Title: Henry Knox’s Notes on the State of the Frontier, January 1790
From: Knox, Henry
To: Washington, George

[January 1790]

Although I experience a reluctance in again bringing before you the subject of a treaty with the Wabash indians, yet as some recent events have happened evincing to my mind the propriety of the measure, I conceive it to be my duty to make the following communication, and to request your advice thereon.
The indians residing on the Wabash river and its branches, and the people residing on the waters of the river Ohio, have been for some years past in the practice of exercising indiscriminate hostilities on each other—It would probably be in vain at this period to endevor to ascertain the original aggressors—The facts are but too well established that the innocent on both sides suffer more frequently than the guilty.
The evils have extended themselves to the troops of the United States who are often sacrificed to the resentments of the Indians, which they have had no agency in exciting.
Several Soldiers were killed during the last year by parties of Indians and several more during the present year, and by recent

intelligence, a party of six, while escorting a Surveyor near the big Sandy river has been entirely cut off.
To patiently suffer a continuance of these enormities appears to be highly improper and disgraceful—and yet in the existing confused state of affairs, and ignorance of the perpetrators, it is difficult if not impossible, to know against what tribe to direct the vengeance of the United States—This circumstance which of itself is sufficient to create a doubt of the propriety of immediate coercive measures, is rendered more conclusive by a calculation of the expence and contingencies which would attend an effectual expedition into the Indian Country.
If it is probable that a peace with the Wabash indians could be effected by a treaty, I am of opinion that it would be wise to attempt it—If the Indians should refuse to attend the invitation to a treaty the United States would be exonerated, from all imputations of injustice in taking proper measures for compelling the Indians to a peace, or to extirpate them.
The Secretary at War has infor[med] me that it is probable the treaty with the Creeks will not require more than seventeen thousand dollars of the twenty thousand appropriated by Congress on the 20th of August 1789 to the Indian Department—and that the Governor of the Western territory has in his possession Goods remaining from former treaties to the amount of one thousand eight hundred dollars.
Although I conceive these sums to be very inadequate for treating in the customary manner with the Wabash tribes, yet perhaps it may be proper to make an experiment of treating with the indians on a more oeconomical plan.
On this statement of the case I request your advice on the following inquiries.
First—In the existing state of affairs between the United States, and the Wabash Indians, will it be proper to attempt an establishment of peace with the said Indians by a friendly treaty?
Second—If so shall the sum of three thousand dollars (provided that sum shall remain of the twenty thousand dollars appropriated by Congress on the 20th of August 1789, After defraying the expences of the treaty with the Creek indians) be applied to a treaty with the Wabash tribes of Indians, together with such goods as the Governor of the western territory has in his possession remaining from former treaties?
The general state of the western frontiers, and of the indian

department will require the serious attention of Congress.
The invitation of the United States to the Creek Nation of Indians, to treat of a peace on terms of mutual advantages has not been accepted—The report of the Commissioners which shall be laid before you will fully show the state of this business.
Notwithstanding the verbal assurances given by some Cheifs of the peaceable dispositions of the Creek nation, the United States cannot justly place any reliance thereon.
The case seems to require an adequate provisional arrangement, which should be brought into active operation, if any further hostilities should be committed by the Creeks.
The United States having made a solemn offer of a treaty of peace on liberal terms, which being refused it is incumbent on them to be in a state of preparation to punish all aggressions.
In either event of peace or war with the Creeks, the establishment of a line of military posts on the southwestern frontiers, appears to be highly requisite—Although this measure will occasion an enlargement of the military establishment it seems in the present situation of affairs to be indispensibly necessary in order to prevent extensive and complicated evils.
If the number of troops should be encreased, it may be worthy of your consideration whether their pay, without affecting the existing stipulations may not be diminished, so as to be more compatible with the public finances. I shall order estimates of these several objects to be laid before you for your consideration.
Independent of the Creeks, representations have been received from almost every part of the frontier extending along the south of the Ohio, stating the depredations of the indians during the summer past, and that upwards of  innocent persons have fallen a sacrifice to savage barbarity—These representations are enforced by an address on the same subject from the Legislature of Virginia all forcibly claiming the protection of the United States to the places exposed to the incursions of the Indians.
At the same time the United States are requested to afford security to their distant citizens, it is just Congress should be informed of the existence of an evil which requires a remedy.
It is too frequently the case in several parts of the frontiers for individuals to exercise, indiscriminate revenge against all persons

bearing the name of indians, under the specious pretext of retaliation—Unless this practice be annihilated, Government in all its treaties will be liable to disgrace.
Hence the importance of the administration of indian affairs being conducted by fixed principles established by Law, and which being published should be rigidly enforced.
The obligations which the United States owe their own dignity require that while the unenlightened tribes of Indians are treated with justice and humanity, that an arrangement should exist to exact from them a correspondent conduct.
If upon mature consideration it should be thought practicable to impart some of the blessings of civilization to the Indian tribes, the attempt would be worthy of a Government founded on the principles of general happiness.
Open and liberal treaties in which their rights and territory should be well ascertained, and secured, seem to be the only equitable foundation of peace with the Indian tribes.
If after such a treaty has been made, it should be violated, or after an invitation given for that purpose which should be refused, and followed by acts of hostility, the United States will possess justly the right to inflict severe punishment.
I have conceived it my duty to offer my opinion generally on the State of Indian affairs not doubting, but that the result of your deliberations on the subject will reflect honor on the national character of the United States.
While on the one hand the United States ought cautiously to avoid all unnecessary expences, so on the other they cannot make too early provision for certain primary institutions on the establishment of which the national character and existence may ultimately depend.
Among such institutions may be ranked an energetic system of national militia—The establishment of Arsenals and Magazines, and manufactories of the implements and materials of War.
I am well aware that the infant state of the finances may not admit of expensive and complete institutions of this nature—My design is to point out the present period as highly favorable to the formation of such judicious institutions as will invigorate and preserve the United States.
As no circumstances of War or predominating prejudices exist to influence the judgement, arrangements may now be decided

upon, demonstrative of the wisdom and energy of the public mind, and the several parts may be executed as the finances will permit.
I shall by seperate messages lay before you for your consideration plans and estimates relative to these several objects.
There is another institution of a different nature but not less important in its effects which I would recommend to our particular consideration—I mean the propriety of establishing a National University at which the youth of the United States may receive the higher and more finished parts of education.
Such an institution while it assisted in diffusing light and knowledge would be attended with the best political effects in cementing the several States of this extended Republic, and preventing a practice of sending American Youth to different parts of Europe for their education.
The public possess the opportunity by means of their unlocated lands of forming an improving and perpetual fund for this object.
A View of the troops in the service of the United States.
Non Commissioned and Privates

On the Ohio and its communications having two years to serve
627

Two companies of Artillery whose services principally expire in December, January and February ensuing
 76

703

Wanting to complete the establishment
137
840

Proposed Modification

To march t[w]o companies of 70 each from the Ohio to the Frontiers of Georgia
140

To re-inlist the two companies of Artillery which are at West Point for 3 years or recruit to complete them
140

And also to recruit for the deficiencies of the establishment after the said companies should be filled
 73

The Establishment would then be in Georgia
353

On the Ohio
487
840

The Distance from the Miami on the Ohio to the Oconees on the frontiers of Georgia may be estimated at 500 miles, the former being in the latitude of 39º and the latter in that of 32º—If the troops march 15 Miles per day on an average the time required will be about
33 days

The time required to transport the orders to General Harmar
20

The time which will be required to prepare the pack Horses and the companies for the march
 15

68

By this calculation the troops would arrive at the Oconees before February which would be sooner than any troops could be raised by other means and transported to that place.
The two companies of Artillery and the seventy three men might by an exertion be recruited and transported to Savannah by the 1st day of March next.


Title: To George Washington from Gouverneur Morris, January 1790
From: Morris, Gouverneur
To: Washington, George

[January 1790]

Accept I pray you the Seeds sent herewith. They are from the King’s Gardens and as you will observe by the within List the trees and Plants are from the Southern Provinces of this Kingdom—I think therefore they will flourish at Mount Vernon. I am always truly yours.


Title: To George Washington from Asher Miller, 1 February 1790 [letter not found]
From: Miller, Asher
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Asher Miller, 1 Feb. 1790. On 13 Feb. Lear wrote to Miller: “The President of the United States has received your letter of the 1st of February.”


Title: From George Washington to the United States Senate and House of Representatives, 1 February 1790
From: Washington, George
To: United States Senate and House of Representatives

United States [New York] February 1st 1790
Gentlemen of the Senate and House of Representatives.

I have received from His Excellency Alexander Martin Governor of the State of North Carolina, an Act of the General Assembly of that State, entitled “an Act for the purpose of ceding to

the United States of America, certain Western Lands therein described”—and have directed my Secretary to lay a Copy of the same before you, together with the copy of a Letter accompanying said Act from His Excellency Governor Martin to the President of the United States.
The originals of the foregoing Act and Letter will be deposited in the Office of the Secretary of State.

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Anthony Wayne, 1 February 1790
From: Wayne, Anthony
To: Washington, George

Sir
Richmond State of Georgia 1st Feby 1790

Since the organization of the Federal System, & the establishment of the several departments, I have not presumed to address your Excellency respecting occurrencies in this Quarter, least it shou’d be improper—being totally unacquainted with the Mode now observed, but I have occasionally wrote to the Secy at War—giving such infor[m]ation as I deemed of moment, in full confidence that it wou’d be communicated to your Excellency!
At present the Indians are quiet—but I am apprehensive that this seeming serenity, will prove to be that calm—which precedes a storm, & that they are only waiting for the leaves of the forest to put forth: the frequent incursions they have made into this State for these two years past, & the losses I have sustained by them, together with the precarious tenor by which property is at present held in Georgia, as it depends upon the whim or caprice of Mr McGilvery & the temper of the Indians, which I have ground to believe is not very placid at this moment; has at last determined me to give up every idea of becoming an inhabitant of this place, & I am making my arrangements accordingly—my family have always continued upon my paternal Estate at Waynesborough in Pennsylvania which renders this disagreeable business more easy!
Permit me now to address you upon a subject to me very interesting! from the late recommendation of your Excellency to the Senate & house of Representatives in Congress, I have not a doubt, but that there will be a Military establishment, I therefore take the liberty of soliciting your Excellency for such appointment as you think my former standing in the Army, services & abilities may merit.
It’s a profession of which I am fond—the tactics have been my principle study at leasure hours in this recess—which added to former experiences meliorated by time & reflection, produces a confidence, that whatever discription of troops, may be committed to my charge, either Regulars or Militia, or both—whether Legionary or in seperate Corps—will be perfected in discipline & Manoeuvre, & rendered equally fit for actual service to any in the Union in equal time—pardon this zeal—I feel what I express!

I must acknowledge that I have been much, very much deceived & disappointed in my views & expectations in this Quarter, having placed a very considerable property within reach of the Savages, altho’ on the sea board, the personal part thereof is either distroyed or lost to me forever, & the land must remain a desert, until peace can be made with the Indians, & proper posts established to insure the permanency of that peace.
Under those circumstances I have a double inducement to solicit your Excellency for an appointment, & shall hold myself in readiness to act in any Quarter of America where you may please to direct me, & to serve you with the best services of your Excellency’s Most Obt & most devoted Hum. Sert

Anty Wayne


Title: To George Washington from Archibald Crary, 2 February 1790
From: Crary, Archibald
To: Washington, George

East Greenwich State of Rhodeisland
SirFeby 2 1790
The undoubted Prospect we now [have] that this State will recognize the Federal Government at the meeting of the Convention the first Monday of March next induces me to trouble your Excellency at this time.
I have had the honor to be imployed eithe[r] in civil or mililitary service of my Country from the commencement of the lat[e] war with Great Brittain untill the Revolution that took place in our State Government in the year 1786: since which their proceedings have not only been degrading to the State but injurious to many individuals especially those who were openly opposed to their measures; And as a number of Gentlemen must be imployed in collecting the Revenue in this State, I take the liberty to solicit the honor of your Excellency’s nomination and appointment

to one of the places in the District and Port of Newport. I am encoraged to make this application by nearly all the principal Charecters in this State, as your Excellency will be more fully informed.
If I should be so fortunate as to meet with your Excellency’s favour I will endeavour to manifest my gratitude by a strict and faithful observance of the duties of the Office to which I may be appointed. Permit me to be with the greatest veneration your Excellency’s most obedient and very huml. Servant

Archibald Crary


Title: To George Washington from Oliver Ellsworth, 2 February 1790
From: Ellsworth, Oliver
To: Washington, George

Sir,
[2 February 1790]

Should you think proper to nominate a person from the State of Connecticut to the office of a Judge in the Western Territory in the room of General Parsons, permit me to name for your consideration Majr William Judd; of whom you probably have some knowledge from his having had the honor of serving in

the late American Army. The appointment would be acceptable to him, and I beleive his services would be satisfactory to the Publick. He was liberally educated and regularly bred to the profession of the law, in which he has had the advantage of near twenty years practice. He is respectable in his profession, of a fair moral character, and active in his zeal for the honor and interest of the United States.


Title: To George Washington from Harrison County, Va., Field Officers, 2 February 1790
From: Harrison County, Va., Field Officers
To: Washington, George

Sir!
Virginia Harrison County february 2d 1790.

The alarming prediciment in which this County now stands as touching the State of Indian affairs and the Small prospect of protection from his Excellency Arthur St Clair, hath moved us the Subscribers to mett this day in councell in order to concert measures as far in our power to calm the minds of our Exposed fronteers, who Expects early in the Spring to be again Harrassed by the Savages.
It appears to us by the address of the general Assembly of Virginia dated the 30th of October 1789 that official Information has been given to Your Excellency of the Indians wanton Barbarity on the fronteers of this State. we also have the Strongest assurance, that the members of the general assembly from the Western district did apply by a Subsequent address Separate and apart from the Said address Sent by the general assembly, which we trusted would have fell into Your hands before Governor St Clair left Newyork, which now appears to us not to be the Case. therefore the fronteers is left defenceless the people who lays exposed in complaining they are neglected, that the interior parts of the United States has Enjoyed peace Since the Year 1782. that Government has got thoughtless about the lives of their citizens &c.

We would undertake to give a full detail of the various Incursions made on the fronteers of this county, but expects our County Lieutenant will hand this petition to your Excellency who we believe will better Satisfy Your Inquireys than our detail.
We presume the aforesaid address of our Legislative Body and the Separate address Sent by the members of this Western district fully takes in our Wishes, as touching the mode of present and futer Relief.
therefore in the name and behalf of our Suffering fellow Citizens over whome we preside as field Officers of the militia, pray that Your Excellency would take our distressed Situation under your Parential Care and grant us Such Releife as you in your Wisdom shall think proper and we in duty Bound shall pray &c.

Benjamin Wilson Colo.
Geo. Jackson L. colo.
William Robinson Major


Title: To George Washington from James Craik, 3 February 1790
From: Craik, James
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Alexandria [Va.] Feby 3d 1790

Since the receipt of your favour of the 8th Septr nothing has occurred to justify my breaking in upon your necessary engagements by an Epistolary Communication—Tho a Correspondence with those we Esteem and adore is one of the greatest pleasures, yet have I every gratification that I can expect from the public Prints. by them am I dayly informed, how deservedly you retain that high place in the affection and admiration of your Countrymen which your Conduct on all former occasions so justly entitled you to—from your Correspondence with Majr Washington I receive frequent intelligence of your, and families health which be assured is no small gratification to me—and I

flatter myself that your trip to the Eastward has furnished you with a Stock at least sufficient to last you the present Session, when your friends to the Southward fondly hope the pleasure of a Visit—I do not know that we shall not otherwise become a little jealous—I observe the pen of satire has been employed against our second Majestrate—It is the usual Tax upon power and an Elevated Station, perhaps in some instances an evidence of Virtues and merit in the persons against whom it is directed. It is the only means of attack in the power of the Enemies of the present Government, and from my own observation I find their opposition running in that Channel—They do and will attack the Government through its Officers. may the one prove as impregnable as the other has, and may their criminations, when they are unjust recoil upon them—But I had almost forgot the Apology for this Letter—The Situation of our worthy friend Colo. Harrison has claimed my Sincere Commisuration and he trusts will be fully Satisfactory to you for his finally declining the Acceptance of his Appointment tho at this late hour—His ill state of health for a twelvemonth past, the death of a favourite Brother, by which the management of a large family and his concerns devolved upon him; The unhappy situation of Mr Dent his friend and relation on whom he could have depended on for Assistance in his absence These added to an extreme sensibility of Nerve, threw him into embarrasments & difficulties upon his, Appointment to the Fœderal Chair, which perhaps few other men could have supposed or felt—Since his appointment his mind has been the constant sport of doubt and perplexity. Public Duty and a warm attachment to you, and Acknowledgement to you for your high opinion of him on the one hand, On the other private Obligations and Domestic engagements, with a Supposed incapacity to discharge the great Dutys of his office, in his present deranged State of mind and body⟨,⟩ have placed him in a Situation, which he is as ashamed to acknowledge to the Public, as he is ready to confess to his friends & intimates—Having promised a Visit to New York, he felt himself under an obligation to attempt the Journey at all Events, having a most earnest desire of a Conversation with you—He was here for Some days waiting for his health to be Somewhat restored, and set out in the Stage for New York, but finding his Head more disordered from the Exercise; returned the next day, and has

gone home with a determination, to give up all thoughts of Acceptance of his Appointment, and to endeavour to Compose himself, and again fit himself for the Duties of his present Station—I believe one great sourse of uneasyness to him, is the apprehension that his Conduct on the occasion should be thought by you unworthy of a man who has the Smallest share in your regard and good opinion; could he be satisfied on this head I think it might Conduce much to his peace and recovery—A Letter from you to that purpose would I am convinced act more powerfully upon him than all the Anodynes in an Apothecarys Shop—I do assure you his head is very much disordered, he is sensible of it and wishes his Situation, to be as much as possible a Secret—I wish he could have gone on to New York. I think the Journey and the Company of his old friends would have very much relieved him.
your Nephews George and Lawrence have left Mr McWhirr, and are now attending Mr Harrow Teacher of the Mathematics, They think they are Sufficiently acquainted with the Latin-Language for their future pursuits in life, and are desirous of employing their time in other acquirements which may be more useful to them. I should be glad to know your wishes on the Subject that they may be complied with—Mrs Craik has been confined to her bed for some days very much indisposed—She and the rest of my family join me very affectionate & Respectful Compliments to Mrs Washington the Children and our other friends in your family—And I am very affectionately & Sincerely Dear Sir Your devoted Sert

Jas Craik


Title: Enclosure: Recommendations for North Carolina Federal Revenue Officers, 5 February 1790
From: Williamson, Hugh
To: Washington, George

[5 February 1790]

For the several Ports in North Carolina the following Officers are humbly submitted.

Wilmington

James Read—
Collector

John Walker
Naval Officer

Thomas Callender
Surveyor

Swansbro’

Newbern

John Daves
Collector

Beaufort
John Easton
Surveyor

Washington

Nathan Keais
Collector

Edenton

Murfreesborough
Hardy Murfree.
Surveyor

Windsor
Benson
Do

Skewa[r]key
Henry Hunter
Do

Wynton
Thomas Wynns
Do

Bennetts Creek
John Baker
Do

Hertford
Joshua Skinner Jnr

Plymouth
Levi Blount

Cambden

Isaac Gregory
Collector

Nixonton
John Lane
Surveyor

Indian Town
Saml Ferebee

Newbiggen Creek
Edward Evenegin

Currituck Inlet

Pasquetank River Bridge
Edmond Sawyer


Title: To George Washington from d’Anterroches, 6 February 1790
From: Anterroches, Joseph-Louis, chevalier d’
To: Washington, George

Sir
Newyork Fabruary 6th 1790

 if I take the liberty to address myself to your Excellency, also I never yet had the honor of being introduced to you, believe that necessity alone can force me to do it, and not the want of delicacy. My own interest and of course that of my wife and children, obliges me to become troublesome to you; but your well known goodness gives me leave to hope that you will excuse me. If you will condessend Sir to peruse the letters here inclosed, of Mr le duke de Harcourt, of Mr le Marquis and la Marquise de Lafayette and of my Uncle the Bishop of Condom, one of the deputy’s to the general assembly of france, who hath taken care of me since I was seven years old, and by his kindness hath enabled me to become a naturalized citizen of the United States, If you condessend Sir, to peruse the above mentioned Letters, your Excellency will easely perceive that I have in france, friends and Relations who endeavour to make me confortable, and the hope of success ought to make me avoid all occasions that may create Jealousys which may be detrimental to me. you are Sir, the Marquis de Lafayette⟨’s⟩ friend, and I flatter myself of having the honor of his friendship likewise; every assistance I receive from my family is sent by his means, and his goodness to me hath made him long since one of my protectors. I shall have the honor of relating to your Excellency the Subject on which I write. I have bought in Elizabeth Town (the place of my residance for these seven years passed) a farm Two years ago, and made the payment wanting few pounds only, But I owe elsewhere Two Hundred and fifty pounds york currency, which sum I must pay before I leave this City; the want of that Money obliging my creditor to prosecute me for the same if I do not comply. my Note of Hand is now in the Hands of an Attorney at law, and if not redeamed, hath orders to arrest me. That Idea alone, Sir, distress me. I have visited last year my Native Country and have returned much pleased with the treatment I received there; my father 78 years old hath pass’d his words to me that in a very short time, he should send me (instigated by my friends) part of his property which the law grants me after he is no more. on his promise to me, on that of a Sister nominated last year abbess by the king, and on the assistance I receive from Time to Time,

  from my uncle the Bishop, I Can I believe borrow the above mentioned sum with confidancy, of paying the same very soon. I know very few persons able to assist me in so precarious a moment, and I should be affrid that if the favour was granted to me by them they should relate my present situation, in Europe, to my detriment. I shall consider myself very happy if, your Excellency desire some of your Aids to inquire into my private character, be convinced without flattery that it will turn out to my advantage, and will procure me the kindness which my Mother the Countess D’anterroches desired of you for me by letters, the Marquis delafayette is to have the honor of writing to you on the same subject, if not yet wrote, and now I ask your protection, and assistance Sir, convinced that my interest, character abroad, and futur credit shall suffer if denied to me. Be pleased to honor me with a line of answer, that I may know my fate; I shall wake for the same with the greatest impatience, and if the greatest favor asked by me is granted I shall follow the plan that you will be so good as to prescribe to me. I have the honor to be with the greatest respect your Excellency Most obedient and most humble servant

Le Chr D’Anterrochesat the widow Winants ElizabethTown farry House white Hall.


Title: To George Washington from Bryan Fairfax, 7 February 1790
From: Fairfax, Bryan
To: Washington, George

May it please Your Excellency
Feb. the 7th 1790.

According to your desire I have written to Mrs Bomford and have informed her of the State of the Suit against Doctor Savage. The delays have been such that I don’t wonder at her Surprise in not yet having heard of the Issue of it. The Day I left Mt Vernon last Winter I spoke to the Lawyer (who had the Management of the Cause after I had taken it out of the hands of the other who had done Nothing in it and who had mislaid the Papers) and desired him to proceed on with it as he had postponed it a few months on Account of what Mr Mason wrote to me about it. But tho’ I spoke to him since about it, yet from what Enquiries I have made I doubt whether it is in a greater Forwardness than it was some years ago.
I have moved down to my late Purchase, and it is no small Satisfaction to me that it is not far from Mt Vernon and much more flattering that your Friendship should continue unshaken, and that I can still hope for the Pleasure of your Company once more. Yet I should think it must be very uncertain, as the same desire as heretofore of yeilding to the Public Wish may again prolong Your Stay and overpower Your other Wish for Retirement—At least I think you will be reduced to a great Dilemma. We have an excellent Constitution, yet I am sorry to find some Opinions prevailing that tend gradually to weaken even good Government. As I can deliver my Sentimts freely to You I will just mention my Thoughts on some points. If Men were perfect in Love they could live happily in Society wthout Government, because they would do to all Men as they would they should do

unto them, and would therefore need no Restraint nor Compulsion. But in proportion as they fall short of this perfect Love they require a Government more or less coercive. This cannot be maintained without Subordination, and this requires different Ranks, and these must be many or few in proportion as a stricter or milder Government is requisite. Of this the Army is a Proof, where a gradual Subordination preserves that order which otherwise could not be kept. Civil Society does not require such strict discipline. Yet still the Principle holds good, that in proportion to the Virtue of the People there must be a greater or less Restraint, & this should be supported by a proper Subordination. To this End many different Officers are appointed; but if these are not in some degree respectable in their own Persons their Authority becomes too weak when they derive it only from their Office. For which Reason a perfect Equality amongst Citizens if it could be had would tend to weaken the hands of Government in every State, except where there was perfect Love.
An equal Distribution of Property which some think desireable would be improper for the same Reason. And the Idea of it’s Benefit seems to be entertained from that Propensity in the World to run from one extreme to another. Because a very great Inequality of wealth has been found hurtful thro’ that Oppression which the poor is subject to from those that are very rich, it is concluded that the nearer it is reduced to an equal division, the better it is for the State. But this seems to be a wrong conclusion, and makes this Evil the extreme of the other. The right conclusion in this case appears to be, that a greater Equality would be better, and not an entire one. For the proper Medium if attainable would be such a division of Property as that the richest should not have it in their Power thro’ their Influence to oppress, and yet that there should be so much Influence, as that the different Officers chosen from the different Classes, shall have some weight in exercising their Authority. For Men unless very virtuous are not generally to be ruled by the Laws alone and the Authority derived from them.
Hence we see how hurtful in the End it must be to lessen that Respect which Magistrates ought to possess, or to omit those accustomary honours which tend to promote it. If Experience proves that a Veneration for Magistrates is increased among the Bulk of Mankind by such Usages, it must be impolitic to lay

them aside, as it would moreover be better that they had never been, than to discontinue them now that they have been long in Use. A good Government ought to be strengthend and not weakened; and where the Laws are good no Injury can arise from a proper Enforcement of them, but much Evil will follow from it’s Neglect.
The Subject of Slavery too has been spoken of in such a Manner as tends to render those who are under it more dissaffected than they would have been. It does not appear that either Xst [Christ] or his Apostles ever said any thing that could have such a tendency—The Peace & Quiet of Society is what they aimed at!
These and some other points have given me some Uneasiness lest the Seeds of future discord should be sowing whilst we have otherwise a good Hope from the Establishment of a Government as good as any if not superior to most.
If these Errors should not increase the Evil will not be great—old opinions are not soon eradicated; but the danger arises from their spreading & continuance—which is to be feared, because Error is more easily and more readily propagated than the Truth.
I know you will pardon me for troubling you w⟨th⟩ these thoughts because you have heretofore done it when I knew they were unhappily different from your own, and that because of that Justice you shew to all Men, as well as that Friendship with which you have honored me.
Mrs Fairfax & myself present our Respects to Mrs Washington & I remain Yr Excellency’s Obliged & obedt Servt

Bryan Fairfax

My Friends have often asked me to give this Spot a Name—& they have proposed so many that I am at a Loss to choose—or how to refuse ⟨Upheld, Upton⟩ Prospect Hall, Clear View—Clermont &c. have been mentioned. If the Request were not too trifling I would beg You to honour me so far as to na⟨m⟩e it. But if the name should sound too high You’l allow me to say who gave it.


Title: Tobias Lear to James Madison, 7 February 1790
From: Lear, Tobias
To: Madison, James

Sir,
Sunday Morning Feby 7th 1790

In obedience to the command of the President of the United States, I have the honor to enclose you a Letter from Peyton Short Esquire resigning his Commission of Collecter of the Port of Louisville in Kentucky, & to request that you will be so good as to consult with Mr Brown, and any other Gentlemen from Virginia who are acquainted with characters in that part of the Country, upon a suitable person to supply the place of Mr Short and let the President know the result of your consultation this evening as he intends to give in the nominations to the Senate tomorrow. I have the honor to be very respectfully Sir, Yr mot Obedt Sert

Tobias Lear
S.P.U.S.


Title: From George Washington to William Craik, 8 February 1790
From: Washington, George
To: Craik, William

Dear Sir,
New-York, February 8. 1790.

I have duly received your letter of the 25 of last month, and return you my thanks for your attention to my dispute with Stromat respecting the Proclamation warrant.
If Mr Stromat will fulfil the offer of compromise in the manner he has proposed to you—or in such a manner as you, under the aid of Mr Dunnington’s information, (who is perfectly acquainted with all the land to which Stromat lays claim by virtue of his warrants) shall think will subserve my purposes, I would prefer it to a suit at law; by which I might gain or lose all. To prevent the injury which my tract would sustain by the intersection of it by the slipes Stromat was endeavoring to obtain, was my primary object—to attain which will satisfy me. If you could make it convenient to attend the survey it would enable you to decide on the spot with more propriety, and such a service would be very agreeable to me—Bind firmly whatever agreement you may make with Stromat without delay—that he is not punctilious in observing his word I know—and that he would deceive you, if he can gain any thing by it I have very little doubt.
For your services in this business, and the ejectment of Perry, with the expences that have been incurred, I again pray you to apply to my Nephew, G. A. Washington, for payment. With very great esteem and regard I am &ca

G. Washington.


Title: To George Washington from John Hamilton, 8 February 1790
From: Hamilton, John
To: Washington, George

Sir
Edenton [N.C.] 8 Febry 1790

Your surprise in hearing from a person altogether unknown, cannot be surpassed by the difficulty & embarrassment which I

feel in the attempt to write; urged by my freinds, it is a task that has given me much pain and disquietude—being well assured however, that you desire only to preside over the hearts of a free people, & to be their parent & protector; altho’, not the first in an honorable profession, I am emboldened to lay before you my wish to become a Servant of the fœderal government under your administration.
Having now become a Link in the Band of Union, the necessary departments are to be filled up for this State. Should you from information or Inquiry, find me worthy of the Office of Fœderal Attorney, for this District, I shall esteem it an high honor to act under your Auspices. at the same time, should my own, & the application of my freinds, be unsuccessful, I shall rest satisfyed that in the roll of Applicants, your Excellency has found one, whose qualifications & pretensions better entitle him to expect the Nomination—for my own part, I shall be convinced, that wisdom & impartial justice hath attended your Choice, & shall at once admire the hand, that gives or refuses.
If it can afford your Excellency a moments pleasure, allow me to assure you, that notwithstanding our late backwardness, a greater degree of affection for your person, and a stronger attachment to the fœderal government, does not prevail in any part of America than in this State and in this little Corner in particular; and I am proud to say, that a few to the Westward excepted (whose minds have either been deluded by false Insinuation, captivated with the Harlot Charms of an inefficient government, or actuated by Motives of Ambition to be all important in the small Circle) the general body of the people are well affected to the government and ambitious in their zeal for its Support. Being an eye Witness at the late Convention & Assembly, I am fully persuaded of the truth & justice of my Observation.
Hope now elevates, joy brightens the Countenance, and with grateful Veneration to the Disposer of Event⟨s⟩, we look forward with gladdened heart, to the efficacy of our new government, and behold in the Supreme Magistrate, a Father a Freind, & Fellow-Citizen.
That Heaven may guide & protect you, is the sollicitous Wish & prayer of Sir Your most devoted & Obedt hue Sert

J. Hamilton
John Hamilton


Title: To George Washington from David Humphreys, 8 February 1790
From: Humphreys, David
To: Washington, George

My dear General.
Hartford [Conn.] Feby 8th 1790.

I take the liberty to put under cover to you a letter for Mr Manley the Engraver in Philadelphia, who is about to strike the Medal containing your likeness. At the moment when I was leaving New York he asked me for my opinion on the subject, and requested that I would write to him as soon as I might find it convenient—which I promised. In case there should be any thing erroneous in the Model, or (according to your judgment) improper, I must ask the favor, for the sake of the Public which is much interested, that you will be pleased to retain it in your hands, or make any alterations whatsoever. If otherwise, the Artist will be much obliged by your having the letter sealed & placed in the Post Office for transmission.
I arrived here only the day before yesterday, and shall probably be detained somewhat longer on my journey than I expected. Especially, as, upon the Application of the Person in New York who is publishing a Map & account of the Post Roads, I gave him encouragement to furnish him with some information for his Notes on them through Connecticut. This may retard me a few days at the Towns in the Western parts of the State, while I shall be on my return. I beg you, however, to be persuaded that I shall hasten to receive & execute your Commands with all that zeal & fidelity, with which I have the honor to be, My dear General, With perfect devotion Your Most obliged & Most humble Servant

D. Humphreys


Title: To George Washington from Robert Morris, 8 February 1790
From: Morris, Robert
To: Washington, George

Sir,
New York Feby 8th 1790.

The Memorial which you will find inclosed herewith, Speaks so plain a Language as not to stand in need of Explanation, and the occasion such as not to require appology. The request which it contains being supported by considerations of public Justice, will I am sure from that Motive, meet your favour. With Sentiments of the most perfect Esteem and respect. I have the Honor to be Sir Your most obedient and Most humble Servant

Robt Morris


Title: To George Washington from Bernard Hubley, Jr., 9 February 1790
From: Hubley, Bernard Jr.
To: Washington, George

Northumberland [Pa.]
My much loved Genl and PresidentFebruary 9th, 1790
Praying your Excellency to Confer upon me a Commission or such Office, as in your Wisdom may be thought proper if upon perusal of this I may be thought Worthy to deserve one; I beleive if your Excellency would think worth Notice to enquire into my Character you would find what I mention litterally true;

At the Commencement of the late War I was but a Young Lad, my Heart then panted for the Welfare of our Country, & was Wishing to take an Active part therein, when early Appointment for Officers in the Army took place an Elder Brother of mine was Appointed Lieut. in Captn Ross’s Compy of Riflemen under the Command of Col. Thompson; nothing but the ⟨re⟩straint of my Parents on account of my Youth prevented me from Marching along, when the Militia were Ordered for Elizabeth Point (in the Jersey) I then gaind Approbation to go with them and Joind the Light Infantry Compy of our County Viz. Lancaster, after the expiration of the Term of the Militia, when they March’d Home, I went to Long Island Joined Genl then Col. Hands Regt as a Volunteer after a few days there I received a Letter from my Captn & wherein was enclosed a First Lieuts. Commission for me in the German Regt, from Long Island agreeable to my Instructions I set out for Lancaster to Recruit Soldiers. I then Obtain’d the consent of my Father to continue in the Army, he Accordingly purchas’d a Sword presented me therewith giving at the same time the best Advice in the conduct of a Young Soldier, after Recruiting I Join’d my Regt at Philada under Houssecker, from thence we proceeded up the River Delaware Join’d your Excellency; I have been in the Battles of Trenton, Prince Town, Brandy Wine, German Town, Monmouth, and several skirmishes, and with Genl Sullivans Expedition to the W⟨est,⟩ I was ever trying to distinguish myself, and by every Means to become useful to our Country; in February 1778 I was Appointed a Captn to sd Regt agreeable to Rotation, all which time I served in the Army I think I may add with Honor, excepting there should be no honor without ever being Wounded, which I never was, I was ever beloved and in high estimation among such Brother Officers with whom I had Acquaintance; Agreeable to a Resolve of Congress of October 1780, for diminishing the Number of Officers, and to retire on half pay, I came under that Description, and with the Utmost reluctance owing to the situation of our Country, I went to my Native home Lancaster, out of Four Brothers there was Three of us in service, and the One of a Weak and sickly Constitution, was One of the Assistant Clothiers & Commissaries at Lancaster—Immediately after the conclusion of the War, I was Offer’d Goods on Credit,

by some Merchants of Philada with a persuasion that this Place would be suitable for Business, Accordingly I took to the Amt of Twelve Hundred Pounds, and was attentive to business, I had to the Amt of above Fourteen Hundred Pounds Certificates, in the care of a Brother Resident at Philada, on the Night of the 17th November 1786, his House was enter’d by some Villains, who broke open his Desk plunder’d it of every Thing Valuable and with my Certificates, My Brother Immediately atvertizd the same, the Fellows Three in Number some time after were Apprehended in Boston, they broke Open a House there and were caught in the deed, upon examination there was a small Certificate of mine Amounting to £99.4.2 found with them, and when the Advertizement was produc’d they confess’d the whole to the Magistrate, but declar’d, they had no more of them, that they sold them all but that One, some in the Jersey, some at New York, some at Boston, and they beleived that some they sold were taken to Baltimore, the Magistrate Wrote to my Brother that for the Offence committed at Boston the Villains were sentenc’d to Work Seven Years at the Castle; My Brother took the Opinion of the Honbl. Chief Justice Mr McKean, and the Advice of some of the most Eminent Lawyers in the City, and they all agreed that those Persons who Bought not knowing them to be Stole, came honestly by them and must be paid what they gave for them (if I would recover them) being a particular kind of Property different from others as they are Negotiable; and I have been Informed (by Men of Knowledge) the State cannot refund them to me, as they cannot be proven to be destroyd; I received Two Hundred and Thirty odd Pounds of them again that were collected in and about Boston, but had to repay those Persons there Money which was at the rate of 3s/9 in the Pound; soon after this Affair happen’d my Creditors got Alarm’d (as is ever the case with Timorous Merchts upon similar occasions) those who were timorous commenc’d immediately suits against me; the Goods were seiz’d by the Sheriff and sold at Public sale, a quantity of which sold 200 P. Cent under prime Cost, and by which Means I fell short near upon Four Hundred Pounds which I am honestly Indebted to this day, some of the Creditors more humane have shewn me every lenity, I have try’d every honest & honorable Means ever since thinking to discharge it,

but still find myself baffled, and have experienced that it comes pretty hard for a Virtuous Character to surmount many Obstacles when Fortune of the Vicissitudes of Human Affairs once seems to frown upon him.
The last Summer I had an Excursion to Lake Erie, the particulars of which on my return and at the Arrival of Fort Pitt, I sent to your Excellency—I think the Honbl. William McClay Esqr. can give a sketch of my Character since my retirement from service and Incorporation with the Mass of Citizens; The Honbl. Speaker Frederick A. Muhlenberg Esqr. his Brother the Genl and the Honbl. Thomas Hartley Esqr. are Acquainted with me & Connexion; The Honbl. Supreme Executive Council of Pennsylvania have lately honoured me with the Commission of Lieutenant of the County of Northumberland[;] the Pay of this Office is adequate to the Duties, but under the present form of Militia Laws, my Duty is seldom required—If your Excellency may think me Worthy and giving preference to those who ever study to be serviceable to their Country, or have been so, Your Excellency will find that I ever had and will ever have mine at Heart and Wish to see its Welfare; I have not Enter’d into the Matrimonial State yet, wherefore a Local Station with me in the United States, would be a Matter Immaterial in which part it was, as I am not bound to any particular spot, I would Wish to be in a station wherein I could really be of benefit to our Country, in being a Useless Drone I could never reconcile to myself; I Pray your Excellency to put favourable construction upon these Lines, they flow from a Heart which always ⟨mutilated⟩ from your first Appointment to Generallissimo, and which will ever be devoted entirely by your Directions. I take the liberty to subscribe myself Your Most Obdt & ever Humbl. servt

Bernard Hubley Jnr


Title: From George Washington to the United States Senate, 9 February 1790
From: Washington, George
To: United States Senate

United States [New York]
Gentlemen of the Senate,February 9th 1790
You will perceive from the papers herewith delivered, and which are enumerated in the annexed list, that a difference subsists between Great Britain and the United States relative to the boundary line between our Eastern, and their Territories. A plan for deciding this difference, was laid before the late Congress; and whether that, or some other plan of a like kind, would not now be elegible, is submitted to your consideration.
In my opinion it is desireable that all questions between this and other nations, be speedily and amicably settled; and in this instance I think it advisable to postpone any negociations on the subject, until I shall be informed of the result of your deliberations, and receive your advice as to the propositions most proper to be offered on the part of the United States.
 As I am taking measures for learning the intentions of Great Britain respecting the further detention of our Posts &c. I am the more sollicitous that the business now submitted to you, may be prepared for negociation, as soon as the other important affairs which engage your attention will permit.

Go: Washington


Title: Enclosure, 9 February 1790
From: Washington, George
To: United States Senate

[9 February 1790]

A List of the papers deliver’d to the Senate with the foregoing Message
In the Bundle marked A.

No. 1. Resolve of the Legislature of Massachusetts dated June 6th & 7th 1784.
2. Report of Generals Lincoln and Knox to the Governor of Massachusetts dated October 15th 1786.
3. Deposition of John Mitchell dated October 9th 1784.
4. Extract of a letter from the honorable John Adams to Lieut. Governor Cushing dated October 25th 1784.
5. Letter from Governor Hancock to Governor Parr of Nova-Scotia—dated November 12th 1784.
No. 6. Letter from Governor Parr to Governor Hancock dated December 7th 1784.
7. Letter from Rufus Putnam to the Committee of Massachusetts dated December 27th 1784.
8. Report of the Secretary for foreign Affairs respecting Eastern Boundary.
9. Deposition of Nathan Jones dated March 17th 1785.
10. Copy of a Letter from Governor Carlton to Governor Hancock dated June 21th 1785.
11. Letter from James Avery to Governor Bowdoin dated August 23d 1785.
12. Advice of the Council of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to the Governor dated Septr 9th 1785.

13. Letter from Governor Bowdoin to Governor Carlton dated September 9th 1785.
14. Report of the Secretary of foreign affairs dated September 22d 1785.
15. Resolution of Congress dated October 13th 1785.
16. Copy of a Letter from the honorable John Jay to the honorable John Adams dated 1st November 1785.

Papers in the bundle marked B.

No. 1. The Petition of James Boyd to the President, the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America.
No. 2. Copy of the proceedings of the Legislature of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts on the petition of James Boyd, and a letter of instruction to the Delegates of that Commonwealth in Congress dated Novr 10th 1786.
3. Copy of a Declaration of John Mitchell relative to a Survey made by him in the year 1764 to ascertain the River, known by the name of St Cro[i]x.
4. Copy of a Declaration of Nathan Jones to the same effect as the preceding.
5. Copy of a plan delivered to Captn John Mitchell Surveyor, by his Excellency Francis Barnard Esqr. then Governor of the Province of the Massachusetts Bay, for the direction of the said Surveyor.
6. Copy of remarks drawn up by C. Morris S. General respecting the western limits of New-Brunswick, and the property of the Islands in the Bay of Passamaquody.
7. Extract of a Letter from his Excellency John Adams Esquire, to his Honor Lieutenant Governor Cushing—Dated Antewell near Paris October 25th 1784.
8. Extract from the Journals of Congress May 20th 1785.
9. Extracts from sundry publications respecting the boundaries of Nova Scotia.


Title: From George Washington to the United States Senate, 9 February 1790
From: Washington, George
To: United States Senate

United States [New York]
Gentlemen of the Senate,February 9th 1790.
Among the persons appointed during your late Session, to offices under the national Government, there were some who declined serving. Their names and offices are specified in the first column of the annexed list. I supplied these Vacancies, agreeably to the Constitution, by temporary appointments; which you will find mentioned in the second column of the list. These appointments will expire with your present session, and indeed ought not to endure longer than until others can be regularly made—for that purpose I now nominate to you the persons named in the third column of the list, as being in my opinion qualified to fill the Offices opposite to their names in the first.

Go: Washington

A List of Vacancies and appointments which have taken place in the national Offices, during the late recess of the Senate, and of persons nominated for them by the President of the United States on the 8th day of February 1790.

First Column.
Second Column.
Third Column.

Resignations.
Temporary Appointmt
Nominations.

  Robert H. Harrison—one of the Associate Judges of the Supreme Court

James Iredell of North Carolina.

  Thomas Johnson—District Judge of Maryland
William Paca
William Paca

  Edmund Pendleton—District Judge of Virginia
Cyrus Griffin
Cyrus Griffin.

  John Marshall—Attorney for the District of Virginia
William Nelson Junr
William Nelson Junr

  Thomas Pinckney—District Judge of South Carolina
William Drayton
William Drayton.

  George Handley—Collector of the Port of Brunswick, in Georgia

Christopher Hillary

  Peyton Short—Collector of the Port of Louisville in Kentuckey

Richard Taylor

  Asher Miller—Surveyor of the Port of Middletown in Connecticut

Comfort Sage


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Goodwin, 10 February 1790
From: Goodwin, Samuel
To: Washington, George

Pownalborough [District of Maine]
SirFebruary 10th 1790
there is A Great Crye for bread in thease parts; by the Drought, the last summer, the Crops was Cut Very Short and even Potatoes, som did not Get as many: as the Seed they planted as I have been in formed (& Repeated Complaints;): and but Little money in Circulation, in thease Parts, I Cant, Tell what many will do; and when any Neceassory: is in Demand, nothing but Cash, will fetch it; Except somthing that which will fetch Double: the Callamities is Great; God often brings thinge about; that mankind dont foresee nor think of: for their Good; I hope and Pray God: to appear for us all according to his Grace and Great marcy and when we are A suffering to whome Should wee apply too but to God: our heavenly father, and to our Temporal and, Political, father which I hope, will Excuse, and Pardon all Amiss &c. therefore every thinge that Congress: Can

favour us in no Dout, they, will, all which is most humbly submitted by your Excellencys Most Obedient Devoted & Very humble Serv⟨an⟩t

Samuel Goodwin

N.B. there is A Great many Poor in thease Parts: and Pinch hard; (I dont escape) A Very Cold Country.


Title: To George Washington from John Hancock, 10 February 1790
From: Hancock, John
To: Washington, George

Sir
Boston February 10th 1790

At the request of the Senate and House of Representatives of this Commonwealth, I have the honor to enclose you some papers evidential of the encroachments made by the Subjects of the King of England upon the Eastern Frontier of this Commonwealth.
If the papers transmitted do not give satisfactory proof upon this point, I wish that Congress would direct a mode in which a proper and speedy enquiry may be made.
A speedy investigation of this dispute may have a tendency to prevent a disagreeable contention which is likely to take place between the people in the frontiers of the two nations. I have the honor to be with sentiments of Esteem Sir Your most obedient humble Servant

John Hancock


Title: To George Washington from Edmund Randolph, 10 February 1790 [letter not found]
From: Randolph, Edmund
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Edmund Randolph, 10 Feb. 1790. In a letter to Randolph of 10 Feb. 1790 GW refers to Randolph’s letter “of this date.” He again mentions “your letter of yesterday” when writing to Randolph on 11 February.


Title: From George Washington to Edmund Randolph, 10 February 1790
From: Washington, George
To: Randolph, Edmund

Sir,
United States [New York] Feby 10th 1790

I have received your letter of this date and Shall give it that attention which the importance of the subject, to which it relates, demands. When I have made up my opinion on the matter you shall be informed thereof—with very gret esteem I am Sir, Yr most Obedt Sert

G.W.


Title: To George Washington from Henry Knox, 11 February 1790
From: Knox, Henry
To: Washington, George

(Private)New York the 11th February 1790
From the firmest persuasion of mind that you will receive this note with the same cordiality that it is dictated, permit me my

dear dear friend to felicitate you on the return of your birth day.
This effusion of an heart-felt affection, as far removed from a cold compliment to your present political station, as the extreme effulgence of the sun is to utter darkness, I could not bring myself to offer in person, well knowing my own weakness on the occasion.
May you live and tread the small theatre of this globe, while your health and happiness shall continue to render life desireable—but no longer.
I do not wish you long life as the greatest blessing, beleiving Strongly the immortality of the mind, and that the next grade of existence, will present you with joys, highly superior to any attendant on the best possible situation in this. I am my dear Sir most affectionately Your friend

H. Knox


Title: From George Washington to Edmund Randolph, 11 February 1790
From: Washington, George
To: Randolph, Edmund

United States [New York] February 11th 1790

I have weighed with deliberate attention the contents of your letter of yesterday; and altho’ that consideration may result in an approbation of the ideas the[re]in suggested; yet I do not, at present, feel myself authorized to give a sanction to the measures which you propose. For, as the Constitution of the United States, & the Laws made under it, must mark the line of my official conduct, I could not justify my taking a single step in any matter which appeared to me to require their agency, without its being first obtained; and so far as I have been able to form a judgement upon the objects held up to view in your letter, they cannot be effected without the operation of a Law.
As an act must necessarily be passed to extend the Judicial Power of the United States to the State of North Carolina, it appears to me that a clause might be there introduced to establish

that uniformity & precision in the business of the United States in each district, which you observe is highly proper to be effected—and to make such other regulations as may be thought necessary. I, however, only suggest this idea to you, that you may, if you think proper, mention it to such members of the Senate & House of Representatives as are acquainted with the subject, and thereby have the matter brought to view whenever the abovementioned act shall be under consideration. I am, Sir with very great esteem, Your most Obdt Servt.


Title: To George Washington from John Beckley, 12 February 1790
From: Beckley, John
To: Washington, George

Sir,
12th feby 1790.

The subject of supplying certified copies of the Acts of Congress in the mode prescribed by a Resolution of the last Session, has been mentioned to the House by the Speaker at my request, but no Order taken therein: I therefore do not consider myself authorized to furnish the Copies of the Act you require in that mode: but if the requisite number of printed copies, as the same are published, will suffice, they will be delivered to you on application to Messrs Childs and Swaine. I am, Sir, Your most Obedient servant,

John Beckley.


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Carleton, 12 February 1790
From: Carleton, Samuel
To: Washington, George

May it Please your Highness
Salem: Mass: 12th February 1790

It was my great Misfortune, not to be in a Condition to see you when you honourd this our town with a Visit.
My Situation is, & has been for upwards of Twelve months, Confined to my bed, having lost the use of my Limbs, all which the Honorable B: Goodhue Esqr. can Verify; who I Expect will be Kind Enough to hand this to your Highness.
The purport hereof is to lay my Grievances & present unhappy Circumstances before you—Vizt—
At the time I quited the Army in April 1779, I was Intitled to a years pay as a Supernumery officer, my being confined by Sickness in an Hospital, put it out of my power to Claim or demand it at the proper time, & therefore the Commissr for Setling the Army Accots wrote me that he Could not pay me, but by being Subject to a Depreciation during the time it lay in the paymasters hands & before he returnd it back to the Millitary Chest.
At the time I was ordered to March with the troops & Bagage from this Town to Ticonderoga, to Suport the army under General Montgomery, I paid & Expended on the army, & Transporting the Bagage, the Sum of £150.16, besides Sundry Stores, Such as rum, Suggar, Coffee &c. which were Consumed on our March, & which Cost me £45.3.02d. out of which Colo. Brewer paid me £120—so that the remainder is Still due to me.
when I set out with the army for Ticonderoga I suplyd myself with all necessary Clothing, Implements of War &c., to fit me

for the Service, which Cost me £106.1.2, all which were taken by the Enemy at Ticonderoga—all these demands put together would now under my dismal Circumstances, relieve myself, wife and Seven Children.
I have no Connections or Acquaintance with the Gentlemen in Public Service, and therefore hope your Highness will be pleased to take my Situation into Consideration, & order such relief as to your Highness Shall Seem meet.
with these hopes I ventured to address myself to your Highness with all Due Defference to your Exalted Station, Humbly to Implore your Condesention to notice me thus far as to order me payment or So much thereof as may afford me Some Support.
May God long preserve you Highness a Saviour to this Country in as Illustrious a manner as you have been its Deliverer is the prayer, of your Highnesses most, Obedient & most Humble Servant

Saml Carleton


Title: From George Washington to Cyrus Griffin, 13 February 1790 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Griffin, Cyrus

Letter not found: to Cyrus Griffin, 13 Feb. 1790. In his letter to GW of 16 Mar. 1790 Griffin mentions GW’s letter of “February the 13th.” See also GW to U.S. Senate, 9 Feb. 1790 (second letter), n.3.


Title: To George Washington from James Nicholson, 13 February 1790
From: Nicholson, James
To: Washington, George

Sir
Febry 13th 1790

pursuant to the request of Doctr Morrow I take the liberty of inclosing to your Excellency this Petition and will at any time with pleasure if needed give you any information that has come to my Knowledge Relative to his Character, integrity, and abilities. I remain with the greatest respect your Excellency⟨’s⟩ most Obedient Humbe servt &ca.

James Nicholson


Title: Tobias Lear to Clement Biddle, 14 February 1790
From: Lear, Tobias
To: Biddle, Clement

Dear Sir,
New York, February 14th 1790.

I have been duly favoured with your letters of the 9th and 10th inst.—the latter enclosing the President’s acct as it then stood with you.
In reply to your wish to know the President’s birth day, it will be sufficient to observe that it is on the 11th of February Old Style; but the Almanack-makers have generally set it down opposite to the 11th day of the present Style. How far this may go towards establishing of it on that day I dont know; but I could never consider it any otherwise than as stealing so many days from his valuable life as is the difference between the old & the new Style. with very Sincere esteem, I am, Dear Sir, Your most Obedt Servt

Tobias Lear


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Jefferson, 14 February 1790
From: Jefferson, Thomas
To: Washington, George

Sir
Monticello [Albemarle County, Va.] Feb. 14. 1790

I have duly received the letter of the 21st of January with which you have honored me, and no longer hesitate to undertake the office to which you are pleased to call me. your desire that I should come on as quickly as possible is a sufficient reason for me to postpone every matter of business, however pressing, which admits postponement. still it will be the close of the ensuing week before I can get away, & then I shall have to go by the way of Richmond, which will lengthen my road. I shall not fail however to go on with all the dispatch possible nor to satisfy you, I hope, when I shall have the honor of seeing you at New York, that the circumstances which prevent my immediate departure, are not under my controul. I have now that of being with sentiments of the most perfect respect & attachment, Sir Your most obedient & most humble servant

Th: Jefferson


Title: To George Washington from Henry Knox, 15 February 1790
From: Knox, Henry
To: Washington, George

Sir,
War Office [New York] February 15th 1790

The serious crisis of affairs, in which the United States are involved with the Creeks requires that every honorable and probable expedient that can be devised should be used to avert a War with that tribe—The untoward circumstances of the case are such, that no degree of success, could render a War either honorable or profitable to the United States.
Events may be expected soon to arise which will interrupt the present tranquillity. The headlong passions of the young Creek Warriors are too impetuous to be restrained by the feeble advice of the Cheifs even supposing their authority exerted to that end.
But were the dispositions of the Creeks generally favorable to peace, the corrosive conduct of the lawless Whites inhabiting the frontiers may be supposed to bring on partial quarrels—These may be easily fomented, and the flame of War suddenly lighted up without a possibility of extinguishing it, but by the most powerful exertions.
A War with the Creeks besides being attended with its own embarrassments may lead to extensive and complicated evils—Part of the lower Creeks or Semanolies reside within the territory of Spain—and a strong connection appears to subsist between the Creeks generally and the Colonies of east and west Florida belonging to that power.
In case of a War with the Creeks, and they should be pushed to take refuge within the limits of either of the aforesaid Colonies, the United States would be reduced to a most embarrassed predicament—For they must either follow the Creeks in order to extinguish the War; establish posts in their country; or retire: In the first case, they would seriously be embroiled with Spain—In the second, the operation would be extremely hazardous and expensive—In the third the impression made would not be attended with adequate or permanent effects to the expence incurred by the expedition.
This subject therefore in every point of view in which it can be placed, has an unfavorable aspect to the interests of the United States—Acting under this impression my mind has been anxiously employed in endevoring to avoid if possible so injurious an event.

In examining the proposition of the late Commissioners to send the draft of a treaty for the Creeks to sign and in case of their refusal to declare War against them it appears as if the measure proposed would inevitably precipitate an event which it is the interest of the United States to avoid—For if such treaty should be transmitted to the Creeks, with a declaration that they must receive and sign it, or War should ensue, it is highly probable that the latter event would take place by an irruption of the Creeks, long before the Messenger could reach the seat of Government.
In search of expedients to avert the evils impending on this subject, I have been led into repeated conversations with the Honorable Benjamin Hawkins Senator for North Carolina who is well acquainted with the influential characters among the Creeks—He appears to entertain the opinion pretty strongly that the designs and character of Alexander McGillivray the influential Creek Chief are opposed to a War with the United States, and that he would at this time gladly embrace any rational mean that could be offered to avoid that event—It seems probable to Mr Hawkins, arising from some former intimations of Mr McGillivray that he might at this time be influenced to repair to the seat of the general Government, provided that every facility and security should be offered for that purpose.
In maturely contemplating this idea of Mr Hawkins, and confiding in his knowledge and judgement of the character alluded to, I am inclined to conclude that it is an expedient deserving of experiment—and that let its success be what it may, the result cannot fail of being honorable to the United States.
For although it is proposed the overture shall have the aspect of a private transaction, yet that it shall have so much of the collateral countenance of government as to convince Mr McGillivray, that he may safely confide in the proposition as it relates to his own and the other cheifs personal security until their return to their own Country.
I have shown Mr Hawkins the enclosed draft of a letter to Alexander McGillivray, it has received his approbation, and he is willing to copy and sign the same, adding thereto some circumstances relative to a former correspondence on some philosophical enquiries.
The bearer of the letter ought to be a man of real talents and

judgement—Although the ostensible object of his mission should be the charge of the letter, yet the real object should be much more extensive—He should be capable of observing the effects of the proposition, on the mind of Mr McGillivray and the other chiefs—He should be of such character and manners as to insinuate himself into their confidence—of obviating their objections to the proposition—of exhibiting in still stronger colours than the letter the ruinous effects of a War to the Creeks—In the prosecution of his designs he should not be in a hurry—but wait with attention and patience the symptoms of compliance—confirm them in such dispositions—and be calm and firm when opposed—And if after all his labor and exertions he should fail of success, he should be capable of giving a clear narrative of the means he used, and the obstacles which prevented his success.
On this persons negotiation, would depend much blood and treasure and in any event the reputation of the United States.
The objects therefore of the mission would require an important character who although not invested with any apparently dignified public commission ought to have such private powers and compensation as would be a sufficient inducement to a performance of the intended service.
The time which the proposed negociation would require might be four months or one hundred and twenty days—If the compensation should be eight dollars per day the amount would be nine hundred & sixty dollars—The expences would probably amount to four hundred dollars in addition—Should several of the Chiefs repair to New York, the expences for that purpose would amount at least to 1000 dollars—so that the expence of one thousand three hundred and sixty dollars at least; and perhaps 2360, would be incurred by the proposed measure—and this sum would be independent of the probable expences of presents and returning the Chiefs to their own Country which would require a much larger sum—But there cannot be any doubt of the oeconomy of the proposed application of the money herein required when compared with the expence which must attend a War.
The proposed experiment would probably be attended with either one or the other of the following consequences.
1st That it would be successful, and thereby prevent a War—

For most probably if Mr McGillivray and the other influential chiefs should embrace the measure, and repair to the seat of Government their dispositions would be sufficiently pacific to conclude a treaty, especially as no terms inconsistent with the principles of justice or humanity would be imposed on them.
2dly In case the proposition should be unsuccessful—The fair and honorable dispositions of the United States would be highly illustrated, and however great the evils which might afterwards result from hostilities, the executive government would not in any degree be responsible for them.
But as this transaction may be liable to the most unworthy imputations arising from some former local prejudices against Mr Hawkins in consequence of his services and zeal for the honor and justice of the United States while a Commissioner of Indian Affairs, it seems fair and reasonable that his conduct in this instance should receive its just approbation, and be shielded from all malevolence and misrepresentations.
I have the honor therefore humbly to submit the measure herein proposed to your consideration—If you should be pleased to approve the principal parts thereof, your direction appears to be essential on the following points.
1st Your approbation of my request to Mr Hawkins in writing, to copy and sign the letter to Alexander McGillivray.
2dly An ample passport for the protection of Mr McGillivray and such chiefs as shall accompany him from the time of their entering the limits of the United States to their return to their own Country.
3dly A direction to me to make the necessary expenditures of money in pursuance of the plan proposed, and to appoint a suitable person to conduct the business. I have the honor to be Sir, With the greatest respect Your Most Obedient Servant

H. KnoxSecretary of War


Title: To George Washington from William Peck, 15 February 1790
From: Peck, William
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Providence [R.I.] Feby 15th 1790

A Convention being at length Ordered and Delegates appointed for deciding on the New Federal Constitution, there are many reasons to hope that the Accession of this State will compleat the Union in a short time. That event will probably induce the Appointment of Sundry Officers for Collecting the Federal Revenue in this State. The Note accompanying this letter will more fully disclose the particular object of it, and point out to your Excellency the Grounds of my present Application for the Appointment of Naval Officer of this Port. With great deference and the Most perfect Esteem & Veneration I am your Excellency’s Most Obedient Servant

William Peck


Title: From George Washington to the United States Senate and House of Representatives, 15 February 1790
From: Washington, George
To: United States Senate and House of Representatives

United States [New York] February 15th 1790.
Gentlemen of the Senate and House of Representatives.

I have directed my Secretary to lay before you the copy of a vote of the Legislature of the State of New Hampshire, to accept the Articles proposed in addition to, and amendment of, the Constitution of the United States of America, except the second Article—At the same time, will be delivered to you, the copy of a letter from His Excellency the President of the State of New Hampshire to the President of the United States.
The originals of the above-mentioned vote and letter will be lodged in the Office of the Secretary of State.

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Theodore Foster, 18 February 1790
From: Foster, Theodore
To: Washington, George

Sir,
State of Rhode Island: Providence Feby 18th 1790

Knowing your Excellency to possess that Benevolence of Disposition which so much contributes to the General Happiness of the United States, and in which all the Citizens of the Union so much confide, I cannot refrain from soliciting your Attention to a Matter, which though more especially interesting to Me personally, is yet attended with such Circumstances connected with the Public, as will I hope serve to apologize for the Application.
At the Session of the General Assembly of this State holden, at Newport, in September Last an Act was passed for levying and collecting, within this State the same Duties, and in the same Manner as in the United States, a copy of which Act for your Excellency’s Information I shall forward by one of the first Packets bound from this Place to New York. By this Act the state was divided into two Districts for the purpose of collecting the Revenue Viz. those of Newport and Providence and it is probable that the same Districts will be continued in future.
At the same Session of the General Assembly I was appointed by Unanimous Consent Naval Officer for the District of Providence. The Honorable Ebenezer Thompson Esqr. was appointed Collector and William Tyler Esqr. Surveyor for the same District which offices we now respectively hold. The object of this Address is therefore to interceede with your Excellency for our Continuance in the same Offices after the New Constitution shall have taken place here which we expect will be in the Course of a few Weeks.
I am not insensible of what was once remarked, in the Reign of the Emperor Theodosius, by Symmachus the Prefect of Rome in a Letter to the Emperor Valentinian 2d “That men of Honor could always be found to supply the Offices of State: that in order to discover them the first Step was to reject all Solicitors for Places and among the Rest would certainly be found people who deserved them”. But as we are already in Office, by appointment of the Representatives of the People at large, and expect to remain under our appointments respectively until the Adoption of the New Constitution by this State, We cannot but hope that we stand on a Footing a little better than common Seekers of Office referred to in the above mentioned Quotation, more especially as it has been remarked

that your Excellency in the Appointments to Offices, under the New Government has generally favoured those Elected by the States, where similiar Offices had been established under the State Governments. And as we hope that our Appointments from the state will be considered at least as a Recommendatory Nomination, having more Weight inasmuch as the Act before mentioned, which we were appointed to carry into Execution, was passed purposely to pave the Way for the Adoption of the Constitution by this State, and which has been faithfully executed in the District of Providence to universal Satisfaction, so far as I know, and in such a Manner as to bear the most scrupelous Enquiry.
I have been informed that Representations unfavourable to us, or to some of us, have been made to your Excellency you will therefore the more readily pardon the present Address or any parts of it which otherwise might appear as indelicate in being too lengthy, too particular or too personal, especially as relating to myself.
My Appointment to the Naval Office for this District which I now hold arose not by any Means from my having advocated or in any Respect adhered to the Measures of the prevalent Party in the Legislature of th⟨is⟩ State for Several Years past. It is universally known th[r]oughout this State that I have ever been considered since the introduction of the paper Money here as belonging to that Description of the Citizens, who have been called the Menority, As a Proof of this I beg leave to mention to your Excellency that the office of First Assistant, who is the Third officer in the Government of this State, became vacant, at the Election in May 1787, by reason of the Non-Acceptance of William Waterman Esqr. who was chosen by the People, in which Cases it falls upon the Assembly to fill up the Vacances, and as Mr Waterman lived in Providence, the Assembly informed the Gentlemen who represented this Town that the Persons whom they should nominate from the Menority should be chosen. I had the Honor of being nominated by Mr John Brown who was then a Representative for Providence and of being unanimously elected and on the Persuasion of the Representatives I accepted the Office with Reluctance knowing that my Political sentiments differed from those of a Majority of the Members. It had been a Question at the same Session of Assembly whether Delegates

should be sent to the Convention then about meeting at Philadelphia. It was voted by the lower House to send them, but negatived by a Majority of one in the Upper House before I took my Seat as a Member which was the Day but one before the close of the Session. At the Session in June following I introduced a Bill in the Upper House for Sending Members to the Convention and was happy enough to obtain a Vote for it there, but such was the Effect of Party Spirit and Party Measures that the Lower House in their Turn then negatived it and no Delegates were sent from this State—After the Proceedings of the Convention were published I was pleased with the General Tenor of the Government, and did all in my Power to obtain a Convention of the People for considering and adopting it. This induced the Leaders of the opposition to the Adoption of the Government here to counteract my Election with the People at large at the next choic[e]. They succeeded on the Idea of my being too much attached to the New Constitution of which I have been assured by the Present Deputy Governor and other Members of the Legislature. Many of them however have since expressed Regret for the opposition made against Me then, and I have the satisfaction of beleiving that I now have the Good Opinion of the State at Large having as a Proof of it received my present Appointment to this Naval Office.
I was educated at, and had the Honors of the College of this State conferred on Me in the Year 1770—I married and Settled in the Town of Providence where I now have a Family. During the most gloomy Periods of the Late War and the whole of the Time that the Enemy had Possession of Rhode Island I was a Member of the General Assembly for Providence and after having Served Six Years as a Representative on my Resignation received from the Town a Vote of Thanks of which I shall take the Liberty of forwarding a Copy being the only vote of the Kind on the Records of the Town.
Mr Thompson was appointed Collector at the same Time I was appointed Naval officer of the District and with Respect to Morality and integrity of Conduct is a Gentleman of most irreproachable Character. He was for a Number of Years a Merchant of Eminence in this Town before the War. He has served with Satisfaction to the Public in a Number of important Offices in this State Civil and Military. He was sometime a Representative

for the Town in the General Assembly and during the War one of the Upper House a Number of Years. He is now Cheif Justice of the Court of Common Pleas in the County of Providence and President of the Town Council which offices he hath sustained with Reputation; His Loses by the War were great occasioned by his Property having been vested in the Continental Securities which depreciated to that Degree that he has been a great Sufferer and as he has a la[r]ge Dependent Family and is otherwise out of Business he seems to have some Claim for his Continuance in the office unless a more worthy Competitor appears which I do not expect will be the Case not to disparage any one.
Mr Tyler is a Gentleman Younger in Life than Mr Thompson—is married and Settled in this Town, he does now and for sometime past has sustained the office of a Justice of the Peace. From his Abilities, Vigilance, Activity, independent Principles of Conduct and agreeable Manners I have no Doubt of his Serving the Public with Reputation and Strict attention to the Duties of the office should he be continued under your Excellencys Administration.
The only objection to the Continuance of these Two Gentlemen in their respective offices here of which I have heard is that they have not been in Sentiment with those who were for immediately adopting the New Constitution without Amendments and in this respect have favoured some of the Measures of this State in procrastinating the calling a Convention—This I beleive will have little weight in your Excellencys Mind when it is considered that so large a Part of the People of this State have been opposed to the New Government—It is rather an Argument in Point of Federal Policy in Favour of their being continued in their offices as they now have the Confidence and Friendship of the State at large. To Continue them would therefore have a Tendency to conciliate the Mind of the State to the New Government and to obtain the Confidence of the People at large when they see that the officers whom they have elected and confided in are continued under the New Administration—On the contrary the appointment of any Persons to these offices who might Reasonably be supposed to be under the immediate Influence of some of the principal Mercantile Characters from their personal intimate friendships and Connexions would excite

uneasiness and give occasion for Distrust. With respect to their Fidelity to the United States and to Congress in the Strict unremitted and uninfluenced Execution of the Duties of their respective offices should they be continued there is not in my opinion any Doubt.
I feel happy that amidst all the Difficulties attendant on the Supreme Executive Power of the Nation arising from Misrepresentations formed from interested Motives Deception can have no Place and that whatever may be the Event of this Application the offices will not be conferred on the unworthy or those who do not deserve Confidence. That this Address may appear to your Excellency in a favourable Point of View: That the Cares and Perplexities ever attendant on the Government of a Great Nation may be alleviated by that Just Return of Gratitude and Confidence due to him who employs his Life and his Talents in promoting the Public Good and that you may long be inabled to dispense to a widely extended and flourishing empire the Blessings of a Mild Just and Equitable Government enjoying the best of all earthly Treasures the Hearts of the People and that you may ever be happy here and hereafter and the Sincere Prayers of him who begs leave to Subscribe himself with the highest Sentiments of Esteem & Respect Your Excellency’s most Obedient Servant

Theodore Foster.


Title: To George Washington from Joshua Clayton, 19 February 1790
From: Clayton, Joshua
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Delaware Feb: 19. 1790

Agreeably to the Directions of the General assembly of this State, I do myself the Honor to enclose your Excellency their Ratification of the Articles proposed by Congress to be added to the Constitution of the United States, and am, with every sentiment of Esteem, Sir, Your Excellency’s Most Obedient Humble Servt

Joshua Clayton


Title: To George Washington from William Gordon, 20 February 1790
From: Gordon, William
To: Washington, George

My dear Sir
St Neots [England] Feby 20. 1790

Though I anticipated the pleasure of hearing you would be chosen President; yet it was confirmed & increased by the actual news of an event, which expressed the gratitude & wisdom of the United States, in conferring their executive power & confidence on the person, who had never deceived nor abused it—no; not when he was tempted to it. The knowledge of this remains to be known by them in some future period. I wished for liberty to have divulged it, in a way that might have prevented all harm, & promoted real good by attaching the public voice still more to your Excellency. For though you may plead—your being conscious of only having done your duty; & may from thence with a profusion of modesty infer—that no particular credit is due to you, I am persuaded the world of mankind will join me in rejecting the inference. There are circumstances, wherein the discharge of duty deserves the greatest credit, excites astonishment, & is entitled to the heartiest commendations: or why does the general praise the valor, the fidelity, & the patient hardiness of his troops. As it is to be hoped, that you being the younger may survive me, you may restrain me, much against my inclination, from a publication that would shew—there are scarce any among the moderns or ancients who can compare with yourself in genuine patriotism: but I have taken care (as far as I can) that when you have made your exit, your reputation shall be exalted. However when that period arrives, may you hear the plaudit of our final judge in a—well done, good & faithful servant enter into the joy of thy Lord.
Your very obliging letter of Decr 23, dated 1789 instead of 1788, was recd the 16th of the following April, while I was at Ringwood in Hampshire. Immediately on my publishing the History, I withdrew with Mrs Gordon from London to her brothers country house at that place for the winter season & to notice whether any opening offered for my settling again in the ministry. On the 27th of that month we set off on our return for the capital, where I was busily & constantly employed in attending to the affairs of a London Annuity Society (for the benefit of wives when we leave them widows) of which I was a director. This detained me in town till the 3d of June. While thus

detained⟨,⟩ I had an unexpected invitation to preach in this place as a candidate, & with a view of settling, if agreeable to all parties. The time for my preaching not being till the first Lord’s day in July, we went upon a visit to Ipswich where we settled after marriage & lived for thirteen years. Such were the regards of my former people, that when I returned from America, had they been vacant, they would have urged me to a renewal of my connexion. When the time came for my preaching, I proved acceptable, & an invitation followed, with which I thought my duty to comply. In August we crossed the country thro’ Bury & Cambridge (from the last we are 18 miles) to St Neots. The getting a house, the procuring furniture, making alterations & public services, have kept me so employed as to have almost worn me down. After the fatigue I had undergone, spirits & strength were well nigh exhausted. But we are now pritty well settled, tho’ far from having finished, & I find myself capable of recommencing my epistolary correspondence. I trust your Excellency’s goodness will admit of this account of myself as an apology, for my not writing sooner & hope the length of it will not offend. Your avocations being so many, & important, I cannot in reason expect that your answers will be either regular or lengthy; but when you have a leisure moment, I shall rejoice to hear in a few words, of the health & happiness of self & family, & that my letters are acceptable to you. Last year I sent a quantity of the seed of the true Turkey Rhubarb to Mr Hazard with directions for the cultivation of it. If he recd it safe doubt not his having mentioned it. I apprehended it might be raised with advantage in some parts of the United States.
I have charmed many of your admirers male & female, by shewing them your letter of Decr 23. Yours of Feby 23. 1789 was recd in May, & afforded me real pleasure among other particulars, by informing me of the then tranquil state of the country. I congratulate you on its continuance, & the prospect of its doing so; & hope that France will establish their revolution shortly on so solid & liberal a basis, as to enjoy similar tranquility. The marquis de la Fayette must feel himself extremely happy on the occasion. On the 16th of Feby I wrote you a letter from Ringwood, which I suppose Mr Field carefully forwarded by the ship Eleanor Capt. Magruder for Alexandria; who had the care of a case marked GW No. 1. Mount Vernon, containing forty two

sets of the History for the several subscribers. The freight was paid. Mr Field was directed to send a set of the best wove paper, most elegantly bound, of which I begged your acceptance as a token of genuine affection; & to enclose in the letter the bill of lading. Your absence, engagements with Congress, & tour to Hampshire State, has prevented, I apprehend, my hearing of their arrival. It will give me peculiar pleasure to learn, that the History meets with your approbation for the impartiality of the writer, & the goodness of the materials communicated to the public. Lest I should trespass too much upon your time⟨,⟩ shall close with mentioning that Mrs Gordon joins me in most sincere wishes for the present & future happiness of your Excellency & Lady, & for your being spared & enabled long to preside in the chair of Congress, to your own growing credit, the increasing advantage of the United States (among whom I rejoice to find North Carolina is now included) & as an instructive pattern to European princes. I remain Your Excellency’s most hearty friend & humble servant

William Gordon

⟨Be⟩ pleased to direct as before ⟨to⟩ Mr Thomas Field’s No. 11 Cornhill.


Title: To George Washington from Joseph Lawrence, 20 February 1790
From: Lawrence, Joseph
To: Washington, George

Sir
Providence [R.I.] Febuary 20th 1790

As Officiers for the collection of the Public revenue in this State will (probably) soon become necessary, the object of this address is to solicit the appointment of Surveyor in the Customs for this Port.

For information relative to my charecter, and pretentions to this appointment, I beg leave to refer your Excellency to the inclosed paper, and shall only add, that as it has always been my study to promote the Liberty and Happiness of my country, so it is my ambition to be ranked among her servants tho’ in an Inferior station. With the most cordial attachment to your Excellencys Person and the most profound veneration, I am your Excellencys most obedient & most faithful servt

Joseph Lawrence


Title: From George Washington to James Madison, 20 February 1790
From: Washington, George
To: Madison, James

My dear Sir
Sunday Morning [20 February 1790]

I return Mr Jefferson’s letter with thanks for the perusal of it. I am glad he has resolved to accept the appointment of Secretary of State, but sorry it is so repugnant to his own inclinations that it is done. Sincerely & Affectly I am—Yrs

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Samuel Powel, 21 February 1790
From: Washington, George
To: Powel, Samuel

Dear Sir,
New York, February 21st 1790.

I have the pleasure to acknowledge the receipt of a letter, which you have been so good as to write to me by the direction of the Philadelphia Society for promoting agriculture—and I beg leave to request your communication of my thanks to the Society for their polite attention, in the present which accompanied it.
Among the advantages resulting from this Institution, it is particularly pleasing to observe that a spirit of emulation has been excited by the rewards offered to excellence in the several branches of rural oeconomy—and I think there is every reason to hope the continuance of those beneficial consequences from such well judged liberality.
As no one delights more than I do in the objects of your Institution, so no one experiences more real pleasure from every proof of their progress—among which it marks the discernment of the Society to have distinguished Mr Matthewson’s improvement in the useful art of making cheese. With sincere wishes for the advancement of our agricultural interests—and, with great regard, I am dear Sir, Your most obedient Servant

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to George Augustine Washington, 21 February 1790 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Washington, George Augustine

Letter not found: to George Augustine Washington, 21 Feb. 1790. On 5 Mar. George Augustine Washington wrote GW referring to “your letter of the 21st Ulto.”