

generally. We have drank so deep of Prosperity, that we are like honest Gentlemen after a Debauch. We are now cross sick & feeble, but ready for another Feast. If it is set again before us, tho’ it may not be quite so plentiful, we shall go on jovially & get drunk & sick again.
Mrs Peters joins in the most affectionate & respectful Return of your & Mrs Washington’s kind remembrance of us. You are both very often in our thoughts & always in our Hearts. I am most truly & respectfully your obedt Servant

Richard Peters

If my Neighbor’s Crop of bearded Wheat turns out as well as it now promises shall I secure you some of the Wheat for Seed?
I wish some Experiments were tried to see which would destroy or drive off these Vermin. But I scarcely believe it possible.
As the Fly will go a great Way towards Starving the French Islands, I wish the Directory would turn their Resentments against it & Spare us. In this they would shew quite as much Sense & more Justice. Their Philosophers would be better employed in finding out the Means of extirpating this Insect, than in rooting out everything heretofore deemed Sacred & valuable among Mankind. I question however if it be a European Production; & I do not wish the practical French Philosophers to begin any more of their experiments here. I have talked with a number of Hessians & other Germans, & they never knew or heard of this Fly in their Country. I know not how we came to call it the Hessian Fly. Perhaps because we then hated the Hessians; as all the Nations of Europe who hate one another (& that is pretty general) cast off the opprobrium of another Scourge. The French call it “Mal de Naples” & the Italians Mal francoise. I fancy they, among other Victims, have suffered lately as much by the new Mal francoise, as ever they did by their old Acquaintance the Mal de Naples.


Title: From George Washington to Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 3 July 1797
From: Washington, George
To: Wolcott, Oliver Jr.

Dear Sir
Mount Vernon 3d July 1797.

Not believing that Congress would adjourn as soon as some expected; and hoping that Colo. Shreve would not lay me under the necessity of putting his Judgment Bond in suit, I have forborne until now, to send it to Mr Ross for that purpose. But as I believe he is one of that description of men who have very little idea of punctuality; and as my wants require all my resources, I have now forwarded it under cover to you: but request that you would be so good before the letter which encloses it is handed to Mr Ross, to enquire at the Bank of Pennsylvania if Shreve, or any one in his behalf, has deposited therein for my use the sum of about two thousand dollars. In case this is done, I pray you to return to me my letter to Mr Ross. If there be no deposit, then to give, or send it to that Gentleman by a safe conveyance.
By the public Gazettes, two things seem to be certain: Preliminaries

between France & Austria of Peace, and a dangerous Crisis in England. A third however is necessary to give tranquillity to this Country, and that is actual Peace between the latter & France. Whether that would produce harmony is at least problematical, for I am sure ⟨the⟩ views of some among us would not be promoted by such an event.
The letter for Colo. Biddle I would thank you for sending to him. present me, & the family to Mrs Wolcott, and be assured always of the esteem & friendship of Your Affectionate

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Buchan, 4 July 1797
From: Washington, George
To: Buchan, eleventh earl of (David Stuart Erskine; 1742-1829)

My Lord,
Mount Vernon 4 July 1797.

Under cover from Mr Cambbell of New York, about the time of my bidding adieu to the Walks of public life, I had the honour to receive your Lordships letter of the 1st of July 1796 from Kirkhill.
Congress being then near the close of an important Session, many matters of a public, and some of private concern (preparatory to the change which was on the eve of taking place) engrossed so much of my time and attention as to induce me to suspend the acknowledgement of all letters not of a public nature, or requiring immediate answers, under an idea that when I should be fixed in my retreat abundant leizure would be afforded to discharge all my epistolary obligations. In this however I have found myself mistaken, for at no period have I been more closely employed, than within the three months I have been at home, in repairing the ravages which an eight years absence (except occasional short visits which were inadequate to investigation) have produced on my Farms, buildings, and every thing around them.
I have taken the liberty of troubling your Lordship with these details to avoid the imputation of being inattentive to your favours; which I should be unwilling to incur, and ungrateful if I deserved to be so charged.
At the age of 65 I am recommencing my Agricultural pursuits & rural amusements; which at all times have been the most pleasing

occupation of my life, and most congenial with my temper, notwithstanding a small proportion of it has been spent in this way.
I was not sanguine in my hope of obtaining tenants from Great Britain, for my Farms of the estate on which I reside, although the experiment was made. It appeared to me more probable that Capitalists, and such as would answer my purposes would rather become Proprietors than tenants; although the latter, in reality, might prove the best medium to attain the former; experience having shewn, in many instances, that some by making precipitate purchases, have made injudicious establishments; while others, by holding off too long, have expended their means—when small—before they had decided on the part of the Country, or on the plan to be adopted.
It was my constant endeavour whilst I had the honour to Administer the Government of these United States, to preserve them in Peace and friendship with all the World. Humanity, interest and policy all combined to dictate the measure; and I have reasons to believe that the Gentleman who has succeeded to the Chair of State will pursue a similar policy; and if to stop the further effusion of human blood; the expenditure of National wealth; and the cries, & distresses of fatherless children & Widows made so by the most destructive Sword that has ever been drawn in modern times, are sufficient inducements for returning it to the Scabbard, a general Peace must surely be at hand. Be these things however as they may, as my glass is nearly run, I shall endeavour in the shade of my Vine & Fig tree to view things in the “Calm lights of mild Philosophy.” With Mrs Washington’s compliments to Lady Buchan to which I beg leave respectfully to add mine, I am Your Lordships Most obedient, obliged, & Very Hble Servant

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Gustavus Scott, 4 July 1797
From: Scott, Gustavus
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Phila. 4 July 1797.

I do myself the pleasure of enclosing you a Line recd last Night from Messrs Reed and Ford. When I return I shall call on Mr Linghan and Know how far the Contents of these Genlns Letter may be depended upon. I have the honor to be with sentiments of perfect Respect Dr Sir Yr mo. obt Servt

Gusts Scott


Title: From George Washington to Philip Freneau and Alexander Menut, 5 July 1797
From: Washington, George
To: Freneau, Philip,Menut, Alexander

Gentn
Mount Vernon 5th July 1797

Declining by public notification to receive any of the Gazettes of United States after the first of March last (unless particularly ordered) I presumed the design of sending the “Time piece” was to discover whether I was inclined to become a Subscriber or not.
Under this persuasion I expected after a lapse of sufficient time to assertain this fact that every succeeding paper would be the last; but as they are still continued, I have to offer you my thanks for those which have been forwarded and to request that no more

may be sent; having no disposition to engage in Politics and receiving all the news (foreign & domestic) from the Gazettes at the seat of the Government I require nothing more. I am Gentn Your Very Hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to William Booker, 7 July 1797
From: Washington, George
To: Booker, William

Sir,
Mount Vernon 7th July 1797

Your letter of the 3d instant from Richmond was recd by the last Post, and I embrace tomorrow’s Mail, the first since its arrival, to thank you for your attention to my request; to inform you that I shall be much pleased to see you here between the 20th & 27th according to promise; and that the Scantling got for the old, shall either be accomodated to the new Thrashing Machine, or other provided by the time above mentioned: and will have the Iron, and every thing else ready to avoid delay which cannot well happen as I have half a dozn Carpenters, & Blacksmiths of my own.
Should any thing happen (wch I hope will not) to prevent you from being here at the appointed time, be so good as to inform Yr Most Obedt Servant

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to James McHenry, 7 July 1797
From: Washington, George
To: McHenry, James

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 7th July 1797.

By the last Post I was favoured with your letter of the 3d instant and thank you for its enclosure, although, on the same day, I had, myself, transmitd a copy thereof to the Secretary of State.
I had doubted a while, whether to forward it to your Office or that of State, but finally resolved to send it to the latter, as it seemed more properly I thought, to belong to that Department.
If the letter (intercepted by Mr Byers) is a genuine one, and the Gentleman’s hand writing is not easily mistaken, or counterfeited, what excuse can a late Governor & present Senator of the U.S., or his friends for him, offer for such Nefarious conduct? The defence must be curious, and will, I have no doubt, be conducted with as much effrontery as art. I hope, notwithstanding, if the fact is proved, that the author will receive all the Punishment which the Constitution and Laws of this Country can inflict; and thereafter be held in detestation by all good men. To seek private emolument at the expence of Public Peace—perhaps at the expence of many innocent lives: and to aim a stroke at the reputation of a virtuous character, hazarding his health—probably life—to promote tranquility between the Indians and our frontier Inhabitants; and by destroying his influence, & well earned good name among the former, to render him incapable of serving his Country and this forsooth because he may be a stumbling block in the way of a plan which he has in contemplation, is a crime of so deep a dye as no epithet can convey an adequate idea of to my mind. A poor wretch stealing the worth of a shilling, possibly to buy bread, would be hung, or confined to hard labour; and here, a plan (at which I can only guess) is on foot to defraud the public of its rights; deprive Citizens perhaps (in its consequences) of their lives; to stigmatise characters; and ultimately to produce War, with all its concomitants, wch will, more than probable, meet with advocates.
But as you inform me that the matter would be laid before Congress, as on monday last, I shall wait (with some degree of impatience I confess) to learn the result. Always, I remain Your Affection[at]e frd

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from John Marshall, 7 July 1797
From: Marshall, John
To: Washington, George

Sir
Philadelphia July 7th [17]97

I have had the pleasure of receiving from Mr Pickering your letter to me inclosing others for France, intrusted to my care, to the delivery of which I shall be particularly attentive.
Receive Sir my warm & grateful acknowledgements for the polite &, allow me to add, friendly wishes which you express concerning myself as well as for the honor of being mentiond in your letters.
I expect to embark in the course of the next week in the Grace for Amsterdam there to join Genl Pinckney & thence to proceed, if we be permitted to proceed, to Paris. Mr Gerry, if he accepts the appointment, which is not yet certain, he having requested some short time for deliberation, will follow. Claypoles papers by the mail of today exhibit the case of Mr Blount. Opinions here are as various on this subject as on every other—not with respect to Mr Blount—all concur in giving him up, but with respect to the object of the scheme, the means of execution & the degree of crime or indiscretion attach’d to different foreign ministers. It is by some conjecturd that Mr Blount himself gave to the Spanish Minister the inteligence on which was founded his application to the Government of the United States. I remain Sir with the most respectful attachment Your Obedt Servt

J. Marshall


Title: From George Washington to Timothy Pickering, 7 July 1797
From: Washington, George
To: Pickering, Timothy

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 7th July 1797

Your letter of the 1st instant was brought to me by the last Post. The Journals of the 1st 2d & 3d Sessions of the first Congress, I have, & no later. These are in folio—one volume of the Senate, and another of the House of Representatives. If no complete set can be had, either in folio or octavo, it would be useless to obtain a copy of what I now possess: but if they are to be continued in the latter, and an entire set could be had of that size, it would be prefered on account of uniformity.
Please to accompany the copying Press with the account of cost, & the amt shall be transmitted in Ba[n]k notes. With great esteem & regard I remain—Dear Sir Your Obedient & Affecte Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Washington, 7 July 1797
From: Washington, Samuel
To: Washington, George

Dear Uncle
Cha[rle]s Town July 7th 1797.

Haveing been for two years past particular unfortunate in Loseing all my Crop of small grain, Induces me to solicit a favor of you[.] the Last year I should have made Two Thousands Bushels of Wheat but was unlucky enough to get a man to stack for me who was not acquainted with the business and there came a wet spell of Weather, and I Lost all to about Two hundred bushls. That Loss I should by great exertion I would have got over without Selling my Land; which my Father was good enough to give me when I became of Age but I was Oblige to become responsible for all his debts which I could, had I been Lucky I would have made enough from my crops to have discharg’d them all but meeting with a second Loss of my Wheat owing to the hesian fly which destroyed my present Crop. And this being a Bad time to make sale of my Land urges me to Apply to you for the Loan of a sum of Money such a one as you can conveniently spare which I will most sertainly return as soon as I can make sale of some property to advantage, for was I to sell at this time it would entirely ruin me, I tried some time

ago to part with a few Lotts I had in Chas Town to pay a debt due Doct. S[t]ueart but they would not sell. I Am in hopes when you find that it has not been by desipation or Extravagance on my part that has been the cause of my Misfortunes it will be an Appology for my request, for was I a charactor of that description I am well Assure’d I should not be countenanced by you. Believe your Affectionate Nephew

Saml Washington


Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 9 July 1797
From: McHenry, James
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir.
Philadelphia 9th July 1797.

Yesterday after hearing councel the Senate expelled Mr Blount. Mr Tazewell voted against his expulsion upon very frivolous ground. The affair makes a good deal of noise I mean talk without the plot or project being understood.
You will see by the inclosed reports to the President the further disclosure of French projects. It would seem as if nothing short of a dismemberment of the union, and having a part of it under

French protection would satisfy the Directory. After gaining this point, at which I am sure they aim France will then play for the whole.
Mr Boardley put into my hands the other day the annexed little work which he requested me to send you, excusing himself from doing it least it might be thought to require a letter of thanks which he did not wish to expose you to for such a trifle. I have not had time to read it. I pray my sincere respects to Mrs Washington & Miss Custis and to be beleived what I am your affectionate

James McHenry


Title: Clement Biddle to GW, 10 July 1797 [letter not found]
From: Biddle, Clement
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: Clement Biddle to GW, 10 July 1797. On 14 Aug. GW wrote Biddle: “I have delayed until now, to acknowledge the receipt of your favors of the 10th & 25th Ulto.”


Title: To George Washington from Edward Carrington, 10 July 1797
From: Carrington, Edward
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir,
Richmond July 10th 1797

By this evenings Mail I had the Honor to receive yours of the 7th Instant covering one for Mr Booker who is now somewhere on the south side of James River in the line of his business. He was apprised, before he left this, of the probability a letter from you arriving by this Mail, and will certainly put himself in the way receiving it.
In the mean time I can assure you of his considering it as his duty, from what he wrote, to be in readiness for such a call as I understand your letter to contain; and you may rely on his attending you within the periods he mentioned, if health permits. I have the Honor to be with affection & Dear Sir Your Most Obt

Ed. Carrington


Title: From George Washington to Robert Goodloe Harper, 10 July 1797
From: Washington, George
To: Harper, Robert Goodloe

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 10th July 1797

By the last Post I was honoured with your “observations on the dispute between the United States and France” and for your polite attention in sending them to me I pray you to accept my best acknowledgments.
Being on the point of celebrating Harvest [at] home, I must be allowed, as a Farmer, to make every other matter yield to the accomplishment thereof; that being over, the Pamphlet, I am persuaded, will be read with edification and pleasure by Dear Sir Your Obedt Hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Tobias Lear, 10 July 1797
From: Washington, George
To: Lear, Tobias

My dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 10th. July 1797.

If nothing happens more than I foresee to prevent it,—I propose to be in the Federal City on Monday or Tuesday in next week; but it will depend on your being there. I request therefore to be informed by the Post if this will be the case; or whether business at that time will call you from it.
When that far I shall extend my ride to the little and great falls of the River,—at the last of which I have not been these eight or nine Years. I am Your Affectionate


Title: From George Washington to John William Bronaugh, 11 July 1797
From: Washington, George
To: Bronaugh, John William

Sir,
Mount Vernon 11th July 1797.

Enclosed you will receive a copy of the courses and distances of my tract of 7276 acres of Land on the Great Kanhawa, adjoining Poketallico Creek.
I am obliged to you for giving me the offer of 2000 Acres of your Land in that quarter, but my own want of money induced me to sell two tracts of near 5000 Acres in the Counties of Washington and Fayette in the State of Pennsylvania for much less than the real value of them.—but
If you are going to the Kanhawa, and it should fall readily in your way to do it, I would thank you for information, when you return, of the situation, or rather circumstances, under which my Lands on that River are, for I am totally in the dark respecting them. I am—Sir—Yr obedt Hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 12 July 1797
From: Wolcott, Oliver Jr.
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir,
Philadelphia July 12th 1797

I have recd your Letter of the third instant no monies have been deposited by Colo. Shreve, I shall accordingly transmit your Letter to Mr Ross; he went out of Town unexpectedly.
I hear that my fathers health is declining, and shall set out for Connecticut to morrow. We have no news—Genl Marshall will sail this week. I am ever with perfect deference your obedt servt

Oliver Wolcott jr


Title: To George Washington from John Sinclair, 15 July 1797
From: Sinclair, John
To: Washington, George

Sir
Board of Agriculture, Whitehall [London] 15th July 1797.

I have the Honor to inclose a Copy of my address to the Board of Agriculture, delivered at the close of our late Session, from which you will perceive the present State of our Pursuits in the great Cause of Agriculture. I hope it will have the good fortune of meeting with your approbation.
I also have the pleasure of herewith Sending the remainder of The original Surveys according to the plan first undertaken, which completes that part of our design.

I am persuaded that these communications, though not So complete as they will yet be rendered, will not be unacceptable to one, whose Zeal for Improvement is So well known, and universally acknowledged.
Any information upon these important Subjects from America will be thankfully received by the Board. I have the honor to be, with great respect and regard. Your most faithful and obedient Servant

John Sinclair

N.B. I hope that the plan of establishing a Board of Agriculture in America, is not abandoned. Do you think that the American Virginia forward wheat, would answer in England. A Sample of it would be extremely acceptable.