Title: To George Washington from the Commissioners for the District of Columbia, 4 February 1795
From: Commissioners for the District of Columbia
To: Washington, George

          Sir,
          Washington [4 Feb.] 1795

        The Board have for some time contemplated a statement of the affairs of the City, to be laid before you; which has been hitherto delayed by the difficulty of collecting the several Documents necessary to accompany it; and which even yet are very far from being perfect. Independent of the present circumstances of Affairs, there are strong reasons why our proceedings at certain

stated periods should be laid before you. We conceive that the Manner in which the public Money committed to our Charge has been expended, ought to appear upon other Records than our own; by which means we may obviate all false Charges, if any such should be exhibited. We wish also that you, Sir, to whom we are immediately responsible, may have before you the evidence requisite to form a Decision upon our Conduct.
        The change made in the Board in September last, makes it peculiarly proper to take a short view of the State of the funds at that period; including the Sums actually expended, the Debts due & the funds in hand. The Members then appointed consider their responsibility as then commencing; and would be wanting to their own Characters, if they did not place within the power of public view, the State of the business in which they consented to engage: without which no just Opinion of their exertions could be formed; and the more they were impressed with the hope of deserving well of the public, the more anxiety they would naturally feel to give a just and true state of the Affairs of the City at their Entrance into Office. Under these Impressions, and without the most distant Idea of Suggesting any thing unfavorable to their Predecessors in Office, they submit to Consideration.

            The Paper Marked A

            Dr. Commisrs for the Federal District in Acct with Mr Deakins
            }
            Cr.

            Junr City Treasurer

            1794

            1794

            Octr 1
            To Cash paid your orders
            Oct. 1
            By amount payments

            for Expenditures to

            received into the Treasury

            this date
            94465.15.1¼

            from the Commencement

            Ditto advanced ⅌ list
             10143.5.1¼

            to date
               98247.2.8½

            Balance in the hands

            Cash received of the

            of the Treasurer this

            Bank of Cola discounted

            Day
             6856.17.6

            in the Treasurers notes
               13218.15.—

            111.465.17.8½

            35250 Dollrs
            £111.465.17.8½

            N.B. Due the Bank of Cola previous

            to this date for the Treasurers

            By Balance in the hands

            Notes discounted
            35250 Dollars

            of the Treasurer
                 6856.17.6

            The Commisrs Stock

            George Town October 1st 1794

            in Bank this Day 1053

            Errors Excepted

            Shares @ 30$
            31590

            Will Deakins Jr Treasr

            3,660

        which shews the actual expenditures up to the 1st Octr 1794. The Debts due to and from the Board, except the balances for Lots sold; exclusive of those sold to Messrs Morris Nicholson & Greenleaf. Those balances are not taken into the Estimate, as it is conceived they will be absorbed by the balances due to original proprietors; Some of which have run very considerably into Arrears and must be paid, and for one of which a suit has long ago been commenced and is still pending.
        The Bank shares which are merely nominal, never having been paid for, except by a Bank Credit; and the Lots on hand together with the debt due from Morris Nicholson & Greenleaf formed the whole of the remaining funds of the City. The precise number or value of these Lots cannot be easily ascertained: but we Suppose them to be less than 5000 standdard lots; and of these more than 4/5 are N.E. of Massachusetts Avenue; and would not probably at present Sell for £25 per Lot. The others are scattered over various parts of the City, and are as different in value as situation. At present £100 per lot would be a high Estimate of those; tho’ we hope the Day is not distant when it will be considered as a very low one.
        The objects in view do not require our going into the Minutæ of Detail, We wish only to give a true Out line.
        The Paper marked B () will give some Idea of the expenditure already made on the Capitol. What ultimately it may cost we cannot at present exactly calculate. But we beg leave to Suggest the Idea whether it would not be prudent in the present State of our funds to forego carrying on more of that building than the immediate accommodation of Congress may require. It is conceived that this may be done without at all affecting the completion of the whole at a future day on the plan approved. The Conduct of Mr Hallet whose capricious and obstinate refusal to deliver up such Sections of the Capitol as were Wanting obliged the late Commissioners to discharge him, and occasioned some difficulties in this business.
        The paper marked C () exhibits an Account of the expences incurred to the 1st of January 1795 on the Presidents House & also what will be incurred at the present prices of Materials & Labor to carry that building to the roof. Also an Estimate of the Materials for finishing it. We wish we could add the

Workmanship likewise to shew in one view the whole Expences of this building.
        The Paper marked D () shews the expences incurred by the Canal, yet in a very unfinished state. The Laborers have been withdrawn for some time from that work, And Serious doubts are entertained, whether it will be proper to pursue the Subject further; at least during the present State of our finances.
        The paper marked E () shews the amount of the Sums expended on the Stone bridge & Causeway, & also copies of the Contracts entered into with Lee & others, & with L. Harbaugh of which we beg leave to give a further explanation hereafter.
        The paper marked F () shews the progress in the survey of the City, also the probable expence of bringing so desireable an Object to a Conclusion; and with the plat accompanying it will give a pretty clear view of the present state of this subject.
        The paper marked G shews the Memorial and Letters on the balance of the Virginia Donation.
        The paper marked H shews the Correspondence with Mr Greenleaf & the present state of the subjects alluded to.
        The paper marked [I] Shews the present funds, or rather Prospects of funds for the ensuing season, and the Objects on which it is contemplated to employ them. Subjoined also is a state of the expected funds to 1800 still more gloomy.
        The several papers exhibited give the best out line of the Affairs of the City. There are however other facts not comprehended under any of these several heads which it may be proper to mention.
        The Board on taking a review of the Consequences arising from being themselves the undertakers in a great variety of Subjects; came to a Resolution to contract as far as possible at fixed rates, for all Materials & work; always reserving the power of finally deciding between the public & the Contractor on the sufficiency of the Materials found or work done. To create competition, & to prevent all combination or censure, they have also advertised their wants with occasional promises of Advances. Hitherto the measure has been attended with Success.
        Contracts have been entered into with Gentlemen of Character & fortune, who have also given Security within the State for the delivery of 5500 Tons of good Scabbled free stone at the yards where wanted, within the present Season, & for 6500 Tons

the next Season, the Stone to be such as our Workmen approve. This Stone will be delivered at least at 7/6 per ton less than it has hitherto cost us. We are also relieved from the heavy burthen of having our Laborers perpetually called off from their Several employments to assist in unloading & loading crafts & Carts. Good hard well burnt Bricks not less than 500,000 nor more than 1 Million to be delivered in the Capitol yard have been contracted for at 36 S. per thousand, tho’ the selling price all last Season in the city and Geo. Town has been and still is from 8 to 10 Dollars per thousand. We hope and believe that our Contract will have a very happy effect on the price among Individuals on this Article.
        The cutting & laying the free stone at the Capitol has been contracted for on very reasonable terms with a Mr Dobson from England; who has given very good Security for his performance & has commenced his Operations.
        We have before Us offers for laying Bricks and foundation Stone; and we are about contracting for Lime, the only Material of Consequence not contracted for to carry on the operations of the next Season.
        About 100 Laborers are engaged for the year at 60 Dollars each, their Masters clothing them; and indeed every measure is taken to prepare for pushing forward the public buildings the next Season, to as great an extent as our finances will admit.
        The levelling of the City, or at least such parts of it as may be soonest called for, has been contemplated as a work which could not much longer be deferred; And as this is a private as well as public benefit, it is thought that the State Legislature would if applied, authorise us to demand of those interested a reasonable compensation for giving the necessary Instructions to builders. Many of the considerable Proprietors in the City have been consulted & express the utmost willingness to contribute without being compelled by Law. A complete execution of this plan of the City with a proper book to which immediate recourse could be had would not cost much less than £3000. A partial execution of the plan may be sufficient for the present: & indeed under the direction of the late Board Something has been done by a Monsr Blois. Perhaps the day is not very distant when a person perfectly competent may be found to undertake

it at his own Cost, if authorised by Law to receive a sufficient compensation from those who must necessarily call for his aid. Such an Office will in no very distant time grow into considerable importance; especially if the Compensation fixed by Law should be liberal.
        The State of the Stone bridge over Rock Creek, the main arch of which is in daily danger of falling & thereby injuring the navigation of the Creek; has been too much talked of, to escape the attention of the Board. We thought that the Affairs of the City would be materially injured by a report going a broad that a bridge built by the Commissioners because it was deemed indispensably necessary, had fallen down & was abandoned; It was not in opinion only that the City would be injured; for the want of a Safe conveyance of all Seasons across rock Creek would now be most sensibly felt. Upon investigating the subject of the Causeway it was discovered that some who had engaged to Convey rights had none; that others who had rights discovered no great degree of willingness to convey them. that the Bridge was at all events likely to be abandoned; & the public in the first Instance at least to get little more than a given number of Law Suits, which we by no means thought likely to be productive of either funds or friends to the City. Under these prospects with the advice & assistance of Mr Johnson the late Commissioner then present we opened a negotiation for a private Sale of the Commissioners claims on the Causeway. After various objections & difficulties it has lately been brought to an End: not indeed such as Justice required, but nearer to it than the existing Circumstances seemed once to promise. The Lots on Rock Creek above the Bridge will be greatly increased in value by the erection of a Draw bridge; which we calculate will not cost us more than 12 or 1400£ & which at all Events we should have been compelled to build, or to have rebuilt the falling arch. The greater part of the Lots above the Bridge still remain public property & we expect will sell high especially if a water street should be laid out from the Bridge to the City Line—It was deemed impracticable to get the Subscribers to unite with the Commissioners in any System for the Sale of the whole together in consequence of clashing claims among themselves—this Idea had been frequently suggested ineffectually by the former Commissioners.

        In addition to the Communications we have made thro’ the Secretary of State, respecting Mr Greenleaf, we think it proper to lay before you the papers marked H, containing our Correspondence with him on two important Objects—1st his proposal to negotiate a loan for the public, & himself jointly to the amount of one Million of dollars—2dly the Security required of him for the improvement of every third Lot on his Selling or contracting to sell any of those conveyed to him within the time limitted by Contract—With respect to the first, you will please to observe a proposal which appeared to be of a very extraordinary kind, & to which a refusal was given by Messrs Carroll & Thornton, (Mr Scott being in Baltimore preparing for his removal) and repeated on his return—He continued to urge this matter, with an indelicate degree of importunity, & which we could not but highly disapprove We think it likewise expedient in consequence of what you will read in one of the Letters of his intention of applying to “you & the Secretary of State” eventually for a decision on our requisition for Security for the performance of his engagements to lay before you the Correspondance on that Subject—You will find it blended with the Subject relating to the Loan—We think it likewise expedient, that you should have every Communication which has passed between Us on our requisition of Security for the fulfilment of his engagements respecting buildings on his Contracting to sell in consequence of his intention as he writes, of applying to “you & the Secretary of State” eventually for a decision. This correspondence is to be found in the papers last referred to.
        Our Sales of Lots in most late Instances from the water have been as high as 100 Guineas for a Sta[n]dard Lot; & on the water at Six pounds the foot Front: nothing but dire necessity ought to induce us to sell at these low rates; except in single Lots & for the purposes of immediate improvements. It is our fixed Opinion not to sell for the purposes of Speculation in any instance—We should hold ourselves totally inexcuseable did we not benefit by experience. Tho’ the Board during the late severe weather have not generally set at their Office more than two Days in a week, we are seldom together without one or more applications to purchase.
        The present Circumstances of our Affairs evince too plainly

how desireable a Loan would be. Spirited exertions in the public buildings, which cannot be made without money whilst it encreased the public confidence would give a great additional value to the public property yet left. Could the Idea once be done away that the public must Sell; it would have a most happy Effect. & it is difficult to conceive the energy it would give to affairs. How far in the present convulsed State of Europe, a Loan could be negotiated there; or what aid may be hoped for at Home, we pretend not to suggest: Removed from the best Sourses of information, it would perhaps be improper for us even to hazzard a conjecture; but to you, Sir, we owe the Confession of this melancholy truth, that the remaining funds of the City at the present prices of property must fall very short of accomplishing the great and necessary Objects in view. Let it however be remarked, that the funds we have to pledge, if the Loan be payable at a distant day, bid fair to be abundantly sufficient to cover the utmost sum wanted. The money if laid out with Judgment & œconomy, may be justly considered as precisely in the State of Money borrowed on Mortgage; to be invested in the advancement of a greatly improveable Estate, the mortgaged Subject. The improvements made whilst they more than double the Security to the Lender, add in an equal degree to the Riches of the Borrower. Such would be the Case could we negotiate a Loan to any useful extent—by pushing forward the, we should strengthen the public Opinion & add perhaps four fold to the value of the property on hand.
        We ought perhaps to appologize for giving you this long Detail, being Sensible how little time you can devote to the Subject, It is however of importance: & we are Confident you will think so, that we should with the utmost truth & candor lay before you the real state of things. Should any unexpected Incidents prevent the public buildings from being prepared in Time for the reception of Congress, how deep would be your, & our regret. Such an Event might ultimately shake the Dignity, Honor & peace of the Union. Thinking as we do, we should be wanting in official Duty if we did not make a just representation of affairs here. With such means as we have eked out by the strictest System of Œconomy, the utmost exertions shall be made; and whenever a Prospect of enlarging them shall offer, we shall with

the sincerest pleasure grasp the happy occasion, having most ardently at heart the fullest Success of the City. We have the honor to be with the utmost respect sir Your obedt Servts

          Daniel CarrollGusts ScottWilliam Thornton

          P.S. We have this Day the honor of your Letter of the 28th ulto & shall pay the earliest attention to it.
          We have thought it best to send the Plat by a private hand, & to make up our letter and the several papers referred to in two Separate packets, the first including all to & with Letter G, & the other H & I.


Title: To George Washington from Alexander Hamilton, 4 February 1795
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

          Sir
          Philadelphia Feby 4. 1795

        The circumstance of having offered my late report to Congress to the two houses which rendered two copies necessary & the extreme press of business in the office in preparing for my resignation prevented my sending you a manuscript copy of that Report.
        I have now corrected a printed copy for you which I have the honor to send herewith. With true respect & attacht I have the honor to be Sir Yr obedt servt

          A. Hamilton


Title: To George Washington from Edmund Randolph, 4 February 1795
From: Randolph, Edmund
To: Washington, George

          Sir
          Department of State February 4. 1795

        I do myself the honor of submitting to your consideration a letter from the late Secretary of the Treasury on the subject of an act passed on the 20th of March last, appropriating to our intercourse with foreign nations an additional million of dollars. He refers to a report, in which he has brought into view the necessity of some further provision, and transmits an extract of a letter from our Commissioners at Amsterdam, conveying the painful intelligence, that reliance cannot be had on the success of the measures heretofore taken for procuring the loan there. Although all the necessary powers and instructions have been given for carrying into execution the principal object of that law; I am apprehensive, that the business will be stagnated, unless the most prompt expedients should be adopted. Congress are the sole authority, which can remove the difficulties; and I therefore take the liberty of suggesting the propriety of laying the matter before them. I have the honor, Sir, to be with the highest respect Your most obedient servant.

          Edm: Randolph


Title: To George Washington from Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 4 February 1795
From: Wolcott, Oliver Jr.
To: Washington, George

          Sir,
          Philada Febry 4. 1795.

        I have been informed thro’ The Secretary of State, that you have been pleased to appoint me to the office of Secretary of the Treasury of the United States.
        It is with real diffidence that I undertake to discharge the important duties incident to this appointment; yet if constant

exertions & strict fidelity can compensate for such qualifications as I may not possess, I indulge a hope that my services will receive your approbation.
        But whatever may be the effect of my endeavours in respect to my own reputation & the interests confided to my care, I beg leave to assure you, that this distinguished token of confidence, will never fail to excite in my breast lively sentiments of respect & gratitude. I have the honor to be &c.

          Olivr Wolcott Jr


Title: From George Washington to Robert Morris, 5 February 1795
From: Washington, George
To: Morris, Robert

          Dear Sir,
          Philadelphia Feby 5th 1795.

        If any land, of which I am possessed on the Ohio River, is thought an eligable site for a town; and those who wish to see one established thereon, and, at the sametime, are disposed to promote the measure; will come forward with some digested plan, in writing, for my consideration, no unfounded objections will, I am persuaded, be made on my part.
        I take the liberty of making this communication to you, for as much as you have been the medium of its being mentioned to Dear Sir Your Obedt & Affecte H: Ser⟨vt⟩

          Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Edmund Randolph, 5 February 1795
From: Randolph, Edmund
To: Washington, George

          Department of State February 5th 1795

        The Secretary of State has the honor of inclosing to the President, a Letter from Mr Harrison of New York and some remarks wh. Mr Rutherford of Virginia desired him to transmit to the President.


Title: To George Washington from Edmund Randolph, 5 February 1795
From: Randolph, Edmund
To: Washington, George

          Department of State February 5. 1795.

        The Secretary of State has the honor of returning to the President, the papers respecting the Ship of War to be built in Georgia. Nothing seems to be further necessary on the part of the President, unless perhaps it be to say to the Department, which has the principal superintendance of the Business, that a minute attention to economy is peculiarly desirable; and that it is recommended, that the particulars, stated in Mr Coxe’s communication, should be reviewed, and every possible saving made.


Title: To George Washington from George Lewis, 6 February 1795
From: Lewis, George
To: Washington, George

          Dr Sir
          Fredericksburg [Va.] 6th of Feby 1795

        Your favour of the 18th Ult. with two Plats of land I receiv’d this day. my Mothers absence on a visit to my Sister Carter in Culpeper County, prevented my getting them sooner, as they were under cover to her, otherwise they would have been acknowledged ere this.
        It is not in my power to say any thing of my own knowledge respecting your lands, nor have I been able to make any enquiery as yet of my Brother John, or others about them. at present can

only say, that I have been told that the lands generally on Rough Creek were of a good quallity, and well watered, with respect to the settlement, I cannot say whether the country immediately on Rough Creek is settled or not. but rathar suppose there is a settlement. for if I am not mistaken, your lands are within a few miles of a small town on Green River called Hertford, about eighteen miles above the falls of said river, at which place there is also a small town called Vienna. the country arround those two places were settleing fast when I left Kentucky last spring—I propose leaving home early in April, for Kentucky, with an intention to view my lands on green river if practicable with safety—and you may rest assured, I shall not be wanting in my personal and particular attention to your lands, and shall not fail to give you the earliest information, of there quallity advantages and Vallue.
        My Mother Mrs Lewis and Harriot, request to be particularly remember’d, also unite with me in Love to my Aunt Washington. I am with respect Yr Affectionate Nephew

          Go: Lewis


Title: To George Washington from Israel Shreve, 7 February 1795
From: Shreve, Israel
To: Washington, George

          Sir,
          Washingtons Bottoms Fayette County [Pa.]7th Feby 1795

        Yesterday I received your Excellencys letter dated the 14th of last month respecting the whole of the tract of land whereon I Live Containing near about 1744 Acres strict measure wherein you have been pleased to offer it to me for the sum of four thousand Pounds Pennsylvania Currency, one fourth part to be paid down by the first day of June next, and the Residue to be paid

within five years with interest at six ⅌Cent Punctually paid when due at the place of your Excellencys Residence or secured in any of the Banks of Philadelphia Baltimore Alexandria or the federal City.
        Which offer I accept agreeable to your Excellencys proposals in every part, and this day this Letter will be put into the Post office at Pittsburgh and if by accident it should not come to hand this month I hope a few days will not alter your terms, as I wish to close the bargan and Shall Indeavour to perform my part Punctually.
        with regard to the tenants now on the land they will be Anxious & Solitious to know whether and upon what terms they can stay or go, As the time will soon arive when every farmer ought to know where he is to make his Crop &c. the Ensuing season I Querie with your Excellency whether it would be Improper for me to let them again for one year I shall awate your order or aprobation in that Case and Desire to be Informed of the time when Mr James Ross will probably be at home. With Great and unfeigned regard I am your Excellencys Most Obedt Servt

          Israel Shreve


Title: To George Washington from Paine Wingate, 7 February 1795
From: Wingate, Paine
To: Washington, George

          Sir
          Philadelphia Feb. 7th 1795.

        The office of Destrict Judge in New-Hampshire having become vacant by the Death of General Sullivan, I beg leave to recommend John Pickering Esquire as a suitable person to fill that place. He is a Gentleman eminent in his law-profession, distinguished for his good abilities, and has an irreproachable moral character. He has sustained several of the most respectable offices in the State, and at this time is Chief Justice of the state supreme court. Perhaps the usage of that part of the country, and his own Modesty may prevent a direct application to you; But I am authorised to say that he would accept the appointment with gratitude, and would exert his utmost endeavours to discharge the duties of his office should you be pleased to appoint him. I

have the honour to be with the highest Sentiments of Respect your most obedient and Humble Servant

          Paine Wingate


Title: To George Washington from Louis-Philippe, comte de Ségur, 8 February 1795
From: Ségur, Louis-Philippe, comte de
To: Washington, George

          (Translation)
          sir,
          Chatenay near Paris 8 Feb. 1795

        Your Excellency has too long accustomed me to your goodness for me to doubt that you will pardon my recommending to you the citizen Boislandry a french merchant who sails for america. He is a man distinguished for his probity, wisdom, & disposition; and I am persuaded that he will attract the esteem of all who may become acquainted with him. He was a deputy to the Constituant Assembly, in which he always followed the road to true liberty, never allowing himself to stray into that of licentiousness. Having by chance escaped the fury of the proscriptions I eagerly profit by this first oppy which has occurred of recalling myself to your recollection, and of requesting Your Excelly to be fully persuaded that among those frenchmen who fought in america, there is none who makes more constant vows than I do, for the prosperity of the U.S. and the happiness & Glory of their celebrated and respectable President. I am with attachment & respect &c.

          Louis Philippe SegurSenior


Title: To George Washington from Burgess Ball, 9 February 1795
From: Ball, Burgess
To: Washington, George

          Dear Sir,
          Bigg Spring near Leesburg [Va.]9th of Feby 1795

        I wrote you a few days before Xmas, and concieve your great throng of Bussiness has prevented your yet favourg me with a Line. I shou’d by no meens be anxious was it not that I am here keeping a Person in Suspence with whom I’ve made a conditional Bargain for his Land. I expect the Letter I recd from Genl Knox is sufficient for me to have no doubt of my Place being taken for the Use of the Public, but, yet I can make no positive Bargain with any one here ’till my Matter is absolutely fix’d. I’m

sorry to trouble you on the Occasion, but, as I hope there is no great impropriety I trust you’ll excuse me.
        Lands are rising rapidly in this part of the Country, especially those near the River, they being now double what they were two Years ago. I wd wish a Person to see the place & the 100 Acres of Land, to examine the Fall of Water and all the Advantages & disadvantages, and if found not adaquite to the Expectations of the Public, I wish by no meens to impose in the smallest degree—My Neighbours all say I’m selling too low, but I am perfectly contented, as ‘twill enable me to purchace a pretty little Farm abt two Miles from me and from the River, where I wd wish to fix myself. We have now a tollarable Snow (abt 9 Inches deep) which I hope will be of service to our Wheat which was suffering much. Mrs Washington (the Majors Widdow) I understand is just abt gettg marryed to Mr Lear, but she has given us no Information thereof herself. I hope & have no doubt but they will do well. Miss Milly & Sam are here & all of us join in wishing you & yours every felicity. Im with the highest Esteem Dear sir Yr mo: Obt servt

          B. Ball


Title: To George Washington from Cadwalader Colden, 10 February 1795
From: Colden, Cadwalader
To: Washington, George

          Most Respectfull and Much Respected Sir
          Coldengham [N.Y.] Febry 10th 1795

        When I had the Honour to be introduced to your Excellency at New York, by Coll Hamilton, and about takeing My leave a Certain Suden Palpitation prevented my Addressing you as I

intended, by Saying that I thanked you for indulgeing me in paying My Respects at an Unusual hour, (it not being Levee Day) as I Could not think of leaveing the Citty Without Seeing the Man of Whom all the World Said So Much, And Whose Character (even in the Worst of times) I ever held in high Veneration; This Veneration increases with the Daily Occaisons given for Every True honest Hearted American to Love and Adore you, Your Love for your Country, Talents and Ability to Display that Love, together with a goodness of Heart, and greatness of Soul, Were not More Conspicuous in Defending your Country in time of War Then Since in Saveing it from the Callamitys of War as I hold no Publick Office Neither am initiated in any of the Modern Societies, Pray Accept this Faint tribute of Praise from an Old Individual Who Expects Soon to leave a Numerous Offspring of Sons and Daughters, their Children and Grand Children with this Pleaseing Idea, that they With greatfull hearts may long Enjoy the Blessings that you have Prepared for, and are endeavouring to Secure to the Sittizens of America, For Which God Reward you Amen. So Prays Your Excellencys Most faithfull Humble Sert

          Cadwallader Colden


Title: To George Washington from Edmund Randolph, 11 February 1795
From: Randolph, Edmund
To: Washington, George

          Sir
          Department of State February 11. 1795.

        I have had a very full conversation with Colo. Humphreys, at some part of which Mr Wolcott was present. I submit, sir, to your consideration, whether something like the inclosed is not proper for the public ear. I shall mature a report to you upon this subject, by to morrow, if Mr Wolcott shall be able to determine by that time, how the money is to be raised. It is probable, that Colo. Humphries will go from hence in two or three days; and in the mean time, he will not dine out in company in general. I have the honor to be sir with the highest respect yr mo. ob. serv.

          ⟨Edm. Randolph⟩


Title: To George Washington from Alexander Hamilton, 12 February 1795
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

          Sir
          Philadelphia Feby 12 1795

        I have maturely reflected on the subject of the within papers.
        I do not hesitate to give it as my opinion that if it were not for very peculiar personal circumstances the fittest arrangement upon the whole would be to consign the temporary execution of the Comptroller’s office to the Commissioner of the Revenue—But I could not advise this, because it could not fail for strong reasons to be unpleasant to Mr Wolcott, & because there is real danger that Mr Coxe would first perplex and embarrass and afterwards misrepresent and calumniate.
        The Treasurer would by no means answer, because as the Keeper of the money it is particularly essential that all the Checks upon him should be maintained in full vigour; and The comptroller is the officer who in the last resort settles his accounts as well as concurs in the first instance in authorising by the warrants which are issued by the Secy and countersigned by the Comptroller the payments & receipts of the Treasurer.
        The Register is also one of the principal checks of the Department, first upon the Secretary & Comptroller whose warrants he must register & sign before they can take effect—and secondly upon the settlements of the Comptroller & Auditor by recording their acts & entering them on the Books to the proper accounts.
        Of any of the Officers of the Department, except the Commissioner of the Revenue, the business can be best managed through the Auditor, consistently with the preservation of the most material checks, with the restriction I mentioned this Morning—of his not deciding as Comptroller upon any account he may have settled as Auditor—The temporary suspension of the final conclusion of the Accounts, all the previous examinations going on, cannot be attended with any serious inconvenience—If the laws admit of it (which I doubt as they now stand) the appointment of the Auditors first Clerk to act as Auditor in his stead will be a conveniency—In one sense to appoint the Auditor to act as Comptroller will comport best with the spirit of the constitution of the Department—This is that the officer who is to settle the accounts, by countersigning the Warrants for receipts & payments, shall have an opportunity to observe their conformity with the

course of business as it appears in the Accounts and shall have notice in the first instance of all payments and receipts in order to the bringing all persons to account for public monies—This reason operates to make the Auditor who is the coadjutor of the Comptroller in settlements his most fit substitute in this particular view.
        On the whole I am of opinion that it is most adviseable to appoint the Auditor.
        A Clerk for reasons already mutually adverted to does not appear to me expedient. I have the honor to be Sir Yr Affectionate & Obed. ser.

          A. Hamilton

          P.S. The restriction above suggested for greater caution had best be in writing in a letter to The Secretary of the Treasury.
          The instrument appears to me in proper form.


Title: To George Washington from Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 12 February 1795
From: Wolcott, Oliver Jr.
To: Washington, George

          Sir,
          Treasury Department Feb: 12th ’95.

        I have the honor to inclose a draft of an instrument for constituting a temporary Comptroller of the Treasury.
        I have had a conference with the auditor & I learn from him that he will undertake to perform any duties which in the

judgment of the President the public interest may require; but as he is engaged jointly with the Commissioner of the revenue in the settlement of certain important accounts, it is questionable whether the business of the Department will not suffer considerable interruption by his removal. But in case the auditor is designated, I take the liberty to recommend Mister William Simmons, the principal Clerk, as a suitable person to conduct temporarily the business of the Auditor’s office.
        Mr Henry Kuhl, principal clerk in the Comptrollers’ office, would I am confident ably & faithfully perform any duties in the Comptrollers office relative to the current business. in cases of doubt or difficulty it would be a matter of course for him to suspend any decision until a Comptroller of the Treasury should be appointed. I have the honor to be &c.

          Olivr Wolcott Jr


Title: To George Washington from Tobias Lear, 13 February 1795
From: Lear, Tobias
To: Washington, George

          My dear Sir,
          George Town [D.C.] February 13th 1795

        Knowing the deep interest which you take in the progress of the Potomac Navigation, as an object of great public utility, I am led at this time, to intrude on your busy moments when I should not do it from any motives of personal advantage or gratification.
        Mr Weston has not yet made his appearance here, as from various quarters we were led to expect he would have done early in the present month. The season is fast approaching when arrangements must be made for commencing our operations at the Great Falls, and as the manner in which this important work shall be undertaken seems now to depend on Mr Weston’s

opinion, I feel not a little anxious to have that ascertained from his view of the spot; and have therefore once more taken the liberty, my dear Sir, to trouble you on this subject; begging, that if it should come fairly in your way, and you should feel no objection to touching upon the matter, that you would, if possible, learn decidedly whether Mr Weston may be expected here or not, and when, if he comes at all.
        Tomorrow I shall go to the Little Falls to see the Locks filled, for the first time. They are not yet in such a state of perfection as to make an experiment of the time in which they can be filled, for the passing of boats, some little matters of Iron works for the sluce or wicker gates being yet to finish, which the Smith has now in hand, and will complete next week. The object in filling them now is to try the effect of the water upon the work and to let it stand, to prove whether the Locks be tight or not.
        On Monday the sale of delinquent Shares on the South side of the Potomac will take place at Alexandria—and on Thursday, those on the North side will be sold here—I am not yet certain how many will be brought to the hammer; but I think only a few—There has been an apparent anxiety to pay up delinquencies, which I think speaks well—The price of shares has not however risen beyond the principal & Interest on the several payments; but should it be a decided opinion that the work at the Great Falls can be completed in two years and at any reasonable rate for the magnitude of the Object, I have no doubt of their rising much above their present value.
        To your goodness, my dear Sir, do I trust to ponder the trouble which I have often given you on this subject—I feel interested in the execution of the work in every point of view—as a Citizen of the United States—as an Inhabitant of this part of the Country—as a director of the Company—and as a Stock holder—and may therefore perhaps be carried beyond the line of propriety in writing to you so much about it.
        To my highly respected friend Mrs Washington I beg to be presented in terms expressive of that gratitude which I feel for her—and to the family I pray my best wishes may be made acceptable. With sentiments of the purest respect & most lively gratitude I have the honor to be my dear Sir, Your truly affectionate & devoted friend

          Tobias Lear.


Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 13 February 1795
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Washington, George

          War Office Feby 13. 1795. 3 o’clock

        The Secretary respectfully lays before the President of the United States a letter from Governor Blount this moment received by Express, with Genl Robertson’s letter of the 13th of January & the Governor’s answer. Genl Robertson’s letter of Jany 9th mentioned by the Governor in his answer to the General was not inclosed.

          Timothy Pickering


Title: Circular on a Monument to the American Revolution, 14 February 1795
From: Washington, George
To:

            SIR,
            Philadelphia, February 14th. 1795.

          Herewith you will receive the description of a monument proposed to be erected to the American Revolution, and the plan by which the means for the undertaking are to be provided.

          Those who truly admire the great event which established the liberty of this country, and who wish to see the blessing cherished by all who may be heirs to it, will need no exhortation to contribute their reasonable aid to a work, which is so well calculated to blend with the glory of the present, a lesson to future, generations. Among the means employed by the wisest and most virtuous people, for nourishing and perpetuating the spirit of freedom and patriotism, monumental representations are known to be among the most ancient, and, perhaps, not the least influential. And as it is the happiness of this country to enjoy an occasion, more glorious and more auspicious to it, than has been the lot of any other; there ought to be felt a pride, as well as satisfaction, in commemorating it, by a spectacle as unrivalled as the occasion itself. Should the plan, now offered, be successful, this object will be fully attained: for it may, without hazard, be affirmed, that no similar work of equal magnitude and merit, can be boasted by the nations most distinguished for their munificent zeal in rendering the fine arts auxiliaries to the cause of Liberty.
          Although it was deemed proper to provide for an eventual assumption of the monument and the expense, by the government of the United States; yet it was necessary, both as an immediate and a certain resource, to appeal to the patriotic liberality of individuals. In one view it may be particularly desirable, that the monument should be founded on voluntary and diffusive contributions. The event to which it is dedicated, the emblems of which it is composed, and the effect which it is meant to produce, have all an intimate relation to the rights and happiness of the people. Let it be commenced then, not through the organ of the government, as a political act; but in a mode which will best testify the sentiments which spontaneously glow in the breasts of republican citizens.
          The Artist, contemplated for the work, is Mr. Cerrachi, of Rome; who, influenced by admiration for the revolution, and by a desire of distinguishing himself as the instrument of erecting a monument worthy of so great a subject, came to the city of Philadelphia in 1791, with a design to prosecute the undertaking, if sufficient means could be found. Since that period, he has prepared the model, of which the description is annexed. The

model of itself, evinces the capacity, genius and taste of the author; and concurs with other proofs of his distinguished qualifications, to inspire a wish that he could be enabled to execute his plan. The material of the monument, is to be statuary marble; its height one hundred feet; its circumference three hundred feet; the height of the principal figure fifteen feet, and the others of various proportional dimensions. It is computed that ten years will be required to complete it.
          A hope is entertained, that the public spirit of the citizens of the United States, seconded by a taste for the fine arts, will induce them not to suffer to escape so fair an opportunity of raising a lasting monument to the glory of their country; and that a sufficient number will be found ready to furnish, by subscriptions, the necessary sums. The confidence which is placed in your personal disposition, to forward the commendable design, has pointed you out, among a few others, for soliciting and receiving the subscriptions, and is the apology for imposing the task upon you. With great consideration we are, SIR, Your very obedient servants,

            Go: Washington.[also signed by 60 others]


Title: Enclosure: A Description of the Monument Consecrated to Liberty, 1795
From: Washington, George
To:

          THE GODDESS of LIBERTY is represented descending in a car drawn by four horses, darting through a volume of clouds, which conceals the summit of a rainbow.—Her form is at once expressive of dignity and grace.—In her right hand she brandishes a flaming dart, which, by dispelling the mists of Error, illuminates the universe; her left is extended in the attitude of inviting the people of America to listen to her voice.—A simple pileus covers her head; her hair plays unconfined over her shoulders; her bent brow expresses the energy of her character; her lips appear partly open, whilst her awful voice echoes through the vault of heaven, in favor of the rights of man.—Her drapery is simple: She is attired in an ancient chlamys, one end of which is confined under her zone,—the rest floats carelessly in the wind; the cothurnus covers her feet.
          Saturn is her charioteer, emblematical of the return of the golden age; he has just checked the horses, upon his arrival on the American shore. Immediately as the car alights upon the summit of a lofty rock, various groupes are seen issuing from compartments at its base, to hail the descent of the Goddess, by whose beneficent influence, they are at once animated into exertion.
          The first compartment is consecrated to Poetry and History.—Apollo, attired in the characteristic dress of that deity, is seated with his lyre in his hand, and his countenance glowing with the sublimity of his song.—Clio is employed in recording the hymns with which Apollo salutes the arrival of the Goddess of Freedom; while the INDEPENDENT STATES, which are blessed by her influence, appear upon a globe which is placed beside her.
          In the second compartment, Philosophy, without whose assistance Liberty would soon be obscured by Ignorance, is represented as presiding at this memorable epoch.—He appears

in the character of a venerable sage, with a grave and majestic aspect.—On his head he wears the modius, an ornament given to Jupiter, by the Egyptians, as a symbol of perfect wisdom.—The fasces are in his hand.—He is seated, dressed in the consular habit, and leaning upon the altar of Justice.—As the inflexible friend of Truth, he is seen tearing off, from a female figure, who stands near him in the character of Policy, the false veil which has so long concealed the science of government. Anxiety appears painted on the countenance of Policy: her head is shaded by a small pair of wings; her right arm supports a roll of geographical charts; and a robe, of exquisite thinness, gives an additional appearance of velocity to her motion. The gigantic figure below (designed to represent National Valor) rises at the voice of Liberty, to combat the oppressors of his country.—He eagerly seizes on his arms, which lie near him, and prepares to abandon the tranquil occupations of agriculture, for the hazards and tumults of war.—His form is muscular and robust; his mantle is thrown carelessly over him; the disorder of his hair, and the fierceness of his countenance, inspire Despotism with terror.
          The adjoining groupe represents Neptune, seated between two rivers;—he appears exhorting Mercury (who stands near him) to take American commerce under his protection, and to increase the glory of the American flag.
          At the powerful voice of Liberty, NATURE, whose simplicity had been forced to give way to the introduction of the meretricious refinements of Art, appears starting to life, burst from the bosom of the earth, and seems about to resume her ancient dignity.—A dewy mantle, studded with stars, is supported by her right hand; with her left she is employed in expressing streams of water from her flowing ringlets, allegorically emblematic of the source of rivers.
          The last groupe represents Minerva, the patroness of the arts and sciences.—In order to designate the country to which they owe their origin, she is seated on a fragment of an Egyptian obelisk, and holds the papyrus in her left hand.—Near her hands Genius, with a flambeau in one hand, and a butterfly, the emblem of immortality, in the other,—expressive of the grand principles of fire and animation.—His countenance is fixed in an attitude of silent attention, whilst the Goddess commands him to inspire, with his divine influence, the bosoms of the children

of Freedom. Behind, is a figure designed to represent Fame, with her appropriate emblem.—A pair of ample pinions shades her shoulders; she holds her trumpet in her left hand; and, with her right, points to the Declaration of Independence, which is inscribed upon a massy column.


Title: To George Washington from Edmund Randolph, 14 February 1795
From: Randolph, Edmund
To: Washington, George

          Feby 14. 1795.

        E. Randolph has the honor of informing the President, that after every effort no person has appeared so proper for the temporary comptrollership as Major Lenox; and he will accept, without further expectations. Mr Wolcott and E. Randolph concur in thinking him unexceptionable; and if the President should approve, the business of the office, which is now stagnated, may immediately proceed.


Title: To George Washington from William Pearce, 15 February 1795
From: Pearce, William
To: Washington, George

          Sir
          Mountvernon Feby 15th 1795

        I Receved your letter of the 8th Int.
        Mrs Stiles sent 2 shirts among the other things belonging to Austin which was omited In the list of the things sent to you.
        The weather still keeps Very unfavourable for the wheat and it appears to be hurt more with in the two last weeks than In all the Rest of the winter besides—we have had some small falls of snow but not to lie any Time on the ground—in many places whare the Land Is low & flat the wheat is very much thrown out of the ground—& I am afraid If this weather Continues will be Intirely killed.
        when I was on the Eastern shore Mr Thos Ringgold Desired me to know of you wheather you would Let out Either of your Jacks on shares—and I always forgot it till now Mr Ringgold Thinks he Could Git a Great many mares to One of them.
        I have Receved a Letter from Collo. Washington which I have Sent to you—Respecting the Carpenter you wrote for.

        Mr peirce Baley wrote to me the other Day Respecting your Land—that he proposed to buy some time ago, he says he Cannot afford To Give the price you asked, but Is willing to Give a good price for it, if you will take something less—and Can pay you down Six hundred pounds.
        Mrs Elers wishes to have the Linen for the peopels shirts—all sort of Goods are Very high In Alexandria and I do sopose linen Can be got Cheaper In philadelpha—than it Can be here.
        The Field at Mansion house will Contain near 70 acres of Land Including the hill sides—if I am not mistaken—I have measured it—it is 87 perch from the road to the declivity of the hill towards the Creek from that a cross by the old Cabbins—143 perch—then down the old Fence 150 perch then from the black gate 80 perchs—a good deal of this Cannot be Cultivated, but I Expect to till about 75 thousand Corn hills or 50 Acres of it. I am with the Greatest Respect Sir you Humb. Servt

          William Pearce


Title: To George Washington from William Bradford, 16 February 1795
From: Bradford, William
To: Washington, George

          Philada Feb. 16. 1795.

        The Attorney General has the honor of submitting to the president of the United States his opinion on the petition of George Hoffner and others, prisoners now confined in the gaol of Washington County in Maryland.
        The Attorney General is of opinion that the acquital therein stated cannot be legally pleaded in bar of an indictment for

Treason against the United States; the state Courts not having competent Jurisdiction to sustain a prosecution for crimes against the United States. But if it clearly appeared that the very same facts were in issue in the state Court, on which the charge of Treason against the United States is founded, and that the petitioners were acquitted on the ground that the facts charged were not true, the Attorney General conceives it would, except in very special cases, be unreasonable & harsh to subject them to a second trial. But this does not appear, & he thinks it may be proper to obtain from the Attorney of the District of Maryland a particular statement of the circumstances of the case.
        In the mean time he submits to the President’s consideration, whether it will not be advisable to abandon all prosecution against them on the part of the United States, provided an arrangement can be made with the proper officers of the state, for prosecuting them effectually on the indictments for misdemeanors which have been found and are now depending against them. All which is respectfully submitted

          Wm Bradford


Title: From George Washington to Robert R. Livingston, 16 February 1795
From: Washington, George
To: Livingston, Robert R.

          Dear Sir,
          Philadelphia 16th Feby 1795.

        I have duly received your favor of the 4th instant, accompanying the transactions of the society for promoting Agriculture, Arts & Manufactures; and am very much obliged by your goodness in sending them to me.
        Works of this sort are of the most interesting importance to every country; and it is much to be regretted that similar societies, are not more general in our own—or not more attended to in those States where they are established.
        I shall, the moment I have a little more leisure than the

winding up of the present session of Congress will afford me, read your experiments on lucern with attention, and I am persuaded I shall do it also with pleasure & edification, as I have long been favorable impressed with the value of that grass; especially if it can be, in this country (as in some others) cultivated in broad cast to advantage—thereby saving the expence of labour when it is raised in drills.
        I take the liberty of sending for your perusal, a pamphlet on the cultivation of Potatoes from the Shoots. It was sent to me by the author, and must speak for itself, as I have had no experience myself of the mode there recommended. I mean however to make trial of it the ensuing season, for which reason, after you have read the work, I pray you to return it to me; unless you, or the Society in which you preside, shall think it worthy of republication—in wch case it may be retained for that purpose. With great esteem & regard I am—Dr Sir Your Most Obedt and very Hble Servt

          Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from James Mackison, 16 February 1795
From: Mackison, James
To: Washington, George

          Honoble Sir
          Milln of Killbryde [Scotland]16th Febry 1795

        I beg to be excused for the rashness of attemping to trouble your Lordship with the following request but your Lordship may be asured that nothing but necessity could have made me so bold therefore with a humble confidence on the humane character which you posess and for which you are admired by all ranks in Europe and also when I vew and am made to admire the impartial justice that triumphs in that quarter of the world wherein you dwell I am led to hope that you’ll not be offended at an aunxious desire I have of knowing the fate of a friend—The friend for whom I am so deeply concerned is in relation to me my brother in law whose name is John Abercromie he was born

in Throsk Parish of St Ninians and County of Stirling to trade a joiner he sailed for America from Greenock on the 11th of July 1774—he took up his residence in Menallan Township York County and province of Pensylvania from which we received some letters The last dated from said place March the 2d 1786 with an account of his intending to leave that place next Spring and to go to ⟨Forepit⟩ with orders to direct our letters to the Rev. Mr Clark Minister Pits Craig congregation to which place and according to the above directions we have sent a good number of letters without receiving any answer which makes me to suspect that he is either dead or removed from that place—He has an aged mother which as well as I is greatly surprised and trembles for the fate of her dear son on the account that she can have no information of him—And I am now almost led to despair of receiving any information of him and after thousands of thoughts revolving in my mind I came to this resolution at last of applying to your Lordship altho’ I am persuaded it is a bold and dareing one and had it not been for hearing and vewing the many virtues that adorneth your character and bespeaketh you an equal friend to poor and rich I would not have presumed to ask the following favour which is (if you think it possible to be got) to make enquiry whither the above be dead or alive—I also desire it as a favour of you [(]that so soon as you receive any information of the above) that you’ll be so good as write me the particulars altho I am Sorry to put you to ⟨mutilated⟩ch trouble yet with a humble confidence on you humanity I leave the above to your consideration—hopeing that you’ll pardon my rashness and all that in this may seem imprudent and be asured that altho’ this has come from a weak mind yet from an honest heart which wishes and will if God grants life and health taste the fruits of freedom an liberty wich abounds in the states of America mean while. I Remain Your Respectful And most obed. Servt

          James Mackison

          And if you write direct James Mackison Milln of Killbryde Care of the Rev. Mr Robert Stirling Minister of the gosple Dunblane By Stirling North Brittan.


Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 17 February 1795
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Washington, George

          Sir,
          War-Office Feby 17. 1795.

        I have been honoured with your note of this morning, and now inclose the draught of the message to accompany the Georgia acct and Govr Blount’s communications. In half an hour (unless you would choose to see me sooner) I will wait upon you at your room; and am, most respectfully your obt servt

          Timothy Pickering

          Copies are prepared for the Senate, as well as the House.


Title: From George Washington to the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives, 17 February 1795
From: Washington, George
To: United States Senate and House of Representatives

          United States February 17th 1795.
          Gentlemen of the Senate and of the House of Representatives.

        I have received Copies of two Acts of the Legislature of Georgia, one passed on the twenty eighth day of December, and the other on the Seventh day of January last, for appropriating and selling the Indian lands within the territorial limits claimed by that state. These copies, tho’ not officially certified, have been transmitted to me in such a manner as to leave no room to doubt their authenticity. These acts embrace an object of such magnitude and in their consequences may so deeply affect the peace and welfare of the United States, that I have thought it necessary now to lay them before Congress.
        In confidence I also forward copies of several documents and papers received from the Governor of the Southwestern territory. By these it seems that hostilities with the Cherokees have ceased, and that there is a pleasing prospect of a permanent peace with that nation: But from all the communications of the Governor it appears that the Creeks in small parties, continue their depredations; and it is uncertain to what they may finally lead.
        The several papers now communicated deserve the immediate attention of Congress who will consider how far the subjects of them may require their co-operation.

          Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Harriot Washington, 17 February 1795
From: Washington, Harriot
To: Washington, George

          Fredericksburg [Va.] Frebruary 17th, 1795

        I received my dear and Honor’d Uncles letter, of 18th of January, with the money and return him many thank’s for it, I should have acknowledge’d, the receipt of it long before, but was in Culpeper at the time that it arrived we were kept there a fortnight longer than we intend’d by the badness of the weather, beleive me my dear Uncle, that I am very sensible, of the many obligation’s I am under to you, for your kindness, and hope I shall never do any thing to incur your displeasure.
        Aunt Lewis desires me to inform you her business is such that it is not in her power to answer your letter by this post but will do it by the first opportunity Aunt Lewis join’s me in love to you Aunt Washington and all the rest of the family. I am my dear & Honord Uncle Your affectionate Neice

          Harriot Washington


Title: To George Washington from the Commissioners for the District of Columbia, 18 February 1795
From: Commissioners for the District of Columbia
To: Washington, George

          Sir
          City of Washington Febry 18. 1795.

        Your Letter of the 20th of January relates to one of the most engaging subjects with which the human mind can be impressed. The Legislators of all enlightened Countries have thought the education of youth so important to the welfare of Society that it has been a primary object of their attention. It is a theme which merits the most serious Consideration of United America at this time; for, as you well observe it is much to be regretted that the youth of this Country should be obliged to emigrate in search of learning, by which they run the hazard of imbibing disadvantageous prepossessions.
        We have often conversed together, on the founding of an University upon a scale the most extensive, and cannot express the satisfaction it gave us to find your opinions on this subject so consonant to our own. Your letter conveys a comprehensive view of the great Characters and general utility of such an establishment. We had chosen a piece of ground which if approved of by you is intended for the Site. This contains a large space, but we will solicit your consideration of the several parts, and their proposed application, when your other engagements will permit a dedication of a portion of your time to this object.
        Some donations for the University have been subscribed, and we doubt not, when the subject under consideration is more matured, we shall find many persons liberally disposed to forward this national concern; especially when it is made known how much you have it in mind, how sincerely you regret the want of such an establishment, and how generously you have contributed toward it’s endowment.
        Many have suggested in part what ought to be done in forming a general plan. None has yet been presented, but the Board

was informed, some time ago, that Dr Thornton has long had it in Contemplation to lay such an one before the Executive, and has made some progress in digesting it.
        The Board of Commissioners are not vested with powers by any act of Congress or of the Legislature of Maryland on the Subject of a National University. We shall however solicit and receive donations with great pleasure and when necessary there will be no difficulty in procuring the aid of a Law from this State; the Legislature of which cannot be insensible of the immediate benefit to be derived from such an institution.
        Though every assistance in our power will be most readily yielded it will we hope be considered as a work in which United America are equally concerned until sufficient Sums are collected to erect the necessary buildings and insure success to the object.
        When we have the pleasure of seeing you here which we are told will be in March, we will beg leave more fully to explain our ideas on this subject. We are, sir, With the greatest respect Your mo. obedt Servts

          Danl Carroll Gusts Scott William Thornton


Title: From George Washington to Tobias Lear, 18 February 1795
From: Washington, George
To: Lear, Tobias

          Dear Sir,
          Philadelphia 18th Feb: 1795.

        Your letter of the 13th instt came to me yesterday. previous to which your other letters of the 24th & 30th Ulto had been duly received.
        About a fortnight ago, I saw and spoke to Mr Weston myself, respecting his visit to the Falls of Potomack; and wished, if he was able, that he would name the time he would, or expected, to be

there. He answered, about the last of this month. That he had to return first to Lebanon (near to which they are digging the Canal, between the Waters of Susquehanna & the Schuylkill) and should proceed from thence. As it is more than probable that his rout will be by the way of Carlisle, Shippensburgh, Chambersburgh, and Hagers town above the Mountain. Or if not by that course, that it will be through York & Frederick town below it & in either case that he will return by Baltime. It is to be regretted (as in a former letter you expressed a wish that he should see the Shanondoah near its confluence with the Potomack) that some previous arrangement could not have been made for the purpose of meeting him at, or near the spot you wished him to view above. This, for many reasons I could not propose, nor had I an opportunity of doing it, admitting the propriety of the measure, as it was on a public day (in what is called the Levee room) and just as he was leaving the City, that I saw him. Some embarrassments respecting the business of the Canal Companies, in this State, brought & detained him here longer than was expected; but this circumstance was unknown to me untill the moment of his departure, otherwise I should have seen him sooner, and would have conversed more fully with him on his proposed visit. To his detention here may be ascribed his not being with you at an earlier day than is now thought of.
        Much has been said, of late, of the Inclined plain in Connecticut River—of the utility of it, I mean; It would be well I think to question Mr Weston pretty fully on this mode of raising & lowering Boats; as the simplicity, cheapness and effect is the subject of eulogium—deservedly or not, I shall not undertake to pronounce.
        The family are all well; Betcy & Mr & Mrs Peter, left this on Monday Morning for New York—to return on Saturday. Mrs Washington & the other two join me in every good wish for you and I am Sincerely & Affectionately Yours

          Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to William Augustine Washington, 18 February 1795
From: Washington, George
To: Washington, William Augustine

          My dear Sir,
          Philadelphia Feb: 18th 1795.

        I am sorry to find by your letter of the 29th Ult. wch I recd yesterday by Mr Turberville that my letter of Novr last had but just got to hand. Had it been received by you in due season, I might have obtained the carpenter I was enquiring after; and could have given you earlier information of the result of my enquiries respecting the schools to the northward. Not doing it, I concluded you had changed your mind with respect to your Sons; or, that letters directed to you by Post was too uncertain to be depended upon.
        There are too private Academies in the state of Massachusetts which are highly spoken of; One at Andover, and the other at Hingham; about 20 miles each from Boston; but in different directions. That at Andover I have been at myself; it is in a high, dry & pleasant Country; & in more of a township than a town—Inhabited by respectable & well disposed people. Schooling—board—washing & lodging will not much, if any, I am told, exceed two dollars a week for each boy. By the Constitution of the Academy, not more than 60 or 65 scholars (I am not sure which) can be there at a time. What the number at this moment is, I have not been able to learn; but one of the Senators from that State (living not far from it) has promised to write, for immediate information; and to know if boarding can be obtained in a good family. The result of which you shall know, if a conveyance by the Post (& I know of no other) will convey it to you.
        I have not been able to obtain quite so accurate information

of things at the other Academy, at Hingham; but understand, generally, that they are placed on nearly the same ground as at Andover. At the former, the precident, or principal Director of the School, takes in boarders himself; but whether he is full, or not, I have not been able to learn; the latter, seems to have the preference as a school; and may be on a par, in the article of board, for aught I know to the contrary; but I shall be able to inform you more fully after the enquiry, which I have mentioned, has been made.
        There is a College at Carlisle, in this State, of which much is said; but it is in much such a town as Fredericksburgh; & liable, I presume, to the objection you have made to the Academies in Virginia; that objection does not apply to the Northern Schools; order, regularity & a proper regard to morals, in, and out of school is, there, very much attended to: and besides, Harvard College near Boston, is at hand for the completion of education, if you should prefer it, and is, I am told, in high repute.
        If, whilst I remain in my present situation, you should want to make regular remittances to that quarter, there would be no difficulty in doing it, if you furnish me with the means. With affecte regard I am Your sincere friend

          Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 18 February 1795
From: Wolcott, Oliver Jr.
To: Washington, George

          Treasury Department Feby 18th 1795.

        The Secretary of the Treasury has the honor of transmitting to the President, of the U. States—two official Certificates of

settlements made at the Treasury, by which it appears that the United States are indebted,

            To Joshua Yeates and James Ross for compensations

            and expenses while acting under a commission

            from the President, on business relating to the Insurrection

            in Pennsylvania
            832.30

            And To William Rawle for compensation and expenses as

            Attorney of the United States, while attending the

            late Militia army by order of the President
             608.83

            Amounting to Dollars
             1441.13

        As there is no specific Fund provided by Law for discharging these demands, it appears to be expedient, if the President shall be pleased so to direct, that payment be made out of the fund appropriated for defraying the Contingent charges of the Government of the United States.
        All which is most respectfully submitted by—

          Olivr Wolcott jrSecy of the Treasury


Title: To George Washington from Daniel Carroll, 19 February 1795
From: Carroll, Daniel
To: Washington, George

          Sir,
          George Town [D.C.] feby 19th 1795

        In consequence of the great attention requird, by the Trust reposd in me, & my precarious State of health, I mentiond some months past, to a few friends, my intention of requesting you to appoint some person, to take my place as a Commissioner—I must now request you to consider of a person for that purpose, as soon as circumstances will admit, after your return to Mount-Vernon.

        permit me to add, that I shall retain the same Zeal for the Interest of the City, in my private, which has ever I trust been manifested in various public characters—I have the honor to be, with the greatest respect, Sir, your Most Obt & very Hble Servt

          Danl Carroll


Title: To George Washington from James Blanchard, 20 February 1795
From: Blanchard, James
To: Washington, George

          Sir
          Philadelphia Febry 20. 1795

        On the 13th Instant I presented a Complaint against Joseph Howell accountant of the United States, to the Source of his appointment, from a Conviction that an Enquiry would Develop a number of Improprieties that were Injurious to Individuals, and I apprehend, Unknown to Goverment—and Considering myself Responsible for the Charge—Pray to Know wheither an Enquiry is in Contemplation—and will wait on your Secretary for an answer—I am Sir most Respectfully Your Humble Servant

          James Blancha⟨rd⟩


Title: From George Washington to John Greenwood, 20 February 1795
From: Washington, George
To: Greenwood, John

          Sir,
          Philadelphia 20th Feb. 1795

        Your last letter, with its accompaniment, came safe to my hands on tuesday last.
        Enclosed you will receive Sixty dollars in Bank notes of the United States. In addition to which, I pray you to accept my thanks for the ready attention which you have at all times, paid to my requests; and that you will believe me to be, with esteem, Sir Your very Hble Servt

          Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 20 February 1795
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Washington, George

          Sir,
          War-Office Feby 20. 1795.

        General Knox has handed me the inclosed communications from General Wilkinson, deeming them proper to be seen by you. He desires me afterwards to return them.
        General Knox’s letter of the 4th of last December to General Wilkinson accompanies the communications of the latter, to render them intelligible. I am most respectfully sir, your obt servant

          Timothy Pickering


Title: To George Washington from George Isham Parkyns, 21 February 1795
From: Parkyns, George Isham
To: Washington, George

          Sir,
          Philadelphia, February 21st 1795.

        The Columbianum or National College for the encouragement of Painting, sculpture, Architecture, and Engraving, request the honor of Your Excellency’s permission to wait upon You with their Constitution for Your perusal, and beg leave to know the day and hour, when Your Excellency would be willing, that they should attend upon You for that purpose. I have the honor to be Sir, Your Excellency’s most obedient Servant,

          Geo: I: Parkyns, Chairman.


Title: From George Washington to Israel Shreve, 21 February 1795
From: Washington, George
To: Shreve, Israel

          Sir,
          Philadelphia 21st Feb: 1795.

        Your favor of the 7th instt came to my hands yesterday. And this letter will inform you that, as you have acceded to the terms on which I offered you my lands in Fayette County (by letter dated the 14th of Jany) I now consider the bargain as concluded, between us; but there can be no transfer on your part to any other, untill you are possessed of the legal title, and the first payment is made; But this need not restrain you from making conditional arrangements on this head, or with the tenants.
        I will place all the Patents, and Surveys which relate to these lands, in the hands of Mr Ross, before he leaves the City—which (if not detained by unforeseen events) will be early in next month for the purpose of legalizing the bargain—which, henceforward, as I have already declared, I shall consider as binding on us both; and have no doubt of its proving advantageous on your part as lands are rising in price. with esteem & regard I am—Dear Sir Your Obedt Hble Servt

          Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Robert Lewis, 22 February 1795
From: Washington, George
To: Lewis, Robert

          Dear Sir,
          Philadelphia 22d Feb. 1795.

        Your letter of the 17th Ult. came duly to hand—but the pressure of business in which I am always involved whilst Congress are in Session, has prevented my acknowledging the receipt of it at an earlier date. and now, I may not be so full as you might wish; but shall touch upon the several points of your letter, and in the order they stand there.
        If the tenants are not punctual in the discharge of their Rents, when they become due—destrain for them without delay, or hesitation; unless their disability to pay, proceeds from some providential interposition; or from some other obvious cause which entitles them to indulgence; for it may be depended upon, if the failure proceeds from idleness, the man who is unable to pay one rent, will never pay two, willingly; and generally, when it goes beyond that, the score is wiped out.
        With respect to the Sheriffs, shew them no indulgence: of all descriptions of men in this Country, I think them (tho’ there may, and undoubtedly there are, many exceptions) the least intitled to favor: I mean to be understood, as speaking of under sheriffs, and those who farm the office, merely to grind the people, & get money into their hands, for speculative and other purposes of their own, instead of rendering it where due.
        I shall expect the acct of all the monies collected, and of the arrearages, as soon as you can make it out, that I may know precisely how the matter stands on this; and on the replevy bonds.
        Mrs Haney should endeavor to do what she can for herself—this is a duty incumbent on every one; but you must not let her suffer, as she has thrown herself upon me; your advances on this account will be allowed always, at settlement; & I agree readily to furnish her with provisions: and from the good character you give of her daughter, make the latter a present, in my name, of a handsome, but not costly gown, and other things which she may stand mostly in need of. You may charge me also with the worth of your tenement, on which she is placed; & where perhaps it is better she should be, than at a greater distance from your attentions to her.
        I have already given you my ideas with respect to the purchasing of leases: but to these I will add, that if you can make advantageous bargains, conclude them; as far as you have means

in your own hands to carry them into effect. Beyond this, make them conditionally only, leaving the ratification to me; that I may decide from the prospect I have, of commanding money, whether to carry them into execution, or not. In conducting this business, there are two things which you should never loose sight of. The first is, that the sum given to purchase in the lease, is fixed & certain; & the rent which can be had for the tenement afterwds is uncertain. To go upon the supposition therefore, that it will rent for this, or that sum, is fallacious ground, unless there is unequivocal evidence beforehand on which to form such an opinion. The second thing is, that the rent, whatever it may be, must be more than will afford 6 prCt interest for the sum advanced for the purchase, in addition to the rent. first, because 6 prCt is the legal interest of the U. States. secondly because any person who has money to lend, & will adopt the usual modes, may obtain much more; and thirdly, because the rent which is received, and which I am entitled to without any advance, is equivalent to a certain principal—for instance, if I was to give an hundred pounds for a lease, the rent of which was £6, if I did not receive £12 rent, the deficiency would be lost, upon legal ground; because the land is equal to £6, and the £100 pd by way of purchase, is equal to £100 more. But those who possess money, can turn it (where they are disposed to do it) to more profit than lending it at £6 prCent—I have no inclination however to fall into those practices. therefore, after this explanation of my ideas, go on & purchase as far as you have means, absolutely; & conditionally, afterwards for the reasons given.
        I had no conception that at this day, my leases were so full of lives as would appear from your acct of them. I wish my confidence in placing blank Leases signed, in the hands of Mr Muse, may not have been abused. I have not, to the best of my recollectn, sanctioned more than the renewal for lives of two leases; one to Mr Ayres; and another to a person who was formerly an Overseer to my brother John; the rest were for a fixd term of years wch must have expired. I am Yr affe. Uncle

          Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to William Pearce, 22 February 1795
From: Washington, George
To: Pearce, William

          Mr Pearce,
          Philadelphia 22d Feb. 1795.

        Your letter of the 15th instt and the reports, have come to hand as usual.
        I was affraid the open weather we have had, with frost, would have injured the wheat. A short crop of this article two years running, wod fall heavy upon me; as it seems to be the only thing, to any sort of amount, from which the means is derived, by which the various, and heavy expences of my estate, is borne. If the wheat is thrown much out of the ground, & the roots exposed, try the roller thereon—repeatedly—as soon as the earth is a little settled, and the roller will pass over it without its sticking thereto; Over the parts I mean (of the fields) that are injured. I tried this method one year with very good success; and it is a practice strongly recommended by all the Books on farming. I have, myself, seen bunches of wheat the roots of which have been entirely out of the ground, take again by the Roller’s compressing them to the earth: and the chance of doing it is well worth the expence, & time which is required by the roller drawn with Oxen.
        Put such part of the field (intended to be enclosed) at the Mansion house, into Corn, or other things, as you shall judge best; regarding however, what I have repeatedly mentioned, that profit from any thing that can be raised there (at the Mansion house I mean) is not so much an object with me as cleaning the ground; beautifying it with trees; and laying it to grass. I had no idea of there being 70 Acres within the bounds you have described; nor do I perfectly comprehend your description of them; or rather, the length of each line is greater than I had any conception of. For in the first place, I had no idea of its

measuring 80 perches from the black gate (in the hollow) to the turn of the road by the corner of the clover lot; or that from thence to the declevity of the hill, towards the Creek, could be 87 more. I do not mean that the fence, from thence, shd descend the hill lower than merely to hide it from the house, & from the road going up to the house. To what part of the outer fence you propose to join the last mentioned course, I know not; & therefore can not judge so well of the distance.
        I am a little at a loss for an answer to Mr Thos Ringgolds request, respecting the Jack. I should have no objection to letting one of my Jacks stand on the Eastern shore, if entire confidence could be placed in the person to whose care he was entrusted; but from the loose, and dissipated character of the abovenamed Gentlemen so far as I have heard it spoken of, I have doubts of the propriety of committing one of them to his management: and besides, it is almost, if not quite too late now, to negotiate this matter with him, or any other at a distance; as the Season would be too far advanced before the removal could be made, & sufficient notice thereof given for Mares to be brot to his stand. A year or two ago I was offered by a Connecticut man (who could, & would have given good security for the performance of the agreement) Five hundred guineas for four (or five) years service (I am not certain which) of the Maltese Jack, although he would (for he went to Mount Vernon to see them) have preferred the one which I think is named Compound—and if I ever part with another, it shall be in that way; in order that I may know certainly what I am to receive. Letting one on shares, I never will; for in that case expences are trumped up; one may be told of difficulties in collecting money; & many other things, when accounts come to be settled; with a view of staving off paymt which, if they do not breed disputes, are at least unpleasant things, & ought to be avoided. The Connecticut man whom I have before mentioned, would have paid the money down, and run the risk of the Jack’s living. The advantage of which was very considerable; as it was the best security possible for his care of the Animal.
        If you, who ought to know Mr Ringgold as well as any body does should be of opinion that he would pay five hundred guineas down, or give security for his doing it within a year; and should moreover th[in]k that his care of the Animal might be depended on, you might write him word that upon these

conditions, he might have either of the Covering Jacks for four years; at the expiration of which he is to be returned in good condition, if living. As there is a young Jack from Royal Gift coming on, I believe it would be best to part with Compound, but it is not, to me, very material which of them is disposed of, on the terms beforementioned; as I do not know to which of their colts to give the preference from any knowledge I have of them. If you should write to Mr Ringgold, and he should accede to the terms here mentioned, the agreement must be drawn up in writing, by a professional man (that is by a lawyer, Mr Chs Lee for instance) and all the objects of it clearly expressed.
        Mr Pearse Bailey may be informed that I never lower my price of land; it is infinitely more likely that it will be encreased, than to stand even at what it has been offered for. This he might reasonably expect, as landed property is rising fast in value every where; from the number of emigrants, & others who are wanting to vest their money in that species of property.
        I am sorry my letter was so long getting to the hands of my Nephew Colo. Washington; for if I have not formed a very erroneous, and unjust opinion of the conduct of my Negro carpenters—there is not to be found so idle a set of Rascals. In short, it appears to me, that to make even a chicken coob, would employ all of them a week; buildings that are run up here in two or three days (with not more hands) employ them a month, or more.
        I will cause enquiry to be made here, into the price of Oznabrigs but have little expectation that it can be bought on better terms in this City, than in Alexandria—for every thing is amazingly dear here.
        By the Trial, Captn Hand (I believe the Masters name is) I have shipped three bushels of Clover seed; two bushels of honey locust seed; and a keg of scaley bark hiccory nuts: the two last are in one Cask: the high price of clover Seed prevented me from sending more; what goes, is fresh & good. Tell the Gardener he must plant the hiccory nuts in drills; as the Illinois nuts herewith sent, must also be: and they may be put near together in the drills, as they will be to be transplanted when they get to a proper size.
        Have your ground for the honey locust Seed in readiness against the arrival of the Vessel, which will leave this, it is said, tomorrow; or as soon the floating Ice in the river will permit her

to go down. The sooner the locust seeds are in the ground the better. I do not care where you put them, so they are under a secure fence; at the Mansion house, or at any of the farms where they will be attended to, will be equally convenient & agreeable to me. I am Your friend &ca

          Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from William Pearce, 22 February 1795
From: Pearce, William
To: Washington, George

          Sir
          Mount vernon Feby 22d 1795

        I Receved your letter of the 15th Inst.
        Since I wrote to you Respecting Mr Washingtons Intention to Survey his Land that a Joins yous, I have Receved a note from him Informing me that he shall Git an order at March Court for surveying it—and he wishes to Mark and set bounds—I would have attended to this Business before but I never Can find a day to spare from the business here.
        the oats will not Turn out near as well as I Expected tho we ware obliged to Use a Great many of them In the fall for the plough Horsse—they ware as well saved as I Ever saw Grain In my life, and well Securd so that thare has been no loss that way—when we ware abought finnishing Securing them Doctor Stewart was here & I got him to take a Ride over the Lower farms & he was much pleased with the way they ware Secured and said he never saw Grain Cut Cleaner and better put up.
        thare are no Great many of the Ceaders In the Vineyard but thare Can be some got a long the Creek side to help out with them and the best place I think to plant these will be a long the big lane all the Ceader berreys that are sown Is soaked In warm water and the out side Rubed off.
        I think the Lucern lot had better be broke up as it is Very full of weeds & but thinly set and I shall be obliged to you for seed as the Gardener says what ware In Drills Did not have any seed on it from peters cuting it too late.
        we had last year to Clothe the people 10 pieces of Linen 9 of which you sent from philadelphia & one I bought here they measurd 1402 [1]/2 yards—93 [1]/2 was Left after they ware all clothed.
        I shall be obliged to Git a piece of linnen here to keep the women at work—so that about 1000 yards will be Enough to send With Respect to the fish I shall be obliged to you to Give me your opinion In regard to this business—before I do any thing in it a Dollar ⅌ thousand I do sopose can be got for the herring, to sell them to the waggoner[s] & 2 Dollas a hundred or perhaps more for the shad & smith will not Give this price for the hering and oblige him self to take them all—Last spring Just before fishing time I was at Mr Lund washingtons & I was Asking him which

he thought the best Method to persue with the fishery, & he advised me to sell them all if I could to one person out of the Sein, & he said he found that to be the most profetable way that ever he had Tryed—for he said that when thare came a glut of fish a great many ware Lost—when he only Depended on the waggoners Mr Smith Sais he Can buy herring at 4/1000 and shad for 9/ ⅌ hundrd—but he will give More at your landing as it is whare he has been Used to fish—I do sopose that he will probable Give 5/ ⅌ thousand for the hering and 12/ ⅌ hundred for the shad & take them all that will be to spare—but I told him that I wished to consider further on the matter & have promised to Give him an aswer by satterday week—I have ordrd 100 fish barrells to be made I will have them filled over & above what we shall want for the people if you think well of it—the Reason why I have said so much on this matter, is because I have heard of so many Loosing by thare fish and I am not so well acquaintd with the business as I ought to be having only one years trial.
        I cannot account for Mr butlers not giting his money as I sent peter hardman of[f] with it, to carrey it to him—but when he got to town he saw Mr porter who peter Gave it to & Mr porter sent me a Recipt and said he would pay it to Mr butler imidly He is I am told In a bad state of Health and unable to attend to any Business—I am With the greatest Respect Sir you Humble Servt

          William Pearce


Title: To George Washington from David Stuart, 22 February 1795
From: Stuart, David
To: Washington, George

          Dear Sir,
          Hayfield [Va.] 22nd Feby—95

        I was a fiew days ago at Ge: Town, when I was informed by Mr Carroll of his intention to send in his resignation as

Commissioner—As I took the liberty on a former occasion, to recommend to your notice Coll Lyles; I think it incumbent on me at present, to observe; that a variety of circumstances seems to make it necessary that the vacancy should be supplied by a ⟨Law⟩ character of considerable eminence—Mr Alexr White of Winchester has occurred to me as very proper—Your acquaintance with him renders it unnecessary for me to make further mention of him.
        I am sorry to find, that you are still likely to be troubled with dissentions between the Commissioners, and those with whom they have to transact business—I should think it my duty to write to you at length on the subject, if you were not to be down so shortly. I will therefore reserve my information ’till I can have the pleasure of seeing you: only begging leave to observe, that the Commissioners are in my opinion in an error; and have acted with too much precipitation. I am with the greatest respect Your Affecte Servt.

          Dd Stuart.


Title: To George Washington from Arthur Campbell, 23 February 1795
From: Campbell, Arthur
To: Washington, George

          sire
          Virginia Feby 23. 1795

        The great figure our Allies the French Nation are like to make in Europe, ought to arouse the patriots of the United States, to every exertion. That altho we cannot keep pace with our Gallic friends, in military renown, yet we may acquire power and stability, by the mild arts of peace. That She in order to establish her Republic, necessarily lessened the number of the human race. Be it our glory to multiply Men, protect, and make them safe and happy.
        Nothing will serve the best interests of the people of the Western parts of the United States, than a slow progressive mode in settleing the Country: It will promote industry wealth, and safety.

        The idea of extirpating the Aborigines, and immediately cover the Country with White-Men, and Black-Men; are schemes at the bare mention of which the human mind ought to revolt: a scheme, if the cruelty of it, could be looked over, yet it would be found extremely impolitic, and unsafe. What American patriot but would rejoice to see the four Southren Tribes of Indians, as nearly being united with the Anglo-Americans, as the Six Nations will certainly be, in a few years, in consequence of the late Treaty. Similar measures, and probable events, will produce the same effect, to the South, at no very distant period.
        The Aborigines loves the Country, has Constitutions suited to the Climate and nothing but untoward circumstances, will prevent the next generation being a numerous and useful body of Citizens. Much more so than the abhored woolly race from Africa.
        It is to be lamented that these pleasing prospects, cannot be realized, until after displays of vindictive justice, on the present generation, be administered. Terror in the minds of the Cherokees, and Creeks, must precede acts of clemency. It would be a renowned triumph, could it be accomplished with the same traits of Fatherly correction, as was necessarily of late inflicted on a Combination of deluded Whites.
        Almost the same cause among the Creek Indians have produced murders, robberies and Houseburning. partizans of England, Tories and Fugitives from justice, living among them, are the unrelenting stimulus, to provoke War. Expel these, introduce patriots in their stead; and the Work of civilization is effectually begun and peace in future permanent. With sentiment⟨s⟩ of profound Respect, I am Sir Your most obedient servant

          Arthur Campbell


Title: To George Washington from Charles Carter of Ludlow, 23 February 1795
From: Carter, Charles (of Ludlow)
To: Washington, George

          My Dr Sr
          Fredbg [Va.] Febry 23d 1795

        My Son W. R. Carter, has commenced his business, as a Coach maker, at the shop of Mr Jo. Fernehough for which, he gave him, the sum of 1400£ 1000£ of which he paid at Xmas 94. the expence of carrying on such a number of Carriages, as are now on hand, and the imposability of selling slaves, for ready money, has greatly embarrassed him, in the Article of mounting, & Trimming. he has to be finishd in three months 2 Elegant Chariots 3 Cochees 4 market or stage Waggons and a number of chairs. he has applied to general Money holders here but Speculation, & exorbitant premiums absord all the Cash, as some are so imprudent to come up to their usurious terms. now if my Dr Frind coud assist him untill October when the money shoud be most punctually replaced and to secure payment such part of his property given as shall be required; his houses & Lotts were valued, at 1400; and he owes four of that; add to this his Slaves, amounting to 35 prime Negroes of which, 6, are Workme⟨n⟩ if it shoud be in your power youl please to impower him after giving the propper surety to Majr Geo. Lewis or Mr Chs Carter Son of Ned to draw on some person for 1000 Dollars. I have no

person to whom I coud apply with hope of relieving his immediate want as yourself but be assured if not I shall impute it to the true cause. I am with sincerity yr Affe. friend & Most Obt

          Chs Carter

          This trifling sum will establish him in his business.