Title: From George Washington to Anthony Whitting, 14 April 1790
From: Washington, George
To: Whitting, Anthony

Sir,
New York, April 14th 1790.

By a letter which I have lately received from my nephew, Major Washington of Mount Vernon, I find you have made a tender of your services to him to overlook one of my farms, and

have referred me to Colo. Cadwalader, now in Congress, for your qualifications and character.
This enquiry I have made, and the result of it is that you have a competent knowledge in the business of agriculture, and understand the economy of a farm—That he believes you to be industrious, and has no distrust of your honesty—These undoubtedly are very good and essential requisites in a manager; but candor, he added, obliged him to inform me that he thought you were too much given to your pleasures—however of the impropriety of this he hoped and believed you were convinced, and of course would reform.
Under this information and persuasion I am disposed to employ you on the terms mentioned by my nephew—to wit, Forty guineas ⅌ annum—and wish you to name the time, in a letter to me, that would be convenient for you to enter on the trust—I must inform you however that the present managers are engaged till December—but Mr Bloxham (having had notice that he would be continued no longer than the term for which he is engaged, and intending it is said when he quits my employ, to return to England) wishes I am informed to embark before that period—To this I shall have no objection if his place can be supplied—but not being well enough acquainted with all the circumstances relative to this matter, I can make no arrangement relative thereto until I hear first from you, and next from my nephew with respect to Mr Bloxham—after this matters may be precisely fixed so as to place all parties on a certainty.
The reason why I write to you from hence is that a Post goes directly from this city to Chestertown in Maryland (where my nephew informs me you at present live) whereas a letter written from Mount Vernon might be long on its passage, or perhaps never get to you at all.
That there may be no delay in the business from a misconception of the terms on your part, or for want of knowing the expectations on mine, I have sketched articles of agreement declaratory of both, which my nephew will, on my behalf subscribe to, if the same is done by you.
From this communication (accompanied with an assurance that I shall make no alteration) you are enabled to say yea or nay to the proposals which I request may be done by letter addressed to me at this place—the result of which I shall communicate

to my nephew that he may know what to depend upon—If it is your determination to accept that he may know at what time (under the existing circumstances) he could receive you—of which I shall delay no time in giving you notice, and shall expect you will repair to Mount Vernon accordingly. I am Sir &ca

G. Washington


Title: From George Washington to Gouverneur Morris, 15 April 1790
From: Washington, George
To: Morris, Gouverneur

Dear Sir,
New York, April 15th 1790.

Since my last to you, dated March 1st I have been favored with your letter of the 24th of January accompanied by the surtout of Plateaux &ca. These came very safe—are very elegant—much admired—and do great justice to your taste—accept my thanks for the attention.
Upon trial it appears that they need no addition, the intention therefore of this letter is to counteract, if it should arrive in time, my request of the first of March of two Plateaux more and ornaments equivalent thereto—but to repeat the other wish contained therein namely “I would thank you &ca”—
Your not having acknowledged the receipt of my commission of a public nature that went from hence at the same time, and was of the same date with the letter, to which yours of the 24. of January is an answer, to wit the 13th of October, gives me some pain, lest it should have been arrested on its passage. With great and sincere esteem and regard I am yours

G. Washington


Title: To George Washington from John Bailey, 17 April 1790
From: Bailey, John
To: Washington, George

 New York—Little dock Street No. 22
 Sir,April 17th 1790
I have witnessed an application made to Congress by a person residing in Great Britain who wishes to undertake the supply of a copper coinage—I shall not call in question the superiority of his apparatus and process for coining—tho’ I must insist that a coinage can be executed as well in America and cheaper to the United states than if executed abroad—Had the applicant given the result of one hours work by the steam engine I should have been enabled to have drawn a comparison between his process and my own—I have actually struck at the rate of 56 coins in a minute—coins in every respect equal to the Specimens which that artist hath transmitted to Congress.

I am acquainted with the whole mystery of Coining in gold in silver in Copper or in Billon—I can make my tools as well as prepare the metals, and can undertake to furnish coin in a state of as high perfection as has yet been issued by any nation. I can not only do this but am disposed to undertake it whenever the general government shall establish a mint, if I am called upon by you for that purpose—and I have at this moment in my possession as complete an apparatus for coining as was as yet ever used in any part of Europe that I am acquainted with.
Sir, you may perhaps do me the honor of recollecting me, during the late war I resided at Fredricksburg and at Fish-kill as a Cutler and was often favored with your commands.
Trusting you will bear this application in mind and if on a full enquiry into my abilities you should be pleased to consider it as advancing the interest of the United States to employ me in furnishing this country with coin, I shall, never, I trust give you a moments cause of inquietude or dissatisfaction. In the mean time I remain with respectful esteem Sir Your very humble and Most Obedient Servant

John Bailey


Title: To George Washington from Bertier & Company, 17 April 1790
From: Bertier & Company
To: Washington, George

Philadelphia April 17th 1790

To the President, the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States,
The Petition of Bertier & Co. of the city of Philadelphia in the State of Pennsylvania Merchants;
Respectfully sheweth,
That your Petitioners having frequently received Goods to their address in Philadelphia, by vessels to different parts of the United States; they, on the twenty fourth day of March last received Letters from Baltimore in the State of Maryland, which had arrived there by the Ship Van Staphorst Captain Atkinson

from Amsterdam, directed to your Petitioners, advising of One Package of Merchandize marked B&C no. 2; One Package of Merchandize marked AL, and one other package of Merchandize marked BC no. 1286, a Keg of Herring and a Cheese, being shipped onboard the said Ship Van Staphorst at Amsterdam, Consigned to your Petitioners; that on the twenty fifth of the same month your Petitioners transmitted by Post to Adrian Valck Esqr., Consul for the United Netherlands at Baltimore, the original Bill of Lading and Invoices of the said Goods, with the Proofs required by the Laws of the United States, and directions to enter the said Goods and secure the Duties charged on them. That on the twenty seventh of the same month the said Adrian Valck Esqr. acknowledged the Receipt of the said Letter from your Petitioners, and declared that he should follow their orders respecting the said Goods, but on the thirtieth of the same Month the said Adrian Valck Esqr. wrote to your Petitioners, that he could not get the said Goods—as they had been seized by one of the Inspectors of the Port of Baltimore, before he had received the Invoices and Bill of Lading from your Petitioners, because the Captain had landed them before a permit had been obtain’d for that purpose from the Custom House.
That the said Adrian Valck Esqr. on behalf of your Petitioners, applied to the Collector of the Port of Baltimore, to secure the Payment of the Duties on the said Goods, and to have them deliverd to him, but the said Collector not conceiving himself authorised to determine on the Case, refered and wrote concerning the same, to the Secretary of the Treasury for relief, and that your Petitioners also addressed themselves to the Secretary of the Treasury, and stated the Circumstances of their Case to him, and he was pleased (as they are informed) to write to the said Collector, to shew all the Indulgence in his power to them, but as your Petitioners are inform’d that a Bill is now depending in Congress, to give relief in Cases of Seizure where no frauds were intended; and as there was not any Intention of fraud on the part of your Petitioners, nor any other Person concerned in the Transaction, and they had taken (as they have in all Cases) every Precaution in their power strictly to Comply with the Laws of the United States, for securing the Duties on Goods imported, they humbly pray Congress to make such provision in the said Act now before them, for granting them relief under their present Case, or to grant them such other relief in the Premises, as

to Congress in their Wisdom shall seem just. And your Petitioners shall ever pray.

Bertier & Compne


Title: William W. Morris to David Humphreys, 20 April 1790
From: Morris, William Walton
To: Humphreys, David

Sir
New York April 20th 1790

I am directed by the Secretary of the Treasury, to request that you will inform him, whether any of the States, have transmitted to the President of the United States, Acts, ceding Territory for

the erection of Light houses upon—If any, what particular States. I am Sir with Sentiments of the greatest respect your humble Servant

Wm W. Morris.


Title: To George Washington from Joel Barlow, 24 April 1790
From: Barlow, Joel
To: Washington, George

Sir
Paris 24 April 1790

The Marquis de Marnasia, who will do me the honor to wait on your Excellency with this, is a gentleman of great respectability, a member of the national Assembly, & enjoys considerable fortune. He & many others are transfering their property to the United States, and are going to settle themselves on the Ohio near the Scioto. He requests me to take the liberty to announce to your Excellency their intentions, & to solicit for them your countenance & protection. I am confident of the good dispositions of these emigrants, that they will be industrious peaceable citizens & well attached to the Government under which they have chosen to reside. The Scioto Company for whom I act, has made sales of lands to a considerable number who are already gone & to many others who will soon follow them. I think it a fortunate circumstance for the interest of the United States that an agent for the sale of lands happened to be here at the time of this revolution in France. Great emigrations from this country must take place, and of consequence from many other parts of Europe, where the same spirit of emigration must inevitably extend. In governments so full of ancient & complicated abuses, &

in countries so full of inhabitants, it is in the nature of such reforms to render numbers of people of all classes uneasy with their situation. The rich cannot repair their shattered fortunes nor the poor find employment in any other country in Europe after leaving their own. There is therefore almost a physical necesity for their going to America. The United States is that part of America to which they are invited by the excellence of our government, and they are attracted to the Ohio by the excellence of the soil & climate. The vacant lands in that country offer to these people the very succour & consolation which they want, to render happy themselves & their posterity, under the administration of a government, which is regarded through Europe as the wisest & happiest in the world. It is doubtless for the interest of the United States (& I think it now in their power) to sink a considerable portion of the public debt by the sale of lands, & to introduce inhabitants, provided they are industrious. I think there can be no doubt of the good intentions of such men as purchase to go & cultivate for themselves, nor of the honest character of such hired laborers as they choose to accompany them. and none but people of these two classes will go.
I ask your Excellency’s pardon for the trouble of so long a letter. As the object of it promises to be of considerable magnitude, I thought it a duty I owed to your station as the guardian of my country’s welfare, as well as the dictate of personal veneration & respect, to make the communication to you in this early stage of the business. with every sentiment of gratitude & respect, I have the honor to be Sir your Excellency’s obet & most humble servt

J. Barlow


Title: From George Washington to James Madison, 27 April 1790
From: Washington, George
To: Madison, James

Tuesday, 27th Apl 1790

If the weather will permit, & Mr Madison’s health suffer him to go out to day, the Presdt would be glad if he would give him a call before he goes to the House.


Title: From George Washington to the Virginia Legislature, 27 April 1790
From: Washington, George
To: Virginia Legislature

United States [New York]
Gentlemen,April 27th 1790
With a due sense of the affectionate terms in which your affection is conceived, I offer my best thanks for your congratulations on my election to the Chief Magistracy of a free and enlightened Nation.
If I have been enabled to make use of whatever abilities Heaven has been pleased to confer upon me, with any advantage to our common Country, I consider it not less owing to the fostering encouragement I received in early life from the Citizens of the Commonwealth in which I was born, than to the persevering support I have since experienced from my fellow-Citizens collectively, in the course of their exertions, which, under Divine Providence, saved their Liberties and established their Independence.
However I may have confirmed my professions by my conduct, I can claim no merit for having been involved in the duties of a military command through necessity, or for having retired to the state of a private citizen through inclination. But I may be permitted to avow, that the construction you are pleased to put upon my motives for returning to public life is peculiarly satisfactory to me. Because I receive, from the voice of my Countrymen,

the only reward I wished for the sacrafice—a just interpretation of the principles by which, I am conscious, I have been actuated.
Accustomed to have my actions viewed through a favorable medium by my fellow-Citizens in general, and more especially by those of my native State; I can but poorly compensate for such indulgence, by the purest emotions of gratitude, demonstrated in an active devotion to that Republican Government, which is so deservedly the first object of their political attachment.
In looking forward to that awful moment, when I must bid adieu to Sublunary Scenes, I anticipate the consolation of leaving our Country in a prosperous condition. And, while the curtain of seperation shall be drawing, my last breath will, I trust, expire in a prayer for the temporal and eternal felicity of those, who have not only endeavoured to gild the evening of my days with unclouded serenity, but extended their desires to my happiness hereafter in a brighter world.

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Lund Washington, 28 April 1790
From: Washington, Lund
To: Washington, George

Dr Sir
Hay Field [Va.] April 28th 1790

Yours of the 11th with your assent to Doctr Stuarts and Alexanders agreement inclosed, I have received. however injurious Mr Custis’s bargain with Alexander has been to his Estate, I cannot but think that it’s now fortunate for the Estate that a Compromise is to take place—had Mr Custis’s Tender been Made in the proper paper Money there is no doubt but the payment wou’d have been Legal, for no one Doubts his haveg a right at any time to pay £48000. his not haveg made that payment with the Legal currency of the Country it remains still to be done, and most people think with nothing less than £48000—but shoud the high Court of Chancery judge the payment to be made agreeable to the Scale of Depreciation it cannot be less than £1200 for money was at 4. for 1. at the time Mr Custis had possession, or rather made the purchase, and carry it on until the Deeds were made it will be £8000. but the great fear is the Chancellor may decree £48000 thinking it wrong to alter so possitive an agreement—and if the Currency of the Country at the End of the 21 years shoud be equal to Gold & Silver, the Estate perhaps woud not amt to more than what woud pay it, the Children born & Educated in expectation of a Fortune, left without a shilling, upon the whole I rejoice, I feel pleased, that the bargain bad as it has been & expensive to the Estate, is likely to End & the worse known. I Loved the Father, and I Love the Children and wish them every good.
I am told that Colo. Mason either was or pretended to be vexd at his appointment saying that it was a ps. of D—n’d impudence to send him a Commission to act under a Government that he never had subscribed to, but had openly opposed & condemnd, altho the expression is some thing like Mason yet I hope that a man of his good understandg, & time of life woud not make use of so rude a return for the Compliment made him, for surely he

must consider it as such rather than an Insult, beside I am informd by Mr Hector Ross who is much at Gunston that he thinks Masons acrimony agnst the Constitution much abated. Ross says that Mason is generally condemg the Pomp & parade that is going on at New York, and tells of a number of useless ceremonies that is now in fashion, swearing by G-d that if the President was not an uncommon Man—we shoud soon have the Devil to pay—but hoped & indeed did not fear so long as it pleased God to keep him at the Head—but it woud be out of the power of those Damnd Monarchical fellows with the Vice president, & the Women to ruin the Nation—that Mason has seen some poem in which the Vice president is much Satarised & was so pleased at it, that he took two copys of it in his own handwriteg, so far as I am able to judge all that I have seen or heard speak of the Government are well pleased, it must be a Mortification to the opposers of Government in this Cty to see things turn out so different from what they told the Common people woud be the event of it—Commerse is Flourishg & every species of produce that the Farmer can raise he can sell at a high price, the port of Alexandria has seldom less than 20. Square Riggd Sale of Vessles in it and often many more—the Streets are crowded with waggons & the people all seem busy—while Commerse was regulated by the Virginia Laws, the Warfs were growg over with grass, the Houses uninhabited & the people lookd dejected.
They have obtaind a Law for moveg the Court House from Alexandria to a more centrical place, by the industry & activity of Mr Chichester, this was done, no one actg agnst him until it was too late, but the people generally who sign’d a petition for the removal seem now sorry for it, & one will be presented next session for continuing it where it is, so that it is probable it may still remain in Alexandria, Mr Roger West who has twice been very honourably elected to serve in the assembly was the other Day thrown out because his conduct with respect to the Courthouse business, has not been approved of—Since Last September my Eyes have been in an alarmg Situation, it was then feard I shoud lose the sight of them altogether, but I thank God it has not been the case—the one that was swelld, under it, before you left home is more so now, & I fear must ee’r long have an opperation perform’d on it, it matters much & is often very sore

though not painfull—the other is in bad condition it has generally a small inflamation in it which causes it to be very weak & tender, the water from it, runing down my cheeks so that I am in a Manner deprived almost of the pleasure of readg or writeg—The weather is uncommonly cold for the Season I feard last night a Frost that might injure the Wheat—at this Moment it is snowing very fast & the ground almost covered the Wheat Crops in this Neighbourhood in general are promiseg & the growth forwarder than is common at this time of the year—I was the other Day through yr Field at Morrises, Frenches & the Ferry, the first is much injured by the Winters Frost—but abt one half of the Feild layg on the side next the slipe of Meadow is very fine looks perfectly green, & is almost knee high—the 2d is so little injured by the Frost as not to make it worth Mentiong and the wheat is as good ⟨illegible⟩ as is common—the 3d I think will scarcely make more than 100 bushels I never see a Feild of that extent have so little Wheat on it, I am told it was well taken in the Fall.
We hope to have the pleasure of seeg Mrs Washington & you on a visit to Mt Vernon in the Course of the summer, for a visit I expect will be all that ever will be permited you, no person has an idea but that you must remain at the head of the Government so long as you Live—which I pray God may be with some degree of Comfort and satisfaction to yourself, for I have no doubt but your fatigue, trouble, & vexation is very great—I have wrote until I can scarcely read what I have writen, My most respectfull compliments to Mrs Washington & Love to the two Dear Children, W. & N.—in which I am join’d by Mrs Washington—and believe me Dr Sir now, as I ever have been, yr warmest Friend & very Hbl: Servt

Lund Washington


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Jefferson, 29 April 1790
From: Jefferson, Thomas
To: Washington, George

Thursday Apr. 29. 1790.

Mr Jefferson has the honor to submit to the President draughts of letters to mr Short and the Marquis de la Luzerne. as to the former he asks his attention to the paragraph respecting the devices for the Medal. he hopes he will change and accomodate the letter to M. de la Luzerne to his own ideas of the part that gentleman acted, & of the length proper to go in expressing our sense of it. the President was a witness, where Th: J. had only hearsay evidence, and may therefore have formed ideas not just. he will have the honor of waiting on the President tomorrow on these subjects.


Title: From George Washington to La Luzerne, 29 April 1790
From: Washington, George
To: La Luzerne, Anne-César, chevalier de

Sir.
New York April 29th 1790.

Your letter of the 17th of Janry, replete with politeness to myself & useful informations respecting public affairs, has but lately been received.
In making my acknowledgments for the distinguished place I hold in your remembrance & for the obliging terms in which you allude to my conduct in war & peace; I should do injustice

to conceal the favorable sentiments which were always entertained by myself & my Countrymen of your private deportment, & ministerial agency, while you resided in America. Those times, in which we always found you a sincere friend, were truly times of peril & distress. Now our situation is indeed much more eligible, & our prospects perhaps as good as could reasonably have been expected. We are recovering slowly from the calamities & burdens with which we were almost overwhelmed by a long & expensive war. Our Crops the year past have been more abundant, & our markets much better than usual. These circumstances will assist in enabling our Citizens to extricate themselves from their private & public debts. I hope a disposition will be found to prevail among us, for doing justice (as far as the nature of the case will admit) to all who afforded us their assistance in the hour of adversity. In the arrangement of such new & complicated business, as must inevitably come before our general Government, it is reasonably to be expected, that the proceedings will be slow—It is devoutly to be wished that they may terminate in such just & wise measures, as will fully establish our happiness at home & credit abroad. I am much pleased with the interest you take in our national reputation, and the information you give that our credit is becoming so respectable in Europe, under the influence of our new Government.
You are right in conceiving that nothing can be indifferent to me, which regards the welfare of the French Nation. So far removed from that great Theatre of political action, & so little acquainted with many of the minute circumstances which may induce important decisions, as I am; it would be imprudent for me to hazard opinions which might possibly be unfounded. Indeed the whole business is so extraordinary in its commencement, so wonderful in its progress & may be so stupendous in its consequences, that I am almost lost in the contemplation. Of one thing, however, you may rest perfectly assured, that nobody is more anxious for the happy issue of that business than I am; as nobody can wish more sincerely for the prosperity of the French Nation than I do. Nor is it without the most sensible pleasure I learn, that our friend the Marquis de la Fayette, has, in acting the arduous part which has fallen to his share, conducted himself with so much wisdom & apparently to such general satisfaction.

We, at this great distance from the nothern parts of Europe, hear of wars & rumours of wars—as if they were the events or reports of another Planet. What changes the death of the Emperor will occasion in the other Cabinets of Europe, time is yet to inform us. A spirit for political improvements seems to be rapidly & extensively spreading through many of the European Countries. I shall rejoice in seeing the condition of the Human Race happier than ever it has hitherto been. But I should be sorry to see, that those who are for prematurely accelerating those improvements, were making more haste than good speed, in their innovations. So much prudence, so much perseverance, so much disinterestedness & so much patriotism are necessary among the Leaders of a Nation, in order to promote the national felicity, that sometimes my fears nearly preponderate over my expectations. Better, however, will it be for me to leave such foreign matters to those who are more competent to manage them: and to do as much good as I can, in the little sphere where I am destined to move at present. With sentiments of the highest esteem & consideration I have the honor to be Your Excellency’s &c. &c. &c.


Title: To George Washington from Daniel Benezet, Jr., April 1790
From: Benezet, Daniel Jr.
To: Washington, George

[April 1790]
His Excellency the President of the United States

The Petition of the Subscriber resident at Great Egg Harbour in the County of Gloucester in the State of New Jersey Humbly Sheweth that your Petitioner is informed a Port of Entry is appointed on Great Egg harbour aforesaid and that an Officer of the Customs is to be appointed at said Port, therefore your Petitioner with all Deferrence solicits the Honour of being commissioned for said Office & begs leave to refer your Excellency to the Honourable Robert Morris William Patterson & Jonothan Elmer Esquirs. of the Senate & the Honourable the Speaker of the House of Representatives & Thomas Fitzsimonds & Thomas Sinnickson Esquires of House of Representatives for his Character & your Petitioner as in Duty bound will ever Pray

Daniel Benezet Junior


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Johnston, 1 May 1790
From: Johnston, Samuel
To: Washington, George

Sir
1st May 1790

The following is an Extract from Genl Gregory Collector of the District of Camden’s Letter to me.
“Respecting a Surveyor for Currituck Inlet there is no person that lives on Crow Island but Herbert. I am told the people dont like him, Mr Samuel Jasper is the only man that I think will answer, who lives on Knot’s Island, within six or seven miles of the Inlet, I have sent Mr Thomas Williams, who is Surveyor for Port Indian Town, down to the Inlet, he informs me that he can do all the Business for both Ports himself by attending at Mr Younghers lands one day in a Week there are very seldom any other than coasting Vessells which come in at that Inlet.”
I believe the above state of facts may be relied on. I have the Honor to be sir Your most Obedient Servant

Sam. Johnston


Title: To George Washington from Gouverneur Morris, 1 May 1790
From: Morris, Gouverneur
To: Washington, George

Sir
London 1. May 1790

Herewith I have the Honor to transmit a Duplicate of my last Letter of the thirteenth of April. Not having heard from the Duke of Leeds I wrote him a Note on the nineteenth, of which

a Copy is enclosed marked No. 1. To this I received no Reply, wherefore on the twenty ninth I addressed him again by a Letter of which a Copy is enclosed marked No. 2. This was delivered at his Office Whitehall between eleven and twelve in the Morning of the twenty ninth, and at half past ten in the Evening the Letters were sent to me of which No. 3 & 4 are Copies. You will observe that his Letter No. 3 is dated the 28th and of Course takes no Notice of that to which it is in Fact the answer; but the Style and general Complection as well as the Circumstances attending the Delivery of it, clearly shew that it was not written until the Evening of the twenty ninth.
I might, in Reply, have made some Strictures upon the Information that I was in Holland &ca &ca. I might also have contrasted the Expressions of Good Faith with the Conduct of administration, and have observed upon the Idea that the United States were bound in the most solemn Manner, while from the subsequent Parts of his Letter it would seem that Great Britain is not bound at all, or at most but loosely. There is also a Confusion of Language which resembles the Stammering of one who endeavors to excuse a Misdeed which he resolves to commit. Thus on the Supposition that a Completion of the Treaty by us is impossible he insists that we shall compleat it or make Compensation. The Expressions in the last Clause are if possible more vague than all the Rest, and the Reply might have been proportionately more pointed.
My Letter of Yesterday of which No. 5 is a Copy contains Nothing of what is just stated, altho perhaps it ought to have noticed some Part. I must rely on your Kindness Sir both to interpret favorably what I have done and to excuse my omissions. I thought it best to heap Coals of Fire on their Heads, and thereby either bring them into our Views or put them most eminently in the wrong. It was moreover my wish to draw forth specific Propositions, because these will admit of Discussion, or else if manifestly unjust, they can not only be repelled but they will serve to shew a predetermined Breach of Faith by them which will justify whatever Conduct we may afterwards find it proper to adopt. If as is not improbable he should give no answer or one so vague as to mean Nothing I shall pursue according to Circumstances my Object of compelling them to speak plainly or refuse absolutely.

It seems pretty clear that they wish to evade a commercial Treaty but not peremptorily to reject it, and therefore I have construed into Rejection his Graces abstruse Language leaving him the Option to give it a different Intrepretation. I do not expect that he will, tho he may perhaps write an explanatory Comment more unintelligible than the Text.
I have some Reason to beleive that the present administration intend to keep the Posts, and withhold Payment for the Negroes. If so they will color their Breach of Faith by the best Pretexts in their Power. I incline to think also that they consider a Treaty of Commerce with America as being absolutely unnecessary, and that they are perswaded they shall derive all Benefit from our Trade without Treaty. It is true that we might lay them under Restrictions in our Ports but they beleive that an attempt of that Sort would be considered by one Part of America as calculated by the other for private Emolument, & not for the general Good. The Merchants here look on it as almost impossible for us to do without them; and it must be acknowleged that past Experience and the present Situation of neighbouring Countries go far to justify that Opinion. Whether the Ministers, then, shall act according to their own Ideas, or consult mercantile People they will equally (I think) repel advances from us, & therefore it seems more prudent to lay the Foundations of future advantage, than attempt to grasp at present Benefit. I will not pretend to suggest any Measures for the adoption of Congress whose wisdom and whose Sense of national Honor will certainly lead them to act properly when the proper Moment shall present itself. It will naturally strike every Mind that while the Legislature of this Country continue to invest the executive authority with great Power respecting the American Commerce the administration here will have advantages in Treaty which can only be ballanced by similar Confidence on the Part of Congress in the executive of America. But very much will I think depend upon the Situation of France. If Appearances there should change and so much Vigor be infused into the Government as would enable it to call forth the national Efforts in Support of their Interest and Honor, a great Revolution would be produced in the Opinions here. From the Conduct of the aristocratic Hierarchy in the low Countries who are instigated and supported by Prussia I have long been thoroughly convinced

that the alternative of war or the most ignominious Terms of Peace would be proposed to the imperial Courts. Counting upon the absolute Nullity of France, and supposing that this Country can at any Moment intimidate that into abject Submission Prussia and Poland will I think join themselves to Turkey and Sweden against Russia and Austria which are both exhausted and one of them dismembred. Probably the war will be commenced before this Letter reaches your Hands, and then Britain and Holland are to be the Umpires or rather Dictators of Peace.
I have taken the Liberty to touch thus far upon the general System of European Politics, as it may tend to shew that for the present Great Britain will rather keep Things in Suspense with us, being herself in a State of Suspense as to others. I will not go into Conjectures about the Events which will take Place upon the Continent. They will I beleive (as is usual) disappoint the Projectors; but be that as it may, our affairs can derive no advantage now, from what shall happen hereafter. I presume that a Dissolution of Parliament will take Place shortly, altho many of the best informed People think or at least say they think otherwise. But it is clear to my mind that administration will wish to have before them a Prospect of seven Years Stability to their System be that what it may, and they will not at the Moment of a general Election expose themselves to Criticism by any act of doubtful Construction. This forms with them a⟨n⟩ additional Reason for being evasive in Regard to us. Perhaps there never was a Moment in which this Country felt herself greater and consequently it is the most unfavorable Moment to obtain advantageous Terms from her in any Bargain. But this appearance of Greatness is extremely fallacious. Their Revenue is not yet equal to their Expenditure. Money is indeed poured in upon them from all Quarters because of the distracted Situation of affairs among their Neighbours, and hence their Stocks have risen greatly since the Peace so that they can borrow at an Interest of four per Cent: but supposing they should not be obliged to engage in the war, still there are two Events either of which would overturn the Fabric of their Prosperity. If France establishes a solid System of Finance then Capitalists will prefer five per Cent with her to four per Cent from Britain, for all other Things being equal there is no Shadow of Comp⟨arison⟩

between the real Resources of the two Countries. If France commits a Bankruptcy, the Disorders consequent thereon will doubtless be violent but the Storm once passed, she would then be able to make greater Exertions by her annual Resources than Britain could compass by every possible anticipation of Credit. There is a middle Situation between sinking & Swimming in which the french Finances may flounder on for some Time to come, but even this State of wretchedness will produce rather Evil than Good to Great Britain; for she has already reaped all the Harvest which could be gathered from the Distress of her Neighbour, and must necessarily loose the Benefit of the famous commercial Treaty in Proportion as the Resources of her Customer are cut off.
Under all the various Contingencies which present themselves to my Contemplation and there are many which I will not trouble you with the Perusal of, it appears clearly that the favorable moment for us to treat is not yet come. It is indeed the moment for this Country and they seem determined to let it pass away. I must again entreat your Indulgence Sir for this lengthy and desultory Letter. Accept I pray you the assurances of that Respect with which I have the Honor to be your most obedient & humble Servant

Gouvr Morris


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Paine, 1 May 1790
From: Paine, Thomas
To: Washington, George

Sir
London May 1st 1790

Our very good Friend the Marquis de la Fayette has entrusted to my care the Key of the Bastile and a drawing, handsomely framed, representing the demolition of that detestible prison, as a present to your Excellency, of which his letter will more particularly inform. I feel myself happy in being the person thro’ whom the Marquis has conveyed this early trophy of the Spoils of Despotism and the first ripe ⟨fru⟩its of American principles transplanted into ⟨Eur⟩ope to his great Master and Patron—when he mentioned to me the present he entended you my heart leaped with Joy—It is something so truly in character that no remarks can illustrate it, and is more happily expressive of his remembrance of his American friends than any letters can convey. That the principles of America opened the Bastile is not to be doubted, and therefore the Key comes to the right place.
I beg leave to suggest to your Excellency the propriety of congratulating the King and Queen of France (for they have been our friends) and the National assembly on the happy example they are giving to Europe. You will see by the King’s Speech, which I enclose that he prides himself on being at the head of the Revolution, and I am certain that such a congratulation will be well received and have a good effect.
I should rejoice to be the direct bearer of the Marquis’s present to your Excellency but I doubt I shall not be able to see my much loved America till next spring. I shall therefore send it by some American Vessel to New York. I have permitted no drawing to be taken here, tho’ it has been often requested, as I think there is a propriety that it should first be presented.
⟨But⟩ Mr West wishes Mr Trumbull to make a painting ⟨of⟩ the presentation of the Key to you.
I returned from France to London about five Weeks ago—and I am engaged to return to Paris when the Constitution shall be proclaimed and to carry the American Flag in the procession—I have not the least doubt of the final and compleat success of the French Revolution—little Ebbings and Sowings, for and against, the natural companions of revolutions, sometimes appear, but the full current of it, is, in my opinion, as fixed as the Gulph Stream.

I have manufactured a Bridge (a Single arch) of one hundred & ten feet Span, and five feet high from the Cord of the Arch—It is now on board a vessel coming from Yorkshire to London—where it is to be erected—I see nothing yet to dissappoint my hopes of its being advantageous to me—it is this only which keeps me Europe—and happy shall I be when I shall have it in my power to return to America. I have not heard of Mr Jefferson since he sailed except of his arrival. As I have always indulged the belief of having many ⟨friends⟩ in America, or rather no Enemies, I have ⟨nothing else particu⟩larly to mention—but my affectionate rem⟨embrances to⟩ all—and am, Sir, with the greatest Respect your much obliged and Obedient Humble servant

Thomas Paine

If any of my friends are disposed to favour me with a letter—it will come to hand by addressing it to the care of Benjn Vaughn Esqr. Jeffries Square London.


Title: To George Washington from Arthur St. Clair, 1 May 1790
From: St. Clair, Arthur
To: Washington, George

Cahokia [Territory N. W. of River Ohio]
SirMay 1st 1790
I have this day communicated to the Secretary of the Department of War all the Intelligence respecting the Indian Affairs that has come to my knowledge and Observation since I wrote to him before, and I am very sorry to have it to remark, that they do not wear a very favorable Complexion! That the Ouabush Indians should have taken the Resolution to be guided entirely by those of the Miami Village, is nearly tantamount to a declaration that they will continue their Hostilities; if Matters come to that Issue, there can certainly be no hesitation about employing force to reduce them to reason, and I hope the Legislature will not boggle at the Expense, be it what it may; for it is certainly better for a Nation in every Case, to incur Expense, whatever may be its difficulties, than to lose Reputation: and should the Savages be suffered to insult the Government, and murder and rob the People with impunity its credit would be lowered, very much, both with foreign Nations and its own Citizens. The quietly putting up with one Injury seldom fails to prepare the way for the offering another.
My Time, since my Arrival in this Country, has been chiefly taken up with the receiving & examining the Claims of the Inhabitants, which have been presented very slowly; partly from their extreme Ignorance, and partly from their total want of the English Language: The Secretary being little accquainted with the french, I had required a state of their Claims in English, but as not a fiftieth Man can either read or write any Language, I was obliged to dispense with that, and interpret between him and them myself. The People are reduced to the lowest Ebb of Poverty—for four Years successively the Country has been laid under Water (for the french Settlements are all in the low Grounds or River Prairies, which are very extensive) which destroyed much the greatest part of their crops in each of those Years; and the last Season a Frost in the beginning of September destroyed nearly all the Corn—They were so much discouraged that, had my Arrival been much longer delayed, the Country would have been abandonned alltogether; perh⟨aps⟩ what had the principal Effect in preventing it was, that on the Spanish

side the Lands are naturally less fertile, and had suffered nearly as much from the Innundations. The Spirit of Industry, which however they never possess ⟨in⟩ any great Degree, seems to be reviving, and as the Season advances ⟨mutilated⟩ happily, and they are naturally of a sanguine temper, and look fondly ⟨for⟩ward to better times, their Misfortunes will I hope be forgotten. I have been trying to persuade some of them to quit their Villages, where as Farmers they can never thrive, and establish themselves upon on Plantations in the higher Lands for the Prariries are every where bounded by a steep and high Bank, at the foot of which it is very evident that the Missisippi has sometime run, but they have so perfect a dread of the Savages, that, tho’ they are satisfied of the truth of it, it is impossible to bring them to attempt it; tho the high Lands are both fertile and Healthy, and the Indian Commerce, which was the Resource of their Villages, has entirely forsaken them: I suspect however they dread the Timber, with which it is covered, almost as much as the Savages; having never been accustomed to the clearing or cultivating timbered Lands. If some of the great number of Families that are daily descending the Missisippi, and are, for a time at least, lost to their Country, could be diverted this Way, they would find a Country which would abundantly supply them with all the Necessaries and many of the Conveniences of Life, and without a great deal of Labor; for, even in the interior Country, far from the great Rivers, there are abundance of extensive Prairies, where there is nothing to do but to enclose them and put in the Plough—The Habits of Industry and the knowledge of Husbandry would from them be communicated to the ancient Inhabitants. I do not know whether the design to dispose of this Country, in small Quantities to People who would settle it, has been resumed by Congress or not; but of this I am certain that, while the rage of Emigration continues, it would be good Policy to discharge a part of it here, where the People would become good Subjects⟨,⟩ and form an effectual Barrier against future contingencies: neither is it by any means improbable that when the Advantages which this Country offer come to be generally known, they may turn this Way of themselves, and establish themselves without Authority; if not in the face of it; which would introduce a Spirit of Licentiousness, hitherto unknown here that might not be very easily repressed.

The Judges are not yet arrived neither have I the least information about them: their Absence has embarrased me a good Deal, as many Regulations, suited to the peculiar Circumstances of this part of the Country are necessary and cannot with propriety be established but by Law; I have been obliged however, in some Instances, to take it upon myself, after waiting for them as long as possible, and direct them by Proclamation—I have no doubt of a ready Obedience, for it is the mode to which the People are habituated, but I am sensible, that in so doing, I have gone beyond my proper Powers—My Excuse Sir I hope will be found in the necessity of the Case, and as the good of the People only was in View, I cannot doubt but Laws will confirm them as soon as possible. One of these Proclamations respects a County which I have erected here. The Settlements are three princip⟨al mutilated⟩ Cahokia, the Prairie du Rochers and Kaskaskia, with some sm⟨mutilated o⟩nes—not one of those contain a sufficient number of People ⟨mutilated⟩ its being a separate County, (indeed in the whole Country taken ⟨mutilated⟩ have been very much put to it to find proper Subjects to fill the different Offices) and they are at too great a Distance from each other, in present Circumstances, for any two of them to have been joined, I was therefore obliged to divide the County into Districts, and to direct Sessions of each of the Courts to be held in each District, and the Records to be kept in them in the same manner as if they had been distinct Counties: It will be attended with the Inconvenience to one or two of the Magistrates to go to the different Places but it was impossible to concenter the Business of the whole, and confine the Courts to one Place, without putting an entire stop to the Administration of Justice.
In a Letter which I had the honor to address to you from the Rapids of Ohio, I mentioned the Information I had received respecting Mr Morgan in that part of the Country. I found that he had been still busier here, if possible: in order to induce the Inhabitants to abandon the Country and follow him, he had a number of Sacks of Earth brought up from the Ance de la Graise, to shew them, and convince them of its very superior Quality; but his chief argument, and that which operated most powerfully, was drawn from that Article in the Constitution of the Territory which ⟨respects⟩ Slaves. he assured them, most positively, that they would all be liberated without any Compensation

being made to the owners—He pressed them to save them while it was yet in their Power—that the Governor was then on his way, and after his arrival it would be too late—to fly if they had any regard to themselves—they had not a moment to lose: it had the Effect to drive away many respectable Inhabitants, but not the Effect he expected, very few followed him, but they took refuge on the opposite Shore and became Subjects of Spain, which they now very heartily regret—He is now at this Moment sending away the Inhabitants of New Jersey to that Country under printed Passports directed to all civil and military Officers and requiring them to receive them as Subjects of his Catholic Majesty—Major Doughty was shewn one of those by the commanding Officer at the Ance de la Graise, who did not however very cordially accept the Greeting.
By the Ordinance for establ[ish]ing the Indian Department the Superintendant is empowered to appoint two Deputies and a Salary of five hundred Dollars is annexed to the Appointment—Two Deputies, should a good Understanding be brought about with the Indians, is not sufficient ⟨for⟩ this extensive District, and I believe the Salary might safely be ⟨lowe⟩red—Persons equally capable and worthy of trust might be got I think for one half the Sum; for five hundred Dollars will not call off any Persons of much consequence from their other Pursuits, whereas to a Person who has nothing but a farm to attend to, the half of it is a considerable Object—four Deputies would not be found too many, tho hitherto I have appointed but One—but it will not be long before more will be necessary.
While I am speaking of Salarys wi⟨ll yo⟩u permit me Sir to mention that of the Governor—I do assure you ⟨Sir⟩ it is a very inade⟨qu⟩ate One, and I was sensible of it before I took the Office upon me. I suppos⟨ed⟩ that a little management would have secured an increase of it at the last Session of Congress, but where Money was the Object I would never in my life make use of any on my own Account—Whoever undertakes it after me will find that it will by no means support him, in the manner that will be expected, and which the Dignity of Government requires—it is even necessary that a little Splendor should be thrown round it. This is however the most expensive Country in the World—Money they have none, and European Goods, wh⟨ich⟩ are at an excessive Price, is the Measure of that, and of

every thing else—Money is the Measure of no one Thing—even Linnen cannot be got washed under three Dollars a dozen Pieces—besides the Person who will be sent to th⟨is⟩ Country in the Capacity of Governor must make some Sacrifices, for which he may reasonably expect some Indemnification, independent of the long and dangerous Journies he must necessarily make both by Land and Water. My Salary I am confident will not support me; and yet I am as careful I think as I can be without Meaness.
With the most earnest Wishes for your Health and Happiness and the prosperity of the Country under your Government, and with the greatest Respect and Attachment I have the honor to be Sir Your most obedient and very humble Servant

Ar. St Clair

P.S. I have thought proper to explain the Article respecting Slaves as a prohibition to any future introduction of them, but not to extend to the liberation of those the People were already possessed of, and accquired under the Sanction of the Laws they were subject, at the same time I have given them to understand that Steps would probably be taken for the gradual Abolition of Slavery, with which they seem perfectly satisfied.


Title: To George Washington from Gouverneur Morris, 2 May 1790
From: Morris, Gouverneur
To: Washington, George

Private
Dear SirLondon 2d May 1790
You will find enclosed the Copy of what I took the Liberty to trouble you with on the thirteenth of last Month. On Saturday the seventeenth I dined in Company with Mr Fox. The State of french Politics formed of Course a large Part of the Conversation. The Situation of other Countries was then passed in Review, and it became a question how far Britain might be engaged in the Affairs of the Continent. At length I took an Opportunity to ask what System the administration had adopted respecting America. He told me that he could not tell but beleived they had none, and would in all Probability be governed by Events. That he did not beleive Mr Pitt would trouble his Head about the Matter, but would probably leave it to Lord Hawksbury & Mr Grenville who are both of them indisposed to us whereas Pitt himself is he supposes rather friendly than otherwise. Mr Fox said farther that he and Burke are now almost alone in their Opinion that we should be permitted to trade in our own Bottoms to their Islands, and that this Opinion looses Ground daily tho for his own Part he persists in it.
I find that the Ministers apply for Information respecting America, and particularly american Commerce to a Mr Irwin who long resided in America and is now here in the Customs. A mighty Sour Sort of Creature and one who seems to have a mortal Aversion for us. I met him at Dinner one Day and he took Pains to let me know that he was doing all he could to prevent any Encouragement from being given to our Exports by the Corn Bill which is now on the Carpet. He declared that he

would by the Force of Starvation oblige the People of Britain to raise Corn enough for their own Consumption, and that even the Supply of the West India Islands ought to be provided in this Country.
You will readily perceive Sir from this rude Sketch of influential Characters, that there is but little Disposition for treating with us at present. With sincere Regard I am truly yours

Gouvr Morris


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Jefferson, 3 May 1790
From: Jefferson, Thomas
To: Washington, George

May 3. 1790.

The state of Georgia having granted to certain companies of individuals a tract of country within their chartered limits, whereof the Indian right has never yet been acquired, with a proviso in the grant which implies that those individuals may take measures for extinguishing the Indian right under the authority of that government, it becomes a question How far this grant is good?
A society taking possession of a vacant country, & declaring they mean to occupy it, does thereby appropriate to themselves, as prime occupants, what was before common. a practice introduced since the discovery of America authorizes them to go farther, & to fix the limits which they assume to themselves; & it seems for the common good to admit this right to a moderate & reasonable extent. if the country, instead of being altogether vacant, is thinly occupied by another nation, the right of the natives forms an exception to that of the new comers; that is to say, these will only have a right against all other nations except the natives: consequently they have the exclusive privilege of acquiring the native right by purchase, or other just means. this is called the right of pre-emption; & is become a principle of the law of nations, fundamental with respect to America. there are but two means of acquiring the native title. 1. War; for even war may sometimes give a just title. 2. Contract, or treaty. the states of America, before their present union, possessed completely, each within it’s own limits, the exclusive right to use these two means of acquiring the native title: & by their act of union they

have as completely ceded both to the general government. Art. 2. sect. 1. “the President shall have power, by & with the advice of the Senate, to make treaties, provided two thirds of the Senators present concur.” Art. 1. sect. 8. “the Congress shall have power—to declare war—to raise & support armies.” sect. 10. “no state shall enter into any treaty, alliance, or confederation. no state shall, without the consent of congress, keep troops or ships of war in time of peace, enter into any agreement or compact with another state, or with a foreign power, or engage in war, unless actually invaded, or in such imminent danger as will not admit of delay.” these paragraphs of the Constitution, declaring that the general government shall have, & that the particular ones shall not have, the rights of war & treaty, are so explicit that no commentary can explain them further, nor can any explain them away, cons[e]quently Georgia, possessing the exclusive right to acquire the native title but having relinquished the means of doing it to the general government, can only have put her grantee into her own condition, she could convey to them the exclusive right to acquire; but she could not convey, what she had not herself, that is, the means of acquiring. for these they must come to the general government, in whose hands they have been wisely deposited for the purposes both of peace & justice.
What is to be done? the right of the general government is, in my opinion, to be maintained. the case is sound; and the means of doing it as practicable as can ever occur. but respect & friendship should, I think mark the conduct of the general towards the particular governments; & explanations should be asked, & time & colour given them to tread back their steps, before coercion is held up to their view. I am told there is already a strong party in Georgia opposed to the act of their government. I should think it better then that the first measures, while firm, be yet so temperate as to secure their alliance & aid to the general government. might not the eclat of a proclamation revolt their pride & passion, & throw them hastily into the opposite scale? it will be proper indeed to require from the government of Georgia, in the first moment, that while the general government shall be expecting & considering her explanations, things shall remain in statu quo, & not a move be made towards carrying what they have begun into execution. perhaps it might not be superfluous

to send some person to the Indians interested, to explain to them the views of government, & to watch with their aid the territory in question.

Th: Jefferson


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Jefferson, 3 May 1790
From: Jefferson, Thomas
To: Washington, George

[3 May 1790]

a letter is received from Mr Dumas, begun Dec. 4 & ending Jan. 26. the only interesting passage is the following
“I have the satisfaction to be able to testify that the American funds are in great favor with the monied men of this country. I have seen them sell from one to another the obligations of the Congress of the first loan at 100.¾ per cent; those of the last of 1788. at 99 to 100. those of the Amsterdam negotiation of the Liquidated debt at 99½ to 102. per cent.”


Title: To George Washington from Gouverneur Morris, 3 May 1790
From: Morris, Gouverneur
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
London 3 May 1790

The forgoing is Copy of what I wrote to you the twelfth of last month. I have since received yours of the first of March. The additional Pieces for your Surtout I cannot get untill I return to Paris⟨.⟩ I beleive no additional ornaments will be wanting and I incline to think that the Surtout as it now is will be large enough However you will have judged better upon seeing it and I shall probably hear from you on the Subject before long. I have bespoke the Lamps you desired and at about the limited Prices. They are as handsome as those Prices would admit of but in a different Style from those at Mr Morris’s which cost a great Deal more. These will however be I beleive as useful tho not quite so ornamental. You are perfectly right in not offering an apology for putting it in my Power to render you this trivial Service. If you had not done it an apology might perhaps have been necessary.
you take it for granted that I am regularly informed of the Proceedings of Congress &ca but in this you are mistaken for I have had very little Information on the Subject. Even the News Papers have not reached me. I trust however that I shall get a large Budget one of these Days. All which I do learn is good and that is a great Comfort. In this Country People begin to beleive that it is possible for America to subsist under an independent Government: but that opinion is not yet general much less universal.


Title: To George Washington from John Mitchell, 4 May 1790
From: Mitchell, John
To: Washington, George

Colrain Township Lancaster County & state of Pennsylvania
Honoured SirMay 4th 1790
As it is a virtue highly to be commended in every member of society to study the benefit of the body at large more than their own private interest so it is more particularly incumbent on those who are placed at the helm of affairs and are as it were the soul of the body politic to exercise this virtue in an eminent degree and I may justly say without flattery that you sir have given

sufficient evidence to the inhabitants of the United States of America by your disinterested conduct since you were called to the office of Generallisimo in the contest between Great Britain and America that you possess this virtue, in proportion to your elevation in office above others And therefore no doubt you will attend to every opportunity of doing any thing that you find will tend to the advantage of the United states and impartially examine the merit of any thing that may be submitted to your judgment taking this for granted I a poor obscure farmer who never saw your face nor have had any other knowledge of you than what I have acquired by common fame make bold to offer a few thoughts to your consideration You sir are sensible that the depriciation of the Continental money has rendered the circulation of paper currency impracticable and it appears to me that we never can have a sufficient medium of circulation otherwise than by coining gold and silver unless that trade can be otherwise regulated and manifacturies more attended to among ourselves than they have been heretofore And it is generally allowed that we have a sufficiency of gold and silver mines to supply us in a medium of circulation if they were opened I myself now possess a plantation through which a vein of mine runs which is supposed to be several miles in length which I am credibly informed has been proven to be silver and as I am not able to open it if you think proper to take any notice of it I shall chearfully submit it to your disposal and leave it to your generosity to allow me what you think fit for my good will of it you can have sufficient information about it by employing a man skilled in minerals to ⟨co⟩me and try it I shall take it as a great favour if you condescend to ⟨se⟩nd me a few lines the first opportunity to let me know whether or no you intend to do any thing in it which if you do I shall perhaps be able to inform you how you may conveniently bring a considerable length of the vein into your possession I am Honoured sir with due respect your cordial friend & Hume Servt

John Mitchell


Title: To George Washington from James B. Pleasants, 5 May 1790
From: Pleasants, James B.
To: Washington, George

Baltimore [Md.] May 5th 1790

As soon as the power of Granting Patents is vested by Law in the President, Angelheart Cruse intends to make application for Exclusive rights to a machine invented by me some years since, and for which he has my leave to take a Patent in his own name, The object in ⟨view⟩ is to apply Liquid force, as is apprehended, ⟨wi⟩th more simplicity, and superior power, ⟨tha⟩n has hitherto been done; particularly ⟨S⟩team, Water, and Air. A perpetual Cylinder, mooving on the exterior of a piston ⟨w⟩ith equal and Continual force, constitute ⟨o⟩ne of the Essential principles of this machine; and one of its great advantages, arises from the immidiate Communication of force (without the intervention of Cogg’s, Rounds or any ⟨o⟩ther Machinery) to millstones or wheels of any kind whatever. In communicating the force of Stea[m], this machine will appear in the most superior point of view in which it probably can be plac’d; the Cylinder revolv⟨in⟩g round its axis, which is also the axis of the millstones or wheels employ’d to apply the force: in a Common Steam Engine the force is communicated by the recuring movem⟨ent⟩ of a Piston; in the this, the continual revolution of the Cylinder itself around ⟨its⟩ axis, the piston being stationary; the Cy⟨linder⟩ in this Machine mooves with the same force that the piston in a common Engine does, multiplied by any number that we please under 25; the difficulty arising from the complexity of machinery necessary in ap⟨ply⟩ing a recuring force to Wheels is remoov’d: This difficulty is Threefold. 1. Expence 2. friction, 3. the loss of force apply’d to a Cra⟨illegible⟩.
I k⟨n⟩ow no better appology for this let⟨ter⟩ than the cause—I have observ’d an application (mention’d by the publishers of

the debates of Congress) made to that bod⟨y⟩ for an exclusive right to the use of perpetual steam if it is the same with mine, the priority, and superiority, will be Questions that appear to ⟨me⟩ to justify the foregoing explanation of the prin⟨ciples⟩ my machine acts upon. I have confined my⟨self⟩ in the foregoing Explanation to general princip⟨les;⟩ the particular machine will be best Explain’d by a model that will be presented by the appl⟨icant⟩ for a Patent—I am with the highest sentiments of Respect

James B. Pleasants


Title: To George Washington from Alexander Hamilton, 6 May 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

Treasury Department [New York] May 6th 1790

The Secretary of the Treasury has the honor to inform the President of the United states of America, that he has received a letter from the Governor of Virginia intimating, that it is necessary an election should be made of the particular spot upon which it may be deemed proper to erect the intended Light house on Cape Henry, after which the Cession will be completed.
The said Secretary having heard the propriety of the place contemplated for that purpose by the State of Virginia, called in question, as being peculiarly exposed to accumulations of sand in its vicinity, begs leave to submit to the President the expediency of appointing a trusty and judicious person to view the ground & make the choice; with power to take with him one or two seafaring people, who may possess local information.
The said Secretary further informs the President, that by a letter received from Benjamin Lincoln Esquire, it appears, that the widow Thomas, charged under the state of Massachusetts with the care of the Light-house at Plymouth has a son named  Thomas, who is of good character and deserves the consideration of the President as Keeper of that Light-house.
The said Benjamin Lincoln also informs the said Secretary, that he has agreed for the supply of oil for the Light-houses in the State of Massachusetts, at the rate of one hundred & four dollars per ton, which is lower than it has of late sold for, subject to ratification by the said Secretary with the approbation of the President.
On these particulars the said Secretary request’s the order of the President.


Title: To George Washington from John Nicholson, 6 May 1790
From: Nicholson, John
To: Washington, George

sir,
Philad[elphi]a May 6th 1790

It is not with a view that your mind should descend to the Matters which concern an individual that I beg leave to present the inclosed for your perusal: but As the subject relates to the interests of the states over whose concerns you preside And as the public paper both here And at the seat of General Government have exhibited representations of one side of the affairs therein refered to A desire to stand Justified in the Eyes of A personage whose Judgment I so highly revere makes me wish that if you have read Any of the others you would Also Audi Alteram partem. I have the honor to be with the highest respect your Most obedient most humble servant

Jno. Nicholson


Title: To George Washington from Henry Hill, 7 May 1790
From: Hill, Henry
To: Washington, George

Sir
Philad[elphi]a May 7th 1790

I have the honor as one of the Executors of the late Doctor Franklin to present you by the hands of Major Clarkson a token left by him in the following words—“My fine Crab tree walking stick with a gold head curiously wrought in the form of the cap of Liberty I give to my friend & the friend of Mankind General Washington—If it were a sceptre, he has merited it, & would become it.” I am with best Compliments to Mrs Washington, & all sincere respect and affection Sir Your most obedt hble sert

Henry Hill


Title: To George Washington from Beverley Randolph, 7 May 1790
From: Randolph, Beverley
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Richmond [Va.] May 7th 1790.

I do myself the Honour to inclose you a Letter from Colo. Clendenen Lieutenant of Kanawha covering Letters received by him from Colonels Lewis, and Rankins, on the subject of Indian depredations, and am with the highest Respect &c.

Beverley Randolph


Title: To George Washington from Robert Brough, 10 May 1790
From: Brough, Robert
To: Washington, George

 Hampton [Va.], May 10th 1790. “I sometime ago unsuccesfully applied to you for an Appointment in the Customs—yr reasons were such as ought to govern—I am told there will be offices of a public Nature again in yr power—having read Law I have sometime been Notary Public at this place—if any thing of that sort or any other that is like to become profiteble shou’d occur, shall be ever obliged by an Appointment—I am not so much attachd to Hampton, but wou’d remove to Norfolk or any other place. I have, Sir but few, if any Virtues & not many friends to recommend me to your Attention—but I have a family and a greatful Heart.”


Title: To George Washington from Eliphalet Fitch, 10 May 1790
From: Fitch, Eliphalet
To: Washington, George

Sir
Kingston Jamaica May 10th 1790

The Respect which the World shews to your eminent Virtues and exalted Rank, has induced me to forward the inclosed Papers, relative to the Slave-Trade; which I beg Liave to present to you, thro’ the Indulgence of the Vice-President, to whom I have the Honour to be known. I am with the most perfect Respect and Esteem, Sir, Yr most Obedient and Most Humble Servt

Elipht Fitch


Title: To George Washington from Giuseppe Chiappe, 13 May 1790
From: Chiappe, Giuseppe
To: Washington, George

Mogador [Morocco] 13 May. 1790.

Since my last of the 18th of July, which joined the copy of another preceding of the 25th of April which I had the honor to dispatch by Captain Joseph Proctor of Salem, I have always flattered myself with the hope of receiving an answer—and nothing remarkable having happened since, which merited the attention of the honorable the Congress of the United States of america, I have confined myself to keeping the monarch in the continuation of his favorable dispositions towards the illustrious nation for which he has manifested so much attachment in his sovereign conduct—in fact he spoke of it frequendy with distinction, and with marks of desire to maintain a mutual friendly correspondence.
His Majesty J. Sydy Mohamet Ben Abdalla having left Morrocco on the 27th of March to go to his capital of Mequinez, being on the road about three hours distance from his city of Salee, died on the 11th of last month, in his little carriage, being taken therein with a violent hemor⟨r⟩hage of blood up and down, which naturally suffocated him.
The new monarch Sydy Mulay Lyasid, natural Son of the deceased Sultan⟨,⟩ and worthy successor of so great a father has already mounted the throne, and it is anticipated of him that he will not cease to follow the laudable examples of his August Predecessor.
I acquit myself of my duty in immediately communicating this intelligence to your Excellency that you may inform respectively the honorable the Congress of the United States, in order that the necessary dispositions may be made, which in similar cases tend to the continuance of good harmony. and on my part I will

not fail to preserve it by the most suitable means, and which are indispensably attached to the employment with which I have been charged by the very happy nation that I serve. And always in the expectation of their approbation and venerable commands. I have the honor to be, very profoundly your Excellency’s most humble and most obedt Servt

Giuseppe Chiappe


Title: To George Washington from Betty Washington Lewis, 18 May 1790
From: Lewis, Betty Washington
To: Washington, George

My Dear Brother
May the 18th 1790

my being absent from Home for Six weeks is the reason of my not writing to you sooner, I was on a Visit to my Son Lawrence In Essex at the time I Expect’d his wife to lyin, Pore thing it Prove’d fatal to her, she was takein with Fits and died in twelve Ours without being Deliver’d, he lost a very good wife and with her all the Fortune as she was not of age to make a Right to any Part.
We have not yet settled the accompts of my Mothers Estate Some not Prov’d, and One Hogshead of Tobacco belonging to the Estate not Sold as the Price is very low I thaught it better to wait as there was a Prospect of its riseing, the last Letter I Receiv’d from Robert mentions his accompany’g Mr Lear to New Hampshire I hope it was not without your approbation, I have Inclos’d a letter to him, as I Expect he is returned by this. my sincar Love and Best wishes attend you and my Sister Washington and Children. I am Dear Brother your affectionate Sister

Betty Lewis

N.B. when the accpts is made out and settled I shall have them sent you.


Title: To George Washington from Mercy Otis Warren, 18 May 1790
From: Warren, Mercy Otis
To: Washington, George

Sir
Plimouth [Mass.] May 18 1790

Though it is my wish to prefix the inclosed dedication to a volume prepared for the press I would not take this liberty without first asking your permission. The work contains two Tragedies and some micellaneous pieces, written several years since a subscription has been advertised & it will be commited to the press as soon as I have the honour of your reply.
Most unfeignedly sir have your friends at plimouth been affected by hearing of your late severe Illness. God Grant a restoration & perfect Comfirmation of Health to a gentleman on whose life the most important Consequences may depend.
Mr Warren unites with me in the most Respectful regards to yourself & lady. He has been very Ill since his return as he was during the whole of his residence at new york: this circumstance prevented him the pleasure of paying that perticuler attention to Mrs Washington that both friendship & politness dictated. an apology also for myself is due to her: for introducing a son as the bearer of a letter: but an accident impeded his journy to New york & consequently the honour of a personal

attendence. Give me leave sir to subscribe most respectfully & sincerly your most obedient

M. Warren


Title: To George Washington from John Joseph de Barth and Mr. Thiebaud, 19 May 1790
From: Barth, John Joseph de,Thiebaud (Thibauld, Thiebault, Thiebaut), François Adrien
To: Washington, George

Sir,
New York 19th May. 1790.

A great number of french people are arrived in this Country with an intention to settle on lands, which they have respectively acquired from the agents of the Scioto Company residing in Paris; which lands are situated between the Ohio & Scioto rivers in the Western territory of the United States, as expressed in the Contract between the United States and Messrs Sergent & Cutler.
Independent of the duty which obliges them to offer to the United States an homage of the most profound respect, and most perfect submission to all the laws of their new Country, in quality of new subjects and faithful Citizens; these emigrants determine to sacrifice their lives & property, in whatever manner it may depend on them to promote the public good. They hope therefore they may be permited to implore the protection of the supreme power of the United States for their persons and property; which they have conceived to be in great danger from the numerous accounts in the public papers, as well as from the reports of individuals respecting the depredations of the savages committed on the inhabitants in that quarter.
Under these circumstances, sir, in the name of our Countrymen & associates we have presumed to supplicate you to direct the Governor & Officers in the Western territory to afford us such military support as the nature of our situation may from time to time require; and of which we may have the more occassion as the distance between the two principal establishments we are about to form, makes it difficult to act in concert.
We most ardently supplicate the great author of all good for the speedy & perfect establishment of your precious health; & permit us sir to assure you, that in obtaining this favour, Our gratitude will be equalled only by the respect—with which we are sir Your most Obedient and most humble servants

De Barth
thiebaud
for ourselves and associates


Title: To George Washington from Arthur Fenner, 20 May 1790
From: Fenner, Arthur
To: Washington, George

Sir.
State of Rhode Island. Providence May 20th 1790.

Having been lately elected, by the Freemen of this State, to the office of their first Magistrate, I therefore embrace this early oppertunity of assuring you of the sincere regard which I, in common with the Citizens in general, feel for your Excellency personally. Admist the Universal Applause and the grateful Acknowledgements of United America singular indeed would it be, if the Citizens of Rhode Island were insensible of the Obligations they are under to your Excellency for the constant Exertions and display of those Talents, and that Patriotism manifested on all Occasions, since you came into public life, and which so much contributed to the Emancipation and Independence of our Country. The Citizens of this State were among the foremost in the support of the common cause of the American Confederacy, in the late War, and they will always remember with Gratitude and pride the repeated Testimonials you was pleased to give of your Approbation of their Exertions, and of the Valour of their Troops, on Various Occasions, in the Hours of difficulty and Danger.

This State was at all times during the War anxious if possible to comply with any wish signified to them by your Excellency. And when it is considered that a large Army of the Enemy for near three years of the most gloomy and uncertain Periods of the War were, in Possession of their Capital, and of the Island of Rhode Island, and the other Islands in the Narraganset Bay. That the Towns of Warren, Bristol and Jamestown were burnt on excursions of the Enemy, and that during the whole Period of their having Possession of Rhode Island, a considerable part of the Militia of the State were necessarily kept on constant Duty, guarding the Shores of the Narraganset Bay more than sixty miles in Extent, it will be natural to conclude that no State suffered more than the State of Rhode Island in proportion to their numbers and extent, or made greater Exertions for the support of the common Cause. I Just mention these Circumstanc’s to recal to your Excellency’s mind those trying times when we looked to your Excellency as our common Protector, Friend, and Father endearing Appellations under which we hope yet long to consider you. It hath been published in the Newspapers that a Bill is now pending before the Senate of the United States entitled “An Act to prevent bringing goods wares and Merchandize from the State of Rhode Island and providence Plantations into the United [States] and to authorize a demand of Mony from the said State” A Copy of which Bill at large hath been published.
This being a matter highly interesting to this State your Exccellency will permit me to make some observations upon it. It was natural to expect that there should be a Degree of Anxiety and impatience in the States in the Union on seeing this State not under the General Government. But after it was known to Congress that a Convention of the people of this State had been called agreeable to the Recommendation of the Convention of Philadelphia and the consequent Resolution of Congress, and that the Convention of this State was adjourned to the last Monday of this month for the purpose of Reconciling the people to an adoption of the Constitution, who had been oposed to it and when there was the greatest Probability that the New Constitution would then be adopted by the Convention of this State, a Measure of such an Hostile appearance and so degrading to this State as the one before mentioned could not be expected by us. I can account for it only by supposing that Representations unfavourable

to the Adoption of the Constitution here must have been forwarded to Congress by Persons in this State who have had selfish and personally interesting motives therefor. It must be a matter known to your Excellency and to Congress that this State hath been very unhappy for several years past, in having been invol[v]ed in all the dificulties and Animosities of party Spirrit. The great Exertions of the People in general in the War caused an heavy accumulation of Debt payable from the Public to the Individuals, who had done personal services or advanced property. But the public having taken no seasonably effectual measures for keeping up the Credit of their Securities, till they greatly depreciated and had generally been parted with by the Original Holders or Earners for very small Considerations to the Richer, the more Speculating, and enterprising part of the Community, who availed themselves of the then low price—When therefore the Body of the People who had thus parted with their securities came to be taxed for the annual Interest of six per Cent payable on the Face of the securities which in a short time would amount to more than the Purchasors had given both for principel and interest it caused investigations and discussions of the Reasonableness and Justice of the Public paying so much more than the purchasers had given for the Securities. Especially as many of the Purchasers had been instrumental in depreciating the Securities and at the time of purchasing had made use of the argument of the uncertainty of their ever being paid to induce the Original Earners to part with them at a low price. Many supposed that there ought to have been a descrimination in favour of the present original Holders and a Liquidation of those which had been transferred that the same arguments and the same principles and the same policy which led the Congress in 1780 to adopt the measure of sinking forty Dollars of their Currency for one Silver Dollar notwithstanding the Bill promised forty Silver Dollars would apply with the same Equity and Reason proportionably to the Case of the Securities which had been purchased for less than a quarter of their nominal amount[.] Difference of opinion respecting this interesting Subject and the Introduction of the paper mony here in 1786 and the unremitted Efforts of a part of the State to destroy its Currency, by depreciating it, and the jarring Interests introduced by the Depreciation with some Local considerations and

personal Resentments naturally consequent thereon laid the Foundation of that party Spirrit which hath agitated the Government of this State for sometime past, and hath occasioned the unfavourable Complexion of many of its Legislative proceedings and that Torrent of obloquy and abuse of the State and its officers which hath been poured forth in the Newspapers. But I mean not to Trouble your your Excellency with an account in detail of the Circumstances which have led Step by Step, to our present unhappy Situation—Was I to undertake it, your Excellency would behold the Picture of a People, who from being respectable in themselves, by their Struggles in party, have been reduced into a Political situation so uncommon & peculiar, and of such irreconciliably varying and jarring interests, that to a benevolent and philosophic mind particularly informed of the Circumstances, they would appear rather to deserve the Mantle of Charity, than the Obloquy of Reproach, and to merrit pity rather than resentment or contempt. The Conduct of the Legislature respecting the New Constitution is a proof more of Indecision of Council, than of Refractoriness of Disposition. In May 1787 on the Question in the Lower House whether Delegates should be sent to the Convention then about meeting at Philadelphia it was, after long Debate voted in the Affirmative, by a Majority of two, and non-concurred in the upper House by the same Majority. But at the Session in June following it appearing that the other States had all agreed to a Convention, the upper House altered their opinion and by a large Majority Voted to send forward Delegates. But on sending their Vote to the Lower House they in their turn non concurred and no Delegates were sent. And since the Publication of the Constitution and the adoption of it by the other States the Various and numerous proceedings of the Legislature respecting it, from time to time, have been more influenced by party considerations than a determination finally to reject it. And as I can now assure your Excellency that all the other States having joined the New Confederacy and many important Amendments having been proposed, some of which have already been agreed to, many persons of influence who have heretofore opposed the adoption of the New Constitution here, have withdrawn their opposition, there is therefore reason to suppose that it will be very soon adopted in this State; and as measures which have the appearance

of Coertion may be productive of Alienation of Affection, and will be peculiarly degrading to a State, which though small when She comes to join the Union will not be wanting in that public Spirrit and Patriotism which She hath heretofore been acknowledged to Possess Permit me therefore in behalf of a State, towards which your Exellency hath heretofore appeared friendly disposed, to solicit your Exellency to take such measures as your Wisdom shall suggest for preventing any fu[r]ther proceedings of Congress, on the before mentioned Report of the Committee of the Honorable the Senate, at least until it shall be determined, by the Convention of this State whether they will adopt the New Constitution or not of which your Excellency shall have the Earliest information immediately after their rising.
Any Communications your Excellency may wish to have made to the Legislature of this State committed to my care shall have the earliest and most respe[c]tful attention paid them by him who begs leave to subscribe himself with the highest sentiments of Esteem and the sincerest Regard Your Excellencys most Obedient Servant

Arthur Fenner.


Title: To George Washington from George Clinton, 21 May 1790
From: Clinton, George
To: Washington, George

Sir
New York 21st May 1790.

With this I do myself the Honor to inclose You Copies of Letters from Lieut. Colonel Woolsey, Judge Platt, Justice Moor, and other Inhabitants of this State residing on the West Banks of Lake Champlain containing all the Information which I at present have on the Subject to which they relate.
Your present Indisposition will not permit me personally to attend You on this Business and I have therefore thought it prudent for the present only to write to Colo. Woolsey who commands the Militia in that Quarter recommending it to the Inhabitants not to remove unless they are compelled by an armed Force and I shall also direct him and the Civil Magistrates to make farther Enquiry respecting this Aggression. His Answer and whatever other Information I may receive shall be immediately communicated to your Excellency. I have the Honor to be with the highest Respect Your most obedient Servant

Geo: Clinton


Title: To George Washington from Ebenezer Thompson, 21 May 1790
From: Thompson, Ebenezer
To: Washington, George

Sir
Providence [R.I.] May 21st 1790

Tho I am not insansiable that your Excellency must be troubled with many applications of this nature, Yet as it is probable that this state will in a few days adopt the Constitution and Laws of the Union, I take the liberty to request that you will be pleased to appoint me to the office of Collector of the Revenue for the port and District of Providence, an office which I now Sustain Under the Authority of this State, the duties of which I have performed to the best of my Abilities and I trust so as to bare the test of any Examination—I was bred a merchant which Occupation was my business till the commencement of the late War, when I deposited nearly the whole of my Stock in the Continental Loan Office, since which from a Combination of circumstances I have been Necessiated to dispose of my Securities at and Under 4/ on the pound from which I have lost the hard earning of my Youth—As your Excellency Ought to be made acquainted with my Abilities Integrity and the Claim I have to the notice and Confidence of my Country I rely on your Candour to Excuse my mentioning that my Character has been such with my fellow Citizens of this State that in the Arduous Years of 76–77 they appointed me an Assistant and a member of the Council of War, which Offices I sustained Under Govenor Cooke, and continued in them to the End of his Administration, Since which my Country have Noticed me by a number of appointments,

and for a number of Years past have been Elected by the suffrages of the Citizens of this Town as President of the Town Council which office I now hold—should you be pleased to Acquiese with this request you may be assured that the office shall be supported with Integrity punctuality and Industry—As the punctual collection of the revenue will depend in some measure on the Vigilence of the other Officers at the port, in what ever light you may consider or determine on the propriety of my request above Mention’d I think it a du[t]y I owe to the publick to mention to your Excellency that Theodore Foster Esquire the present Naval officer, and Willm Tyler Esquire the present Sur[v]eyor for this port, that from the Knowledge I have of those Gentlemen and the Experiance I have had of their Abilities and faithfullness in the Execution of the trust committed to them I can with Confidence recommend them to your Excellency as qualified for dischargeing of their respective offices—I am with sentiments of the Greatest Respect Your Excellency’s Most Obed. Humbl. Servt

Ebenezer Thompson


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Wignell, 22 May 1790
From: Wignell, Thomas
To: Washington, George

Philadelphia May 22nd 1790.

Mr Wignell, with the utmost respect and deference, has the Honor of transmitting to the President of the United States, two copies of the Contrast.


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Bee, 23 May 1790
From: Bee, Thomas
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Columbia So. Carolina 23 May 1790

The Death of Mr Drayton having caused a Vacancy in the Fœderal Court for this State, I am induced to Offer myself as a Candidate for the Office I requested Mr Izard and Major Butler on a former Occasion to mention my Name to your Excellency, but your absence from New York, prevented them doing so in time. The reason of my not writing to you then myself was that I apprehended an application through Friends would be more acceptable, I have since been informed otherwise, which is the cause of my troubling your Excellency now.
If you should think any Investigation necessary the Gentlemen above mentioned are fully informed on every Point, with every sentiment of respect and Esteem I am your Excellencys most Obt & very humble Servt

Tho. Bee


Title: From George Washington to the United States Senate, 25 May 1790
From: Washington, George
To: United States Senate

United States [New York]
Gentlemen of the Senate,May 25th 1790.
I nominate the following persons to fill the offices affixed to their names—viz.
Samuel Jasper, to be Surveyor of the Port of Currituck-Inlet in the State of North Carolina.
Nathaniel Wilkins, to be Collector of the Port of Cherry Stone in the State of Virginia, in the place of George Savage, who has resigned.
Henry Deering, to be Collector of the Port of Sagg Harbour in the State of New York, in the place of John Gelston, who has resigned.
Thomas Davis Freeman, to be Surveyor of the Port of Plymouth in the State of North Carolina, in the place of Levi Blount, who has resigned.
Benjamin Bartlett, to be Surveyor of the Port of Suffolk in the State of Virginia, in the place of Archibald Richardson, who has resigned.

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Alexander Hamilton, 28 May 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

Treasury Department [New York] May 28th 1790.

The Secretary of the Treasury has the honor respectfully to submit to the President of the United states, for his approbation, five Contracts made by the superintendant of the Light house, piers &c. on the river and Bay of Delaware, and the letter received with them.
After due examination in this Office, the Contracts appear advantageous to the United states. Should they be approved, immediate attention will be paid to supplying the omission of the day of the Month in the Contract with Michael Dawson.


Title: To George Washington from Hugh Williamson, 28 May 1790
From: Williamson, Hugh
To: Washington, George

Sir
New York 28th May 1790.

While you are considering of a proper Person for Governor of the Territory ceded by North Carolina I take the Liberty of requesting that you would be so good as to enquire whether Mr William Blount would not probably discharge that Trust with Honour to himself and advantage to the Public. Those People who had most of them been separated from the State for some Years, have been toren by Factions and very disorderly; Some address will be required in governing them and I think there is not any other Man who possesses the Esteem and Confidence of both Parties so fully as Mr Blount, for some of the Leaders of both Parties have assured me that they knew no Man in whom they could be so fully united.
It is true that Mr Blount has a considerable Quantity of Land within the ceded Territory, but he has none to the Southward of it, and he must be the more deeply interested in the Peace and Prosperity of the new Government. Perhaps it is because I have many Relations and some Land there, given me by the State, that I am the more anxious to see it prosper.

Mr David Campbell, who lives near Holsten and is an assistant Judge under the State of N. Carolina, of a fair Character and respectable abilities, appears to be a proper Person for a Judge.
Mr Howel Tatum formerly a Continental officer, now a Lawyer in that Country whom I have ever considered as a Man of Honour and respectable abilities might be a proper Person to Discharge the Duties of Secretary. I have the Honour to be With the utmost Consideration Sir your most obedient and very humble Servt

Hu. Williamson


Title: To George Washington from Alexander Hamilton, 29 May 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

[New York] Saturday May 29th 1790

The Secretary of the Treasury presents his respects to the President of the United states and submits to his consideration some remarks on the Resolutions, which have passed the two Houses respecting the Lines of Virginia and North Carolina.
The Secretary has taken this method of communication as the one best calculated to place the subject under the eye of the President with least trouble to him. If any further explanation should be desired by the President, The Secretary will have the honor of waiting upon him, at any time it shall please him to appoint.


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Hughes, 29 May 1790
From: Hughes, Thomas
To: Washington, George

May it please your Excellency,
Newport [R.I.] May 29th 1790.

If long Service and great Sufferings can Supply the place of extraordinary Merit (of which I dare not boast) your Excellency will excuse me for humbly representing, that I entered the Service of the United States in May 1775, as a Commissioned Officer. That as such I was Present on Long-Island in the action that took Place there on the 27th of August 1776, under the Command of Colo. Hitchcock and there in that Action received a Gun Shot Wound. The Ball passing through both Thighs a

Little below the Hips and Shattered my right Thigh Bone from which I recovered after more than twelve Months pain and Lanquish. that upon my Recovery I immediately rejoined my Regiment under the Command of Colo. Israel Angell and was appointed and Commissioned a Captain therein upon the 27th June 1777, and as Luck Continued untill the end of the War under the Command of Colo. Jeremiah Olney at all times conducting myself irreproachably and to the Best of my skill and abillity.
Now Sir I humbly ask your Excellency In Consideration of my Services and Sufferings, that I may be Appointed Naval officer for the Port and District of Newport Which is the place of my Nativity, and this will Confer a Lasting Obligation and fully Compensate sr your Excellency much oblidge[d] and most obedient Humble Servant

Thomas Hughes


Title: To George Washington from Daniel Owen, 29 May 1790
From: Owen, Daniel
To: Washington, George

Sir,
State of Rhode Island Newport May 29th 1790.

I have the pleasing satisfaction of informing your Excellency that the Constitution of the United States of America was this day ratified and adopted by the convention of the People of this State, agreeable to the recommendation of the general Convention, assembled at Philadelphia, and the consequent resolution of Congress thereon.
The lower House of the general assembly of this State at their session the former part of this month past a resolution requesting His Excellency the Governor in case the Constitution should be adopted by the Convention to call the assembly together by warrant, as soon after the adoption as might be, for the special purpose of electing the Senators, and taking measures for a representation of this State in Congress—I can therefore assure Your Excellency that in the course of a few days, not to exceed sixteen, the Legislature will be assembled, either by special warrant, or pursuant to their adjournment on the second monday of June, when I have not the least doubt, the Senators will be immediately appointed, and the State represented in Congress, agreeable to the constitution, as soon as the elections can be accomplished.

The ratification of the Constitution will be made out and forwarded by way of the Post office with all possible expedition.
Colonel William Barton, who was a Member of the Convention, will have the honor of delivering this letter. With the highest sentiments of esteem and respect, I have the honor of being your Excellency’s most obedient Servant

Daniel Owen Presidt


Title: To George Washington from Cyrus Griffin, 30 May 1790
From: Griffin, Cyrus
To: Washington, George

Richmond [Va.] May 30th 1790

pardon me, Sir, that I take the freedom to disturb your anxious moments, to congratulate you and my Country on the most happy recovery from your late Indisposition. the last mail has brought to us that pleasing and most important Intelligence, the reverse of which would have thrown this Country into despair and confusion. I hope to heaven the malady may operate as the renovation of health, and will continue the blessing unto a very distant period.
as the first Circuit of the Supreme Court in my district was holden the other day I think it my duty to inform you, Sir, that the Court was complete, that an excellent charge was given by Judge Wilson to the best Grand Jury that perhaps have been assembled under the new Judiciary, and that all the people p[r]esent seemed perfectly satisfied with the proceedings throughout.
may I presume to offer my respectful Compliments to mrs Washington. I am, sir, with every sense of admiration, Gratitude, and respect Your most obedient Servant

C. Griffin