Title: Farm Reports, 26 November 1785–15 April 1786
From: Washington, George
To:

Editorial Note
   In the fall of 1785 Lund Washington indicated to GW his wish to give up the management of the Mount Vernon plantation, a task he had performed for the past twenty-one years including the nearly nine years that GW was away during the war (GW to Lund Washington, 20 Nov. 1785). GW decided to ask his nephew George Augustine Washington, who was living at Mount Vernon with his bride, Fannie Bassett Washington, to assume Lund Washington’s position, which the young major agreed to do before departing in December to spend the winter with the Bassetts at Eltham in New Kent County. In the meantime GW himself had taken over the day-to-day general supervision of his five Mount Vernon farms, Muddy Hole, Dogue Run, River, Ferry, and Home House. The first three of these had overseers who were slaves, and the half brothers Hezekiah and John Fairfax were the overseers of the Ferry and Home House farms respectively. Upon his return to Mount Vernon at the end of March 1786, George Augustine Washington was able to relieve GW of some of the tasks relating to the management of the plantation. The arrival three weeks later of the English farmer James Bloxham, whom GW had hired with the help of George William Fairfax, also meant that in the future GW would have additional expert aid in his efforts to improve agricultural practices at Mount Vernon. But GW remained, as before, intimately involved in all the details of plantation life. See GW to Lund Washington, 20 Dec. 1785, George William Fairfax to GW, 23 Jan. 1786, George Augustine Washington to GW, 3 Feb. 1786, and DiariesDonald Jackson and Dorothy Twohig, eds. The Diaries of George Washington. 6 vols. Charlottesville, Va., 1976–79., 4:302, 315.
Five days before writing to Lund Washington consenting to his departure from Mount Vernon, GW began, on 15 Nov. 1785, to take an inventory of the horses, cattle, tools, and implements on each farm at Mount Vernon. In February 1786 he made a detailed census of the 216 slaves on the five farms, classifying each according to age, sex, and skill, function, or condition. Both of these inventories he included in his diaries, in which he customarily recorded when at Mount Vernon the main decisions made and actions taken each day regarding the operation of the farms. He also began on 10 Jan. 1785 to enter in a separate notebook what he called “Notes and Observations” on his farming operations. These notes and observations form a running record of the sowing, planting, cultivating, and harvesting of crops in the fields and gardens at Mount Vernon. The contents of the notebook, which runs until the end of 1786, and also includes GW’s general discussion

of individual crops raised and harvested during the year, have been transcribed for CD-ROM:GW, but because GW incorporated in his diaries nearly all of the material contained in the notebook, this particular manuscript is not being printed in the Papers. Similar notes or observations on his farming which GW made at other times have been printed as part of his diaries.
When he assumed direct control of his farms in November 1785, GW began keeping still another running record of his farming operations, the one printed here. He assembled these farm reports himself through the week of 15 April, when he turned the task over to George Augustine Washington. For the rest of his life GW demanded from his estate manager these weekly farm reports, as they were called. They are simply reports on what work had been undertaken and accomplished on the Mount Vernon farms during the preceding week. Many sets of the farm reports, some covering only a brief time and others running for many months, have been located. Only a few will be printed in the volumes of the Papers; all eventually will be included in the CD-ROM:GW edition.
The initial farm reports prepared by GW himself and printed here set the pattern for those that followed. Every Saturday, aided by reports from the overseers of River, Dogue Run, Muddy Hole, Ferry, and Home House farms, GW compiled a report of what tasks had been assigned each day to the agricultural workers on the plantation and also recorded births and deaths in his livestock during the week. According to his slave census of February 1786, these agricultural workers included 86 field hands (38 male, including the overseers, and 48 female), 4 carpenters, 3 coopers, 3 drivers and stablers, 2 blacksmiths, 2 stock keepers, 1 wagoner, 1 miller, 1 carter, and 1 gardener. In recording how each of these was employed during the week, GW often identifies the worker by name. The names of more than thirty of them appear in the reports at least once, many of them several times. The farm reports printed here are essentially GW’s record of how he sought to manage his labor force during the winter and spring of 1786.

[Mount Vernon, 26 Nov. 1785–15 April 1786]

1785—Morris’s People—26th Novr
Monday—Sowing Seed—the Women—Men getting Corn. Tuesday all hands treading & getting out Wheat—Wednesday taking an Acct of Stock & cleaning Wheat. Thursday cleaning the above Wheat & getting Corn. men making drains in the meadow. Friday treading a Bed of Wheat—Men getting Corn.

Saturday cleaning up the Wheat which was tread yesterday—& making a bridge over Dogue run.
Muddy-hole 26th Novr
The People at this Plantation gathering drawing in, and husking Corn at the Neck.
Dogue Run—26th Novr
Gathering & Husking Corn—Grubbing—One of the old Cows in the Meadow dead.
Davy—26th Novr
Gathering Corn 4 Days—2 days thrashing Wheat. Cart with one hand helped Carrying Hoop poles to the Mill.
Dogue Run—3d Decr
Finished Gathering husking & Lifting of Corn. In all, besides what the Hogs had Eaten, amounting to  Barrels. Tread out a Bed of Wheat yesterday & cleaning it up to day—People not employed in this Work grubbing the Swamps. Stock all well.
Muddy hole—3d Decr
Gathering husking measuring & Lifting of Corn—112 Barrels—Hogs have eat 28 and is laid by for them 28 Barrls—one day beating out Corn. Stock all well except an old sheep dead—2 Lambs since acct taken.
Ferry Plantation 3d Decr
Gathering Corn & Getting Wheat & Carrying it to the Mill. the Stock all Well. Recd on Accot of Ferriages £3.14.9
River Plantation—3d Decr
From Timber Landing all the Corn has been brought in and lifted. 153 in all. The Remainder of the Week getting in Corn breaking Oxen—and Carting rails to make the Fence round the fodder stock high. the Cut next the Gate, left hand side is got to the Corn House and husked.
Dogue Run. 10th Decr
Treading a bed of Wheat Tuesday—Wednesday cleaned it up—Thursday put down another bed—but cd not clean it up on accot of the Rain yesterday: Making up the Fence round the Wheat yard—Men cutting & mauling—grubbed a little. Stock all well—one Cow has calved. The Beef killed on monday came from this Plantation.
Muddy-hole 10th Decr
Monday beat out all the old Corn—viz.—two loads one for the Home Ho[use] the other for themselves. Made a Pen to winter

the Colts at the farm pen—All the People thrashing until last Night—cleaning Wheat to day—Stock all well. 19 young Lambs 2 killed by Eagles
River Plantatn 10th Decr
Gathering and Measuring Corn all the Week—the whole of the hands—Stock all well—except an old ewe which is dead.
Ferry Plantation 10th Decr
Finished getting out wheat & carrying it to Mill—Gathering & huskg of Corn—stock all well.
Muddy hole—17th Decr
Monday Catching & bringing the fatting Hogs to the Home House. the rest of the day grubbing—3 days & an half grubbing—the other days thrashing Wheat & moving Day into the Neck.
Ferry Plantation 17th Decr
People employed in Killing & cleaning Hogs—and in Gathering, bringing in, & husking of Corn.
River Plantation—24th Decr
3 days gathering Measuring and lofting of Corn—Thursday the women cleaning up Wheat to carry to Mill—the Men cutting & mauling of Rails—Friday put in half a stack of Wheat into the Barn. Men mauling &ca Rails—Saturday Thrashing of Wheat.
Dogue Run—24th Decr
Women all grubbing until Friday—3 of the Men at home House cutting wood for Christmas—the rest getting Posts for fencing except two who were plowing—Friday women raking up the old Dung of the last years Pens—Men still getting Posts. Saturday grubbing when not raining—Men cutting posts—Stock all well. One Lamb.
Muddy hole—24th Decr
4 days grubbing with all hands except the Carter who was Carting wood at the House, & Mink Will who was two days & half Plowing—Friday about the Wheat Field Fence—and getting in wood. Saturday threshing Wheat all day.
Ferry Plantation—24th
All hands employed on Monday in gathering & measuring of Corn—Tuesday, Wednesday & thursday in Carting & lifting it. Friday in sevl kinds of Jobbs—& Saturday getting w[oo]d for Christmas.

Carpenters—24th
Isaac all the Week at the Mill—James repairing Barn & Stables at Muddy hole and Tom & Sambo—pointing 1073 Pallisado’s.
Dogue Run Qr Decr 31st
Stock all well. had one young Calve and one Lamb this Week. Men cutting—& women grubbing thursday Friday & this day—Plowed a little when the ground was not too hard froze or too wet.
River Plantn 31st Decr
Thursday getting Posts for fencing and other Timber for Rails—and cutting down Corn stalks with the Women. 4 Plows at work in the afternoon after the ground had thawed. Friday afternoon 4 Plows at Work. Men cutting & mauling Rails Posts, & Forks—and women threshing & putting up Farm pen. Saturday same.
Ferry Plantn 31st Decr
Men employed since the Hollidays making Horse pen’s—Women cutting down Corn Stalk. Saturday covering the Horse Pen.
Muddy hole Plantn 31st Decr
Thursday & Friday Grubbing—Saturday beating out Corn & sending it to Mill & filling farm Pen with leaves. Plough at work when the weather would permit. Jupiter getting Rails.
Carpenters—31st Decr
Pointing 876 Rails, for Parke Fencing getting a Stock for arms of Mercht Mill Wheel.
Dogue Run—Jany 7th 1786
Stock all well. 3 Lambs fallen this week and then calved. Men cutting and women scrubbing all the Week—today (Saturday) putting Straw in the Farm pen—Old Man Bonny dead—and one old ewe dead.
Ferry Plantation Jan. 7th
Preparing with one hand, Shelter for the Horses &ca—the rest grubbing & cutting in front of the House. Stock all well and no alteration.
River Plantation Jan. 7th
Monday all hands threshing—Tuesday Women filling gullies, Men cutting—Wednesday thursday friday & Saturday ⟨some⟩ of men cutting the rest & the women making farm Pen for cattle which was compleated and littered this day.

Muddy hole. 7th Jany
Will Ploughing when the ground would admit & he & Jupiter Cutting & Mauling of Rails when it wd not—all hands threshing a day and half and the remainder of the Week grubbing in front of the House. Stock all well—no deaths nor increase.
Carpenters—7th Jany 1786
700 Rails pointed—One stock sawed 17 feet long 14 Inches broad 3 pieces 4¾ Inches thick 4 Oars 20 feet long of Pine—Monday Raining & working in the Shop.
Dogue Run—14th Jany
Men Cutting and Mauling Rails as usual—Monday Women Grubbing—Tuesday and ever since adding a fence to enlarge the upper meadow clearing all within and repairing the fence round it. Stock All well—fallen 15 lambs this week two of which (dble ones) dead. No Calves this Week—Ewes & Lambs turned into the Wheat field.
River Plantation—14th Jan.
Men Cutting & Mauling all the Week except the day it Snowed—when they were (half the day) cutting mortices, & hewing Posts for Post & Rail fencing—Waggon & Cart Carting Rails ensuing fencing of the Corn fields—Monday Women putting up a cross fence. Tuesday & Wednesday filling up gullies—Thursday & friday littering farm pen with leaves—today filling up gullies.
Muddy hole. 14th Jany
41 Old Sheep—16 Lambs—2 Men Cutting & Mauling (except one day Will was sick) women Grubbing all the week.
Carpenters—14 Jany
Pieces for a Ladder for the Ice house—10 feet long 5 by 3 when sawed. A Stock for the framing of a door: 26 Posts Morticed 8 pieces tenanted at each end. 1000 Rails pointed—James & Sambo Sawing 2 days. Made 2 Hoops for gravel Sieves. Sawed a stock into 16 ps. 20 ft long—4 by 3.
Ferry Plantation 14 Jany
Grubbing all the Week except a few odd Jobbs No alteration in the Stock.
Dogue Run—21st
Fencing all the Week with the women—Men Cutting and Mauling as usual and morticing some of the Posts. 3 Lambs came this Week—one old Ewe dead—one calve this week—4 in all—and

21 Lambs. all the Horses well except the Dray & Caleb Stones Mares
River Plantation 21st Jany
Monday & Tuesday the Women were filling up Gullies in the large field. Overseer Will & the Women two days making Fence—two days Women only threshing Wheat—Men for a days Cutting & Mauling of Rails—two days the Men Hewing and Morticing of Posts—5 Days Cart & Waggon drawing Rails—one Sheep dead one Lamb yeaned—Horses & Cattle well.
Ferry Plantation 21st Jan.
The People cutting and grubbing till Thursday when the weather set in—after that employed in Jobs. An Increase of 1 Calf and 1 Ewe Lamb.
Muddy hole—21st 1786
4 days grubbing & clearing and two days threshing—One Ewe killed by Dogs—all the Horses & other Stock as usual.
Carpenters—21st
An axle tree for the Cart over the Creek with skeens in it. 5/—1 pr of Boxes put in the wheels for a Cart 5/. Sides of A new Waggon body framed—Rough hewed the timber for a harrow plow—A Rack made for the Cow Ho. 12 feet long 22 yds in it. 300 rails hewed from end to end for the Paddock—600 d[itt]o pointed. One Tongue for the New Roller.
River Plantation 28th Jany
Monday threshing Wheat with the women. Tuesday Cleaning Wheat with half the Women—the other half making fence—The other 4 days the Women all making fences—Six days the men cutting & mauling Rails. 2 Carts & Waggon Carting Rails the whole week except carrying Wheat & Corn to Mill. 2 young Calves—one of the yearlings in the field dead.
Muddy hole Plantn 28th Jan.
41 Sheep—16 Lambs—32 Cattle—22 Horses—Monday women threshing in the Barn—the other 5 days grubbing—little Will 6 days cutting Rail Timber and Posts. Jupiter 3 days Mauling—& 3 days sick.
Carpenters—Jany 28th
30 feet of R⟨ac⟩ks with 60 sticks in it—Waggon gates framed & planked—sides planked. 58 White Oak saplins got & split for Sheep fold. 300 Sticks got for it. 335 Rails hewed & pointed for

Park fencing. 15 forks & 8 large Poles cut for the removal of the Garden Houses. p⟨ieces tie⟩d up for a harrow plow.
Ferry Plantn—28 Jany
Women Grubbing all the Week. Men cutting & mauling rails all the Week. One old mare dead—1 Ewe killed by Dogs. The rest as usual.
Dogue run—28th Jan.
Finished the fence from the Mill Meadow to the other Meadow—& began the cross fences by the wood. Men cutting & Mauling—old Mary getting better—3 young Lambs this Week 24 in all—2 young Calves this Week.
River Plantation Feb 4th
Monday, Women Threshing—Men (except Essex who was making Baskets for home house) Morticing posts. Tuesday, Women making fence round Timberlanding field; Men cutting and Mauling—Wednesday—Ditto—D[itt]o—Thursday the same—Friday same. Saturday Women Toating leaves into the Farm pen—Then, assisting in removing Houses at Mt Vernon. & then making a pen to feed Jocky hogs the year round—One old Cow dead—& one Calf came. 10 lambs—Carts getting rails to fence—2 days Plowing with 4 plows.
Dogue Run. 4th Feby
Men Cutting & Mauling as usual. Women making new fence along the Wood to the Corner by the old gate, & from thence to the present Wheat field fence with old rails—lodging all the New ground in order to Hoe, all—also did part of the fence from the New fence towards the Meadow fence by the House. plowed a little yesterday and today within the enclosure of the upper meadow—2 lambs Yeaned this week & one died—25 in all—6 Calves in all—an old Oxe Pompey dead. The old mares mending.
Carpenters—4th Feby
42 White Oak Saplins for sheep fold—125 bars rived for D[itt]o 2 trees cut down & 4 cuts taken of one for Do—11 forks for removing the Garden Houses—12 Stocks 10 feet long 12½ Inches Square—2 of which sawed.
Ferry Plantation 4th Feby
Women Grubbing except Flora, who was sick—2 Men getting rails for the Plantation—2 Lambs and 1 Calf this Week—all the

rest of the Stock as usual. Ferry men (when not in the Boat) cutting where the women are Grubbing.
Muddy hole Plantn 4th Feb.
41 Sheep—17 Lambs (one yeaned this Week) 32 Cattle—22 Horses—Women grubbing all the week with the overseer. little Will plowed half a day Monday, tuesday, Wednesday & thursday, & all friday. & part of this day after going from M. Vernon. Charles & Jupiter Mauling, Will cutting Rails &ca when not plowing—Cart drawing Rails round fence yesterday, & part of this day.
Dogue Run Plantn 11th Feb.
Finished Staking & ridering all the new fences—Hoed up a good deal of the fresh land lying in this fence and in the Swamps. Three plows at work all the week—Men cutting & clearing in the swamps—2 more lambs this week—27 in all. ⟨illegible⟩ Calf this week—the old dray Mare declining again—the other
Ferry Plantn 11th Feby
1 hand plowing & laying of Corn ground—1 Mauling & getting of Rails—1 D[itt]o carting—Women Grubbing—Ferry men all have turns cutting—increase one calf—and one Lamb—all the rest of the stock as it were.
River Plantation—11th Feb.
6 days 6 plows at Work—5 days filling up gullies with the women—4 days 3 Men cutting & Mauling—5 days 2 Carts hauling Rails—1 day making fences with the women—25 Lambs this Week—one cart went to the mill today. 2 Calves this Week—1 Cow (old) died this week.
Muddy-hole—11th Feby
Overseer sick and no acct from thence.
Carpenters—11th Feb.
Sawing Posts and Rails for yards for the Jack & Magnolia—amountg to 506 ft—getting 5 Stocks 9½ feet long 12 inchs sqr. Making two Plows 5/ each—4 Posts for an Ox Sling for shoeing—9 feet long 10 Inchs sqr. and getting 2 ox yokes.
Dogue Run—18th Feby
Monday hoed up ground with the Women. Men cleaning up the swamps—cleared up the ground where the Hog pen was & continued the cross fence toward the Ho. House meadow as far

as the logs would go. cleaning & burning up the swamps—Men during the bad weather hueing Posts. One Lamb this week (28 in all)—Black Mare in the lift all the rest of the stock well.
River Plantation 18th Feb.
Monday filling up Gullies with the Women—5 days threshing with D[itt]o—Monday 7 plows running. 4 Men cutting & mauling in the Woods—Tuesday Men morticing Posts; & 4 days cutting & mauling in the woods. 2 Carts hauling Rails 4 days & the Waggon two days—8 Lambs this Week—1 Calf.
Carpenters—18th Feby
66 Mortices dug two Inches wide & 6 Inches deep 80 Tenants made 1 Inch thick—300 laths rived of pine—2 Corner posts got today & sawed for the inclosures for the stud horses—Isaac lame all this week and last.
Ferry Platn 18th Feby
1 Fellow plowing & cutting straw all the Week. 1 D[itt]o Mauling and loading the Waggon with Hay 1 Do employed Carting—Sam & London when not at the ferry employed Cutting—and all the Woman grubbing this Week—Stock all well, & as usual—1 Lamb this Week.
Dogue Run—Plann Feb. 25th
Men cutting & mauling all the week in the swamp—women cleaning up D[itt]o—Old black Mair dead—the other two old Mares better. 3 Lambs dead—one of which just Yeaned
Ferry Plantn 25 th Feby
Monday 2 hands cutting straw. 2 days plowing—3 days mauling—2 Women plowing 1 day all the rest except Betty (who was sick) grubbing—Cupid Cutting—Cart hauling rails Straw &ca—Stock all as usual—One of the fatting Beeves brought from thence a few night ago.
River Plantation—[Feb.] 25th
Women threshing & cleaning Wheat all the Week—Men cutting & Mauling all but one day when they were Hueing & morticing Posts except some that were threshing 1 plow laying off rows Tuesday—Waggon 2 days carrying Wheat to the mill—2 Carts drawing rails for fencing & old rails to fill up gullies—7 Lambs this Week & 1 Calf.
Muddy hole—[Feb.] 25th
Overseer sick no Acct given in.

Carpenters—[Feb.] 25th
147 rails tenanted for the deer paddock 20 for the pen for the stud horses. 8 Posts headed: 850 laths rived for the New Room.
River Plantation—Mar. 4th
Monday women cutting down Corn stalks half the day. the other part taking into the Barn a stack of Wheat. Tuesday & Wednesday employed in making a fence with them—thursdays, threshing & cleaning wheat with them—Men 4 days cutting & Mauling Rails—Two other days cutting & morticing Posts—4 days 2 Carts & the Waggon Carting Rails—stock as usual—No calves nor no lambs this Week.
Ferry Plantation Mar. 4th
Monday 3 plows at Work—1 hand Carting—1 Mauling—Sam & London cutting Wood when not at the Ferry & the Women Grubbing. The same kind of employment through the Week when the Weather would permit the people to be out & the Plows to run.
Carpenters—4th March
160 Tenants in the rails for the Paddock—2 Stock 18 feet long & 1 Sixteen feet got, and the two first sawed into scantlings 4 by 5—1 stock of Poplar sawed 10 feet long 18 inches deep—7 plank 2 Inches thick—3 Boxes put into New Wheels & the Mortices cut—One axle got for the ferry Cart—20 feet of Hurdle done in the bad Weather.
Dogue Run—4th March
No account from thence.
Muddy-hole—4th March
No acct from thence neither.
Muddy hole—11th March
40 Sheep (one old ewe dead since last acct rendered)—22 Lambs. (5 since last acct). 32 head Cattle. 1 young Calf since last acct—22 horses—Women all except Peg & Nanny grubbing all the Week. Nanny sick 5 days & Peg one day. 3 Men Morticing Posts monday & part Tuesday. little Will plowing 3 days—and Morticing Posts 3 days.
Dogue run—11th Mar.
Monday so wet could neither hoe ground nor clean up the Swamps Men Morticing Posts—Tuesday Men & women both logging up ground. Wednesday Thursday & friday cleaning

up the Swamps & preparing the ground for the Plows. Friday one plow laying off Corn rows, one D[itt]o doing the same to day, & 2 braking up ground. The Bull & 1 Cow dead since last. only 16 Lambs—12 have died out of 28—11 Calves in all 4 Since last acct. Ox Cart & 2 hands at the home House all the Wk—29 Posts for fencing Morticed in all.
River Plantatn—11th Mar.
Three days with one Man & 4 Women cleaning wheat—the other 3 days making fences all the rest of the women abt farms. The Men cutting & mauling—Nat & Doll 2 half days plowing—8 plows at work today in the ground intended for oats—2 half days (Mornings) cutting down Corn stalks—1 Calf this week (9 in all)—2 Cows dead.
Ferry Plantation—11th Mar.
Monday—men cutting & mauling—women grubbing. Tuesday—the same. Wednesday Caesar plowing—the other men cutting & mauling & women Grubbing—Thursday 3 plows at Work—2 hands ½ a day getting Beef to Ho[me] Ho[use]—Men cuttg & mauling women Grubbg—Friday 3 plows at Wk other people employed as yesterday & loadg waggon with hay—Saturday 3 plows at Work rest employed as yesterday—Doll 4 days sick.
Carpenters—11th Mar.
A poplar stock Hewed 17 Inches deep and sawed into 7 pieces 14 feet long. 1 six inches thick—1[,] 3½ inches thick split into 3 pieces, 5½ by 3½—the rest of 7 pieces were 2 Inches thick—One Oak Stock 14 feet long 12 Inches square split into two pieces—2 Axle trees made—1 for Morris & 1 for Muddy hole 5/ each—221 Rails Tenanted—2070 laths.
Dogue Run—18th Mar. 1786
Monday & Tuesday Men & Women Hoeing—Wednesday raining—Men did something to the Posts—Thursday completed the cross fence & removed all stumps and other rubbish along the Wood side & cross fence. Yesterday (friday) cleaning before the plows again. 3 plows at work—2 laying off the flush plowing & breaking in a young mare. 11 Posts Morticed this Week. 21 Lambs (5 this Week) No calves this week—stock all well.
River Plantation 18th Mar.
Monday 2 plows laying off the grd for Corn &c., 7 plows crossing the ground for oats. Women filling gullies—2 Men grubbing

—1 sick—on Tuesday the same except that one plow was added to the 7 abt the oat ground & taken from laying off. Wednesday 1 plow laying off, & 8 cross plowing oat ground half the day the other half the day men morticing posts & women threshing in the Barn. Friday 1 plow laying off, and 8 plows crossing Oat ground 2 Men removing stumps 1 sick—and women threshing. Saturday 6 plows crossing oat ground till twelve oclock—Then went to listing in timber landing field 2 others laying off—& 1 plowing in the first plow—3 Men removing stumps & women making fence anew round Wheat field—Waggon Carting rails thursday—One cart carrying stuff to fill up gullies two days—2 days and an half carting rails—the other half carting Provender & litter for the stock. 7 Lambs this Week & two Calves.
Muddy hole—18th Mar.
40 Sheep 22 Lambs 32 Cattle & 1 young Calf—the same as last week. 22 horses—Monday 3 plows crossing—2 Men Cutting Rails & Mauling—Women grubbing except Peg who was sick—Tuesday 3 plows crossing—2 Men cutting & Mauling—same women grubbing—Wednesday plows stopped by rain 3 Men Cutting & mauling—women all on the New ground—Thursday—the same as yesterday—Friday—2 plows laying off 2 Men Cutting & mauling—women all into the new grd Saturday—1 Man cuttg—1 went to Alexandria in the Boat—1 Sick—Women all in the new grd.
Carpenters—18th Mar.
Stable-partition 26 feet in length 6 feet high—2 gates one to each division—a Rack and Manger in one end. 2 Axle trees got & made—one for the river & the other for the Plantations—30 feet of hurdles—1 new lay gum—9 boxes for setting turkeys—Poplar stock 14 feet long 17 Inches deep—Sawed into 2 planks 2 Inch thick—1 ditto 3½ Inch thick & split into 2 pieces 8½—Tom makes 3 days repairing fish Boat
Ferry Plantn 18th Mar.
Monday 3 days plowing—1 loading Waggon with Hay for the Ho. House & mauling between while—Cupid Mauling—London & the Women grubbing—The Cart hauling straw to the farm pen—Tuesday and Wednesday all hands employed as on Monday. Thursday & friday Cæsar cutting straw for horse feed Sam mauling London, Cupid & the women grubbing—Saturday

3 people plowing Sam cutting & Mauling London cupid and the women grubbing. Tuesday Wednesday thursday friday Cart employed at the Ho. House, & Saturday in Carting straw to the farm Pens.
Dogue run Plantn 25th March
Monday Hoeing until it rained—Tuesday hoeing all day—Wednesday hoeing till the afternoon and then repairing Piney run dam. Thursday till dinner time repairing leaks and breaches in the Mill race—afterwards Hoeing. Friday Hoeing all day. Sowing & harrowing Oats till the afternoon—then plowing them—Saturday—making up pasture (or outward) fencing—Plows at Work all the Week—one laying off—the others listing till yesterday afternoon & this day when they were plowing in Oats—8 Posts morticed this Week by Brunswick one lamb this week (making 22 in all). 1 calf this Week. 1 cow & Calf brot to home house this Week—1 fatted weather ditto.
Muddy hole—25th Mar. 1786
40 Sheep. 22 Lambs. 32 Cows & a calf as last week 22 horses—Monday Charles mauling—little Will & Jupiter sick. first of the day 3 women plowing the rest in the new ground—the latter part threshing Wheat. Tuesday Mauling Rails with Charles Will & Jupiter Sick—Women all in the New ground Wednesday—Charles went to Town Will & Jupiter sick—3 plows at Work (with women) rest of the women in New ground—Thursday Will & Jupiter sick 3 plows at Work, all the rest of the people repairing fencing for Corn ground. Friday Jupiter & Will yet sick—3 Women plowing all the rest repairing fencing—Saturday: Will and two Women plowing all the rest (including Jupiter) repairing fencing. Monday Gabriel & the Cart at Ho. House till it began to rain—Tuesday & Wednesday Carting rails to the new ground—Thursday, Friday & Saturday (except bringing Meal from the mill) stopped and Gabriel assisting about the fencing.
River Plantn 25th Mar.
Monday—nine plows running till the rain began Tuesday Nine plows running all day—the same Wednesday, thursday, friday & Saturday. part of friday afternoon, & all Saturday, 8 of them were plowing the Oat ground—Women taking in a part of a stack of Wheat & threshing on Monday. Men threshing, morticing

posts, & carrying a roller &ca from Ho. House—Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday & friday: 3 Men digging stumps. The rest of the Men (not at the Plan[tation]) & the Women making fence round the orchard—Tuesday, Wednesday, & thursday cutting down corn stalks—friday filling up gullies & making fences—Saturday turning dung. Adam with the Oxen, 3 days harrowing ground for oats—3 Men carried 52½ bushels of wheat to the mill in the large Boat. 3 Calves this week 3 Lambs ditto stock (the rest) as usual.
Carpenters—25th Mar.
1 Stock for rafters 12 inches square, 24 feet long sawed into 12 rafters 4 by 3—1 ditto 18 feet long 12 by 15 square, sawed into 15 rafters—1 ditto 18 feet long 12 inches square—sawed into 12 rafters. 1 ditto 12 feet long 10 by 12 not sawed—1 Sill for the Gt House 22 feet long 9½ by 12 Inches. 44 feet of Sill for the ferry fish house put in 6 inches by 8—22 rafters put up at the said House. 163 boards sawed, dubbed, and nailed up. 1 pannel of the Sheep hurdle made & 2 or 3 pieces dressed for more—Thom. Noaks 3 days repairing fish Boat.
Ferry Plantatn 25th [Mar.]
Monday—Cæsar cutting straw for horse feed—the rest grubbing & cutting, till it set into raining—after which London & Cupid went about Baskets, and the Women to shelling Corn. Tuesday, Wednesday, thursday, friday & Saturday Cæsar and two women plowing (except one day Cæsar was stopped by the breaking of his plow) Sam Kit cutting and Mauling all the Week. and London Cupid and the Women grubbing. The Cart employed all the Week in taking out dung—except when it went to Mill for Meal & Bran & carried home Oats—Increase one young colt—the rest of the stock as usual.
Muddy-hole. April 1st
40 Sheep. 2 lambs. 32 Cows & a Calf. 22 horses. Monday & Tuesday. Charles & Gabriel about a drain—Ov[ersee]r Jupiter and the Women about Corn field fence. Little Will Nan & Nancy cross plowing. Wednesday Thursday & friday little Will laying of Rows in the plowed ground—the other two plows listing & harrowing after him—Cart assisting on thursday to carry Corn to the Mill—the rest of the hands about the Corn Stalks—Cart Carting dung all day friday. Saturday threshing & cleaning.

River Plantation—Apl 1st
Monday All the Plows were at Work—viz.—one laying off. 7 Plowing in Oats—& one Team harrowing ditto—Breechy Ben & Bath digging stumps—Women til ten oclock heaping dung—afterwards cutting Corn stalks in the Crk field—Tuesday—the same—2 Carts carrying out dung—Wednesday the same—excepting that the Plows havg finished Plowing in Oats went to listing in Timberlanding field till abt 1 Oclock & then to plowing a piece of ground in front of the Overseers Ho. for grass seeds. Thursday—the same as yesterday—Friday, plows went again (having plowed & cross plowed the ground for grass) to listing in Timberlanding field and the harrow to harrowing the grass ground—women making fence. Saturday—Women threshing—men that were not threshing were employed in Morticing Posts—One Cow had a Calf pulled from her yesterday & is very bad to day—another in the same condition today. An old Cow—& a yearling on the lift—all the rest as usual.
Dogue run Plantn Apl 1
Monday hoeing & cleaning up ground in the Swamp with the women & part of the men—the rest at the Plow—Tuesday Plows at Work—the rest cutting down stalks—Wednesday & part of thursday the same—the remainder of thursday pounding of Clods in the Oat field—Friday till 12 Oclock breaking clods again and then went to hoeing ground for Mellon patch—Men abt Posts—Brunswick did 10 this Week—Stock all well—1 Calf this Week.
Carpenters Apl 1
22 rafters put up at the fish Ho. at the ferry 22 Studs put up. ⟨A plate⟩ 6 inches square and 22 feet long got & put in the main body of the Ho. 5⟨02⟩ boards nailed up. 2 doors 4½ feet square made for the same Ho. 53 rails mauled & pointed & 4 Posts for the Paddock fencing—1 length of sheep hurdle. Sambo sick 3 days.
Ferry Plantn Apl 1st
Monday 3 hands plowing—the Cart hauling straw the rest of the people cutting Corn stalks. Tuesday 3 hands plowing—Cart hauling Corn stalks the rest of the people picking them up. Wednesday 3 hands plowing, Cart hauling & the rest cutting Stalks—Thursday 3 hands plowing Cart carrying Corn to the Mill to be spread in the loft. the rest cutting stalks the forepart

of the day the latter part getting ground in order for Spring Wheat. Friday 3 hands plowing—Cart hauling dung, & straw for the Stock—the rest pulling Corn Stalks—Saturday—Caesar cutting straw—men making baskets—women shelling corn. Increase of 4 calves this Week—the rest of the stock as usual.
Muddy-hole Apl 8th
40 Sheep. 22 lambs—32 Cattle besides a young calf 22 Horses. Monday Charles & the women cleaning Wheat in the Barn little Will Jupiter and Gabriel Hewing & Morticing Posts—Tuesday the same except that Charles went to the fishing landing—Wednesday and thursday all hands about Fencing (except Charles). Friday little Will and one woman plowing—a little while fixing & trying my drill plow but chiefly laying off ground for Corn—Women cutting & burning Corn Stalks—Saturday the same as yesterday except that the Cart made one trip to the Mill. & that little Will was employed drilling in Oats & Nanny harrowing.
River Plantn 8th Apl
Monday 2 Men & all the women threshing Wheat—the rest of the men cutting & mauling in the Woods. Tuesday & Wednesday the same except some of the Men being employed in Morticing Posts Wednesday—Thursday & friday 5 Women were cleaning wheat in the Barn—the rest making fencing—Breechy & Bath came to the fishing landing on thursday—the rest of the men taking up straw. Friday the plows, which had been stopped all the preceding days of the week began to work again. Saturday—Spread the manure plowed twice & harrowed the Oats in the ground intended for the experiment—after which the Plows returned to listing again—& the Women to cutting stalks. Monday & Tuesday the Waggon carried Wheat to Mill Thursday Carting rails—Monday Tuesday thursday friday & Saturday two Carts carrying out Dung. 2 Calves this Week 3 lambs D[itt]o—2 Cows & 1 calf dead—& 1 cow & a working steer upon the lift.
Dogue run—8th April
Monday carrying logs over the Swamp & began to make the fence up to the Meadow—Tuesday & Wednesday raining & nothing done Thursday about the fence again wch was finished to day—stopping gullies—laying off to day—the 3 young calves

dead 2 oxen upon the lift—One small Sorrel work mare dead—the rest of the horses & sheep well. One Cow & Calf sent to the Mill for the use of the Miller.
Carpenters—8th Aprl
800 boards got—304 nailed up—13 short studs to support the rafters all for the Fish house at the ferry. 1 poplar stock sawed into 5 pieces 5 by 3 Inches—40 feet of sheep hurdles—James two days Sick—Tom Nokes with the Sein Haulers.
Ferry Plantn 8th Apl
Monday, Cæsar cutting straw & carrying Mare to Jack. The Rest of the hands fencing Corn field—Tuesday the same, in the first part the day latter part the men making baskets—the women shelling Corn (being raining)—Wednesday the same (was then still raining)—Thursday all hands fencing—Friday 3 hands listing Corn ground the rest fencing—Saturday the same. Cart employed in hauling Rails, dung, & Meal from the Mill—The Ferrymen hauling Sein when they were not transporting travellers across One Lamb yeaned—and one lost, supposed to be stolen.
River Plantation 15th Apl
Sunday 9 plows at Work—3 days 12 women cutting corn stalks. 3 days 2 men & 3 Women planting grass seeds. 2 days 2 men cutting stumps 6 days 2 Carts carrying dung—2 Cows dead.
Muddy hole—Plantn 15th Apl
Monday & Tuesday 8 people picking Corn Stalks & cutting them down. Wednesday 8 ditto sowing Carrots. Thursday 8 d[itt]o grubbing. friday & saturday doing the same. 6 days plowing & harrowing with 3 teams. 6 days Carting dung. 1 Ewe dead—the rest of the stock as usual—2 colts which were in the wheat field brought to the home house pasture.
Dogue run—15th
Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday tredding & cleaning wheat. with the women—Men that were not at plow & Cart, cleaning up Swamp & logging it—1 Jack constantly at the fishing landing—Thursday & friday Hoeing Saturday Spreading dung on ground intended for Carrots—Monday & Tuesday horses treading wheat the rest of the days plowing—Oxen carrying Wheat to Mill, Dragging the Roller, and Carting Dung 1 Mare (Hunter) dead—1 Ox very low—3 young Calves.

Ferry Plantn 15th Apl
Monday, Tuesday, & Wednesday getting grd in order & Sowing Spring wheat—the rest of the People employed in Spreading dung these 3 days. Thursday 3 plows at work listing, Cupid & the women picking up Corn Stalks; Friday 3 plows listing till dinner time, then breaking up ground for Potatoes, & drilled Corn—Cupid & the Women fencing meadow. Saturday the same—Sam & London fishing—carting dung 3 days. Stock all well.
Carpenters 15th Apl
535 Boards nailed on at the Fish House at the ferry landing, 2 doors hung there one with a lock—A stock for Posts got 16 feet long, 9 Inches sqr.—2 Stocks 11 feet long 16 inches sqr. for outer gate 80 feet of sheep hurdles putting in 4 boxes to new Charriot Wheels.


Title: From George Washington to John Fitzgerald, 26 November 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Fitzgerald, John

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon Novr 26th 85

If the necessary alterations are made in the petition and Bills which were drawn by Mr Johnson—and fair copies of them taken the sooner they are forwarded to the respective assemblies the better.—Time is gliding away—at the latter part of a session the members get impatient and but too often reject matters, because they will not spare time to attend to them.—I am—Dear Sir Yr Obed. Servt G. Washington

P.S. I am to dine with Col. Lyles on Monday—If there is anything before the Board, and you will let me know the hour of attendance; and will give Colo. Silpit [Gilpin] notice of it, I will be there—not expecting, nor indeed will it be convenient for me, to be up again in a short time. G.W.


Title: To George Washington from Battaile Muse, 26 November 1785
From: Muse, Battaile
To: Washington, George

Honorable Sir,
Fauquier C[ount]y Novr 26th 1785

the bea[rer] Mr Daniel Harrel who Lives in this County is desirous to become a Tenant of yours on Lott No. 2. 140 acres—which Lott is now Inhabited by Michael Ruse a Man not worth anything—I have recommended the bearer to you for your approbation for a Lease on the following Terms—to have a Lease agreeable to the Covenants of your Late Lease for the Term of

Ten years His paying the annual rent of Ten pounds ⅌ year—the small grain that is now soun the said Harrel is to Pay for on demand at what Ever its Valued at by Capt. John Edmonds—the Said Harrel is to Produce to you a Satisfactory recommendation respecting His Carracter. I am now on the Land and Shall advise you soon of my Proseedings the Back rents of this Lott No. 2 appears to be Lost as well some others by removeal of the tenants. I am Sir your Humble Servt

Battaile Muse


Title: To George Washington from William Gordon, 28 November 1785
From: Gordon, William
To: Washington, George

My dear Sir
Jamaica Plain [Mass.] Nov 28. 1785

My design of publishing is now in such forwardness, that I expect the proposals for the History of the American Revolution, will be circulated through the United States by the first week in January. I have given direction, that a few should be forwarded to your Excellency from New York as soon as printed. Shall think myself greatly honoured & served by your countenance. I have requested of my friend Mr Roberdeau to receive subscriptions for me at Alexandria, & promise myself from his former acts of kindness, that he will oblige me in it; through the advice of Col. Gibbs have made a like application to Col. Fitzgerald; Col. Gibbs has supported by a letter. Mrs Gordon unites in sincere regards to your Excellency, your Lady, & the rest of the family, the young gentleman especially, with my Dear Sir, Your sincere friend & very humble servant

William Gordon


Title: To George Washington from Battaile Muse, 28 November 1785
From: Muse, Battaile
To: Washington, George

Honourable Sir,
Berkeley County Novr 28th 1785

I returned yesterday from your Lands In Fauquier I received only Eighteen pounds which was paid me by Daniel Harris who informs me that He Lives on Lott No. 11 He beleaves—Least you Should want the money I have enclosed and order on Mr Andrew Wales in Alexandria for £20 being over what I have Received, the Tenants all Promise to Pay after Christmast but I expect it will be next spring before I shall receive money from them. I have advised them to make good Payments if they expected to have indulgence and the Sooner they get clear the better—they in general are so Very Pooer in Fauquier that I expect many will never Pay up the arrears, which will Ocation a Loss to you and an Evil to the Tenant—had the rents been annually Collected they would have been in a Better Sittuation as well your accts, which I am not able to Settle nor Can it be done in my Opinion with any Certainty unless you are on the Spot—they not haveing all their receipts and Two Tenants on one Lease add to this the Conveyances that has hapned and many other circumstances—makes it uncertain for me to State a Final Settlement So as to make my Self Safe therefore could you or Mr Lunn Washington who is Perhaps acquainted with their situations attend a True state might be made—after which Should I be Favoured with the business I will Ensure that all things needfull shall be done. I Shall Collect all I Can by next spring and when i can with Certainty state their accts I will endeavour to do So—there is on the Tract Land in Ashbys Bend three Lotts Vacant—I mean that the Persons there are Worth nothing—Lott No. 1. No. 2. No. 9 which Lott No. 9 no one has liveed on for many years if Ever. Please to advise whether I am to advertise the renting them or whether I Shall Let them by private Bargain as Some of them are Under Lease’s—the number of years Let them for, & what rents. There is three more Lotts that are in a bad sittuation, I am Told their is good Men Comeing to

them which will Pay the Back rents—which if done, I suppose will be Sufficient—as the Land is not Very good—but Very few has Complyed with their Leases—but they promise they will attend to the Covenants now as Quick as Possable—the Widow Lemart is not able to Pay the ballance of her acct She Promises to Pay me rent after Christmast, the others that Can Pay att al, say they will Try To make up half of their arrears by next Spring and Pay the other half out of the next Crop—but their Complying is a Doubt with me, and indeed I am Certain that half of them will not Comply To distress them they Can not give Security and to Sell their all would not Pay off. I shall not distress unless in Cases of Necessity untill they worke of some of their arrears unless you advise It. where only one rent is due I make a Point to distress unless its Paid in a reasonable Time so as To Prevent Two rents To be due at once.
There are Several Tenants on Chattins run Tract—Lott No. 1 John Thompson Lives 196 acres in the Lott He says He only agreed to Pay for one Lott which was not to exceed 130 acres He is a Very Poor Man but of good Carrecter—would it not be best to divide the Lott as He will not be able to Pay more than for 96 acres at £5. Take of that Quantity and Lease out the 100 acres for Ten years and charge Thompson with arrears for 130 acres which is more than He will ever Pay. Lott No. 2—206 acres has a good Tenant—one Charles Rector who is able to Pay arrears & the annual Rent he sayes He will Pay half next spring and the hole if He can Possably Collect His Money—Lott No. 3. 278 acres has three Persons thereon—William Hanburry, Jacob Rector & Jesse Rector I can say nothing in Favour of those People and as I think they have Trespassed they should be distressed for the arrears of rents.
Lott No. 4—200 acres—Lives three Tenants—Edward Graham who is not able to worke—James Rector who works for the old Man Graham—Peter Rector who is to Pay half of the rents—these People are Poor therefore the arrears will be dificult to Collect.
The foregoing is as full a State of your Tenants as I have yet had in my Power to Communicate—I have been Tedious and Expect to be Troublesome to you untill I am better acquainted with your affairs—as Its’ my desire to do all things for the best. indeed I am so Fearfull of doing wrong that it’s Possible I Fail

some Times in doing what I Aught to do—with your advice I shall do every thing I can untill the spring by that Time things may be better understood—in this Time the Vacant Lands should be Let as the Lotts Improvements may not be Lost—as the Lands are not rich I suppose they might be Let for three Years on the old Terms on Paying up the arrears by such Time—when there is no Probability of geting arrears a Lease for Ten years on Paying agreeable to the present Improvements & Soil, I suppose will be sufficient—as I before observed I wish to be advised whether its Necessary To Advertise Those Places that are Vacateed.
I have 1,000 bushels of wheat ready to send down but I cannot get waggons to engage to go to your mill—the bearer of this takes down a Load and If Possable your mill shall receive a Quantity by Christmass as its necessary that Some instruement of writeing should be produced respecting a Bargain in case of Death—I shall be oblige to you to Send me a line respecting Your Purchase of the thousand Bushels wheat—the Butter I mentiond to you shall be down at Mr A. Wales on or before the 23d day of December unless the roads are not Passable.
Should the rents in Berkeley and Frederick not be discharged by the first day of March it’s my Opinion that distresses should Take Place as the Inhabitants here Look for Law before Payment otherwise I do not expect you will recover the rents in the Course of next year as their is so many stages of Law to Pass through—I have the Honour to Be your Obedient Humble Servant

Battaile Muse


Title: From George Washington to Patrick Henry, 30 November 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Henry, Patrick

Dear Sir.
Mount Vernon Novr 30th 1785

I have had the honor to receive your Excellency’s favor of the 11th & am much obliged to you for the Commissioners report respecting the cut from the Waters of Elizabeth River to those of Albemarle Sound. And it is with great pleasure I have since heard that that matter is in a prosperous way in our Assembly, & placed on a footing (reasonable & just I think) which is likely to meet the approbation of the Legislature of No. Carolina.
It has always been my opinion since I first investigated the Great dismal Swamp as a member & manager of that Company that the most advantageous Cut would be found to be through Drummonds pond to the head of Pasquotank and I have Surveys & Notes which prove this I think, incontestably—Mr Andrews’s conjectures, with respect to Locks, I conceive is justly founded; for if the bed of the lake is above the level of the Water of Elizabeth River & Pasquotank the reflux by means of the Canal being greater than the influx must undoubtedly drain the Pond & render it useless as a reservoir without these Locks—but the places at which it may be proper to establish them must

I should suppose depend upon the level & suitableness of the ground to receive them after the cut is made which should be begun at the extreme ends that the water may run of (and if with any velocity) to contribute to the work.
If this cut is effected, the obstructions in the Roanoke removed (which will most assuredly follow) and the inland Navigation of the Rivers James & Potomack compleated according to Law it will open channels of convenience & wealth to the Citizens of this State that the imagination can hardly extend to and render this the most favoured Country in the Universe. These measures only require a beginning to shew the practicability, ease & advantage with which they may be effected. Rappahanock & Shanondoah (the latter through a long extent of it) will follow the example & I see nothing to prevent the two b⟨ran⟩ches of York River from doing the sam⟨e.⟩ The consequence in the article of draug⟨ht⟩ Cattle alone—and to our Roads will be inconceivably great. The latter with small amendments will always be in good order when the present number of Carriages are no longer taring them to pieces in the most inclement seasons of the year. and the ease to, and saving in the former will be felt most interestingly by the farmer & Planter in their annual operations.
But until these things are accomplished & even admitting they were done, do you not think, my good Sir, that the credit, the saving, and the convenience of this Country all require that our great roads leading from one public place to another should be shortned—straighned—and established by Law—and the power in the County Courts to alter them withdrawn? To me these things seem indispensably necessary, & it is my opinion they will take place in time the longer therefore they are delayed the more people will be injured by the Alterations when they happen—It is equally clear to me, that putting the lowest valuation possible upon the labour of the people who work upon the roads under the existing Law & custom of the present day the repairs of them by way of Contract to be paid by an assessment on certain districts (until the period shall arrive when turnpikes may with propriety be established) would be infinitely less burthensome to the community than the present mode. In this case too the Contracter would meet with no favor—every man in the district wd give information of neglects—whereas negligence

under the present system is winked at by the only people who know how, or can inform against the Overseers—for strangers had rather encounter the inconvenience of bad roads than the trouble of an information and go away prejudiced against the Country for the polity of it. With great esteem & respect I have the honor to be Dr Sir Yr Most Obedt Hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to James Madison, 30 November 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Madison, James

My dear Sir,
Mount Vernon Novr 30th 1785.

Receive my thanks for your obliging communications of the 11th—I hear with much pleasure that the assembly are engaged, seriously, in the consideration of the revised Laws. A short & simple code, in my opinion, tho’ I have the sentiments of some of the Gentlemen of the long robe against me, would be productive of happy consequences, and redound to the honor of this or any Country which shall adopt such.
I hope the resolutions which were published for the consideration of the House, respecting the reference to Congress for the

regulation of a Commercial system will have passed. The proposition in my opinion is so self evident that I confess I am at a loss to discover wherein lyes the weight of the objection to the measure. We are either a United people, or we are not. If the former, let us, in all matters of general concern act as a nation, which have national objects to promote, and a National character to support—If we are not, let us no longer act a farce by pretending to it. for whilst we are playing a dble game, or playing a game between the two we never shall be consistent or respectable—but may be the dupes of some powers and, most assuredly, the contempt of all. In any case it behoves us to provide good Militia Laws, and look well to the execution of them—but, if we mean by our conduct that the States shall act independently of each other it becomes indispensably necessary—for therein will consist our strength and respectabity in the Union.
It is much to be wished that public faith may be held inviolate—Painful is it even in thought that attempts should be made to weaken the bands of it. It is a dangerous experiment—once slacken the reins and the power is lost—and it is questionable with me whether the advocates of the measure foresee all the consequences of it. It is an old adage that honesty is the best policy—this applies to public as well as private life—to States as well as individuals. I hope the Port and assize Bills no longer sleep but are awakened to a happy establishment. The first with some alterations, would in my judgment be productive of great good to this Country—without it, the Trade thereof I conceive will ever labor & languish—with respect to the Second if it institutes a speedier administration of Justice it is equally desirable.
It gives me great pleasure to hear that our assembly were in a way of adopting a mode for establishing the Cut betwn Elizabeth river & Pasquotank which was likely to meet the approbation of the State of No. Carolina—It appears to me that no Country in the Universe is better calculated to derive benefits from inland Navigation than this is—and certain I am, that the conveniences to the Citizens individually, and the sources of wealth to the Country generally, which will be opened thereby will be found to exceed the most sanguine imagination—The Mind can scarcely take in at one view all the benefits which will result therefrom—The saving in draught Cattle, preservation of Roads &ca &ca will be felt most interestingly—This business

only wants a beginning—Rappahanock—Shannondoah—Roanoke—and the branches of York River will soon perceive the advantages which water transportation (in ways hardly thought of at first) have over that of Land and will extend Navigation to almost every Mans door.
From the complexion of the debates in the Pensylvania it should seem as if that Legislature intended their assent to the proposition from the States of Virginia & Maryland (respecting a road to the Yohiogany[)] should be conditional of permission given to open a Communication between the Chesapeak & Delaware by way of the rivers Elk & Christeen—which I am sure will never be obtained if the Baltimore interest can give it effectual opposition.
The Directors of the Potomack Company have sent to the Delegates of this County to be laid before the Assembly a Petition (which sets forth the reasons) for relief in the depth of the Canals which it may be found necessary to open at the great & little Falls of the River—As public œconomy and private interest equally prompt the measure and no possible disadvantage that we can see will attend granting the prayer of it, we flatter ourselves no opposition will be given to it.
To save trouble—to expedite the business, and to secure uniformity without delay, or an intercourse between the Assemblies on so trivial a matter we have taken the liberty of sending the draught of a Bill to Members of both Assemblies which if approved will be found exactly similar. With the highest esteem and regard I am Dr Sir Yr Obedt & Affecte Hble Ser.

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to John Rawlins, 30 November 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Rawlins, John

Sir,
Mount Vernon 30th Novr 1785.

Your Letter & plan came safe; tho’ I do not pretend to be a competent judge of this kind of work, yet from the little experience

I have had in it, & from a certain knowledge that most of the mouldings & decorations are with great ease & expedition cast, of a material too which is by no means expensive, I do not scruple to declare that your Estimate exceeded my expectation.
This, & not understanding the plan fully from an unaccustomedness to drawings, together with the indifinite charge of travelling expences, which may be great or little; and a desire of having something finally determined without giving the trouble of coming here again; or of fixing matters by an intercourse of letters which might be tedious & troublesome—& the first of which by no means suiting me, as I must be upon a certainty—having been twice disappointed & put to much inconvenience for want of the room. These reasons I say, have induced me to communicate my ideas to Colo. Tilghman on this business, & to authorize him on the spot to fix matters decidedly with you. Any Agreement therefore which he may make on my behalf, will be as obligatory on me as if I was present to sign & ratify it.
If an Agreement takes place, I wish to know precisely, & as soon as may be, what will be previously necessary for my Joiners & Carpenters to do, or to prepare that there may be no delay after you arrive; for besides the inconvenience I already feel from the want of the new room—you know that to complete this, the communication with another must be opened—& that unless both are finished before the season arrives which requires fire, I shall be much distressed. Whilst the weather is warm, the Common Hall & piazza will do very well, as a substitute for the Drawing room or Parlour; but when the weather becomes cool, we must retire to a fireside.
I think it highly probable that the ceilings of my upper rooms may want plaistering, which would make the job more deserving attention; some of them I am sure do, & if we can agree upon a price I may be inclined to renew the whole. I am &c.

G: Washington


Title: From George Washington to David Stuart, 30 November 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Stuart, David

Dr Sir,
Mount Vernon 30th Novr 1785.

Your favor of the 16th came duly to hand, & I thank you for its several communications. The resolutions which were published for consideration, vesting Congress with powers to regulate the Commerce of the Union, have I hope been acceded to. If the States individually were to attempt this, an abortion, or a many headed monster would be the issue. If we consider ourselves, or wish to be considered by others as a united people, why not adopt the measures which are characteristic of it, & support the honor & dignity of one? If we are afraid to trust one another under qualified powers there is an end of the Union—why then need we be sollicitous to keep up the farce of it?
It gives me pleasure to hear that there is such an accordance of sentiments between the Eastern & Western parts of this State. My opinion of the separation has always been, to meet them halfway, upon fair & just grounds; & part like friends disposed to acts of brotherly kindness thereafter—I wish you had mention’d the territorial line between us. The Port Bill; the Assize Law (or any substitute for the speedy Administration of Justice) being established; good faith with respect to treaties, preserved by public acts; taxation continued & regularly collected, that justice to one part of the community may keep pace with relief to the other, & our national character for Justice, thereby supported; a due attention to the Militia, and encouragements to extend the inland navigation of this Commonwealth where it is useful & practicable, (which will not only be of amazing convenience & advantage to its Citizens, but sources of immense wealth to the Country through some of its channels)—are among the great & important objects which will come before you; & a due attention to them will, I hope, mark the present epocha for having produced able statesmen, sound patriots & liberal minded men.
At a late meeting of the Directors of the Potomac navigation at the great Falls, & from a critical examination of the ground at that place; we unanimously determined to petition the Assemblies of the two States to be relieved from the expence of sinking our Canals four feet deep; as a considerable expence, & no advantage that we could discover, was likely to attend it. As the petition

which is herewith sent under cover to you & Colo. Syme, recites the reasons on which it is founded I shall not repeat them: the public as well as the company’s interest calls for an œconomical use of the fund which is subscribed for this undertaking; the enemies therefore (if there are any) to the navigation, are equally bound with its friends, to give it support.
I should be much obliged to you for desiring the public printer to send me the Journals of the present Session from its commencement, & to do it thro’ the session as fast as they are printed, by the Post. I pray you to pay him for them, & for my Gazette (if Hay is the public printer)—& I will repay you with thanks when you return.
I am very glad to hear you have got so well over your fever. Mrs Stuart has had a bad cold, but is getting better. all here join me in best wishes for you—& I am &c. &c.

G: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Tench Tilghman, 30 November 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Tilghman, Tench

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 30th Novr 1785

Since my last I have been favoured with your letters of the 10th & 18th Instt. The last covering Mr Rawlins’s plan & estimate for my new room—for your exertions to obtain which, I thank you.
The plan is plain, as I requested—but the estimate, I think, is large; however as I pretend not to be a competent judge of work, and know that we are always in the power of workmen, I will not decide absolutely upon the moderation he pretends to have observed; especially as I confess that I do not clearly understand the plan—but as your readiness to oblige me in this business has already involved you in trouble, I will request the favor of you to take a little more, to bring it to an explanation, & close.

For this purpose, I send you herewith Rawlins’s plan & estimate; and would beg the favor, as I have understood that Mr Goff of Baltimore has had much work of this kind done by Rawlins, to compare my plan & estimate with his work & prices; and if Mr Goff is a Gentleman of information, & one who scrutinizes into work & prices by a comparison of them, to ask his opinion of these charges. If the result of your enquiries is in favor of Mr Rawlinss moderation I have then to pray that the matter may be fixed with him; and a time (not to exceed if possible the middle of April) agreed on to begin the work with a serious intention to execute it with dispatch. also, that the article of travelling expences may be defined, & reduced to a stipulated sum. or, which would come cheaper to me, that my Waggon (a covered one) should remove his people & Tools hither & back; and an equivalent named in lieu of expences for himself. This will leave no ground for discontent on either side; than which nothing being more disagreeable to me—I always endeavour to avoid. I wish to know also whether he or I are to furnish the materials. If on the other hand it shall be found that his terms are too high (for it is not amiss to observe here, that almost the whole of the mouldings & ornaments are cast) I should be obliged to you to know from him whether he will take less; and precisely the sum; to execute the work according to the Plan. and this too without much time for consideration, for having been twice disappointed already, & the work thereby considerably delayed to my great inconvenience; I am determined if Mr Rawlins will not do it reasonably & begin it seriously in the Spring, to write immediately to Sir Edward Newenham of Dublin, who hath already introduced the subject to me, and has given me assurances of a visit in the spring, to bring me a complete workman when he comes, on yearly wages; but this I would avoid (as you will please to inform Mr Rawlins) if he will do my work at near its value, & in season. If you finally engage with Mr Rawlins, I should like to have a specific agreement drawn, to prevent mistakes, or further delay; for the drawing of wch I would chearfully pay an Attorney.
Inclosed is a letter for Mr Rawlins, open. Had the public prints spoke truth respecting the present from his Catholic Majesty, & the Jacks had arrived, it would have given me great pleasure to have obliged your friends on the Eastern shore, by a

compliance with your request. There were only two presented to me by the King of Spain. one of which by the advices I have received from Boston, was lost on its Passage to Beverley, in a storm—the other will scarcely do more (if he gets home safe) than answer my own purposes. but if you, or any friend of yours, has a she Ass that you would wish to put to him, for preservation of the breed, he shall be much at your service, & you shall be welcome to the use of him to her. Mrs Washington joins me in best wishes for Mrs Tilghman & yourself, and with sentiments of sincere esteem & regard I am—Dear Sir Yr Affecte frd & obedt Serv.

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Samuel Vaughan, 30 November 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Vaughan, Samuel

Dr Sir,
Mount Vernon 30th Novr 1785.

I have been honored with your favor of the 9th—& have received the pamphlet which you were so obliging as to send me, entitled “Considerations on the Order of Cincinnatus, by the Count de Mirabeau.” I thank you my good Sir, for this instance of your attention; but wish you had taken time to have perused it first, as I have not yet had leisure to give it a reading. I thought, as most others seem to think, that all the exceptionable parts of that Institution had been done away at the last general Meeting; but with those who are disposed to cavil, or who have the itch of writing strongly upon them, nothing can be made to suit their palates: the best way therefore to disconcert & defeat them, is to take no notice of their publications; all else is but food for declamation. There is not I conceive, an unbiased mind that would refuse the Officers of the late Army the right of associating for the purpose of establishing a fund for the support of the poor & distressed of their fraternity—when many of them it is well known are reduced to their last shifts by the

ungenerous conduct of their Country, in not adopting more vigorous measures to render their Certificates productive. That charity is all that remains of the original Institution, none who will be at the trouble of reading it can deny.
I have lately received a letter from Mr Vaughan (your son) of Jamaica, accompanied by a puncheon of rum, which he informs me was sent by your order as a present to me. Indeed my Dr Sir, you overwhelm me with your favors, & lay me under too many obligations to leave a hope remaining of discharging them. Hearing of the distress in which that Island, with others in the Wt Indies is involved by the late hurricane, I have taken the liberty of requesting Mr Vaughans acceptance, for his own use, of a few barrels of superfine Flour of my own manufacturing. My best respects, in which Mrs Washington joins, are offered to Mrs Vaughan, yourself & family, & with the highest esteem and regard, I am, Dear Sir &c.

G: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Rochambeau, 1 December 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Rochambeau, Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de

My dear Count,
Mount Vernon Decr 1st 1785.

Your letter of the 2d of June, which you had the goodness to write to me at the moment of taking leave of the venerable Doctr Franklin, now lyes before me; and I read the renewed assurances of your friendship with sentiments of gratitude and pleasure, short of nothing but the satisfaction I should feel at seeing you; and the recollection of the hours, in which, toiling together, we formed our friendship—A friendship which will continue, I hope, as long as we shall continue Actors on the present theatre.
A Man in the vigor of life could not have borne the fatigues of a passage across the Atlantic, with more fortitude, and greater ease than Doctor Franklin did; and since, instead of setting himself down in the lap of ease, which might have been expected from a person of his advanced age, he has again entered upon

the bustling scenes of public life, and in the chair of State, is endeavouring to reconcile the jarring interests of the Citizens of Pensylvania—If he should succeed, fresh laurels will crown his brow; but it is to be feared that the task is too great for human wisdom to accomplish. I have not yet seen the good old Gentleman, but have had an intercourse by letters with him.
Rumours of War still prevail, between the Emperor and the Dutch; & seem, if News Paper Accounts are to be credited, to be near at hand. If this event should take place, more powers must ingage in it, and perhaps a general flame will be kindled ’ere the first is extinguished. America may think herself happy in having the Atlantic for a barrier, otherways, a spark might set her ablazing. At present we are peaceable; & our Governments are acquiring a better tone. Congress, I am persuaded will soon be vested with greater powers. the Commercial interest throughout the Union are exerting themselves to obtain these, and I have no doubt will effect it. We shall be able then, if a Commercial treaty is not entered into with Great Britain to meet her on the restrictive & contracted ground she has taken; and interdict her Shipping, & trade, in the same manner she has done those of these States. This, and this only, will convince her of the illiberallity of her conduct towards us—or, that her policy has been too refined, & over strained, even for the accomplishment of her own purposes.
Mrs Washington is thankful for your constant remembrance of her & joins me in every good wish for you & Madame de Rochambeau—with sentiments of the warmest attachment, & greatest respect I have the honor to be My dear Count yr Most Obedt and Very Hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Samuel Chase, 3 December 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Chase, Samuel

Dr Sir,
Mt Vernon 3d Decr 1785.

Enclosed you have a petition from the Directors of the potomac Company, which we pray you to lay before the Maryland

Assembly, & to use your exertions & influence to carry it into effect.
The measure prayed for is so reasonable, that we do not conceive there can be any other opposition given to it, than what may proceed from delay; for the enemies to this undertaking (if there are any) ought to support the present Bill upon the principle of public œconomy.
Mr Johnson is the drawer of the Bill which accompanies the Petition; exact copies of both are sent to the Assembly of this State. We took the liberty of furnishing the draft, that they may be exactly similar in both States without the trouble of an intercourse between the Assemblies on so trifleing a business. I have the honor to be &c.

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Edmund Randolph, 3 December 1785
From: Randolph, Edmund
To: Washington, George

My dear sir
Richmond decr 3. 1785.

The post-offices have not been in fault in every respect; altho’ I did not receive from the one here your favor of the 5th Ulto until last night, notwithstanding my application for letters.
Your inclosures of the proceedings of the Potowmack company were duly received by me: and the business of the general court pressing very urgently upon me, the answer to your favor was undertaken by the other directors. It was prepared, but waited for the proceedings; in a copy of which we were disappointed by the clerk. We shall forward them, as soon as he has finished them. Indeed, sir, we shall be obliged from our imperfect knowledge of the business, to intreat your assistance on many occasions; and shall from this as well as many other considerations be anxious for a frequent and unreserved communication with the Potowmack company.
A lengthy and earnest debate has been held on the propriety of vesting congress with a controul of commerce. But the advocates for the measure will scarcely succeed; so strong are the apprehensions in some minds of an abuse of the power. I am my dear sir with the greatest esteem and respect yr affectionate friend & serv.

Edm: Randolph


Title: From George Washington to Charles Simms and David Stuart, 3 December 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Simms, Charles,Stuart, David

Gentn
Mount Vernon 3d Decr 1785.

As president of the Board of Directors for the Potomac company, I have the honor to enclose you a Petition which we pray you to present to your honorable House; & to use your best endeavours to have the prayer of it enacted into a Law. The petition is so full, & the request of it so reasonable, that we do not suppose there can be the least opposition to it, otherwise than by delay; because the enemies of it (if there are any) must on the score of public saving, yield assent to it.
We have taken the liberty to accompany the Petition with the draft of a Bill to be enacted into a Law. A Petition & Bill similar to these have been sent to the Maryland Assembly. The reasons for this you will see into at once; they are, to render it unnecessary for the two Assemblies to correspond on so trivial a subject—to prevent trouble to each—to prevent delay, & that both Acts may be exactly similar. I have the honor to be &c.

G: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Battaile Muse, 4 December 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Muse, Battaile

Sir,
Mount Vernon Decr 4th 1785.

Your letters of the 15th & 26th of last month are both at hand, with respect to the latter, I agree that Daniel Harrel may have the Lott No. 2 on the terms mentioned therein. and you may fill up leases accordingly.
In answer to the first letter, rather than involve my self in uncertain Lawsuits—but certain expence & perplexities, I would allow for paper payments of Rents the same as specie—But as you know what has been the practice, and the consequence thereof in your own case as Collector for Colo. Fairfax; and in that of others under similar circumstances, I should conceive that you could determine the point of conduct proper to be pursued

better than I, who have been entirely out of the way of knowing what the Law—custom—or judicial proceedings in the Courts have decided. However, as I have already observed, rather than go into a litigation of the matter (unless there is abundant reason to expect a decision in my favor) I would make the same allowance for Paper, however unjust & rascally it has been imposed, as I would for Specie, taking care to shew no indulgence hereafter to those who had made them.
Receipts for Rents from my Brother will be sufficient for the Tenants; but it will be necessary in your Settlement with them to take an Acct of all these payments, that I may be able to settle with his Estate. This is indispensably necessary—as, from what I can learn, he has been very inattentive himself in making proper Entries of the sums paid him. The date of each receipt is as essential as the name of the person is, to whom given. I am—Sir Yr Very Hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Dominique-Louis Ethis de Corny, 5 December 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Corny, Dominique-Louis Ethis de

      Sir,
      Mount Vernon 5th Decr 1785.

I am really ashamed to have been so long in acknowledging the receipt of your letter of the 3d of August last year; but circumstances which would be more tedious in the recital, than important when told, have been the cause of it.
I have now the honor of enclosing you the receipt of the Treasurer of the Society of the Cincinnati of this State, for your Bill on Colo. Wadsworth; & wish it was in my power to have accompanied it with a Diploma: but it has so happened, that except a few which were struck at Philadelphia for the members of that State at their own expence, none have yet been presented to me by the Secretary, for signing. I have the honor to be &c.

Geo: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Louis Guillaume Otto, 5 December 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Otto, Louis-Guillaume (comte de Mosloy)

Mount Vernon Decr 5th 1785

The letter which you did me the honor to write to me on the 16th of October only came to hand the 28th of last month.
My particular acknowledgments are due to you for your recollection of and attention to me; and I pray you to be assured of the pleasure I felt at hearing that the place lately filled by Mr de Marbois, near the Sovereignty of these States, was so happily supplied—On this instance of his most Christian Majesty’s attention to your merits, I offer you my sincere congratulations.
For the favourable Sentiments entertained of me in France & particularly by the Court all my gratitude is due: but to none in a higher degree than to the Chevalier de la Luzerne, for whom I have the highest esteem & regard. For yr obliging offers of Service here ⟨or in⟩ France, I sincerely thank you and at the same time I give you the trouble of forwarding a few letters by the Packet, beg you to believe with much truth I have the honor to be, Sir, Yr Most Obed. Very Hble Serv.

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Richard Thomas, 5 December 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Thomas, Richard

Sir,
Mt Vernon 5th Decr 1785.

Having, a few days ago only, received your letter of the 13th of August from Charleston, enclosing the duplicate of one from a Mr Edmund Richards of Plymouth Dock, dated the first of Feby last; I delay not a post to inform you, as I have already

done the said Edmd Richards, that he is under a delusion which has not a single reality for a support—that I am astonished at his information, and wish he had been at the trouble of enquiring a little more minutely into matters, before he had determined to make such a pointed application to me, or to have communicated his demands of me to others, for an Estate; First, because such an Estate as he speaks of was never left in trust to me; Secondly, because I never had the least acquaintance with his uncle Richard Richards, or ever knew that there was such a man in existence; Thirdly, because I have just as much, & no more knowledge of Lawyer Haines & Lawyer Baitain, than I have of Richd Richards; And fourthly, because I never heard of such an Estate as he claims, or the most trifling circumstance concerning it.
Of all these things Sir, you may, as I shall never write to Edmd richards again, give him the clearest & most unequivocal assurances; & add, that the most incontestible proofs of wch he, or you in his behalf, may find, if either are disposed to examine further into the matter. I am Sir &c.

G: Washington


Title: From George Washington to William Gordon, 6 December 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Gordon, William

Dr Sir,
Mount Vernon 6th Decr 1785.

Altho’ I am so great a delinquent in the epistolary way, I will not again tread over the usual ground for an excuse, but rather silently throw myself upon your philanthropy to obtain one.
In reading the Memoir which passed thro’ my hands to you (for I have no copy of it) I do not recollect that I was struck with any exagerations or improprieties in it; nor is it in my power to give you a precise detail of the facts about which you enquire, without unpacking my papers, & entering upon a voluminous research therefor; which might not after all elucidate the points.
Whether Genl Howe commanded in person at the intended surprize & attack of the Marqs de la Fayette at Baron Hill, I am unable positively to say; I would suppose however that he did—

first, because the narrative says so—2dly because he did not relinquish the command until within a few days of the evacuation of Philada—& 3dly, because the British army came out in full force. That the column on the right commanded by Genl Grant was strong, can admit of no doubt; (and report to the best of my recollection made the number 7000) because it was design’d to turn the Marquis’s left flank, get into his rear, & cut of his retreat by the nearest & most direct roads; whilst he was to have been attacked in front, & on his right (which was next the Schuylkill) by the Commander in chief, & light infantry; by the first in front, by the other on the flank.
The French troops which were landed from on board the fleet, formed a junction with the American Troops before, & were all under the command of the Marquis ’till my arrival. The position at Williamsburgh was taken I believe, with a view to form the junction, being favorable to it; the defile between the College Creek which empties into James river, & Queen’s Creek which empties into York river, being very narrow, & behind the former of which the French landed in perfect security.
My excursions up this river (for I have made several) have afforded me much satisfaction, as we find the undertaking to extend & improve the navigation of it, is not only practicable; but that the difficulties which were expected to be met with, rather decrease than multiply upon us.
I come now, my good Doctor, to acknowledge in a particular manner the receipt of your obliging favor of the 7th ulto, & to thank you for your kind & valuable present of Fish which is very fine & had a more successful passage than the last, no Accot of which having ever yet been received. I have too Mrs Washington’s particular thanks to offer you for the flower roots & seeds, which she will preserve in the manner directed. I have put into a box with earth, shrubs of the redwood (or red-bud) & Fringe tree, which General Lincoln promised his Vessel should heave to & take for you as she passed by. I was going to send other flowering shrubs, but upon mentioning the names of them, the Genl & Colo. Henley said your Country already abounded with them. I forgot however, to ask them if you have the Magnolio; if you have not, I can send some by another opportunity.
I hope this Letter will find you quite relieved from the feverish complaint you had when you wrote last, & Mrs Gordon in

perfect health, to whom & yourself Mrs Washington & the family (who are all well) join me in every good wish. Fanny Bassett & my nephew Geo: A. Washington have fullfilld an engagement of long standing, & are now one bone, and one flesh. With great esteem & regard I am Dr Sir, &c. &c.

G: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Tench Tilghman, 6 December 1785 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Tilghman, Tench

 Letter not found: to Tench Tilghman, 6 Dec. 1785. Tilghman wrote on 13 Dec: “I have been honored with both your letters of the 30h and 6h instant.”


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Harrison, 7 December 1785
From: Harrison, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

My dear Sir
Richmond Decr 7th 1785.

I have the pleasure to enclose to you a copy of the act of assembly, pass’d in consequence of your letter to the Governor, which I hope will meet your entire approbation. your conduct on this occasion will add new lustre to your character and fully prove, if there was a doubt remaining in the melevolent hearts of any, that all your actions have been dictated by the pure motives of virtue and a love to your country. That you may live to perfect any plan you shall think fit to adopt is the fervent wish of Dear Sir your most affectionate and obedient Humble Servant

Benj. Harrison


Title: To George Washington from James Madison, 9 December 1785
From: Madison, James
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Richmond Decr 9. 1785

Your favour of the 30 Novr was received a few days ago. This would have followed much earlier the one which yours acknowledges had I not wished it to contain some final information relative to the commercial propositions. The discussion of them has consumed much time, and though the absolute necessity of some such general system prevailed over all the efforts of its adversaries in the first instance, the stratagem of limiting its duration to a short term has ultimately disappointed our hopes. I think it better to trust to further experience and even distress, for an adequate remedy, than to try a temporary measure which may stand in the way of a permanent one, and must confirm that transatlantic policy which is founded on our supposed distrust of Congress and of one another. Those whose opposition in this case did not spring from illiberal animosities towards the Northern States, seem to have been frightened on one side at the idea of a perpetual & irrevocable grant of power, and on the other flattered with a hope that a temporary grant might be renewed from time to time, if its utility should be confirmed by the experiment. But we have already granted perpetual & irrevocable powers of a much more extensive nature than those now proposed and for reasons not stronger than the reasons which urge the latter. And as to the hope of renewal, it is the most visionary one that perhaps ever deluded men of sense. Nothing but the peculiarity of our circumstances could ever have produced those sacrifices of sovereignty on which the fœderal Government now rests. If they had been temporary,

and the expiration of the term required a renewal at this crisis, pressing as the crisis is, and recent as is our experience of the value of the confederacy, sure I am that it would be impossible to revive it. What room have we then to hope that the expiration of temporary grants of commercial powers would always find a unanimous disposition in the States to follow their own example. It ought to be remembered too that besides the caprice, jealousy, and diversity of situations, which will be certain obstacles in our way, the policy of foreign nations may hereafter imitate that of the Macedonian Prince who effected his purposes against the Grecian confederacy by gaining over a few of the leading men in the smaller members of it. Add to the whole, that the difficulty now found in obtaining a unanimous concurrence of the States in any measure whatever, must continually increase with every increase of their number and perhaps in a greater ratio, as the Ultramontane States may either have or suppose they have a less similitude of interests to the Atlantic States than these have to one another. The propositions however have not yet received the final vote of the House, having lain on the table for some time as a report from the Com[itt]ee of the whole. The question was suspended in order to consider a proposition which had for its object a Meeting of Politico-Commercial Comissrs from all the States for the purpose of digesting and reporting the requisite augmentation of the power of Congress over trade. What the event will be cannot be foreseen. The friends to the original propositions are I am told rather increasing, but I despair of a majority in any event for a longer term than 25 years for their duration. The other scheme will have fewer enemies and may perhaps be carried. It seems naturally to grow out of the proposed appointment of Commissioners for Virga & Maryd concerted at Mount Vernon for keeping up harmony in the commercial regulations of the two States. Maryd has ratified the Report, but has invited into the plan Delaware & Pena who will naturally pay the same compliment to their neighbors &c. &c. Besides these general propositions on the subject of trade, it has been proposed that some intermediate measures should be taken by ourselves, and a sort of navigation act will I am apprehensive be attempted. It is backed by the mercantile interests of most of our towns except Alexandria which alone seems to have liberality or light on the subject. It has refused

even to suspend the measure on the concurrence of Maryd or N. Carolina. This folly however can not one would think, brave the ruin which it threatens to our Merchts as well as people at large, when a final vote comes to be given.
We have got thro’ a great part of the Revisal, and might by this time have been at the end of it had the time wasted in disputing whether it could be finished at this Session been spent in forwarding the work. As it is, we must content ourselves with passing a few more of the important bills, leaving the residue for our successors of the next year. As none of the bills passed are to be in force till Jan. 1787, and the residue unpassed will probably be least disputable in their nature, this expedient tho’ little eligible, is not inadmissible. Our public credit has had a severe attack and a narrow escape. As a compromise it has been necessary to set forward the half tax till March, and the whole tax of Sepr next till Novr ensuing. The latter postponement was meant to give the planters more time to deal with the Mercht[s] in the sale of their Tobo, and is made a permanent regulation. The Assize bill is now depending. It has many enemies and its fate is precarious. My hopes how[ever] prevail over my apprehensions. The fate of the Port bill is more precarious. The failure of an interview between our commissioners and commissioners on the part of N. Carolina has embarrassed the projected Canal between the Waters of the two States. If N.C. were entirely well disposed the passing an Act suspended on & referred to her legislature would be sufficient, and this course must, I suppose be tried, tho’ previous negociation would have promised more certain success. Kentucky has made a formal application for independen[ce]. Her memorial has been considered, and the terms of separation fixed by a Com[mitte]e of the whole. The substance of them is that all private rights & interests derived from the laws of Virginia shall be secured that the unlocated lands shall be applied to the objects to which the laws of Va have appropriated them—that nonresidents shall be subjected to no higher taxes than residents—that the Ohio shall be a common high way for Citizens of the U.S. and the jurisdiction of Kentucky & Virga as far as the remaing territory of the latter will lie thereon, be concurrent only with the new States on the opposite Shore—that the proposed State shall take its due share of our State debts—and that the separation shall not take place unless

these terms shall be approved by a Convention to be held to decide the question, nor untill Congs shall assent thereto, and fix the terms of their admission into the Union. The limits of the proposed State are to be the same with present limits of the district. The apparent coolness of the Representatives of Kentucky as to a separation since these terms have been defined indicates that they had some views which will not be favored by them. They disliked much to be hung up on the will of Congs. I am Dr Sir, with the highest esteem and unfeigned regard Yr obedt & hble Servt

J. Madison, Jr


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Bibby, 10 December 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Bibby, Thomas

Sir,
Mount Vernon Decr 10th 1785

The delay in acknowledging the receipt of your favor of the 4th of May from New York, is to be ascribed more to the expectation I have been under of the pleasure of seeing you in this State, & at this House, than to any other cause. and I take the present occasion of assuring you, that if business or inclination should bring you to the Southward, I shall be happy in the opportunity of testifying my respect to the introduction of Sir Edward Newenham, and of offering you the civilities which are due to a Gentlemen of your merit.
By mistake, a packet whh I herewith send, was forwarded to me by a Mr McKiernan; to whose care with another for myself, it was committed by Sir Edward. I hope it will reach you safe; and that the delay occasioned by the circuitous rout it has taken,

will be attended with no inconvenience to you. I have the honor to be Sir yr most Obedt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Charles McKiernan, 10 December 1785
From: Washington, George
To: McKiernan, Charles

Sir,
Mount Vernon 10th Decr 1785

I have been favoured with your letters of the 30th of Octr and 8th of November, I thank you for your care of the packets which were entrusted to you by Sir Edward Newenham. The last sent was for Captain Bibby, altho’ the outer cover was addressed to me. I now forward it to that Gentlemen.
If business or inclination should bring you to this state, I shall have pleasure in seeing you at this place. I am Sir &c.

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Battaile Muse, 10 December 1785
From: Muse, Battaile
To: Washington, George

Honorable Sir
Berkely C[ount]y Decr 10th 1785

I have at Last Sent down to be Lodged at your mill three Cask butter Stated below If you Take only the Fresh butter my Price is ⅓ ⅌ Ct for that, if you Take the whole the price is 1/ ⅌ Ct as I am Told that is the Current price, and the Price I Told you I askt for it. Should you not approve of the Butter I shall be much Obliged if you will direct it to the care of Mr Andrew Wales in Alexandria who will procure me a markett for it. as I charge nothing for casks I wish to have the use of them Next Spring when the Butter may be out of them, and they will be of service to me; and perhaps none to you—I am happy To see your millers Receipt that my wheat weighs 61 ct ⅌ bushels as the general

weight here is about 56 ct ⅌ bushel owing To the unfavorable Season Last Spring and the Farmers being reather neglectfull. I have the Promise of four Waggons To Load with wheat next week for your Mill. I am sir your Very Hble servant.

Battaile Muse


Title: To George Washington from Richard Thomas, 10 December 1785
From: Thomas, Richard
To: Washington, George

Hond Sir
Charleston [S.C.] 10th December 1785

Having on the 13th of August last enclosed to your Excellency a Letter from Mr Edmund Richards of Plymouth Dock in the County of Devon in England, who informs me of his being the Heir to an Estate left in the hands of your Excellency by Richd Richards Esqr. who died in Virginia many years ago. But having no answer, am led to suppose the Letter never came to hand, for which reason I have taken the liberty to address your Excellency a second time. And shall acknowledge the obligation to be informed of the truth, & whether recoverable.
By directing for me at Doctor Neufville’s No. 108 Broad Street Charleston So. Carolina, it will come safe to hand. I have the honor to be Your Excellency’s Obedt Humble Servt

Richd Thomas


Title: From George Washington to Clement Biddle, 11 December 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Biddle, Clement

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 11th Decr 1785

I have received your favor of the 29th Ulto and thank you for your repeated offer of Services in Philadelphia. By Major Fairlie

I send you Six pounds Pensylvania Curry and would thank you to pay Mr Cary Printer for his Paper—and to pay Oswald for his—I know not upon what footing he sends them. by no order of mine do they come, and it is only now and then, I get one. yet I do not want to lay under any obligation to him—Claypoole & Dunlaps Papers now come regularly & I could wish they were also paid.
For what can sheet copper be bought in Phila. at this time? I believe I shall have occasion to add to the quantity which was sent me from thence last year, to complete my buildings.
Mrs join me in every good wish for you, Mrs Biddle & family—with great esteem I am Dear Sir: Yr Obedt & Affecte Hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Alexander Hamilton, 11 December 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Dear Sir
Mount Vernon Decr 11th 1785

I have been favoured with your letter of the 25th of November by Major Farlie.
Sincerely do I wish that the several State Societies had, or would; adopt the alterations that were recommended by the General meeting in May 1784. I then thought, and have had no cause since to change my opinion, that if the Society of the

Cincinnati mean to live in peace with the rest of their fellow Citizens, they must subscribe to the Alterations which were at that time adopted.
That the jealousies of, and prejudices against this Society were carried to an unwarrantable length, I will readily grant. and that less than was done, ought to have removed the fears which had been imbibed, I am as clear on, as I am that it would not have done it; but it is a matter of little moment whether the alarm which siezed the public mind was the result of foresight—envy & jealousy—or a disordered imagination; the affect of perseverance would have been the same: wherein then would have been found an equivalent for the seperation of Interests, which (from my best information, not from one State only but many) would inevitably have taken place?
The fears of the people are not yet removed, they only sleep, & a very little matter will set them afloat again. Had it not been for the predicament we stood in with respect to the foreign Officers and the charitable part of the Institution I should, on that occasion, as far as my voice would have gone have endeavoured to convince the narrow minded part of our Country men that the Amor Pat[ria]e was much stronger in our breasts than theirs—and that our conduct through the whole of the business was actuated by nobler & more generous sentiments than were apprehended, by abolishing the Society at once, with a declaration of the causes, and the purity of its intention. But the latter may be interesting to many, and the former, is an insuperable bar to such a step.
I am sincerely concerned to find by your letter that the Baron is again in straigh[te]ned circumstances—I am much disinclined to ask favors of Congress, but if I knew what the objects of his wishes are I should have much pleasure in rendering him any services in my power with such members of that body as I now and then corrispond with—I had flattered myself, from what was told me sometime ago, that Congress had made a final settlement with the Baron much to his satisfaction.
My Compliments and best wishes, in which Mrs Washington joins me, are presented to Mrs Hamilton I am—Dear Sir Yr Most Obedt Hble Servt

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P.S. When you see Genl Schuyler and family I pray you to offer my best respects to them.


Title: From George Washington to Henry Knox, 11 December 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Knox, Henry

My dear Sir
Mount Vernon 11th Decr 1785.

Majr Farlie gave me the pleasure of receiving your letter of the 22d Instt, & thereby knowing that you, Mrs Knox & the family were all well.
It has always been my opinion you know, that our Affairs with respect to the Indians would never be in a good train whilst the British Garrisons remained on the American side of the territorial line—& that these Posts would not be evacuated by them, as long as any pretext could be found to with-hold them. They know the importance of these Posts too well to give them up soon, or quietly, their Trade with the Indians in a great measure depend upon the possession of them, knowing full well that all the assertions of our Commrs with respect to the Articles of Peace, & their obligation to surrender them, is no more than chaff before the wind when opposed by the scale of possession.
I am sorry the State Societies should hesitate to comply with the recommendation of the General meeting of the Cincinnati, holden at Phila. in 1784. I then thought, & have no cause since to change my opinion, that no thing short of what was then done would appease the clamours which were raised against this Institution. Some late attacks have been made upon it; amongst which a Pamphlet written by the Count de Mirabeau, a French Gentleman, has just made its appearance. It is come to my hands translated into English, but I have not had time yet to read it.
I am sorry you have undergone any chagreen on acct of the lime Stone. I have got through my Summers work without any disappointment therefrom; having had it in my power at all times, when wanted, to buy Shells. Nor would I wish to have any sent me now, unless by contract not to exceed One shilling and three pence at the Ships side at Alexandria, or opposite to my House; and this I do not expect, as Stone lime is oftener higher at the former place.
It is unnecessary to assure you of the pleasure I should feel at

seeing you at this place, whenever business or inclination may bring you to this State. Every good wish, in which Mrs Washington joins me, is offered to you, Mrs Knox and the Children—With every sentiment of friendship & regard, I am—My dear Sir Yr Affecte Hble Servt

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