Title: To George Washington from William Fitzhugh, 25 July 1785
From: Fitzhugh, William
To: Washington, George

Dear General
Millmont July 25th 1785

I had the Honor of Your favr of the 14th Currt—it came to hand Yesterday—I return’d on Saturday last from Annapolis, where I placed for You a Letter in the Post Office to which, as I have no doubt of its safe Passage I beg leave to refer—Your Excellencys Letters of the 21st of may & the 14th Inst. so clearly Ascertain The Building materials that I shall be at no loss to select those which are desirable—nor do I believe it will be difficult to find a Good Passage for them to Alexandria, from whence to Baltimore is a Weekly Packet—And as I intend to visit my son near Baltimore, by Water next Month, I will take the Goods up with me, & send them in the Packet, to the care of Our friend Colo. Fitzgerrald. with respect to Payment, I beg you will give Yourself no trouble, or concern—I must go to Virga to attend a Sale of Lands the 20th of September, & shall have the pleasure to Visit Mount Vernon, Either going or returning.
I am Glad You will have a tryal of the Guinea Grass & Shou’d it succeed, Shall be thankful for a Little of the seed next Season. Mrs Fitzhugh, & my son William who is now here, Join with Me in respectful Complts and best wishes to You Your Lady & Family. I have the Honor to be with perfect Esteem & respect, Your Excellencys Affect. & Oblig’d H. Sert

Willm Fitzhugh


Title: From George Washington to David Humphreys, 25 July 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Humphreys, David

My dear Humphreys
Mount Vernon July 25th 1785.

Since my last to you I have received your letters of the 15th of Jany and (I believe) that of the 15th of Novr; & thank you for them both—It always gives me pleasure to hear from you; and I should think, if amusements would spare you, business could not so much absorb your time as to prevent your writing to me more frequently; especially as there is a regular & safe conveyance once a month, by the Packett.
As the complexion of European politics seem now (from the letters I have received from the Marquisses de la Fayette & Chastellux—the Chevr de la Luzerne, &ca) to have a tendency to Peace, I will say nothing of War, nor make any animadversions upon the contending Powers—otherwise I might possibly have added, that the retreat from it seemed impossible, after the explicit declarations of the Parties.
My first wish is, to see this plague to Mankind banished from the Earth; & the Sons & daughters of this World employed in

more pleasing & innocent amusements than in preparing implements, & exercising them for the destruction of the human race. Rather than quarrel abt territory, let the poor, the needy, & oppressed of the Earth; and those who want Land, resort to the fertile plains of our Western Country, to the second Land of promise, & there dwell in peace, fulfilling the first & great Commandment.
In a former letter I informed you, My dear Humphreys, that if I had talents for it, I have not leizure to devote my time & thoughts to commentaries. I am conscious of a defective education, & want of capacity to fit me for such an undertaking. What with Company, letters, & other Matters, many of them extraneous, I have not yet been able to arrange my own private concerns so as to rescue them from that disordered state into which they have been thrown, by the War; and to do which, is become indispensibly necessary for my support, whilst I remain on this stage of human action.
The sentiment of your last letter on this subject gave me great pleasure. I should indeed be pleased to see you undertake this business. Your abilities as a writer—Your discernment respecting the principles which lead to the decision by Arms—Your personal knowledge of many facts as they occurred, in the progress of the War—Your disposition to justice, candour & impartiallity, and your diligence in investigating truth, combining, fits you, in the vigor of life, for this task. and I should with great pleasure not only give you the perusal of all my Papers, but any oral information of circumstances which cannot be obtained from the latter, that my memory will furnish. And I can with great truth add, that my House would not only be at your Service during the period of your preparing this work, but (and without an unmeaning compliment I say it) I shoud be exceedingly happy if you would make it your home. You might have an Apartment to yourself in which you could command your own time. You would be considered, & treated as one of the family. And would meet with that cordial reception & entertainment, which are characteristic of the sincerest friendship.
To reverberate European News would be idle; and we have little of a domestic kind worthy of attention. We have held treaties indeed with the Indians, but they were so unseasonably delayed that these people from our last accts from the Westward

are in a discontented mood—supposed by many to be instigated thereto by our late enemy—now, to be sure, good & fast friends; who, from anything I can learn, under the indefinite expression of the treaty, hold, & seem resolved to retain, possession of our Western Posts. Congress have also—after long & tedeous deliberation—passed an Ordinance for laying of the Western territory into States, & for disposing of the Land; but in a manner, and on terms, which few people (in the Southern States) conceive can be accomplished. Both sides are sure, & the event is appealed to—time must decide. It is to be regretted however, that local politics, & self interested views, obtrude themselves into every measure of public utility. But on such characters, be the obloquy—My attention is more immediately engaged in a project which I think is big with great political, as well as Commercial consequences to these States, especially the middle ones. It is, by removing the obstructions—and extending the inland Navigations of our Rivers, to bring the States on the Atlantic in close connection with those forming to the Westward, by a short & easy Land transportation. Without this is effected, I can readily conceive that the Western Settlers will have different views—seperate interests—and other connections.
I may be singular in my ideas, but they are these, that to open the front door to, & make easy the way for those Settlers to the Westward (which ought to progress regularly & compactly) before we make any stir about the Navigation of the Mississipi, and before our settlements are far advanced towards that River would be our true line of policy. It can I think be demonstrated, that the produce of the Western territory (if the Navigations which are now in hand succeed, and of which I have no doubt) as low down the Ohio as the Great Kanhawa (I believe to the Falls) and between the parts above, & the Lakes, may be brought to the highest shipping Port either on this, or James River, at a less expence, with more ease (including the return) and in a much shorter time than it can be carried to New Orleans, if the Spaniards, instead of restrictions were to throw open their ports, & envite our trade—But if the commerce of that Country shd embrace this channel, and connections be formed, experience has taught us (and there is a very recent one in proof, with Great Britain) how next to impracticable it is to divert it—and if that shd be the case, the Atlantic States (especially as those to the

Westward will, in a great degree, fill with foreigners) [will be no more to the present union,] except to excite—perhaps with too much cause—our fears than the Country of California, which is still more to the Westward, & belonging to another Power. Mrs Washington presents her compliments to you, and with every wish for your happiness I am—My dear Humphreys Yr sincere friend and Affectionate Hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Lafayette, 25 July 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de

My Dear Marquis,
Mount Vernon 25th July 1785.

I have to acknowledge & thank you for your several favors of the 9th of February—19th of March & 16th of April, with their enclosures; all of which (the last only yesterday) have been received since I had the honor to address you in February.
I stand before you as a Culprit; but to repent & be forgiven are the precepts of Heaven: I do the former—do you practise the latter, & it will be participating of a divine attribute. Yet I am not barren of excuses for this seeming inattention; frequent absences from home—a round of company when at it, & the pressure of many matters, might be urged as apologies for my long silence; but I disclaim all of them, & trust to the forbearance of friendship & your wonted indulgence: indeed so few things occur, in the line on which I now move, worthy of attention—that this also might be added to the catalogue of my excuses; especially when I further add, that one of my letters, if it is to be estimated according to its length, would make three of yours.
I now congratulate you, & my heart does it more effectually than my pen, on your safe arrival at Paris, from your voyage to this Country, & on the happy meeting with Madame la Fayette & your family in good health—May the blessing of this long continue to them—& may every day add increase of happiness to yourself. As the clouds which overspread your hemisphere are

dispersing, & peace with all its concomitants is dawning upon your Land, I will banish the sound of War from my letter: I wish to see the sons & daughters of the world in Peace & busily employed in the more agreeable amusement, of fulfilling the first and great commandment—Increase & Multiply: as an encouragement to which we have opened the fertile plains of the Ohio to the poor, the needy & the oppressed of the Earth; any one therefore who is heavy laden, or who wants land to cultivate, may repair thither & abound, as in the Land of promise, with milk & honey: the ways are preparing, & the roads will be made easy, thro’ the channels of Potomac & James river.
Speaking of these navigations, I have the pleasure to inform you that the subscriptions, (especially for the first) at the surrender of the books, agreeably to the Act which I enclosed you in my last, exceeded my most sanguine expectation: for the latter, that is James river, no comparison of them has yet been made.
Of the £50,000 Sterlg required for the Potomac navigation, upwards of £40,000, was subscribed before the middle of May, & encreasing fast. A President & four Directors, consisting of your hble Servant, Govrs Johnson & Lee of Maryland, & Colo. Fitzgerald & Gilpin of this State, were chosen to conduct the undertaking. The first dividend of the money was paid in on the 15th of this month; & the work is to be begun the first of next, in those parts which require least skill: leaving the more difficult ’till an Engineer of abilities & practical knowledge can be obtained; which reminds me of the question which I propounded to you in my last, on this subject, & on which I should be glad to learn your sentiments. This project, if it succeeds & of which I have no doubt, will bring the Atlantic States & the Western Territory into close connexion, & be productive of very extensive commercial & political consequences; the last of which gave the spur to my exertions, as I could foresee many, & great mischiefs which would naturally result from a separation—& that a separation would inevitably take place, if the obstructions between the two Countries remained, & the navigation of the Mississippi should be made free.
Great Britain, in her commercial policy is acting the same unwise part, with respect to herself, which seems to have influenced all her Councils; & thereby is defeatg her own ends: the restriction of our trade, & her heavy imposts on the staple commodities

of this Country, will I conceive, immediately produce powers in Congress to regulate the Trade of the Union; which, more than probably would not have been obtained without in half a century. The mercantile interests of the whole Union are endeavouring to effect this, & will no doubt succeed; they see the necessity of a controuling power, & the futility, indeed the absurdity, of each State’s enacting Laws for this purpose independant of one another. This will be the case also, after a while, in all matters of common concern. It is to be regretted, I confess, that Democratical States must always feel before they can see: it is this that makes their Governments slow—but the people will be right at last.
Congress after long deliberation, have at length agreed upon a mode for disposing of the Lands of the United States in the Western territory—it may be a good one, but it does not comport with my ideas. The ordinance is long, & I have none of them by me, or I would send one for your perusal. They seem in this instance, as in almost every other, to be surrendering the little power they have, to the States individually which gave it to them. Many think the price which they have fixed upon the Lands too high; and all to the Southward I believe, that disposing of them in Townships, & by square miles alternately, will be a great let to the sale: but experience, to which there is an appeal, must decide.
Soon after I had written to you in Feby, Mr Jefferson, & after him Mr Carmichael informed me that in consequence of an application from Mr Harrison for permission to export a Jack for me from Spain, his Catholic Majesty had ordered two of the first race in his Kingdom (lest an accident might happen to one) to be purchased and presented to me as a mark of his esteem. Such an instance of condescension & attention from a crowned head is very flattering, and lays me under great obligation to the King; but neither of them is yet arrived: these I presume are the two mentioned in your favor of the 16th of April; one as having been shipped from Cadiz—the other as expected from the Isle of Malta, which you would forward. As they have been purchased since December last, I began to be apprehensive of accidents; which I wish may not be the case with respect to the one from Cadiz, if he was actually shipped at the time of your account: should the other pass thro’ your hands you cannot oblige me

more, than by requiring the greatest care, & most particular attention to be paid to him. I have long endeavoured to procure one of a good size & breed, but had little expectation of receiving two as a royal gift.
I am much obliged to you My dear Marquis, for your attention to the Hounds, & not less sorry that you should have met the smallest difficulty, or experienced the least trouble in obtaining them: I was no way anxious about these, consequently should have felt no regret, or sustained no loss if you had not succeeded in your application. I have commissioned three or four persons (among whom Colo. Marshall is one) to procure for me in Kentucke, for the use of the Kings Garden’s at Versailles or elsewhere, the seeds mentioned in the list you sent me from New York, & such others as are curious, & will forward them as soon as they come to my hands; whch cannot be ’till after the growing Crop has given its seeds.
My best wishes will accompany you to Potsdam, & into the Austrian Dominions whenever you set out upon that tour. As an unobserved spectator, I should like to take a peep at the troops of those Monarch’s at their manœuverings upon a grand field day; but as it is among the unattainable things, my philosophy shall supply the place of curiosity, & set my mind at ease.
In your favor of the 19th of March you speak of letters which were sent by a Mr Williams; but none such have come to hand. The present for the little folks did not arrive by Mr Ridouts Ship as you expected; to what cause owing I know not. Mrs Washington has but indifferent health; & the late loss of her Mother, & only brother Mr Barthw Dandridge (one of the Judges of our supreme Court) has rather added to her indisposition. My mother & friends enjoy good health—George has returned after his peregrination thro’ the West Indies, to Burmuda, the Bahama Islands, & Charlestown; at the last place he spent the winter. He is in better health than when he set out, but not quite recovered: He is now on a journey to the Sweet Springs, to procure a stock sufficient to fit him for a matrimonial voyage in the Frigate F. Bassett, on board which he means to embark at his return in October: how far his case is desperate, I leave you to judge—if it is so, the remedy however pleasing at first, will certainly be violent.
The latter end of April I had the pleasure to receive in good

order, by a Ship from London, the picture of your self, Madame la Fayette & the children, which I consider as an invaluable present, & shall give it the best place in my House. Mrs Washington joins me in respectful compliments, & in every good wish for Madame de la Fayette, yourself & family; all the others who have come under your kind notice present their compliments to you. For myself, I can only repeat the sincere attachment, & unbounded affection of My Dr Marqs &c. &c. &c.

G: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Alexander White, 26 July 1785
From: White, Alexander
To: Washington, George

Sir
Woodville 26 July 1785

I had the honour of your Excellencys letter 16th instant enclosing Mr Frauncis’s which I have answered by this Post—As your Excellency has no knowledge of Mr Frauncis’s demand it would be impertement in me to trouble you with my opinion of it—I can only say, that I am anxious to discharge every just debt,

and that your Excellencys Countenance afforded to Mr Frauncis will induce me to pay particular attention to his Claim—I spent a Month last Winter adjusting the Affairs of General Lees Estate with Congress and Mr Morris, and put things in such a train that, I hoped, as soon as our dispatches should arrive in England to be enabled to draw mony sufficient to discharge all his debts but his debters’ cavil at the Powers sent, and refuse payment—Other Writings have been drawn there, and transmitted to Mr Morris for him and me to execute, he writes me they are arrived, and that he is waiting an opportunity to send them to me, and that if one does not soon offer he will send an Express[.] I hope on their return Matters in England will be agreeably adjusted though Miss Lee in a Letter of 23d March seems of a different opinion, and thinks nothing will be paid till it is recovered by Law—I have wrote her most pressingly, if that should be the Case to advance £600 Sterg to enable me to pay the many small debts which remain unpaid to the disgrace of the Generals memory. I hope she will comply—I am really anxious to discharge all his debts. as soon as it is in my Power I shall give notice to his Crediters in general, and particularly to your Excellency, and am with Sentiments of the highest Respect Your Excellencys Most Obt Servt

Alexr White


Title: From George Washington to Otho Holland Williams, 26 July 1785 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Williams, Otho Holland

Letter not found: to Otho Holland Williams, 26 July. On 15 Aug. Williams wrote to GW and referred to “Your Letter dated Mount Vernon July 26th.”


Title: From George Washington to Clement Biddle, 27 July 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Biddle, Clement

Dear Sir:
Mount Vernon, July 27, 1785.

Your letter of the 5th. came duly to hand, and should have been acknowledged sooner, if it had been in my power, conveniently. I thank you for your attention to the Certificates which

I committed to your care; and will obtain an order from Gilbert Simpson, by which the Interest may be received. This money is all I am likely to get for a Mill which he ran me to the Expence of £1200 hard money to build, near Yohiogany, now tumbling down, and for which I can not get a farthing, rent. If Mr. Stelle has the cover, in which the Certificates were wrapped, I should be glad to have it returned to me, or, if there is any thing within, useful to him, a Copy of the memn. on the back of it. It is the only minutes I took of the different Interests in the Certificates, it enclosed.
Since your last conference with Messrs Dunlap & Claypool, their Advertiser has come to hand regularly. I am content therefore to have it continued.
As you think my small Commissions will not give you more trouble than they are worth, I shall, when I find occasion, continue them with pleasure.
We expect to begin our operations on the Potomack Navigation about the 6th of next Month, under the Management of a Mr James Rumsey. If the Miners therefore, who have been accustomed to the blowing of Rocks under Water, are desirous of employment in this way, and are not extravagant in their demands, I am persuaded he would hire them, were they to apply to him, either at the Seneca falls, or the Falls of Shannondoah; neither of which are far from Frederick Town in Maryland, or, if they think the distance too great to come on an uncertainty if through you, they will communicate to me their lowest terms, I will see that an answer to them is obtained. Mrs. Washington joins me in compliments to, and best wishes for you, Mrs. Biddle and the family and I am, etc.


Title: From George Washington to Battaile Muse, 28 July 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Muse, Battaile

Sir,
Mount Vernon 28th July 1785.

A few days ago by a Mr Hickman, who either is, or wants to be a tenant of mine in Frederick County—I sent you a dozen blank Leases. The tract on which he says he is fixed, is part of two Lots which I purchased at the sale of Colo. George Mercer’s Estate, in the year 1774; a plat of which I send you, that the whole may be arranged into four tenements—as conveniently disposed as water &c. will admit.
In September last, whilst I was at my brothers in Berkeley, many persons applied for this Land; but from causes which then existed I came to no positive agreement with any; refering them to Mr Snickers, who was so kind as to promise that he would fix matters for me (as I was in a hurry & could not go upon the Land myself) on the terms which, if I recollect right, I gave him in a letter. Some time after, two men of the name of Winzer & Beaven, with the letter enclosed from Mr Snickers, came here, & were told that I would comply with whatever agreement was made with them by him. Among other things they said Mr Snickers had promised them Leases for fourteen years; this I observed could not, in my opinion, be the case, because I had expressly named ten years (the term for which Mr Burwell let his Lands adjoining)—but notwithstanding if the case was so, & Mr Snickers would declare it, the Leases should be filled up accordingly: this I repeat—& as far as the matter respects Winzer, for it seems Beaven has changed his mind, the other conditions

endorsed on the back of Mr Snickers’s letter to me, are to be granted him; he paying all the taxes wch may be laid on the Land he holds. However, as filling up one Lease may be a guide with respect to the others, I enclose one in the name of Winzer, with the blanks as completely filled as I can do it under my uncertainty with respect to the term of years for which he is to have it, and which is to be determined by Mr Snickers; & for want of the quantity of acres in, & a description of the Lot which he is to have.
There are already three Tenants on this tract, to whom you may fill up Leases on the same terms which I have done for Winzer; & whenever they will bring evidences to prove them, I will sign them. As Beaven has declined taking the Lot which he agreed for first with Mr Snickers & afterwards with me, you may let it to any good tenant who offers, upon the terms on which the others are held. The three now engaged will have rents to pay thereon the first of next January. It will be necessary to take an Assignment of Mr Whitings Lease, before one can be made to Mr Airess; or some instrument of writing by which it will be cancelled, in order to render the new one valid; and I hope payment of the money due on the replevy Bonds of the former, will not be delayed longer than the time mentioned in your last letter—viz.—September.
Having got a Gentleman to assist me in my business, I hope shortly to have my Accots so arranged as to be able to send you a rental of what is due to me in Loudoun, Fauquier & Berkeley Counties. I have a Lot in the town & common of Winchester, of which, when you have occasion to go thither, I beg you to enquire into the state & condition, & give me information of what can be made of them: the one in the Town, I believe a Doctr McKay has something to do with.
I would be obliged to you for enquiring of Mr Wormley’s manager, if he has any good red clover seed for sale—what quantity & the price thereof—& let me know the result by the first conveyance to Alexandria. I am &c.

G: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Edmund Randolph, 29 July 1785
From: Randolph, Edmund
To: Washington, George

Dear sir
Richmond July 29. 1785.

Your favor of the 23d instant came duly to hand. But I am sorry to be unable to execute the request contained in it. The council-books are destroyed.
The general restriction of settlement on the western waters does, I acknowledge, extend to military rights, as well others. But it continues only, until the King’s further pleasure should be known. The patent in your hands is abundant evidence, in my judgment, of his further pleasure having removed the restriction from military rights. For would a governor oppose a proclamation, without special instructions? How could an individual procure a copy of any instruction without his permission, and who can tell, that the governor has ever deposited that instruction in any of the public archives? So that to require a copy of the instruction, which wiped away the effects of the proclamation, might amount to the requiring of an impossibility.
It will not be amiss to obtain the certificate you mention; supported by the seal of the state. But I cannot any where procure it. Should you be able to obtain it, Mr A. Blair, the clerk of the council, will immediately authenticate it. I mention him, that you may not be disappointed by writing to me on the subject as to morrow I leave Richmond for the neighbourhood of Winchester. If I can be of any farther use to you in this matter, I pray you, my dear sir, to command me freely; as I feel the most unfeigned satisfaction in subscribing myself yr affectionate friend & servt

Edm: Randolph


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Brereton, 30 July 1785 [letter not found]
From: Brereton, Thomas
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Thomas Brereton, 30 July 1785. On 12 April 1786 Brereton wrote GW: “I had the Honor to Address your Excelency the 30th of July last.”


Title: From George Washington to Edmund Randolph, 30 July 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Randolph, Edmund

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon July 30th 1785.

Altho’ it is not my intention to derive any pecuniary advantage from the generous vote of the Assembly of this State, consequent of its gratuitous gift of fifty shares in each of the navigations of the rivers Potomac and James; yet, as I consider these undertakings as of vast political & commercial importance to the States on the Atlantic, especially to those nearest the centre of the Union, & adjoining the Western Territory, I can let no act of mine impede the progress of the work: I have therefore come to the determination to hold the shares which the Treasurer was directed to subscribe on my account, in trust for the use & benefit of the public; unless I shall be able to discover, before the meeting of the Assembly, that it would be agreeable to it to have the product of the Tolls arising from these shares, applied as a fund on which to establish two Charity schools, one on each river, for the Education & support of the Children of the poor & indigent of this Country who cannot afford to give it; particularly the children of those men of this description, who have fallen in defence of the rights & liberties of it. If the plans succeed, of which I have no doubt, I am sure it will be a very productive

& encreasing fund, & the monies thus applied will be a beneficial institu[tio]n.
I am aware that my non-acceptance of these shares will have various motives ascribed to it, among which an ostentatious display of disinterestedness—perhaps the charge of disrespect or slight of the favors of my Country, may lead the van: but under a consciousness that my conduct herein is not influenced by considerations of this nature—& that I shall act more agreeably to my own feelings, & more consistent with my early declarations, by declining to accept them; I shall not only hope for indulgence, but a favorable interpretation of my conduct: my friends, I persuade myself, will acquit me, the World I hope will judge charitably.
Perceiving by the Advertisement of Messrs Cabell, Buchanan and Southall that half the sum required by the Act, for opening & extending the navigation of James river, is subscribed; & the 20th of next month appointed for the subscribers to meet at Richmond, I take the liberty, of giving a power to act for me on that occasion. I would (having the accomplishment of these navigations much at heart) have attended in person; but, the President and Directors of the Potomac Company by their own appointment, are to commence the survey of this river in the early part of next month; for which purpose I shall leave home tomorrow. Besides which, if the Ejectments which I have been obliged to bring for my Land in Pennsylva. are to be tried at the September Term, as Mr Smith, my Lawyer, conceived they would, & is to inform me—I shall find it necessary I fear, to attend the trial; an intermediate journey therefore, in addition, to Richmond would be impracticable for me to accomplish. I am Sir &c. &c.

G: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Noah Webster, 30 July 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Webster, Noah

Sir,
Mount Vernon July 30th 1785.

I received your letter of the 19th Instt.
Being convinced from the respectable characters whose names are prefixed to your Gramatical Institute, as well as from the cursory examination I have had it in my power to bestow on the Books, of the judicious execution, and usefulness of the Work; it would give me pleasure if I could be instrumental, in any degree, towards the introduction of it to public notice. But I am a little at a loss, from the purport of your letter, to decide, whether it is your desire that my name should appear amongst those who have already subscribed to the utility of the Work; or, by introducing its Author to some of the first characters in the Southern States (under the favourable impression he has made upon me) to act more remotely. If the first is meant, I wish to decline it; because I have not leizure to examine the Institute with that attention which ought, always, to precede a certificate—and because I do not think myself a competent judge, if I had. But if the other is your object, I shall have great pleasure in giving you Letters of recommendation to some of the first Gentlemen of my Acquaintance in Charleston, or elsewhere—being Sir Yr Most Obedt Hble Ser⟨vt⟩

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 1 August 1785
From: McHenry, James
To: Washington, George

Dr Sir.
New York 1st Augt 1785.

Whilst the Marquiss de la Fayette was on his late visit to this country he suggested to me that if I could recollect the train of his military proceedings and commit them to paper, that you would send them to Doctor Gordon who is engaged in writing a history of the revolution; at least so I understood him on this occasion, for the subject being delicate I did not seek explanation. My desire that the military and patriotic proceedings of the Marquiss may be truely stated by the Doctor has been a further inducement with me to execute his wish notwithstanding it interferd with my other avocations. I have therefore comprehended in the inclosed sketch every material feature of that noblemans history, so far as the same is connected with our revolution, which I hope you will introduce to Doctor Gordon in such a manner as may render it of utility to his undertaking. It is incumbent upon history to render her aid in paying a debt to those characters which America cannot pay.
The Marquiss writes by every packet such information as he thinks may be of service to the union, and frequently tells congress what they do not hear from any other quarter, and does them acts of Kindness which no other person could do them. The court of France (through his mediation I imagine) has ordered their charge des affairs to withdraw the demand made some time since for the surrendrg of Lonchamp, which relieves Congress from much serious embarrassment. Yet one can see that the French court is not pleased, and hence, that we are not likely very soon to have a French minister—unless Congress do something more than what has been done to satisfy the insult.
Since I have entered upon Congressional politics I must take the liberty to detain you a little Longer. Congress have had it under consideration to recommend to the several States to vest them with the power of regulating the trade of the States as well with each other as with foriegn nations. This power to constitute a part of the confederation and to be exercised by nine states in Congress assembled. Its object to enable Congress to lay as heavy duties and restrictions upon the trade of foreign nations, as foreign nations lay upon the trade of the United States. I apprehend that both the genius and interest of the Southern States

will be found to be opposed to granting this power. I believe the Eastern States New York & Pennsylvania are exceedingly anxious for it; but I do not wonder at their anxiety to obtain a monopoly of the carrying trade of the union. What would be the consequence to the Southern States in particular were foreign vessels to be prevented from exporting their products. They would for example having only American vessels to carry off their commodities of export, have fewer purchasers for them, hence their prices would be unavoidably lowered. They would also have less foreign goods imported, which would oblige the consumers to pay dearer for what they must buy. It would seem therefore to be good policy in the Southern States to encourage the number of buyers for what they have to sell, and the number of importers of those articles they must buy, till they become as well peopled as the Eastern States, when a naval defence will be easily established, or come of itself without the aid of restrictions. In the mean while however it may be said, that we ought to lay the foundation for a marine, and therefore ought to begin by discouraging foriegn shipping and encouraging our own, for that the riches arising from buying what we want cheap and selling what we raise dear will avail us nothing without a navy to protect them. But is it true that a navy is at present necessary, and if necessary is it true that our people could go to the expence of supporting it? Would it be right to add to our present burthens; can we pay our present debts? Are we in a situation to enter into a war of imposts and prohibitions to force Great Britain or France to open to our shipping their west Indian possessions? Have we shipping enough to carry on our exports and imports? When Great Britain passed the navigation act she had in her harbours more than a sufficient number of vessels for her own trade. Great Britain too, was well peopled at that period and the capital of her traders equal to the exportation and purchase of her products. But our situation is different in both respects, and yet it is said we ought to force a navy—that we ought to prohibit British ships from exporting our products.
Perhaps the point of true policy lays between forcing the growth of our shipping and doing nothing that may forward their increase. Perhaps the Southern States should give up something, and the other States should not ask every thing.

Were Congress under the latter idea to frame a navigation act, the operation of which would gradually and slowly tend to augment the seamen and shipping of the States without sensibly wounding in its progress the interests of any State, and recommend the same to their adoption, is it not highly probable in such a case that the good sense of the States would readily induce them to come into the measure. Upon this plan they would see what they were to give—that it could not hurt them—and that it might work a general benefit. They could repeal it too, if it was found to hurt them, which alone would be a great inducement with some states to pass it.
You will excuse me for being thus particular: but the subject is among the most interesting and that lead me to it, well knowing that although you have withdrawn yourself from all public employments, yet that there is nothing so near your heart as the public welfare. With respectful compliments to Mrs Washington and ardent wishes for your health I am Dr Sir very sincerely Your ob. St

James McHenry


Title: To George Washington from Gouverneur Morris, 1 August 1785
From: Morris, Gouverneur
To: Washington, George

Dr Genl
Philadelphia 1 Augt 1785

I write this Letter as a Companion for some Shoes of Miss Bassett and if it is addressed to you rather than to her you must for that Trouble as well as many others accuse that Celebrity

which you had no little Trouble in acquiring. But you must tell the Lady that I am far from thinking that she ought not be as much celebrated as any General among you. Indeed between ourselves I think she will probably be entitled to the civic Crown as soon as the Modes and Forms of the World will permit a free Use of the Means. Not perhaps like a roman Soldier for a Citizen saved but like a good American Wife for a Citizen born. That this Praise may be speedily and frequently carried and long enjoyed is my sincere Wish and I know not of any better Epithalamium tho I have read some more pleasant.
Since I arrived at this Place I have heard of a Person who it was thought would suit you and I desired to see him and his Letters recommendatory &ca since which I have heard nothing more of him. Adieu[.] Present me in all proper Respect to Mrs Washington and beleive me ever yours

Gouvr Morris


Title: From George Washington to William Bailey, 2 August 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Bailey, William

Sir,
George town [Md.] 2d Augt 1785

By a letter which I lately received from Mr Stoddert, I am informed that you had agreed to supply my Nephews George & Lawrence Washington with such articles from your Store as their necessities might require. For which I thank you, & I have no doubt of your doing it upon good terms: the amount of which I hope will always be ready when called for. But I have to beg Sir, that they may not be endulged in any extravagance, or with any thing improper—school boys of their size, & growing, should have decent, but not expensive things; their inclinations too often prompt them to the latter, which grows upon them in

proportion as they are indulged: nor should they have pocket money given them, unless the necessity is apparent & the application approved of.
Any Advance for Dancing, French &a which may be directed by their Tutor Mr Balch, will be chearfully repaid. I am Sir &c.

G: Washington


Title: To George Washington from John Lowry, 2 August 1785
From: Lowry, John
To: Washington, George

May it please your Excellency
Back River 2d Augt 1785

I once had the Honour of an Acquaintance with your Excellency which emboldens me at this Time to crave your Attention & Advice—Mr Tarte & myself have Land Warrents to a considerable Amount, am informed that on the Dismal Swamp there remains a large Tract not as yet taken up[.] as your Excellency is the first of that Company that has large Possessions there beg the favour of You to inform me by Mr Tarte the Bearer of this—whether there is any Land not located and if we claim in Time under our Warrents the Right & Title would stand good—we wish not to injure or disturb the Right of any Person, but if any vacant Land[,] we wish with your Excellency’s Approbation to make our Survey theref[.] if You would condescend to honour me with a Line should esteem it a great Obligation—my Compliments to your good Lady & remain Your Excellencys mo. obedt & Hble Servt

John Lowry


Title: To George Washington from Solms, 4 August 1785
From: Solms und Tecklenberg, Friedrich Christoph, Graf zu
To: Washington, George

Sir
de la Fortresse de Konigstein en Saxe 4 Augt 1785

I owe you this Satisfaction the more Complete, that I have tried it for a long time My General, & My Heroe I have Just Received your Picture, & I am entirely taken up to give it a Sufficient embellishment by Placing it between the King of Prussia, & his Illustrious Brother Henry. You See, that this is a Trio very Harmonical, I would willingly have thank’d you for your great Complaisance, but I dare not, as I Could not have express’d myself in Writing in Proportion to the thanks that is due. It must be that the Picture resembles, for I regard it, as the greatest Ornament of my Fortress. I Shew it to all the Strangers, amongst whome Some are French & Some are English, many have had the Happiness of Being acquainted with you. I am with the Greatest Respect Your Excellency’s Most Obedt Servt

Le Comte de Solme

I must yet inform you, that for to Complete my Happiness the Picture of your Excellency arrived in Saxe upon my Birth Day.


Title: To George Washington from John Harvie, 5 August 1785
From: Harvie, John
To: Washington, George

Dr Sr
Land Office [Richmond] Augt 5th 1785

The Attorney General directed the mode of Entering your Caveat against the Heirs and Devises of Michael Cresup decd on their Survey upon your tract of Land call’d the Round Bottom. and I now Inclose you a Summons from the Clk of the General Court which you will be pleas’d to forward to the Sherif of the County where any of the Divisees reside—& if they live out of the State, I should think that the Sherif of the County where the Land Lyes will be the proper Officer to make the Return of their not being Inhabitants, upon which Return the process will be by proclamation published in the papers—The names’ of the Divisees I believe are Luther Martin & Mary his wife, Elizabeth Cresap & Sarah Cresap which had titles be Inclos’d

on the Back of the Summmons for the Information of the Sherif. I have the Honour to be Sir Yr most obt H. servt

Jno. Harvie

Note[:] I am told it is ⟨illegible⟩ of the General Court to Dismiss Summon’s upon caveat unless this Summons is Return’d to their Clks office by the 6th Day of the terms—yet if the Summons come dureing their Sitting the Cause will be Reinstated. Since Writeing this Letter I have seen the clk of the General Court & have got him to Insert the names of Divisees in the Summons. J.H.


Title: To George Washington from Edmund Randolph, 8 August 1785
From: Randolph, Edmund
To: Washington, George

Dear sir
The rocks August 8. 1785.

Being so near you, as I understand myself to be, I should certainly have endeavoured to pay my respects to you today in person, were it not for the fatigue, which I have lately undergone in travelling hither.

A business, similar to that, in which you are now engaged, will oblige me to return to Richmond by the 20th instant. The subscribers to the opening of James river are then to meet. I was desired by several of them to learn, if possible, whether you would have any objection to be our president. It is not expected, that you should undertake any troublesome part; but we wish to be considered, as having your particular patronage.
I hope that before this you are well prepared against your adversaries at Fort Pitt. If I can do anything farther on my return, I beg you to command me. I am Dear sir with the sincerest regard yr obliged friend & serv:

Edmd Randolph


Title: To George Washington from John Sedwick, 8 August 1785
From: Sedwick, John
To: Washington, George

Sir
August the 8th 1785

My Father Benjamin Sedwick Deceased Purchased at the Sale of Mr Mercers Land one of the Lots and gave his Bond with Capt. Brady his Surety to yourself and the other Trustees for the Purchase Money taking a Bond for the Conveyance.
Afterwards my Father in 1776 Sold the Land to Edward Snickers who by Agreement was to pay of the bond as a part of the Price. Mr Snickers in 1779 or 1780, Paid of the Bond in your Absence to Mr Lun Washington and obtained the Bond, and though he has had the Land in possession ever Since 1776, he has now brought A Suit in your Name, I dare say without your knowledge, on my Fathers Bond against his Executors and Security—Mr Jones the Attorney for the Executors of whom I am one, has advised me to request A Certificate from you that you did not order the Suit, and Says on its being obtained there will be and end of it, otherwise that we shall be oblige to go into a troublesome and Expensive Chancery Suit, to avoid which Sr I Trouble you with my earnest request that you will be Pleased to give me Something from under your hand to the effect of what Mr Jones recommended which will very much oblige Your Most Obedt Hble Servt

John Sedwick


Title: From George Washington to John Sedwick, 8 August 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Sedwick, John

Sir,
Falls of Shannondoah 8th Augt 1785.

In answer to your letter of this date, I think I may venture to assure you that no writ has issued by my order, or under my authority, against the Executors & Security of your deceased Father, for the amount of a Bond passed by him to Colo. Tayloe & myself, as Attornies for Colo. George Mercer & his Mortgagers, in England.
The high Court of Chancery of this Commonwealth decreed (I do not at this moment recollect when) that the Bonds, & other papers which were in my possession relative to this business (as my situation did not admit of my acting, & as I had refused to do so)—should be given up to John Mercer Esqr.—which was accordingly done.
If under this Decree such of the Bonds as were made payable to the Attornies aforesaid have been put in Suit in my name as the surviving Attorney; I presume it is a matter of course: but how a Bond which you say has been discharged, & not among the papers which were surrendered, should be under this predicament, I am not able to inform you. I am Sir &c.

G: Washington


Title: To George Washington from John Cochran, 9 August 1785 [letter not found]
From: Cochran, John
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from John Cochran, 9 August. GW wrote John Cochran on 31 Aug.: “Your favor of the 9th . . . came safely a few days ago.”


Title: From George Washington to Edmund Randolph, 13 August 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Randolph, Edmund

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 13th Augt 1785.

At the time your letter from the Rocks was delivered to me, I had neither pen, ink, paper, or a table to write on at command; consequently could only verbally acknowledge the receipt of it, which I did by Mr Wormley: since my return home I have met your other favor of the 29th Ulto.
The great object, for the accomplishment of which I wish to see the inland navigation of the Rivers Potomac & James improved & extended, is to connect the Western Territory with the Atlantic States; all others, with me, are secondary: tho’ I am clearly of opinion that it will greatly increase our Commerce, & be an immense saving, in the article of transportation, & draft Cattle, to the Planters & Farmers who are in a situation to have the produce of their labor water borne.
These being my sentiments, I wish to see the undertaking progress equally in both rivers; & but for my local situation, & numerous avocations, my attention to each should be alike: what little I do for the advancement of the enterprize in this river, is done, as it were en passant; and because I think the difficulties greater than in the other—& not because I give it the preference—For both in my opinion have their advantages, without much, if any interference with each other. The advantages arising from my patronage of either, is probably more ideal than real; but such as they are, I wish them to be thought equally

distributed: my contribtion to the works shall be the same—I have already subscribed five shares to the Potomac navigation; & enclosed I give you a power to put my name down for five shares, to that of James river.
With respect to acting as President to the Board of Directors for that Company, it is a delicate subject for me to speak to: every person who knows how much my time (by company & other matters) is occupied, must also know that it would be impossible for me to discharge the duties of the Office, as they should be: even here, where the business for the most part is, & will continue to be done at Alexandria, or George-town (eight miles further from me), it was so evident to me that I could not perform the duties of President with that diligence and propriety which I thought necessary, that I wished to decline it, but could not get excused: How much more would this be the case with James river, where the journey to it alone would be a work of time & labour: & besides, let it not be forgotten my Dr Sir, that tho’ some of the Subscribers may wish to see me at the head of the Board of Directors; yet there may be others who would feel disappointed & hurt if they are overlooked, and this might have an influence on their connexions. I mention these things to you with the candour & frankness of a friend, & under the rose; after which your own judgment & those of your friends, must dictate for the best. I am persuaded all of us have the same object in view, & what ever shall be deemed, by the concurrent voice of the subscribers, the best means to effect it, shall meet my hearty approbation.
My last letter was written to you in such haste, that I apprehend I was not sufficiently explicit to be understood. It was not my intention to apply for a copy of the Governor’s instructions releasing him from the restriction of the Kings Proclamation; but for the Order of Council consequent thereof, directing or permitting Warrants to issue on military rights, agreeably thereto: because if the date of this order had been found to be antecedent to the occupancy of my Adversaries; it would remove them from their grand Fort—for on possession, before I took any legal steps—I know they mean to place their sole defence. The Patent, & thousands of Warrants are evidences that the restriction respecting military settlers was taken off; but they do not ascertain the time. My Patent, if I recollect right, was dated in

July 1774; but the Occupants, according to their own accounts, possessed the Land in the Octobr preceeding; if therefore I could have obtained a Certificate of the loss of the Council Books; & any circumstance could have been recollected by which it should appear (as unquestionably the fact is) that the recognition of military rights was previous to October 1773, & so intimated in the Certificate aforesaid; it would have been useful: Without this indeed, the matter is so clear, in my judgment, as not to admit of dispute before an impartial Jury; but an impartial Jury I do not expect—& much less since I have heard that the high Sheriff of the County (lately chosen) is of the fraternity of my competitors, & interested in the decision, so far at least as similar circumstances, & the suffrages of these people in his election, can bias him. Indeed I have lately been told that the decision of this case will be interesting to numbers whose rights are disputed on similar grounds. I am &c. &c.

G: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Richard Thomas, 13 August 1785
From: Thomas, Richard
To: Washington, George

Hond Sir
Charleston So. Carolina 13th Augst 1785

Having received the enclosed Letter this day from England, have taken the first opportunity of transmitting it to your Excellency.
As the affair has lain dormant so long, it may be some time before it can be properly adjusted; but it appears by this as well as other letters I have received, that this Edmund Richards (of the County of Cornwall) is the right Heir to the Estate of Richd

Richards Esqr. who died in Virginia eighteen years ago. A Copy of the Will I find has been sent by Lawyer Hains to Lawyer Britton of Cullumpton in Devonshire, but he has been dead many years, & the copy cannot be found, so the matter must be left entirely to your Excellency’s directions.
I shall esteem it an unbounded favor to have a copy of the Will, together with other particulars for the information of Mr Richards, who has appointed me to act the same as he could do, was he present.
The situation of my Affairs in this City will not permit me to wait immediately on your Excellency in Person, but if the least matter will remain unsettled thro’ my non attendance, Your Goodness will be pleased to inform me, & I will repair to Virginia with all speed.
I hope your Excellency will be kind enough to interest yourself in this important affair, & whatever directions may be necessary for Mr Richards, by transmitting them to me at Doctor Neufville’s No. 108 Broad Street will be conveyed to him with all possible dispatch. I have the Honor to be with profound respect Hond Sir Your Excellency’s Obedt Humble Servt

Richd Thomas


Title: To George Washington from Battaile Muse, 16 August 1785
From: Muse, Battaile
To: Washington, George

Honorable Sir,
Berkely C[ount]y Augt 16th 1785

Your Favour dated the 28th of Last month I receiv’d the 10th of this month—I shall be Very Attentive to your Requisitions—I shall Visit your Frederick Lands the Last of this week and will make my self acquainted with Every thing necessary—and will do what may be needfull as fare as is in my Power—I shall Call on Mr Whiteing for a writeing to Cancel His Lease. I expect to be In Winchester the Last of this Month—then will Inquire after your Possessions their. Mr James Crane Sheriff of this County has Promised to Pay the money due by Mr Whiteing Next Month—should he Fail I shall Execute Mr Whiteing and will Endeavour to recover the Money as speedily as Possable after September Berkeley Court the Time apointed for Mr Crane To raise the money—after the Money falls into my hands it shall be at Mount Vernon within Ten days.
The day after I receiv’d your Letter I sent to Mr Wormleys Manager In consequence of the Clover Seed—and as I Found that many People had applyed for seed and but four bushels to spare I have Engaged that Quantity at £4 P. bushel—the single bushel at £5—should you have Ocation for any—you may have the Hole or any Part. should you not want it I can dispose of it. the seed appears to be good—I shall have about 2,000 bushels of good wheat for sale this next fall and winter—should you Purchase for your Mill I shall be oblige to you to inform me the price you give—My Crops of Wheat are Generally of the first Quality and Command the Highest price.
I shall Visit Colo. Fairfaxes Estate at Belvoir in October—should you be at Home I shall Call on you for your Commands. Please write to me by the first Post adviseing respecting the Clover seed—the Post receives letters for me at the Printing Office. I am sir your Obedient Humble Servant.

Battaile Muse


Title: To George Washington from Battaile Muse, 16 August 1785 [letter not found]
From: Muse, Battaile
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Battaile Muse, 16 Aug. GW wrote Muse on 22 Aug.: “Both your letters of the 16th have come safe.”


Title: From George Washington to Clement Biddle, 17 August 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Biddle, Clement

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 17th Augt 1785

Your letter of the 8th came safely by last Post—I will, the first time I go to Alexandria, get an order from Colo. Hooe, Mr Hartshorne, or some other who has dealings in Philadelphia (for I have none, & know of no direct and safe opportunity of sending Money) to the amount of the Sum which you have lately paid on my Acct to Mr Boudinot.
The inclosed is to Edward (I do not know his Surname) who formerly lived with Mr R. Morris, but now, I am informed, keeps the City Tavern, to see if he can be instrumental in procuring me a House keeper. I beg you to be so obliging as to direct, deliver, and consult him on the contents of the letter, which is left open for your perusal, & return me an answr as soon as possible.
The Man who at present lives with me in the capacity of a Housekeeper (and is a very good one) is bound for the port of Matrimony, and will, after 4 or 5 Weeks which he has agreed to stay, leave me in a very disagreeable Situation if I cannot get supplied in the meanwhile—I give him £25 this Curry pr Ann. & a suit of Clothes which cannt be less than Seven pounds more—these, with the difference of Exchange, will be equal to abt

£40 pensa Cury. This Sum I am willing to give to Man, or Woman (the former I would prefer) of good character, & really knowing and competent to my purposes.
I have seen an Advertisement in some of the Philadelphia Papers of an Office for this kind of business, but however good it may be as a channel for enquiry I would not depend upon it, without other testimonials respecting the character & abilites of an applicant for the final adoption. Mrs Washington joins me in best wishes for yourself, and Mrs Biddle & family. I am Dr Sir Yr Most Obedt Hble Ser⟨vt⟩

Go: Washington

P.S. Since writing the foregoing, I have met with, and now inclose you, a bank note for 30 dollars; which please to receive, and carry to my credit. Yr &c. G.W.


Title: From George Washington to Benjamin Ogle, 17 August 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Ogle, Benjamin

Sir,
Mt Vernon 17th Augt 1785.

The enclosed from Mr Dulaney did not come to my hands (being from home) until sunday last. I thank you for your obliging offer of two or three Fawns; but presuming the season is now too far advanced either to catch or gentle them, I will not send before I hear further from you on this subject.
If it is too late to obtain them this year, I would thank you for the like number next Spring; by which time I shall have a proper inclosure for them, & for the Deer of this Country, of which I am also endeavouring to procure a stock to breed from. With compliments to Mrs Ogle, I have the honor to be &c.

G: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Tench Tilghman, 17 August 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Tilghman, Tench

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 17th Augt 1785

The Baltimore Advertiser of the 12th Instt announces the arrival of a Ship at that Port, immediately from China—and by an advertisement in the same Paper, I perceive that the Cargo is to be sold by public vendue, on the first of Octr next.

At what prices the enumerated Articles will sell—or the terms proposed—can only be known from the experiment; but if the quantity at Market is great, and they should sell as goods have sold by vendue, bargains may be expected. I therefore take the liberty of requesting the favor of you, in that case, to purchase the several things contained in the inclosed list.
You will readily perceive, My dear Sir my purchasing, or not, depends entirely upon the prices. If great bargains are to be had, I would supply myself agreeably to the list. If the prices do not fall below a cheap retail Sale, I would decline them altogether, or take such articles only (if cheaper than common) as are marked in the Margin of the Invoice.
Before October, if none of these Goods are previously sold, and if they are the matter will be ascertained thereby, you will be able to form a judgment of the prices they will command by vendue. Upon information of which, I will deposit the money in your hands to comply with the terms of the Sale.
Since I began this letter, I have been informed that good India Nankeens are selling (at Dumfries not far from me) at 7/6 a ps. this Curry—But if my memory has not failed me, I used to import them before the war for about 5/ Sterlg. If so, though 50 prCt is a small advance upon India Goods, through a British Channel, (with the duties & accumulated charges thereon) yet, quære, would not 7/6 be a high price for Nankeens brought immediately from India, exempted from such duties & Charges? If this is a conjecture founded in fairness, it will give my ideas of the prices of other Articles from that Country; & be a government for your conduct therein, at, or before the day appointed for the public vendue. with the highest esteem and regard I am—Dr Sir Yr Affecte friend and Obedt Hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from John Marsden Pintard, 19 August 1785
From: Pintard, John Marsden
To: Washington, George

Sir
Madeira 19th August 1785.

Your Excellency will be Pleased to Pardon the liberty I now take in beging your acceptance of the only rarity the Island at present affords. altho I have not the Honor of being Personaly known to your Excellency nevertheless Some of my family have been So fortunate as to meet with your approbation, I mean my father Lewis Pintard Who was agent for our Unfortunate Prisoners in New york during Part of the war. I at that time was with him as an assistant and Scince the peace Have been appointed Commercial agent for the United States at the Islands of Madeira & Porto Santo to Manage the occasional concerns of Congress to assist the American Traders with my advice and to Solicit their dependencies with the Portugese Government I am truly Sensible of the Honour of this Appointment and shall ever study to merit the confidence of my countrymen if your excellency is desirous of Having any Slips of grape vines or young fig trees it would make me peculiarly happy to be Honored with your commands and I wd be carefull in putting up different qualities. That you may for a Series of years to come enjoy evry Possible degree of health and happiness is the Sincere wish and

constant Prayr of Sir your Excellency’s Most obedient and very Humble Servant

John Marsden Pintard


Title: From George Washington to George Gilpin, 20 August 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Gilpin, George

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 20th Augt 1785

If nothing unforeseen happens, I can be at the Great Falls at any hour you & Colo. Fitzgerald will name, on Thursday next; ready to proceed from thence to the little Falls, if a vessel should be in readiness at the former. I am Dr Sir Yr Most Obt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Lamar, Hill, Bisset, & Company, 20 August 1785
From: Lamar, Hill, Bisset, & Company
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Madeira 20th August 1785.

Since we had the honor of writing you under the 22d last June, no oppr. has offered for Alexandria ’till the Bearer of this Captain Moon of the Brig Industry, & having requested the favor of him to take on b[oar]d a Pipe of Wine for you, he told us

he could not possibly do it, as only 5 Pipes in all offered on Freight, which he would not venture to carry, because they would subject him to make an entry in the Customhouse, which is attended with additional Expences. We hope same oppr. will soon cast up to our satisfaction, but for fear one should not, request your sentiments on the plan mentioned in our last, and not having at present to add, take the liberty to subscribe ourselves Sir Your most obedient humble Servants

Lamar Hill Bisset & Co.


Title: From George Washington to Secondat de Montesquieu, 20 August 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Montesquieu, Charles-Louis de Secondat, baron de La Brède et de

Sir,
Mount Vernon 20th Augt 1785.

By a brig belonging to Mr Ridout of Bourdeaux, I had the honor to receive your letter of the 2d of May, & the Wine which accompanied it; which you were so obliging as to send me at the request of your worthy son—it came in very good order. For this instance of his kind remembrance; & your polite attention, I pray you to accept my warmest acknowledgments: my thanks are due also in a particular manner to you, Sir, for the Walnuts you sent me, which are very fine; and I shall endeavour to propagate them in the manner directed by you.
I pray you to forward, when you shall find a convenient opportunity, the enclosed letter for the Baron de Montesquieu, with assurances of my sincere regard and friendship for him. I have the honor to be &c.

G: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Ogle, 20 August 1785
From: Ogle, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

Sir
Bellair [Md.] Aug. 20 1785

In a day or two after I understood you expresd a Wish for a few Fauns, (which I do assure you will give me particular pleasure to supply) I came to this place & immediately endeavour’d to get, but found them too forward—They begin to drop about the 15h June & unless they are caught within ten days its as difficult as to catch the old ones, but Sir if you will please to send a carefull Servant the 20th you may be certain of not being disappointed, the younger they are taken, the easyer raised—should they drop sooner I will give timely notice—I am with compts to yr Lady Honrd Sir yr Most obedient Humb. Servt

Ben. Ogle


Title: To George Washington from John Rawlins, 20 August 1785 [letter not found]
From: Rawlins, John
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from John Rawlins, 20 August. On 29 Aug. GW wrote Rawlins: “Your letter of the 20th of this month, only came to my hands by the last Post.”


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Ridout, 20 August 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Ridout, Thomas

Sir,
Mount Vernon 20th Augt 1785.

By the return of the Brig I was favored with your letter of the 1st of May, with several Cases of wine, & a box of sundries which came to hand in good order, & I presume are of good quality; as the wine which you sent to others, is, I am informed, much esteemed—my own I have not tasted. I am obliged to you for sending these things—the amount shall be paid to Colo. Geo:Fitzgerald in a short time.
For your care of the enclosed letters, I will thank you: the one under a blank cover I shall be obliged to you for giving the proper address of the Father of Baron de Montesquieu; from whom I received a letter—but under such a signature as leaves

me at a loss how to direct my answer to him. If my letter to the Baron is like to subserve the purpose for which it was intended, it will give me pleasure.
The small packages which the Marqs de la Fayette intended to send by your Brig, must, I presume, have miscarried between Paris and Bourdeaux, as his letters to me speak positively as to their being sent from the former place. I am &c. &c.

G: Washington


Title: From George Washington to William Grayson, 22 August 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Grayson, William

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 22d Augt 1785.

During my tour up this River with the Directors, to examine & form a ⟨plan⟩ for opening and extending the Navigation of it agreeably to the Acts of the Virginia & Maryland Assemblies; your favor of the 25th Ulto came here; with the letters brought by young Mr Adam’s from France. for your care of which I thank you. Apropos, did you hear him say any thing of Hounds which, (the Marquis de la Fayette has written to me) were committed to his care? If he really brought them (and if he did not, I am unable to account for the information) it would have been civil in him to have dropped me a line respecting them; especially as War is declared against the Canine species in New York; and they, being strangers, without Alliances for selfdefence; distressed, & friendless; may not only have been exposed thereto, but to pestilence & famine also. If you can say any thing on this Subject pray do it.
I thank you for the several articles of intelligence contained in your letter, and for the propositions respecting a Coinage of Gold, Silver, & Copper—a measure which, in my judgment, is become indispensably necessary. Mr Jeffersons ideas upon this subject are plain and simple, well adapted I think to the nature of the case, as he has exemplified by the plan. Without a Coinage,

or some stop can be put to the cutting & clipping of money, our Dollars, Pistoreens &ca will all be converted (as Teague Says) into five quarters; and a Man must travel with a pair of money scales in his pocket, or run the risque of receiving gold at one fourth more by Count, than weight.
I have ever been a friend to adequate Congressional powers; consequently wish to see the 9th Art. of the Confederaton amended and extended. Without these powers we cannot support a National character; and must appear contemptable in the eyes of Europe. But to you, My dear Sir, I will candidly confess, that, in my opinion, it is of little avail to give these to Congress. The Members seem so much affraid of exerting those which they already have, that no opportunity is slipped of surrendering, or referring the exercise of them to the states individually. Witness your late Ordinance respecting the dispersal of the Western Lands, in which no state with the smallest propriety, could have obtruded an interference.
No doubt the information of Congress from the back Country, on the operation of these ordinances, is better than mine; but I have understood from some sensible people therefrom, that besides going they do not know where to purchase, the Lands are of so versatile a nature, that to the end of time, they will not, by those who are acquainted with this circumstance, be bought either in Townships, or square miles. This, if I recollect right, was the sentiment I delivered to you on the first reading of the report; but past experience you said was brought in support of the measure, and appealed to for the issue—I submitted to its decision, without changing my opinion.
We have got the Potomack Navigation in hand—Workmen are employed, and the best Manager and assistants we could obtain, at the Falls of Shannondoah and Seneca; and I am happy to inform you, that upon a critical examination of them by the Directors, the Manager, & myself, we are unanimoustly of opinion that the difficulties at these two places does not exceed the expectations we had formed of them—and that the Navigation through them, may be effected without the Aid of Locks. How far we may have been deceived with respect to the first (as the water, though low, may yet fall) I shall not decide; but we are not mistaken I think in our conjectures of the other. With very

great esteem & regard I am—Dear Sir Yr Affecte Friend and Obedt Hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Richard Henry Lee, 22 August 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Lee, Richard Henry

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 22d Augt 1785.

In my absence with the Directors of the Potomack Navigation, to examine the river and fix a plan of operations, your favor begun on the 23d and ended the 31st of July, came to this place. I am sorry to hear of your late indisposition, but congratulate you on your recovery; hoping that the reestablishment of your health will be of long continuance.
The packett which you were so obliging as to send me, came safely; and I thank you for your care of it. but for want of knowledge of the language, I can form no opinion of my own of the Dramatic performance of Monsr Servitieur la Barbier.
The currt of my information from France is, that the dispute between the Emperor & Holland will be accomodated without bloodshed: but after the explicit declarations which have been made on both sides, I do not see how either (especially the first)

can recede from his claims. To save appearances, & to let the contending parties down handsomely, say some of my letters, is now the greatest difficulty. but all agree that, a spark may set the whole in flames. indeed Bavaria it is expected will yet do that.
It is to be hoped that our Minister at the Court of London will bring that Government to an explanation respecting the Western Posts, which it still retains on the American side of the line, contrary to the spirit, if not to the letter, of the Treaty. My opinion from the first, and so I declared it, was that these Posts would be detained from us as long as they could be held under any pretence whatsoever. I have not changed it, though I wish for cause to do so, as it may ultimately become a serious matter. However singular the opinion may be, I cannot divest myself of it, that the Navigation of the Mississipi, at this time, ought to be no object with us; on the contrary, till we have a little time allowed to open & make easy the ways between the Atlantic States & the Western territory, the obstructions had better remain.
There is nothing which binds one Country, or one State to another, but interest, without this cement, the Western inhabitants (which more than probably will be composed in a great degree of Foreigners) can have no predeliction for us; and a commercial connection is the only tie we can have upon them—It is clear to me that the Trade of the Lakes, and of the river Ohio as low as the Great Kanhawa, (if not to the Falls) may be brought to the Ports on the Atlantic easier, and cheaper (taking the whole voyage together) than it can be carried to New Orleans. but once open the door to the latter before the obstructions are removed from the former, let commercial connections (which lead to others) be formed, and the habit of that trade be well established, and it will be found no easy matter to divert it. and vice versa—When the Settlements are stronger & more extended to the Westward, the navigation of the river Mississipi will be an object of importance; and we shall be able then (reserving our claim) to speak a more efficacious language than policy, I think, should dictate at present.
I never have, and I hope never shall hear, any serious mention of a paper emission in this State—yet such a thing may be in agitation—Ignorance & design are productive of much mischief—the first, is the Tool of the latter, and are often set to work

as suddenly as unexpectedly—those with whom I have conversed on this subject, in this part of the state, reprobate the idea exceedingly.
We have lately had the pleasure of Miss Lees, and Miss Hannahs Companies at this place. They were both well five days ago. Mrs Washington prays you to accept her complimts, and with Sentimts of great respect, esteem & regard, I am—Dear Sir Yr Most Obedt and Affecte Hble Servt

Go: Washington

P.S. Your name, I well remember, stands amongst those of the Subscribers for a share in the Potomack Company. G.W.


Title: From George Washington to Battaile Muse, 22 August 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Muse, Battaile

Sir,
Mount Vernon Augt 22d 1785

Both your letters of the 16th have come safe—As you have engaged the Clover Seed of Mr Wormeleys Manager I will take one Bushel of it, though I had no idea of giving tha[t] price, as I could have got the same quantity from Philadelphia (I suppose equally) good for half the sum if I had applied in time—If you send it to the care of Mr Hartshorne in Alexandria, it will come safe, and the sooner it is done, the better—Pay for it out of the first money you receive for my use.

I am willing to take your wheat if the quality is good, and well cleaned; and free from the fly; provided it is delivered at my Mill, to which the road (by being less used) is better than that either to Alexandria or Dumfries—My prices are always governed by the Alexandria Cash Market—for I neither give more, nor expect it for less. The price current there, at present (according to Richards’s Gazette) is five shillings; but the state of our trade at this time is so uncertain, that it is almost impossible to determine whether it will be more, or less. If the present restriction of our Commerce continues, the manufacturing of wheat must be broke up altogether; as the West India Markets which affords the greatest demand for our Flour, are shut against our vessels. If you chuse to take the certainty of five shillings for your Wheat, it may be a bargain at that, provided you determine immediately. Or, if you prefer to abide by the rise or fall of the Alexandria market, I am willing to agree to this also, provided there is a period at which you shall determine to accept the price, which is then existing. By this I mean, and it is necessary to declare it in order to avoid misunderstandings, that if you should, for instance, be from the first of October until the first of April delivering your Crop, I shall not think myself under an obligation to allow the highest price that is given within that period—because the price may rise to Six Shillings, and then fall to four, according to the demand arising from circumstances. It would be as unreasonable therefore for you to expect that I should give the highest price at which wheat had sold, within that period, as for me to suppose that, you ought to take the lowest. However to be more clearly understood, (if the price is to be regulated by the Alexandria cash market, for I shall not be governed by what the Merchants offer in Goods.) it must be the price of the day on which you determine to take it—that is, if wheat should start from 5/ and keep rising until the first of December it had reached 6/ and on that day you inform me personally, or by letter that you will take the price then given, I shall think myself bound to allow six shillings for your Crop. On the other hand, if you should expect that the price would get higher and wait for its doing so until it should fall to 4/ I will pay no more than four shillings.
I have been thus explicit because I dislike disputes, and wish to avoid them; which makes it necessary for me to mention another

thing that sometimes happens; and that is, that what a few Bushels of wheat may sell for, or what a merchant, when he has got a Vessel just loaded may give, rather than detain her at high charges, is not to be considered as the Market price; You, from your distant situation and long Land transportation, are not in a situation to take advantage of the case last mentioned, and a few Bushels of particular wheat, or wheat for a particular use, can have no influence upon the general price; which is always very well established in such a place of Trade as Alexandria. After all, I confess it would be more agreeable to me to fix, between ourselves, a price. but I cannot at this time exceed 5/ as that is the price now cur[ren]t.
When you come down in October I shall be glad to see you here, by that time I expect to have the accts against my Tenants brought into some kind of order. If you could engage me about 250 lbs. of good Fall butter from such farmers as you can depend upon for the quality, and their punctuality, I should be obliged to you—If you let me have your wheat it may come down occasionally with that. I am Sir Yr Very Hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Levi Hollingsworth, 24 August 1785
From: Hollingsworth, Levi
To: Washington, George

Honourd Sir
Philad[elphi]a 24 August 1785

Mr Samuel Jackson of your Neighbourhood, mentioning to Mr Arthur Donaldson of this City, the desire your Excelency had of raising manure from the mud in the bed of the River Patomack for the purpose of manuring Land, Mr Donalson shewed Mr Jackson his new invented Machine for Cleansing our Docks,

which with a horse & three hands will raise 60 a 80 tons ⅌ day. Mr Donalson the Ingenious Inventor, is so obliging as to offer your Excelency any information that may be wanting for the Constructing the machine, by a model or other wise, and begs me, while he is shewing Mr Jackson the Construction, to write you[.] Mr Donalsons mechanical abilities in the raising the Chevaux de frize from the bed of our river, together with this Contrivance, which he calls a Hippopotamos, places him amongst men of the first abilities in point of invention, and as I have seen his Hippopotamos often at work I can assure your Excelency of its great facility in raising mud or Sand from any depth of water. I am with great regard Your Excelencies most obedient Humble Svt

Levi Hollingsworth

I take the liberty to present my Compliments to Colo. Jno. Augustus Washington, your Brother, & to give him our price Current for Produce, viz. Fine Flour 43/6 ⅌ Bbl of 1.3.0 Ntt wheat 7/6 @ 8/ Corn 3/10 @ 4/—Hemp 5½ ⅌ Lb. Tobacco Jas River 55/ best Patowmack 45 @ 50/ Bills of Exchange 75 @ 80 ⅌ £. L.H.


Title: To George Washington from Tench Tilghman, 25 August 1785
From: Tilghman, Tench
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Baltimore 25th Augt 1785.

I am honored with your favor of the 17th. Altho’ the greater part of the Cargo of the Ship Pallas is advertised for public Sale on the 1st of October next, it is not a matter of certainty that it will be disposed of in that manner—at least the whole of it. At any rate—I expect it will fall in a great degree under my Management, as Mr O’Donnell the Owner, who is a perfect Stranger in this Country, finds himself obliged to seek the assistance of a person acquainted with Characters here, and with our modes of Business. Before he left India he was recommended to Mr Morris, and it is thro’ my Connection with him that I have to do in the matter. A large Parcel of the Teas on Board were the property of Major Shaw and Capt. Randall who went out Super Cargoes

of the Empress of China—Those Teas have all gone to Philada.
Whether these Goods are sold at public or private sale, your Commission shall be punctually attended to. If at public—the several Articles shall not be purchased for you except they go at such Rates as are much below the usual Retail prices—the few marked thus in your letter ✻ excepted—which shall be bought if they are as cheap as goods usually sell for Cash—if a private Sale should be determined on, you shall be made acquainted with the lowest prices, and then you may judge for yourself—I beg you, my Dear Sir, not to think of lodging Money with me previously—A Leagure of Arrack is a large Butt. I am told it is rather new—and therefore not very desirable either on Account of Quantity or Quality.
Mr O’Donnell has a curiosity which pervades all Strangers, that of seeing Genl Washington before he leaves America. If he carries his present intentions into Execution, I shall take the freedom of giving him a letter of introduction. He is a Gentleman of large fortune—polished Manners, and from 16 years residence in the different parts of India very capable of giving satisfactory accounts of that Country.
The Crew of this Ship are all Natives of India—most of them from the Coasts of Malabar and Coromandel, and are much of the Countenance and Complexion of your old Groom Wormely—There are four Chinese on Board, who are exactly the Indians of North America, in Colour, Feature—Hair and every external Mark.
Be good eno’ to make Mrs Tilghmans Compliments with mine to Mrs Washington, and assure her that every care shall be taken to have such Goods as may be purchased, the most fashionable and perfect of their kinds—With true Respect and Esteem I am Dear Sir Yours most sincerely

Tench Tilghman

P.S. I have heard that your packet for Mr Smith of Carlisle was delivered into his own Hands.
A ps. of fine Muslin is mentioned. If Mrs Washington will be pleased to mention the use for which she intends it a better judgment can be formed of the kind which will suit.


Title: To George Washington from John Woddrop, 25 August 1785
From: Woddrop, John
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Bridge-Street of Glasgow,the 25th of August, 1785.

I have this day sent off this letter for your Excellency to the Ambassador from the States of North America at the Court of London.
And which is chiefly to advise you, Sir, that I do now know, for certain, of one hundred heads of familys, and who, with their Wives and Children &ca will make a Number of five hundred & fifty, or Six hundred persons, And all natives of Scotland, who propose for to Emigrate to settle in the territories belonging to the Thirteen, free, and Independant United States of north America. They are all of them brought up to the fishing trade and line of bussiness, in the Shetland Islands, on the Coast of Scotland—and as I apprehend, such a body of good, hardy fisher Men & Seamen may of consequence be of some use to the States of America. I have Communicated this news to the American Ambassador, & to your friend William Lee, Esquire, late of Westmoreland County in the State of Virginia, this I did on the 17th of this Current Month, and sent the letter to Mr Lee, under Cover to the American Ambassador in London. I presume these people may be got to Embark sometime the next year. Now any approbation this Measure may be found to deserve the Attention of from your Excellency &ca I will like to be informed of, and as soon as possible. The Ling, the Tusk, the Cod Fish taken on the Coast of Shetland is selling for Export this year at 19/6 d. Sterling, prCt or 100 lb. of Ling, 17/6 d. for Tusk, & 15/6 d. for Cod. These are the real prices at the Shetland

Islands this very year, & just at this very time, for CtWt—or for every 100 lib. Weight of the above kind of Fish.
I have thought proper to notice as much to you, Sir, by this your friends in America may be able to form some idea what the British fish will bring at the different Markets in the Commercial nations in Europe.
I referr you to my Letter, last Spring, by Capt. William Chisholm of the Ship, Janet, bound from Glasgow to the towns of Dumfries & Alexandria on Potomack River in Virginia. With the most justly deserving Estimation, and sincer & perfect Respect. I have the honour to be, Sir, your most Obedient Humble Servant

John Woddrop


Title: To George Washington from Richard Varick, 28 August 1785 [letter not found]
From: Varick, Richard
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Richard Varick, 28 August. GW wrote Varick on 26 Sept.: “Mr Taylor brought me your favor of the 28th Ulto.”


Title: From George Washington to John Rawlins, 29 August 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Rawlins, John

Sir,
Mount Vernon 29th Augt 1785.

Your letter of the 20th of this month, only came to my hands by the last Post, or I would have replied to it sooner.
I have a room 32 by 24 feet, & 16 feet pitch, which I want to finish in stucco: it is my intention to do it in a plain neat style; which, independantly of its being the present taste, (as I am inform’d) is my choice. The Chimney is in the centre of the longest side, for which I have a very elegant marble piece; directly opposite thereto is a Venetian window, of equal breadth & pitch of the room; on each side of the Chimney is a door, leading into other rooms; & on each of the short sides is a door & window.
I mention these things that you may be apprized of the sort of work; the time it may take you to execute it, and that you may inform me upon what terms; and also, if you are inclined to undertake it, that you may have leisure to think of a design. The season being so far advanced, I had given up the idea of doing anything to the room this year; but if I could enter upon the

work with well founded assurances of accomplishing it soon, I am ready & willing to go on with it immediately; having by me stucco, & seasoned plank for the floor & other parts (if necessary)—and good Joiners of my own to execute what may be wanting in their way.
You will please to let me hear from you without delay on this subject, & I pray you to be explicit; because, as I would undertake it at once, or not at all this year, I should like to know your terms & sentiments precisely, that I may govern myself accordingly. I am Sir &c.

G: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Tench Tilghman, 29 August 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Tilghman, Tench

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 29th Augt 1785

Your favor of the 25th in answer to mine of the preceeding week, came safely. At the time I wrote that letter, I was uninformed of the circumstances which you have since made me acquainted with. However, you will be at no loss from the contents of it, to discern that it was Bargains I had in contemplation; and which, from the quantity of Goods at Market—Scarcity of Cash, according to Newspaper Accts—distress of the Trade—& the mode of selling, I thought might probably be obtained; but if I am mistaken therein, I shall content myself with the few marked articles, or such of them as can be had cheap. Fine Jaccanet Muslin (apron width) is what Mrs Washington wants, and abt 5 ⟨à⟩ 7 Yards would be sufficient. As the Arrack is in large Casks & New, I decline taking any.
If Mr O’Donnell should feel an inclination to make this part of Virginia a visit, I shall be happy in seeing him—and if, instead of giving him a letter of introduction, you should change the mode and introduce him in your own Propriæ Personæ it would add much to the pleasure of it. Before your letter was received,

from my reading, or rather from an imperfect recollection of what I had read I had conceived an idea that the Chinese though droll in shape & appearance, were yet white.
I am glad to hear that my Packet to Mr Smith had got safely to hand as there were papers of consequence transmitted. I expect some other documents for my Law Suit in the course of a few days from our Attorney Genl (Edmd Randolph Esqr.) which I shall take the liberty of enclosing to you to be forwarded to Mr Smith—And as I seem to be in the habit of giving you trouble, I beg the favor of you to cause the inclosed letter to be delivered to Mr Rawlins—I leave it open for your perusal—My reason for it is, that thereby seeing my wants, you would be so obliging as to give me your opinion of Mr Rawlins with respect to his abilites and diligence as a workman—whether he is reckoned moderate or high, in his charges—and whether there is much call, at this time, for a man of his profession at Baltimore—for on this, I presume, his high or moderate terms will greatly depend.
Mrs Washington joins me in best respects to Mrs Tilghman and yourself and thanks you for the obliging assurance of chusing the articles wanted, perfect of their kind. With great esteem & regard I am—Dear Sir Yr Affecte friend & Obedt Hble Servt

Go: Washington

P.S. Since writing the foregoing, Mrs Washington has requested me to add that if any fine thin Handkerchiefs with striped or worked borders are to be had, she would be glad to get Six of them. G.W.


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Johnson and Thomas Sim Lee, 30 August 1785 [letter not found]
From: Johnson, Thomas,Lee, Thomas Sim
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Thomas Johnson and Thomas Sim Lee, 30 Aug. 1785. On 10 Sept. GW wrote Johnson and Lee: “Your favor of the 30th ulto did not reach me until the 8th instant.”


Title: From George Washington to John Cochran, 31 August 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Cochran, John

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 31st Augt 1785

Your favor of the 9th by Captn Packard, accompanying the Hounds sent by the Marqs de la Fayette to your care for me, came safely a few days ago. For the trouble you have had with the latter, I offer you my thanks; and if any expences have been incurred previous to their re-embarkation at New York, I will pay them on the first notice.
I persuade myself you are too well convinced, my dear Doctor, of my friendship, and of my inclination to promote your interest, or wishes, to doubt my ready compliance with the request of your letter (respecting the Office of Continental treasurer) were it compatible with that line of conduct I had prescribed for my government. But from my knowledge of the Composition of Congress—The State politics of its Members—And their endeavors to fill every civil Office with a Citizen from their own State, (if not altogether, at least by compromise), that I early took up a determination not to hazard the mortificaton of a refusal, or of the passing by, my application, by not asking any thing from it. And to this resolution I was further prompted, by the numberless applications with which it was impracticable, and in many instances would have been improper for me, to have complied. Except in a single one, and that not pointed directly to any Office, I have never gone beyond the general recommendation which accompanied my resignation; nor do I believe I ever shall.
Mrs Washington who does not enjoy good health, presents her compliments to, and offers best wishes for, Mrs Cochran & yourself; to whom please to add, and accept, those of Dear Sir Yr Most Obedt & Affecte Hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to William Gordon, 31 August 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Gordon, William

Dr Sir,
Mount Vernon 31st Augt 1785.

In my absence from home on a tour up this river, to view the nature of it & to direct the improvements agreeably the Acts of Assemblies of Virginia & Maryland; the enclosed memoirs arrived here, covered by a letter, of which the following is an extract, from a member of Congress.
As I am fully persuaded it is your wish to transmit to posterity a true history of the revolution, & of course you desire to receive every information which will enable you to do justice to the principal Actors therein; it cannot be unpleasing to you to receive a narrative of unadorned facts which serve to bring forward, circumstances which, in some measure, may be unknown to you: I therefore make no apology for transmitting the enclosed; nor shall I do more than hint to you, the propriety of keeping the Marquis’s wishes in this business, behind the Curtain; your own good sense must dictate the measure, & furnish the reason for it.
The noble, conspicuous, & disinterested part which this Nobleman has acted on the American theatre deserves all the gratitude which this Country can render him, & all the eloge which the pen of a faithful historian can bestow, with its appearing to be the object of his wishes.
The family is as well as usual; Mrs Stuart has been sick, but is now getting better. Mrs Washington does not enjoy good health, but joins me in best respects to Mrs Gordon. I am Dr Sir &c.

G: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Ridout, 31 August 1785
From: Ridout, Thomas
To: Washington, George

Sir
Bordeaux 31. August 1785.

I had the honor of writing to you the first of May last, by the Fanny Captain Smith bound to Alexandria by whom I sent you a few Cases of Wine. I had a day or two before that Vessel’s sailing, received a letter from the marquis de la Fayette informing me that he had sent to my Care a package for Your Excellency & which was to have been shipped in the Fanny; but by a mistake in the Carrier’s direction who had got some other name for mine—I could not find it out till near two months after the vessel had sailed; & since that time, there has been no opportunity for Baltimore from hence, which has not a little vext me.
I have now shipped it on board the Peggy Capt. Cunyngham, a Brig I have chartered for Baltimore that will sail in two or three days, but is to touch at Charles Town on her way. I shall address it to the Care of Col. Tilghman, who will forward it by the first opportunity—I have the honor to be with the greatest respect. Your Excellency’s most obedient servant

Thos Ridout