Title: To George Washington from William McWhir, 18 September 1789 [letter not found]
From: McWhir, William
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from William McWhir, 18 Sept. 1789. On 12 Oct. GW wrote to McWhir: “I have received your letter of the 18 ult.”


Title: To George Washington from James Read, 18 September 1789
From: Read, James
To: Washington, George

            Sir,
            Philadelphia, September 18, 1789

          I am told by my Friend Colonel Biddle, Marshal of our Court of Admiralty, that he has been well informed that it is probable that the appointment of Clerks in the circuit courts about to be established by Congress will be in your Excellency: I therefore humbly offer myself for that Office in this State, in which I am by seven Years the oldest officer living, having been made Prothonotary of the Supreme Court of the Province September 7th 1745, which Commission I resigned in 1752 on being appointed Prothonotary of the Court of Common Pleas & Clerk of the Peace and to several other Offices in the County of Berks, all which I held till the Declaration of Independence. After the settlement of our Government, on a Constitution established by Convention, a commission from the President in Council for the Prothonotaryship in Berks was sent to me at Reading: But, the People of the County soon after unanimously choosing me one of their Representatives in Assembly, my Office, previous to taking my Seat, became vacant. After some time I was unanimously chosen by them a Member of the Supreme Executive Council where I served the Commonwealth three Years, upon the expiration of which term Council, on the Demise of the Register of the Admiralty, in June 1781, unanimously appointed & commissioned me Register of that Court, which Commission I still hold. The kind People of Berks in 1783 chose me one of the Council of Censors, and in 1787 again a Member of the Supreme Executive, though I had lived, not in Berks, but in this City, from the Year 1781—and I am now in Council. Here I humbly beg Leave to remark that these Elections were without my ever once soliciting a Vote from any Man: And I hope I shall be pardoned if I assure your Excellency, that, though under the late Government I held many respectable Commissions, I never used the Mediation of any Gentleman, having always applied in Person to the Governors, several of them, especially Governors Hamilton and Morris, having, on their coming to the Government, spontaneously declared they heartily wished to do me every Service in their Power and accordingly my every Application was successful. This, Sir, I plead as an Apology for not

troubling any Friend to solicit your Excellency, by Letter or otherwise, in my Behalf.
          I should, Sir, be ashamed to shew any Anxiety for this Appointment, but that Necessity, nigh to Indigence, to which my Steadiness, at all times, in the Cause of America has reduced me, obliges me so to do. My Grandfather and my Father were in high Office in Pennsylvania, and ’tis well known that my Love to my Native Country made me sacrifice a very great Interest I had in England to Living here. I shall here make free to mention that Sir Charles Wager, (to whom I had the Honour to be nearly related), when I was in London, in the Year 1741, entreated me to accept and depend on his Help to advance me in the Navy, the Army, the Custom House, or the Church, and to make my Home at Parsons Green, his Residence when he was first Lord of the Admiralty, till he should demonstrate his Affection for me.
          I must pray your Excellency to interpret in an indulgent manner, an old civil officer’s, thus intruding on your precious time, induced to it by a due consideration of having fallen from a pleasant unincumbered Situation into Distress. I am, May it please your Excellency, Your most obedient humble Servant

            James Read


Title: To George Washington from Edward Archer, 21 September 1789
From: Archer, Edward
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Virginia—Norfolk September 21st 1789

          Although I have not the honor of being personally acquainted with your Excellency I have taken the Liberty of addressing you.
          I observe a Bill is now pending before the representatives of the United States for establishing Marine Hospitals for Sick and disabled Seamen and preserving regular levies for the Harbours of the United States.
          The State of Virginia is now erecting a Marine Hospital which is far advanced in the completion; I doubt not but our Assembly at their next Session will pass a vote offering it for Continental cases; they have done me the Honor to appoint me a Commissioner, for compleating the same; I am hopefull such a mark of their approbation and confidence will operate in my favour with your Excellency, when I declare myself a Candidate for an appointment in this or any other department under the United-States that you may please to Honor me with.
          I have long had it in consideration, to solicit your Excellency for an Appointment, but when I reflected how many worthy Characters there were who fought and bled in our late arduous struggle I could not in justice to my own feelings oppose their pretentions.

          To the Virginia delagation in Congress I beg leave to refer your Excellency for such information respecting my character and situation in Life, as you may wish to be inform’d of as to most of them I have the honor of being personally acquainted. I have the honor to be Your most Obt Servt

            Edward Archer


Title: To George Washington from Ebenezer Hazard, 21 September 1789 [letter not found]
From: Hazard, Ebenezer
To: Washington, George

          Letter not found: from Ebenezer Hazard, 21 Sept. 1789. In a letter to Jeremy Belknap, 27 Sept. 1789, Hazard stated that he had written to GW on this date.


Title: To George Washington from William Smith, 21 September 1789
From: Smith, William
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            College of Philadelphia, Septr 21st 1789

          From an Acquaintance and an occasional Correspondence wch I had the Honor & Happiness to commence with You more than thirty years ago, & from the indulgent Notice which you have been pleased to take of me, both in my public & private Capacity, on various Occasions since that Time, I am induced to enclose to you my “Proposals for Printing a Body of Sermons upon the most important Branches of Practical Christianity”—a Subject & a Work, which I well know, stand in No Need of Recommendation to your Protection & Encouragment.
          If you will please to peruse the Preface & Titles to the Sermons, and the public Recommendation annex’d to them, by the late General Convention of our Church at Philadelphia, and also of the Clergy of all Denominations in this City, as Subscribers, I trust you will permit me to solicit the Honour of your Name and Mrs Washington’s next after the printed List of Clerical Subscribers, & before any Application to Members of Congress or others at New York, shall be made.
          I have enclosed a Copy of the Proposals to the honble Robt Morris Esqr. of the Senate, and have requested Him to solicit your Name & Mrs Washington’s, if you should think proper so far to honor the Work, before he presents it to such Members of the Senate as may be inclined to subscribe—I am, with the most

profound Respect & involable Regard, Worthy and illustrious Sir, Your most obedient & much obliged humble Servant

            William Smith


Title: From George Washington to David Stuart, 21 September 1789
From: Washington, George
To: Stuart, David

            Dear Sir,
            New York Septr 21st 1789

          Your letter of the 12th instt came duly to hand. I have given the subject of it every consideration that time and my situation would enable me to do. The result is—that if Mr Alexander—upon your re-conveying of the Land for which the price, & mode of payment is disputed—and paying rent for it during the

time it has been out of his possession (the latter to be fixed by Men of judgment and impartiality) is disposed to accomodate the Suit which is pending between you—as Administrator of John Parke Custis Esqr. deceased—and himself, that it would, all circumstances considered, be most advisable to accede to it. My reasons for this opinion are many. It is unnecessary I conceive to detail them if I had leisure, which in truth is not the case. I am—Dear Sir Your Most Obedt Hble Servt

            Go: Washington

            My opinion coincides with the above, and I advise the adoption of the measure accordingly.

            Martha Washington


Title: From George Washington to Benjamin Franklin, 23 September 1789
From: Washington, George
To: Franklin, Benjamin

            Dear Sir,
            New York Septr 23d 1789.

          The affectionate congratulations on the recovery of my health—and the warm expressions of personal friendship which were contained in your favor of the 16th instt, claim my gratitude. And the consideration that it was written when you were afflicted with a painful malady, greatly increases my obligation for it.
          Would to God, my dear Sir, that I could congratulate you upon the removal of that excruciating pain under which you labour! and that your existence might close with as much ease to yourself, as its continuance has been beneficial to our Country & useful to Mankind—or, if the united wishes of a free people, joined with the earnest prayers of every friend to science & humanity could relieve the body from pains or infirmities, you could claim an exemption on this score. But this cannot be, and you have within yourself the only resource to which we can confidently apply for relief—a philosophic mind.
          If to be venerated for benevolence—if to be admired for talent—if to be esteemed for patriotism—if to be beloved for philanthropy can gratify the human mind, you must have the pleasing consolation to know that you have not lived in vain; and I flatter my self that it will not be ranked among the least grateful occurrences of your life to be assured that so long as I retain my memory—you will be thought on with respect, veneration and affection by Dear Sir Your sincere friend and obedient Hble Servant

            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to James Madison, 23 September 1789
From: Washington, George
To: Madison, James

            [New York, c.23 September 1789]

          My solicitude for drawing the first characters of the Union into the Judiciary, is such that, my cogitations on this subject last night (after I parted with you) have almost determined me (as well for the reason just mentioned, as to silence the clamours, or more properly, soften the disappointment of smaller characters[)]—to nominate Mr Blair and Colo. Pendleton as Associate & District Judges. And Mr E. Randolph for the Attorney General trusting to their acceptance. Mr Randolph, in this character, I would prefer to any person I am acquainted of not superior abilities, from habits of intimacy with him.
          Mr Pendleton could not I fear discharge, and in that case I am sure would not undertake, to execute the duties of an Associate under the present form of the Act. But he may be able to fulfil those of the District—The Salary I believe is greater than what he now has; and he would see or it might be explained to him, the reason of his being prefered to the District Court rather than to the Supreme Bench; though I have no objection to nominating him to the latter, if it is conceived that his health is competent, and his mental faculties unimpaired, by age.
          His acceptance of the first would depend in a great measure, I presume, upon the light in which the District Judges are considered—that is, whether superior in Rank to any State Judges.
          I am very troublesome, but you must excuse me. Ascribe it to friendship and confidence, and you will do justice to my motives. Remember the Attorney and Marshall for Kentucky, and forget not to give their Christian names. Yours ever

            G.W.


Title: To George Washington from John Page, 23 September 1789
From: Page, John
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            New York Sepr the 23d 1789

          That I may not obtrude on you & to the Interruption of other Applicants, I again have Recourse to this Mode of Application in behalf of Gentlemen who wish to be recommended to you for Appointments. The inclosed Letter was left by Mr Andrews with a Friend the Day he set out on his Return to Virginia. I hope you will excuse my troubling you with it as I shall only add respecting him that I think his Knowledge of the Law, as a Justice of James City for several Years & as high Sheriff two Years added to his Study of Law, & his extensive genius leave no doubt with me that he is qualified for the office he solicits. In Justice however to Mr St G. Tucker one of our Judges & to the Gentn whom he recommends I must add that Mr Wm Nelson a Pratitioner of the Law in the General Court for some Years past is warmly recommended by him, & I am requested by Mr Tucker to nominate that Gentleman to you as a proper Person for the same Office[.] I am very sorry to be so troublesome, but your Goodness will pardon me I have the Honor to be with the highest Respect & Gratitude your much obliged & most obedient humble Servant

            John Page


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Smith, 23 September 1789
From: Washington, George
To: Smith, Thomas

            Sir,
            New York, September 23rd 1789.

          I have to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 24 of July, enclosing a general statement of the monies received for, and paid to my order—and likewise the receipt of a letter from you of the 19th of April last, which has not been acknowledged.
          It is unnecessary for me to repeat to you the satisfaction which you have given me in conducting the business that was committed to your hands—as a proof of it I must request your further attention to the recovery of the enclosed bond given by John Stephenson, and Hugh Stephenson on the 22 of August 1765 for seventy pounds ten shillings Virginia currency.
          I likewise enclose a statement of an account, which relates to the said bond—Colonel John Stephenson, the principal in the bond, lives in Fayette County State of Pennsylvania, and is undoubtedly known to you.
          The repeated applications which have been made to Colonel Stephenson for the payment of the bond—and the more than repeated assurances which he has given that he would immediately discharge it, render any further delay not only unnecessary, but improper—and, therefore, if he neglects to pay it upon application, you will not rely upon promises, but put the bond in suit.
          Colonel Cannon of Washington county whom I have employed

to superintend my property there, and in Fayette was recommended to me as a very active, attentive, and punctual man. I wish I could say, from experience, that I have found him so—but it is the reverse—It is now almost three years since he was empowered to take care of my property and collect my rents in that country—during which time I have repeatedly written to him, not only by the post, but by opportunities that must have conveyed the letters to his hands—and so far have I been from receiving regular answers to them, that, I think, I have only had two letters from him since he has conducted my business—the last of which was handed to me in the past winter, in which he mentioned the terms on which he had leased my lands—but I have never heard from him since, or ever received the remittance of one shilling for my rents—I will therefore thank you, Sir, when you are in that part of the country to make some enquiries of Colonel Cannon, relative to the state of my property under his care—and remind him of the necessity there is of his being more frequent in his communications to me, and more punctual in the remittance of my rents. I have enclosed a letter to him, which I will thank you to deliver when you have an opportunity. I am Sir &ca

            G. Washington


Title: To George Washington from Isaac Stephens, 23 September 1789
From: Stephens, Isaac
To: Washington, George

            Sirs
            Algirs Septr the 23d 1789

          You are not unacquanted of our Long Continueance in a State of Slavery for about four years and more although you Cannot

feel for us to Redeem us But have So Much as to allow us a Comfortable Support Whilst we Due Live on the Earth the 13th of September 1789 arrived a Spanish Courier from Spain on the 14th Ditto I wated on the Spanish Consul to Know if any Letters had Com for us americans he Told Me none But Said that he Could not advance any more money to us americans as Mr Carmicheal Could Not pay the money he had advanced for Two years past about 16 hundred Dollars When the Courier Saild from this about Six week ago he wrote to his Banker to Draw the Money and Mr Carmicheal told him that he had Not Received any Support or money for about Two years past and he Could not pay it the Bill was protested and on that account the Consul Said that he Could not advance any more to us as he Could not get his pay it has made a Table talk among all the Consuls in algirs.
          We must Suffer greatly for the want of it and be obliged to put up with Many insults and Not only the Charatcer of the grand foederal States Does Suffer greatly I hope this will have a Deep Empression on your minds and give us Speedy Releaf and a Speedy Redemption although it Cannot be Speedy after four years Slavary—Take pattern by the infidels the Empereor of moroco has freed all the mooro Slaves all over Christianity the Spaniard have made three Redeemptions Since We have bin here the first 4 hundred the Next 30 the other Day 14 all taken at Sea the Nepollitens about Two hundred your Souls Cannot Spair the money from your most obedent and humble Servent

            Isaac Stephens Slave

            My wife wrote me that She was obliged to put hur Children out for their Liveing and hur Self obliged to Work hard for hur bread that is your Liberty in Sweet america I put Confidence in general Washington that he with the help of god may Turn your hard hearts in america for our Redeemption Before a Nother year.


Title: From George Washington to John Canon, 24 September 1789
From: Washington, George
To: Canon (Cannon), John

            Sir,
            New York, September 24th 1789.

          Sometime last winter I received a letter from you by the hands of Major McCormack, giving me a statement of the situation of my lands under your care in the Counties of Washington and Fayette, with the names of the persons to whom they were leased and the terms on which they held them.
          You likewise informed me that the Tenants would pay the rents in wheat at your mill, which you would turn to the best advantage for me—In consequence of these arrangements I expected to have received remittances from you before this time, or, at least to have heard from you, in both of which I have been disappointed—you will therefore, Sir, not think it strange that I should express my surprise at your conduct in this respect—and more especially as I was induced to put this business into your hands from the favorable information which I received of your punctuality and attention.
          I think I have received but two letters from you since I empowered you to act for me in that country, which is now almost three years—opportunities certainly have not been wanting—for the post affords them from Pittsburg, if private ones should not offer—and I have repeatedly written to you requesting information relative to my property under your care.
          Mr Smith will do me the favor to hand this to you, and will be so good as to take charge of, and convey to me any communications you may have to make—and I trust, in future, I shall not have cause to complain of your want of attention in writing.
          Any remittances you may have to make can be sent either to me here, or to my nephew Major George Aug. Washington at Mount Vernon as opportunities may make it convenient. I am Sir, your most obedient Servant

            G. Washington


Title: From George Washington to Constant Freeman, Jr., 24 September 1789
From: Washington, George
To: Freeman, Constant Jr.

            Sir,
            New York, September 24th 1789.

          Your letter of the 9th of July has been received and, agreeable to your desire, I embrace the opportunity, by the return of Mr Brown to the western country, to inform you that the letter, account &ca, relative to my business in Red-stone came safe to my hands. I am Sir, your most obedient servant

            G. Washington


Title: To George Washington from William Littlefield, 24 September 1789
From: Littlefield, William
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Newport [R.I.] 24th Sepr 1789.

          I am unacquainted with the mode pursued by Gentlemen of the other States, when they have applied for Offices; therefore hope the President will excuse the Liberty which I’ve taken in addressing him in this manner; nor should I have presumed so far on the subject had Our present Revenue Officers been such as were approved of by the better sort of people. They took no part in the late Revolution, nor have they been friendly to Federal measures.
          If the Contrary Character has any Claim for the Collectors Office in this Town when we Join the Union; would beg leave to Observe; that I served my Country upwards of five years in the Continental line of the Army part of which time was in General Greenes family, and in Matters of business was fortunate enough to have some small share of his confidence—When he

went to the Southward left a General Power of Atto. with me to conduct his business here; and his last will was deposited in my hands. I must beg leave Sir to trouble you One moment longer by observing that Indisposition alone obliged me to apply for a discharge from the Army. That altho’ I obtained an honorable one, yet forfeited all Claim on the Public for Commutation &c. and that the Notes which I hold against the Treasurer of this State for depreciation of Wages, are forfeited by the Laws of Our present administration.
          As I was young in the Line of the Army, perhaps the President may not recollect me, will therefore beg leave to refer him to General Knox, Colo. Wadsworth and my Sister Mrs Greene respecting my Character. I have the Honor to be with Great respect your most Obdt and Very Humble Servant

            Wm Littlefield


Title: From George Washington to the United States Senate, 24 September 1789
From: Washington, George
To: United States Senate

            Gentlemen of the Senate,
            United StatesSeptember 24th 1789

          I nominate for the Supreme-Court of the United States

John Jay of New York, Chief-Justice

John Rutledge, of South Carolina,

James Wilson, of Pennsylvania,
AssociateJudges

William Cushing, of Massachusetts,

Robert H. Harrison, of Maryland,

John Blair, of Virginia,

I also nominate for District Judges, Attornies, and Marshalls, the Persons whose names are below and annexed to the Districts respectively—viz.

              Districts
              Judges
              Attornies
              Marshalls

              Main
              David Sewell
              William Lithgow
              Henry Dearbourn

              New-Hampshire
              John Sullivan
              [John] Saml Sherburne junior
              John Parker

              Massachusetts
              John Lowell
              Christopher Gore
              Jonathan Jackson

              Connecticut
              Richard Law
              Pierpoint Edwards
              Philip Bradley

              Pennsylvania
              Francis Hopkinson
              William Lewis
              Clement Biddle

              Delaware
              Gunning Bedford
              George Read junior
              Allan McLean

              Maryland
              Thomas Johnson
              Richd Potts
              Nathaniel Ramsay

              Virginia
              Edmund Pendleton
              John Marshall
              Edward Carrington

              South Carolina
              Thomas Pinckney
              John Julius Pringle
              Isaac Huger

              Georgia
              Nathaniel Pendleton
              Mathew McAllister
              Robert Forsyth

              Kentuckey
              Harry Innes
              George Nicholas
              Samuel McDowell

              junr

            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Fishbourn, 25 September 1789
From: Fishbourn, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

          New York City Tavern
          May it please your Excellency.Septr 25th 89
          I take my departure for Georgia on Monday next; but previous thereto I beg leave to request the favor of your Excellency to signify to me, your approbation of my having sufficiently done away any prejudices, you may have imbibed in consequence of representations having been made against me in the Senate: this request I hope will not prove unreasonable to your Excellency: and the liberty I hope you’l excuse, as I know you ever bear it in remembrence, to do that Justice to all alike, however unfortunate his present situation or dignified it may be. this is all I can now ask: that when I return to the Arms of my Family and friends, I may have it to say I have the sanction as well as the good wishes of his Excellency the President of the United States: my Mind however tortured at present it may be, will be much releived by your Excellencies answer; and I am bold to think I am not undeserving of it. I am with Sentiments of affection, Your Excellencies Most obdt and very humble servant.

            Bn Fishbourn


Title: To George Washington from John Hall, 25 September 1789
From: Hall, John
To: Washington, George

            sir
            New York Sepr 25th 1789

          As I understand the Judiciary Sistem is nearly concluded I take the liberty to request your attention to an application for the office of Marshall to the District Court of Georgia; any information respecting the confidence which may be reposed in me I beg leave to refer you to the Gentlemen Senators and Representatives from Georgia. I have the Honor to be sir your mo. obt and mo. Hble Sert

            John Hall


Title: From George Washington to Alexander Hamilton, 25 September 1789
From: Washington, George
To: Hamilton, Alexander

            Dear Sir,
            [New York] 25th Sepr 1789.

          From a great variety of characters who have made a tender of their services for Suitable Offices, I have selected the following. If Mr Jay & you will take the further trouble of running them over to see if among them there can be found one, who, under all circumstances is more eligable for the Post Office than Col. O.—I shall be obliged to you both for your opinions thereon by Eleven ’Oclock—Another Paper which is enclosed, will shew how the appointments stand to this time. And, that you may have the matter fully before you, I shall add that, it is my present intention to nominate Mr Jefferson for Secretary of State, and Mr Edmd Randolph as Attorney Genl; though their acceptance is problamatical—especially the latter. Yrs Sincerely

            Go: Washington

                Mr Gorham
                Massachuts

                General Cobb
                Do

                Colo. Osgood

                Colo. Smith
                N. York.

                Colo. W: White
                Do

                Mr Lewis Pintard
                Do

                Mr John R. Livingston
                Do

                Commodore Nicholson
                Do

                Mr Blagge
                Do

                Colo. Giles
                Do

                Genl Webb
                Do

                Doctr Cochran
                Do

                Mr Wm Denning
                Do

                Mr Wm W. Morris
                Do

                Captn Thos Randall
                Do

                Mr Paul R. Randall
                Do

                Majr North
                Do

                Mr Hazard Incumbt
                Do

                Mr Henry Remsen
                Do

                Genl Moylan
                New Jersey

                Mr Wm Temple Franklin
                Do

                Colo. Cummings
                Do

                Mr Jno. Bayard

                Mr Thos Barclay
                Pennsyl.

                Mr Chas Pettit
                Do

                Mr Jas Milligan
                Do

                Doctr Tilton
                Delaware

                Colo. Jno. Parke
                Do

                Mr Broom
                Do

                Mr Cyrus Griffen

                Mr Arthur Lee

                Mr Richd Harrison

                Mr Jonathan Dayton

                Genl Gist.

                Chancellor Livingston


Title: To George Washington from Joseph Martin, 25 September 1789 [letter not found]
From: Martin, Joseph
To: Washington, George

          Letter not found: from Joseph Martin, 25 Sept. 178[9]. In his Memoranda on Indian Affairs, 1789, GW describes this letter as follows: “Jos. Martin—from Long Island of Holstein Says (in his Letter dated the 25th of Septr 1789) that on the 27th of August an

Express had arrived to him from the Chicasaw Nation with 4 strings of White Beads from Piemingo & other Chiefs of that Nation requesting his advice & assistance in carrying on a War with the Creek Indians—but having no powers to do this he had sent on their talks to the Comrs who were to treat with the Creeks the 15th of Septr. It was unanimously agreed (he says) between the Chicasaws & Choctaws that Piemingo should come in person with four others to lay their grievances before the Presidt of the U. States.
          “He states the claim of John Brown to Lands on the Savanna opposite to Augusta—this merits consideration.
          “Mentions his own case, by way of exculpation against charges—which he says—were unjustly alledged—and adds that if there should be any commands for him, they may after the 10th of Octr and until the beginning of Feby meet him in Henry County Virginia.”


Title: To George Washington from David Humphreys, 26 September 1789
From: Humphreys, David
To: Washington, George

            My dear Genl,
            Rock Landing Septr 26th 1789

          Finding an opportunity to Augusta, I could not excuse myself from giving you the progress of our negotiation since my last.
          On monday last (that is to say the day after the arrival of Genl Lincoln & myself) a deputation from all the Creeks of the Tuccasee, the Hallowing & the Tellasee Kings, waited upon us, to congratulate us on our arrival, to express in general terms their desire for peace, to smoke the pipe of friendship as a token of it, and to brush our faces with the white wing of reconciliation in sign of their sincere intention to wipe away all past greivances—We gave them friendly assurances in return; they, with the fat King, the Euchee King and two or three other great Chiefs dined with us, & seemed well satisfied—in the afternoon we crossed to the Indian Camp, had an interview with McGillivray, shewed him our full powers, and asked in writing for such Evidence of theirs, as the nature of the case would admit. Much general Talk, expressive of a real desire to establish a permament peace upon equitable terms, took place.
          The next day McGillivray dined with us, & although he got very much intoxicated, he seemed to retain his recollection & reason, beyond what I had ever seen in a person, when in the same condition. At this time I became intimate to a certain degree with him & endeavored to extract his real sentiments & feelings, in a conversation alone, confidentially. He declared he was really desirous of a peace, that the local situation of the Creeks required that they should be connected with us rather than with any other People, that, however they had certain advantages in their Treaty with Spain, in respect to a guarantee & Trade, which they ought not injustice to themselves to give up without an equivalent. Upon his desiring to know what were our intentions, especially as he knew from my character & from my having been long in habits of intimacy with Genl Washington that I would tell him what he might depend upon; I assured him upon my honour that our policy with respect to his nation was, indeed, founded upon honesty, magnanimity & mutual advantages. We descended to no particulars, farther than my assuring him of our good opinion of his abilities & desire to attach him, upon principles perfectly consistent with the good of his Nation,

to our interest. I concluded by intimating what, in that case, we might possibly consider ourselves at liberty to do for him. Mr Griffin arrived that night.
          Wednesday was occupied in arranging the proposed Draught of a Treaty, & drawing up a Talk to be delivered the next day. The other Commissioners desired me to go over the Oconee & communicate these draughts in confidence to McGillivray. I did, and found him dissatisfied with the proposed boundary & some other things. Genl Lincoln had in the morning been in McGillivray’s camp & agreed with him that the Chiefs should receive our propos[it]ions at our Camp: but finding a jealousy prevailed with some of the Indians, lest a design might be formed to circumvent them. On my return we wrote, that if it was more convenient we would make our communications in their Camp. This proposal they acquiesced in very gratefully.
          On thursday at 11 O’clock, we were received with more etiquette, than ever I had before witnessed, at the great Ceremony of Black Drink. We made our Communications in the Square of the nation; and returned.
          Yesterday morning McGillivray, wrote to us, that the Chiefs had been in council untill late the night before; that they objected to some part of our Talks, & principally to that which related to Boundary; that it was however His decision, that the matter should rest as it was for the present; and that a kind of Truce should be established, untill they should hear farther from us on the part of the United States. In the mean time he signified that some presents to the Chiefs would be necessary. In answer we wrote him, after recapitulating the substance of his letter, that, as the Cheifs objected to some of the articles proposed by us, we desired to receive from them in writing the only terms upon which they would enter into a Treaty with us; that as we were as well prepared to treat now as we should be at any other time, we did not believe that it was by any means probable that the United States would ever send another Commission to them & that we were not authorised to make any presents whatsoever, unless we should conclude a Treaty of Peace with them—Finding from verbal information, that a capital misconception had happened to the Indian Chiefs, with regard to one of the Rivers marked in the Boundary; the other Commissioners [wanted] me to go over to the Creek Camp, explain the

mistake to McGillivray & make the necessary alteration in the Draught. I had a very long private conversation with him, and he appeared for himself to be much better contented than he had hitherto been. The difficulties in regard to Boundaries seemed to be in a great measure overcome, and an apprehension of the ill consequences of their breaking with Spain, together with an earnest solicitude to have a free (unencumbered) Port were now apparently the great obstacles. He was very much agitated—very much embarrassed; and hardly knew what to determine upon. After I left him, he expressed to an Interpreter a belief that a permanent Peace might take place before we parted. How that may be probably this day will decide. In the afternoon yesterday, McGillivray sent over John Galphin, with Galphin’s father in Law, the Hallowing King, to acquaint us that all the Towns, except the Cowetas were removed about two Miles back; for the sake of pasture for their Horses. Should they go off without any farther discussions, it will be a clear indication that they prefer a connection with Spain rather than with America; and that they wish for war, rather than for Peace.
          I have not leisure to give you a discription of the person & character of McGillivray. His countenance has nothing liberal and open in it—it has however sufficient marks of understanding. In short, he appears to have the good sense of an American, the shrewdness of a Scotchman, & the cunning of an Indian. I think he is so much addicted to debauchery that he will not live four years. He dresses altogether in the Indian fashion, & is rather slovenly than otherwise. His influence is probably as great as we have understood it was. And his services may certainly be very important, if he can be sincerely attached to our Interests—I hope to have hereafter the honor of reporting to you the substance of several confidential discourses which have occurred between him & me. My most affectionate regards to Mrs Washington & the family conclude me with every sentiment of devotion & consideration My dear General Your Most obliged friend & humble Servant

            D. Humphreys

            The Commissioners have acted perfectly harmoniously in every measure which they have hitherto taken. The Characters of

Genl Lincoln & Mr Griffin have the greatest weight with the Geo. & the Creeks.


Title: To George Washington from Beverley Randolph, 26 September 1789
From: Randolph, Beverley
To: Washington, George

            Sir,
            Richmond September 26th 1789.

          The inclosed Letter from the Lieutenant of Woodford County containing the latest accounts of the Situation of the Kentucky District I do myself the Honour to forward to you, as

the most probable means of affording relief to the distresses of the Inhabitants of the Western Frontier. I have &c.

            Beverley Randolph.


Title: To George Washington from John Sullivan, 27 September 1789
From: Sullivan, John
To: Washington, George

          Durham in New Hampshire
          much Esteemed SirSeptember 27th 1789
          Sensible that your Excellencys exalted Station drew with it an Increase of Cares difficulties and ill judged applications I therefore amidst the dealing out of offices & making the necessary appointments have remained Silent untill your Excellencey saw the proper opportunity of reminding me that my Services were not forgotten but being informed this day by Letter from the Honble Judge Livermore that myself and Mr Pickering are both in nomination as District Judge for this State your Excellency will pardon me for putting in my Claim. I have nothing to say against the other Gentleman in nomination we are nearly of the same Standing in the Law Department I have been for a number of years attorney General, and repeatedly solicited to accept the office of chief Justice of our Superior Court & as often refused he is Now Actually appointed to that office but has not given his answer we were both zealous for Establishing the present Constitution but in the revolution he & I differed so much in Sentiment that he would not Act or appear in the American Councils for a number of years—your Excellencey knows where I was and the part I was Acting at that time—if all other things are

equal in your Excellenceys mind perhaps this consideration would give the preference to my Claim which will ever be Acknowledged with gratitude by your Excellenceys most obedience & very Humble Servant

            Jno. Sullivan

            P.S. as to my office as President of this State I can no Longer bear the Expence of it.


Title: To George Washington from Henry Bicker, Jr., 28 September 1789
From: Bicker, Henry Jr.
To: Washington, George

            New York September 28th 1789

          The Petition of Henry Bicker Jun. of the City of New york Most Humbly Sheweth
          That in the Year 1775 your Petitioner being well acquainted with the Use of Arms was called upon to teach the Militia of the City of Philadelphia—And for this Purpose left his Business in this City and went to Philadelphia where he instructed the Citizens in the Manual and other Exercises without Fee or Reward—that some Time in latter End of 1775 your Petitioner having accomplished his Design in the City of Philadelphia, he went to the State of New Jersey, and there instructed the Militia of several Counties in the Military Art—That in January 1776

your Petitioner had the Honor of recieving a Lieutenants Commission in the Pensylvania Line, and join’d the Army under your Excellency’s Command at the City of New york—That your Petitioner was made a Prisoner of War in the Capture of Fort Washington and remained in Confinement until 1778—That being Exchanged and promoted to the Rank of Captain in the 4th Pensylvania Regiment your Petitioner join’d a Detachment under the Command of General Wayne and marchd to Virginia—That after the Capture of Lord Cornwallis your Petitioner was again orderd to join the Troops under the Command of General St Clair and marched to the State of South Carolina where he remained until the End of the War—Your Petitioner therefore prays that, in Consideration of his early and continued Services, his Impair’d State of Health, from the Heat of the Southern Climates—His reduced Circumstances and want of Means to support a young Family—Your Excellency will relieve his Distresses by appointing him an Inspector of an Invalid Corps or to some other Office that in your Wisdom he may fill with Honor to himself and Service to his Country And as in Duty bound he will ever pray &c.

            Henry Bicker Jur


Title: Tobias Lear to Clement Biddle, 28 September 1789
From: Lear, Tobias
To: Biddle, Clement

            Dear Sir,
            New York, September 28th, 1789.

          Your much esteemed favors of the 16th & 25th instts are before me. The President’s acct contained in the former is right. Mrs Washington will thank you to get for her and send on here, 15 Yards of Padusoy of the enclosed Pattern.
          The President wishes to procure a considerable quantity of

Clover seed; I will, therefore, thank you to inform me at what price a quantity can be had with you—and the shortest time in which it can be delivered with certainty. I shall make similar inquiries here, and shall finally procure it at the place where it can be had at the lowest price, and del[ivere]d in the shortest time. The time is an essential consideration with the President—he suffered greatly last year by not receiving his Clover seed from this place so early as he should have had it by agreement; and he is now determined to get it in the fall at all events.
          I congratulate you, my Dear Sir, on your appointment to the Office of Marshal for the District of Pennsylvania. You will, in due time, have official information of it. I am, Dr Sir, with great esteem, Your most Obedt Servt

            Tobias Lear.


Title: To George Washington from Moses Michael Hays, 28 September 1789
From: Hays, Moses Michael
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Boston Septemr 28th 1789

          For The Freedom I use in addressing you, I shall rely on The Friendship of General Knox to offer Such Opology, as will impress on you a favorable reception of this Letter. its Motive is to Solicit the appointment of the CoUectorship for the Port of New Port Rhode Island—When That State shall embrace the Feoderal Constitution and appearance Indicate Such measure not to be farr distant; It will not be improper, I presume to Inform your Excellencey, That I am a Native of this Country, Much attacht to its interests & wellfare, a Merchant and resident for many years at Rhode Island, when I should have remained untill this Moment, had it not been possessed by British Forces. When I left it, and Since their departure From thence, The Trade has been so interupted & Much lessned That I Have not as yet, Been induced to return.
          I shall Leave my Friends to Say How Farr I merit attention and your Countenance, and will beg Leave to assure Your Excellencey, That any Confidence, placed in me, will Be fully justified, by a Steady Pursuit of rectitude and Integrity, with Profound Respect I am Yr Excellencey’s mos. obedient Hble Servant

            M. M. Hays


Title: From George Washington to Samuel Langdon, 28 September 1789
From: Washington, George
To: Langdon, Samuel

            Sir,
            New York September 28th 1789.

          You will readily beleive me when I assure you that the necessary attention to the business in which I have been lately engaged is the sole cause of my not having sooner acknowledged the receipt of your letter of the 8th of July—and made a proper return for your politness in sending me the sermon which accompanyed it. You will now, Sir, please to accept my best thank[s] for this mark of attention, as well as for the friendly expressions contained in your letter.
          The man must be bad indeed who can look upon the events of the American Revolution without feeling the warmest gratitude towards the great Author of the Universe whose divine interposition was so frequently manifested in our behalf—And it is my earnest prayer that we may so conduct ourselves as to merit a continuance of those blessings with which we have hitherto been favoured. I am Sir, with great esteem Your most obedt Servt.


Title: From George Washington to Edmund Pendleton, 28 September 1789
From: Washington, George
To: Pendleton, Edmund

            New York Septr 28th 1789

          I write to you, my dear Sir, on a subject which has engaged much of my reflection, and to which I am persuaded I shall obtain your ready and candid attention.
          Regarding the due administration of Justice as the corner stone of good government, I have considered the first arrangement

of the judicial department as essential to the happiness of our country, and to the stability of its’ political system—Under this impression it has been an invariable object of anxious solicitude with me to select the fittest characters to expound the laws and dispense justice.
          Concurring in sentiment with some others of your friends that the functions of the Supreme Bench, which involve the fatigue of circuit courts, would be too much for the infirm state of your health, I believed it necessary, to avail our Country of your abilities and the influence of your example, by nominating you to the office of Judge of the District-Court of Virginia, which will not require much greater personal exertion than the duties of your present station—and I trust the hope, with which I flatter myself, that I shall have the pleasure to hear of your acceptance of the appointment, is well founded—indeed I cannot doubt it, when I again consider the necessity of giving a tone to the system in its’ out-set, by placing the administration of the laws with the best and wisest of our Citizens.
          As soon as the Acts, which are necessary accompaniments of these appointments can be got ready you will receive official notice of the latter. This letter is only to be considered as an early communication of my sentiments on this occasion and as a testimony of the sincere esteem & regard with which I am Dr Sir Yrs &ca.

            G. W——n


Title: From George Washington to Edmund Randolph, 28 September 1789
From: Washington, George
To: Randolph, Edmund

            Dear Sir,
            New York Septr 28th 1789.

          Impressed with a conviction that the due administration of justice is the firmest pillar of good government, I have considered

the first arrangement of the judicial department as essential to the happiness of our country and to the stability of its’ political system—hence the selection of the fittest characters to expound the laws, and dispense justice, has been an invariable object of my anxious concern.
          I mean not to flatter when I say that considerations like these have ruled in the nomination of the Attorney-General of the United States &, that my private wishes wd be highly gratified by yr accepte of the Office—I regarded the office as requiring those talents to conduct its’ important duties, and that disposition to sacrifice to the public good, which I believe you to possess and entertain—in both instances, I doubt not, the event will justify the conclusion—the appointment, I hope, will be accepted, and its’ functions, I am assured, will be well performed.
          Notwithstanding the prevailing disposition to frugality, the salary of this office appears to have been fixed, at what it is, from a belief that the station would confer pre-eminence on its’ Possessor, and procure for him a decided preference of Professional employment.
          As soon as the Acts, which are necessary accompaniments of the appointment can be got ready you will receive official notice of the latter—this letter is only to be considered as an early communication of my sentiments on this occasion and as a testimony of the sincere regd and esteem with which I am &ca.


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Hartley, 29 September 1789
From: Washington, George
To: Hartley, Thomas

            Sir,
            New York September 29th 1789

          As you are about to return to your own State, you will oblige me by informing the Gentlemen to whom you wrote some time ago—or any others in whom you can place entire confidence that I will give £400 Pennsa currency (to be paid in specie) for twenty mares of the annexed description, delivered at my Seat of Mount Vernon in Virginia (which is only nine miles from Alexandria) and I will allow besides a commission of 5 ⅌ cent on the said £400 as compensation for the trouble of purchasing, which two sums I mean to be in full of all expences, risk &ca in delivering of them as above.
          Description
          None of the above mares are to be under 15 hands high by a proper standard measure—not to exceed six years old last spring—and to be warranted sound. Bays or Blacks would be preferred, but no colour rejected—They must not be low in flesh, or have marks of abuse about them—being a little rubbed by collars will not be regarded.
          If a contract of this sort can be made, The mares must all be taken to Mount Vernon at one time—and duplicate descriptive lists of their colours, brands, and marks, minutely detailed—One of which must be sent to me by the post, when the mares set off for Mount Vernon—the other will accompany them to that place, in order to receive at the foot of it the receipt of my nephew Major George Augt. Washington, who lives at my house, which receipt will entitle the Purchaser, or bearer thereof with your order annexed to the aforesaid sum of £420 which shall be paid at this place at any moment it is presented.
          As I have no doubt of getting mares answering this description for 40 or 50 dollars and am assured of this fact by Col. Thos Lowry, I am not inclined to exceed the sum of £420 for the above mentioned 20—and therefore beg the favor of you as soon after your return home as you can make it convenient to let

me know if I may depend upon that number in your parts for this price—Should this commission be executed to the entire satisfaction of my Nephew, who will be charged with the examination of the mares, and will be instructed to reject any, and all, that deviate from the above description, it is not only possible, but very probable that I may take 20 more on the same terms, from the same or other persons, being more convenient than any that could be bought in Jersey. I am &ca

            G. Washington


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Palmer, 29 September 1789
From: Palmer, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

            [29 September 1789]

          The Petition of Benjamin Palmer Most humbly Sheweth.
          That your Petitioner lived on Minefords Island commonly called City Island in the State of New York in the beginning of the War between Great Britain and those States and your Petitioner with all his Family were taken Prisoners by the British

who used us very Ill. And then ordered us off my Plantation which I then had on said Island down to New York where I have continued with my Family ever since—The case of their using me so ill was on Account of sending a Letter to General How the Commander of the British Army in Vindication of and setting forth the just Case of the people of this Country had to oppose the King’s orders—A copy of said Letter I wish to lay before your Excellency with the proceedings our people made to take away my Lands from me after they had got quiet possession of those States with several other copies of Letters of consequence, which your Petitioner has a great desire that your Excellency will take some suitable time to peruse them. And your Petitioner as in duty Bound will ever pray &c.

            Benjn Palmer


Title: Proclamation on the Treaty of Fort Harmar, 29 September 1789
From: Washington, George
To:

            [New York, 29 Sept. 1789]

          By the President Of the United States of America.
          A Proclamation.
          Whereas by Virtue of Powers given by the United States in Congress assembled, to Arthur St. Clair, Governor of the Territory Northwest of the Ohio, and Commissioner Plenipotentiary for treating with the Indian Nations in the Northern Department, a Treaty was concluded at Fort-Harmar, on the ninth Day of January last past, by the said Arthur St. Clair, on the Part of the United States, with the Sachems, Chiefs and Warriors of the Wyandot, Delaware, Ottawa, Chippawa, Pattiwatima and Sac Nations.
          And whereas I have, by and with the Advice and Consent of the Senate, in due Form ratified the said Treaty,—NOW Therefore,

to the End that the same may be observed and performed with good Faith on the Part of the United States, I have ordered the said Treaty to be herewith published; and I do hereby enjoin and require all Officers of the United States, Civil and Military, and all other Citizens and Inhabitants thereof, faithfully to observe and fulfil the same.
          Given under my Hand in the City of New-York, this Twenty-ninth Day of September, in the Year of our Lord One Thousand Seven Hundred and Eighty-nine, and in the Thirteenth Year of the Sovereignty and Independence of the United States.
          G. Washington.

              By Command of the President of
              }

              the United States of America

              H. KNOX

              Secretary for the Department of War.


Title: From George Washington to John Rutledge, 29 September 1789
From: Washington, George
To: Rutledge, John

            Dear Sir,
            New York Septr 29th 1789

          In requesting your candid attention to a subject, which I deem highly interesting to our Country, I am convinced that I address myself well.
          Regarding the due administration of Justice as the strongest cement of good government, I have considered the first organisation

of the judicial department as essential to the happiness of our Citizens, and to the stability of our political system. Under this impression it has been an invariable object of anxious solicitude with me to select the fittest Characters to expound the laws and dispense justice.
          This sentiment, Sir, has over-ruled, in my mind, the opinions of some of your friends, when they suggested that you might not accept an appointment to a seat on the supreme Bench of the United-States—The hesitation, which those opinions produced, was but momentary, when I reflected on the confidence which your former services had established in the public mind, and when I exercised my own belief of your dispositions still further to sacrifice to the good of your country.
          In any event I concluded that I should discharge the duty which I owe to the Public by nominating to this important office a Person whom I judged best qualified to execute its’ functions—and you will allow me to repeat the wish that I may have the pleasure to hear of your acceptance of the appointment—My best respects are offered to Mrs Rutledge and with sentiments of very great esteem and regard I am, Dear Sir, Your Most Obedient and Affectionate Humble Servant

            George Washington


Title: From George Washington to the United States Senate, 29 September 1789
From: Washington, George
To: United States Senate

          United States
          Gentlemen of the Senate.September 29th 1789.
          I nominate William Carmichael as Charge des affaires from the United States of America to the Court of Spain.

            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to the United States Senate, 29 September 1789
From: Washington, George
To: United States Senate

            United-States
            Gentlemen of the Senate,September 29th 1789.
            Agreeably to the act of Congress for adapting the establishment of the Troops in public service to the Constitution of the United States, I nominate the Persons, specified in the enclosed list, to be the commissioned Officers thereof.
            This nomination differs from the existing arrangement only in the following cases—to wit.
            Lieutenant Erkuries Beatty promoted to a vacant captaincy in the Infantry—Ensign Edward Spear promoted to a vacant Lieutenancy of Artillery—Jacob Melcher, who has been serving as a Volunteer, to be an Ensign, vice Benjamin Lawrence, who was appointed nearly three years past, and has never been mustered, or joined the Troops.
            It is to be observed that the order, in which the Captains and Subalterns are named, is not to affect their relative rank, which has been hitherto but imperfectly settled, owing to the perplexity of promotions in the State-quotas conformably to the late confederation.

              Go: Washington


Title: Enclosure: Nominations for the United States Army, 29 September 1789
From: Washington, George
To: United States Senate

              United States September 29th 1789.

            Officers of the Regiment of Infantry

                Leiut. Colo. Commandant Josiah Harmar
                And a Brigadier General by brevet, he having been appointed such by a resolve of Congress of the 31st of July 1787

                Majors

                John Plasgrave Wyllys

                John F. Hamtramck

                Captains

                Jonathan Heart

                David Zeigler

                William McCurdy

                John Mercer

                David Strong

                John Smith

                Joseph Ashton

                Erkuries Beatty.

                Lieutenants

                John Armstrong

                John Pratt

                Ebenezer Frothingham

                William Kersey

                Thomas Doyle

                William Peters

                Jacob Kingsbury

                Ebenezer Denny

                Ensigns

                Francis Luse

                Cornelius Ryrer Sedam

                Nathan McDowell

                Abner Prior

                Robert Thompson

                Asa Hartshorn

                John Jeffers

                Jacob Melcher

                Surgeon

                Richard Allison

                Mates

                John Elliot

                John Scott

                John Carmichael

                Joshua Sumner

                Officers of the battalion Artillery

                Major Commandant John Doughty

                Captains

                Henry Burbeck

                William Ferguson

                Joseph Savage

                James Bradford

                Lieutenants

                John Pierce

                Moses Porter

                William Moore

                Di[r]ck Schuyler

                Mahlon Ford

                Matthew Ernest

                Edward Spear

                Ebenezer Smith Fowle

                Surgeon’s Mate

                Nathaniel Heyward

              Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to the United States Senate and House of Representatives, 29 September 1789
From: Washington, George
To: United States Senate and House of Representatives

          United States,
          Gentlemen of the Senate.September 29th 1789.
          His Most Christian Majesty, by a letter dated the 7th of June last, addressed to the President and Members of the General Congress of the United States of North America, announces the much lamented death of his Son the Dauphin. The generous conduct of the French Monarch and Nation towards this Country renders every event that may affect his or their prosperity interesting to us, and I shall take care to assure him of the sensibility with which the United States participate in the affliction which a loss so much to be regretted must have occasioned both to him and to them.

            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Hezekiah Welch, 29 September 1789
From: Welch, Hezekiah
To: Washington, George

            Sr
            Boston Sept. 29 1789

          The Goodness of the Gentman I am Addresing my self to, and the Necessity that I am under Obliges me to make though to you Sr am an onknown Stranger but your Goodness Emboldings me to send a fue Lines to inform you, I bore a Commission in the Continental Sea Service during the whole of the war. I had with most part of the time three son’s am now some what Advanced in Age with a Fameley yet to bring up should always be happay to be Employde in some thing to Support them when Peace took Place I had Due to me for wages in the Servis near a Eleven Hundred Dollers which through Necessity I was Obliged to sell for four & Eight Pence in the Pound to Support my Fameley and am now Living upon that Little at Preasent I was in Hopes when I heard General Lincoln was Chosen Corlector for the Port of Boston I should have bin so happay as to have Receive’d some appointment as I was Acquainted with the General at the seige at So. Carolina but could not Obtain it, all though I Applide to the General and Suppose it was to so many Applications that it was not in his Power to do as he could have wish’d, the Vice President knowes me Sr I have Applyde to him before and now make bold to wright again to him hoping I shall find some Friends, Any Recommendations which may be wanting can be furnish’d by my Brother Saml Adams who is Leiut. Govenour of this Common wealth and by a Number of Other Gentlemen if Necessary, Excuse me Sr if I have done wrong or maide my Self to Bold in Persuming to Wright to you but Nesessity Obliges me to do it. and am Sr your most Obedent Servant at Command

            Hez. Welch


Title: To George Washington from Betty Washington Lewis, 1 October 1789
From: Lewis, Betty Washington
To: Washington, George

            My Dear Brother
            October 1th 1789

          I receiv’d your Letter Sepbr 13th in answer to that of Colo. Balls, George, Bushrod, and Corbin is here at this time I shall indeaver to have Every thing done as you desire you mention in your Letter to me that the Negros was to be divided into five Parts and one fifth part would be mine, Bushrod informes me that I have no Right to any Part, there is with that negro that you have thurteen which divided in to fore Parts thear would be more than fore to your Share, the other things that was her property not mention’d in the will, sutch as was left in the House I wish to hear from you how thear to be dis Posed of, the Docters

bills is more than I expectted, Halls Bill is £45P.—Mortemores £22P. the Debts I think will be upwards of one Hundred Pounds, there is several we have Heard of not brawt in as yet, Colo. Ball thinks the Crop will Pay of the Debts, if that is the Case the Money then ariseing from the Plantation utensils and st[o]ck must be divided, we shall be able to give an Exact accompt of the debts by the next Post, I am Dear Brother With Love to my Sister Washington Robert and the Children Your Affecte Sister

            Betty Lewis


Title: To George Washington from Jacob Richardson, 1 October 1789
From: Richardson, Jacob
To: Washington, George

            Sir,
            Newport Octor 1. 1789.

          By Capt. Clarke, who arived here last evening, in 50 days from Nants in France I receiv’d a number of Letters, into the Post Office, one of which was for you Sir, which I enclose, & Send by one of our Packets, which wish safe to your hands, I send it in this way that it may gett to you sooner than by Post, we have but one Post in a Week to N. york, goes from here Tuesdays, and getts to N. york on Saturday following. I am wishing you health and happiness. Your most hume Servt

            Jacob Richardson

            P.S. I have Just heard that Mr Osgood, is appointed, Post Master General, if you Sir, would be so kind as to request of him my continuance in this small Office, provided he has a good Report of my services in said Office from 1784 to this time, you will do me a particular favour.


Title: Tobias Lear to Clement Biddle, 2 October 1789
From: Lear, Tobias
To: Biddle, Clement

            Dear Sir,
            New York, October 2d, 1789.

          Your favor of the 30th ultimo came to hand last evening accompanied with the Padusoy for Mrs Washington, the bill of which was enclosed.
          The President will thank you to get from Mr Bartram a list of the plants & shrubs which he has for sale, with the price affixed to each, and also a note to each of the time proper for transplanting them, as he is desireous of having some sent to Mount Vernon this fall if it is proper.

          It is customary for those persons who publish lists of their plants &c. to insert many which they have had, but which have been all disposed of—the President will therefore wish to have a list only of what he actually has in his Gardon. I am, Dear Sir, with very great esteem Your most Obedt St

            Tobias Lear.


Title: Circular to the Governors of the States, 2 October 1789
From: Washington, George
To: Governors of the States

            Sir,
            United States October 2nd 1789.

          In pursuance of the enclosed resolution I have the honor to transmit to your Excellency a copy of the amendments proposed to be added to the Constitution of the United States. I have the honor to be, with due consideration, Your Excellency’s most obedient Servant.

            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from John Moriarty, 2 October 1789
From: Moriarty, John
To: Washington, George

          Salem [Mass.]
          May it please your Excellency—2d October 1789
          I came here from Ireland in the begining of the late war & Cheerfully Contributed to the Cause of freedom & to maintain our rights, and amply bore my share of the burthen.
          In the year 1782. my losses in trade by Capture and other

Casualties were great; & to Compleat my ruin £32000. of the old Emmission died in my hands, which the Records of the state Treasurer will Verify—Since which, I have been Strugling to Support my family—and Hope has kept me from Despair, & Chear’d me with the thought that under the new Government I might have Some appointment of which I was Capable that would make some amends for my losses and afford a Support—I flatter myself that in the appointment officers under the Revenue Law I might have been so happy as to obtain one, I applyed to Some of the members of the Honorable house, who I had earnestly Intreated to Solicit in my behalf, but in this, was disapointed as prior Engagemts & motives of Consanguinity Superceded my Claims to their Intercessions—Some friends Inform me that there Will be many other Offices to fill that my abilities & Services may Intitle me to a place in, & advise me to apply directly to your Excellency.
          With these Encouragements I venture to address your Excellency with all due Difference to your Exalted Station—Humbly to Implore your Condescention to notice me thus far as to appoint me to Some Office that may afford me a support.
          The Honorable Robert Morris Esquire will give you my Character, & Shew your Excellency in ample manner how Strongly I have been recommended to him by Some respectable Characters in Europe, that may Claim your favourable notice. May God long prosper your Excellency a Savior to this Country in as Eminent and Illustrious a manner as you have been its Defender—is the prayer of your Excellency’s Most Obedient Humble Servant

            John Moriarty


Title: To George Washington from James Duane, 3 October 1789
From: Duane, James
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            New York 3d October 1789.

          I want words to express, as I ought, my grateful acknowledgements for the high honor of your communication this day enclosing my Commission as district Judge.
          Happy in seeing, thro many difficulties, the first object of my wishes accomplished by the establishment of our national government, I aspired after no personal emoluments or promotion; but was contented to contribute the little in my power to it’s prosperity in the public stations I possessed, or in private life. Unexpectedly, and I fear from too partial an estimate of my abilities; ranked among those distinguished Characters on whom you are pleased to rely to give stability and dignity to our national government; I can only promise that if my success shall any wise equal the rectitude of my intentions, and the fervor of my desire to promote the happiness of our Country and the glory of your administration, my appointment will not prove a misfortune.

          That you may long continue to preside over our Nation in glory and tranquillity, is the earnest prayer of him who has the honor to be with the utmost respect and most inviolable attachment Sir Your most obedient most obliged and most faithful Servant

            Jas Duane


Title: To George Washington from Solomon Bush, 4 October 1789
From: Bush, Solomon
To: Washington, George

          No. 7 Boulton Street Piccadilly
          May it Please your ExcellencyLondon 4th Octr 1789
          I took the liberty to address you some time since, sincerely congratulating your Excellency on your late dignified appointment, which be assured proceeded from the effusions of a Heart fervently thankfull to the great Author of all good for the blessings he has been pleas’d to shower down on my Country—The many respectable Patriots in this Country must give the greatest pleasure to every Man of Virtue, among whom I beg leave to mention Atkinson Bush Esqr. of this City to whose humanity many of my suffering Countrymen were much indebted for numerous Comforts they receivd during rigorous confinement in the inhospitable Prisons of this Kingdom at Mr Bushs request I beg leave to transmit the proceedings and interposition of the City of London during our late Glorious Struggle of which he begs your Excellency’s acceptance—as well as a Letter from his son Mr Michael Bush a Gentleman of respectability and one of the Livery of London. With every mark of sincere Respect, I have the honour to subscribe Your Excellency’s most Faithfull Obdt Hble Sert

            S. Bush


Title: To George Washington from William Dawson, 5 October 1789
From: Dawson, William
To: Washington, George

            May it Please your Excellency
            October 5th 1789

          You will please to remember that I was manager for Colo. George Mercer on his Estate in Frederick County when the Sam⟨e⟩ was Sold off by your Excellency, and your Excellency may also remember that Mr Jas Mercer was very often Complaing and Scolding, while at Sd Sale, and that one morning I informed your Excellency before Mr Mercer, what a hard year I had had of it, on account of the Overseers knowing they ware agoing off and the Negroes knowing they ware to be Sold, your Excellency acknowledged, you Exspected it had been the Case with me, but Blam’d me for one thing, that was for not haveing the Crop of Tobo all Cleared out & finish’d I acknowledged I ware in that perticular blameable, had there been any Tobo of Consequence unfinished; but Told your Excellency that their was Some ground leaves, which I thought would not pay a person for troble in Steming &c. and that on finishing the Sale that was an overpless of Corn left and Some wheat to finish, the Whole Care then Divolved on me for the Business of Every place, while Mr Mercer was then up, we appointed the first thursday in January following to Settle our accounts, So I pursued the Business of Delivering Corn &c. Mr Snickers I Suppose (as it had been his Practice before as I can Shew by a letter under Mr Mercers hand) wrote to Mr Mercer informing him of bad Conduct in many things of me, on which Mr Mercer wrote me a letter Baring Date 17th Decr 1774. Sent it to Said Snickers, and by him to me, informing me of what he had from your Excellency by Letter, and others, and that your Excellency had named

Capt. Edward Snickers as a fit person for the Supervising and finishing Said Crop of wheat &c. the Said Snickers on Receiving Such Instructions, or authurity, came to the place where I lived Nailed up my Corn house Door and forwarnd me from opening the Same or Concearning with any thing farther I began to remonstrate with him and Shew the hardship I was Under, he Told me if I offered to Concearn or open my Cornhouse Door, that Mr Mercer had ordered him to have a general Court Writ Served on me, this So alarmed me, that I Truly ware in Such A strait, I new not what to do, Considering your Excellency who Mr Mercer wrote had informed him of bad Conduct of me which your Excellency had heard from Severals while at the Sale from which I Conceived your Excellency were against me, Mr Mercer himself then a general Court Lawer and Mr Snickers at that time in great Cr. with Lord Dunmore &c. &c. I thought myself, under the disagreable Nesessety, of giving up my Land &c. I had purchased to my Securitys (as I did not wish to involve those my friends) and remove to a place, to Seek for Bread and get Redress’d. And fully intended to have Brought Suit against Mr Mercer for his Treatment. However the war began with Great Brittan which Prevented, and by a paper Inclosed your Excellency will find I Step’d fauth to defend my Countrys Rights &c.
          after the Paper money was funded I wrote to Mr Mercer informing him of my intention of going to the Southern Country and wished to Settle up all my accounts with him and that I would Leave any Dispute to Gentlemen of Carrecter to decide, he Sent me word to come and See him I went. and he asked me what accounts I wanted to Settle at that time of Day, I told him all my Transactions while Manager for his Brother, he Said he would have nothing to do with me, I Emediately Braught Suit against him in the County Court, and he remooved the Same by writ of Accessory, to the General Court, in which affidavit he took to remoove Sd Suit, if I remember Right Said that your Excellency advised to bring Suit against me for Damages A copy of Said affidavit is inclosed for your Excellencys Perusel as I this very Material I hope your Excellency will Excuse me for Trobleing your Excellency with it, the Said Suit was Sent to the district Court Since which his Honour Mr Mercer hath Refere’d the Same Mr Mercer’s Plea against my Claim is that of non

asumsit & Act of Limitations, Should Mr Mercer pursue this Plea and make it good he will Leave me in great Distress. I am with all Due rispects your Excellencyes Most Obedient Hble Servt

            W. Dawson

            William Dawson’s Questions to Ask his Excellency George Washingto[n] Esquire in writing whos ansr is to be received by the referres, and alow’d as Testimony—warr not, the Middle, the Lower, and the three New Plantations, under good fencing, and Good Crops of wheat Sowed, at Each of Sd plantations.
            Did not my Self and Famely, Treat your Excellency and his Honour Mr Mercer with due respects while at the Sale.
            Did your Excellency write to Mr Mercer informing of him that Severals had informed your Excellency of my Selling Stock &c. and that your Excellency Disired Mr Mercer to do his Brother Justice, at our Settlement and Sue me for Damages.
            Did any Person Inform your Excellency besides Mr Snickers of any Bad Conduct of mine.
            How much Tobo Did Said Snickers render to your Excellency as finished by him after he turn’d me off
            Did Not the Black people belonging to the Estate of Colo. Mercer all Look well from the greatest to the Least young and old according to their ages.


Title: To George Washington from John O’Connor, 5 October 1789
From: O’Connor, John
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            George Town Potowmack Oct. 5th 1789

          You should not be interrupted by this address if I thought that any Citizen of America had a heart more sincerely attached to your person than the unhappy and obscure Individual who presumes to submit to your perusal his reflections on an important question.
          Tho you are not probably a Stranger to my afflictions in this land and the weight of Calumny to which I have been compelled to submit, yet you may be unacquainted with that reverence and awe, I glory to entertain for thy Character and thy measures—These are the impressions which have given me confidence to accompany the enclosed pamphlet with a few lines.
          If moral writers of every age and clime have not been deceived in estimating the turpitude of sin by the malignity of the intention, I will under the favour of divine providence soon convince the World that some of my fellow travellers have injured Innocence—It was, and is my determined intention to publish the History of America—My Circumstances are improving and all my resources point to that Event, previous to whose accomplishment, I can enjoy no peace nor relish any satisfaction except what I may receive in contemplating the prosperity of my Country under thy auspicious Administration. I have the honor to be Sir with respect your most obliged and most Devoted Hume Sert

            John O’Connor


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Osgood, 5 October 1789
From: Osgood, Samuel
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            General Post Office New York October 5th 1789

          I do myself the honor to inclose a Copy of an Advertisement which I propose to have published tomorrow, relative to Contracts for the conveyance of the Mail for one year to commence on the first Day of January next, at which time the present Contracts expire.
          It is not materially different from the Advertisement ⟨illegible⟩ By the ⟨illegible⟩ for the ⟨transportation illegible⟩ the Post Office, the Post Master General is as he ought to be, made subject to the direction of the President of the United States in performing the duties of his Office and in forming Contracts for the transportation of the Mail.
          I shall be extreemly happy to know your pleasure, and will at all times use my utmost indeavours to execute the same with fidelity.
          I have appointed for my Assistant Jonathan Burrall, one of the late Commissioners for settling Public Accounts—His past services, as well as his Abilities entitle him in my opinion to a better place and I hope in the new arrangement this Office will be made better.
          I propose to send him immediately to the southward in order that he may, on the spot examine into the Character of the Deputies, and to reappoint such as have behaved well and ⟨can⟩ give good security to discharge faithfully the Trust resposed in them—To displace such as have not, and to appoint others in their places.
          I have appointed a Deputy Post Master Sebastion Bea⟨illegible⟩ Bauman for the City of New-York, and Robert Patton for Philadelphia.
          I hope these appointments will meet with your approbation. From Mr Patton who has been several years in the Post Office at

Philadelphia I have acquired nearly all the information I now possess relative to the Post Office business. His conduct in that Office has rendered him universally agreeable to the Citizens of Philadelphia—as will apear from the recommendations in my possession. I have The Honor to be &c.


Title: From George Washington to Arthur St. Clair, 6 October 1789
From: Washington, George
To: St. Clair, Arthur

            Sir,
            [New York, 6 October 1789]

          Congress having by their Act of the 29th of September last empowered me to call forth the Militia of the States respectively, for the protection of the frontiers from the incursions of the hostile Indians, I have thought proper to make this communication to you, together with the instructions herein contained.
          It is highly necessary that I should as soon as possible possess full information whether the Wabash and Illinois Indians are most inclined for war or peace—If for the former it is proper that I should be informed of the means which will most probably induce them to peace—If a peace can be established with the said indians on reasonable terms, the interests of the United States dictate that it should be effected as soon as possible.
          You will therefore inform the said indians of the dispositions of the general government on this subject, and of their reasonable desire that there should be a cessation of hostilities as a prelude to a treaty—If however notwithstanding your intimations to them, they should continue their hostilities, or meditate any incursions against the frontiers of Virginia and Pennsylvania, or against any of the troops or posts of the United States, and it should appear to you the time of execution would be so near as to forbid your transmitting the information to me, and receiving my further orders thereon, then you are hereby authorised and empowered in my name to call on the Lieutenants of the nearest Counties of Virginia and Pennsylvania for such

detachments of Militia as you may judge proper, not exceeding however one thousand from Virginia and five hundred from Pennsylvania.
          I have directed Letters to be written to the Executives of Virginia and Pennsylvania, informing them of the before recited Act of Congress, and that I have given you these conditional directions, so that there may not be any obstructions to such measures as shall be necessary to be taken by you for calling forth the militia agreeably to the instructions herein contained.
          The said militia to act in conjunction with the federal troops in such operations, offensive or defensive, as you and the Commanding officer of the troops conjointly shall judge necessary for the public service, and the protection of the inhabitants and the posts.
          The said Militia while in actual service to be on the Continental establishment of pay and rations—they are to arm and equip themselves, but to be furnished with public ammunition if necessary—and no charge for the pay of said Militia will be valid unless supported by regular musters, made by a field or other Officer of the federal troops to be appointed by the commanding Officer of the troops.
          I would have it observed forcibly that a War with the Wabash Indians ought to be avoided by all means consistently with the security of the frontier inhabitants, the security of the troops and the national dignity—In the exercise of the present indiscriminate hostilities, it is extremely difficult if not impossible to say that a war without further measures would be just on the part of the United States.
          But if after manifesting clearly to the indians the dispositions of the general government for the preservation of peace, and the extension of a just protection to the said indians, they should continue their incursions, the United States will be constran’d to punish them with severity.
          You will also proceed as soon as you can with safety to execute the orders of the late Congress, respecting the inhabitants at St Vincennes and at the Kaskaskies, and the other Villages on the Mississippi—It is a circumstance of some importance that the said inhabitants should as soon as possible possess the lands to which they are entitled by some known and fixed principles.
          I have directed a number of copies of the treaty made by you

at Fort Harmar with the Wyandots &c: on the 9th of January last to be printed, and forwarded to you, together with the ratification, and my Proclamation enjoining the observance thereof.
          As it may be of high importance to obtain a precise and accurate knowledge of the several Waters which empty into the Ohio on the North West—and of those which discharge themselves into the lakes Erie and Michigan; the length of the portages between, and the nature of the ground, an early and pointed attention thereto is earnestly recommended. Given under my hand in the City of New-York, this 6th day of October, in the year of our Lord One thousand seven hundred and eighty nine, and in the thirteenth year of the sovereignty and Independence of the United States.


Title: To George Washington from Pierre Marmie, 7 October 1789
From: Marmie, Pierre
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Philadelphia October 7th 1789

          Early in the year 1784, the company I was connected with, and in whose behalf I have now the honor of adressing you, made purchase from Messrs Penn, late proprietaries of Pennsilvania, of that part of their mannor of Pittsburgh, which includes Fort Pitt, and the Whole of its appurtenances. our view was to Erect a distillery, and to make use of Such of the buildings, particularly the brick barracks built by the British, as with Some Small alterations, had been judged convenient for the purpose; In consequence whereof, we had the necessary materials transported from this city, early in the fall of the Same year, to forward our undertaking.
          By a law of the Commonwealth of Pennsilvania enacted in february 1780, in consequence of a recommendation of congress, all landed property, which the necessities of the war, had induced the officers of congress, to make use of, was directed to be Surrendered by them, to the owners of Such land, as Soon as peace Should take place; but in defiance of said law, under various pretences and in opposition to our repeated remonstrances on this Subject, the possession of the abovementioned property, is at this late day, witheld from us, though perhaps, it will be found of little or no use to the troops of the united States.
          As a post of defense, your Excellency who knows the ground, can best determine, whether it is any ways tenable against an Ennemy in force: as a place of communication and of deposit for military Stores, it may perhaps be of Some Service; but I beg leave to observe, that we did never refuse to lett the continent, have the use of Such parts of the fort & Buildings, as might be convenient for the public Service, even upon a very triffling consideration: the right of the Soil is what we contend for, and

to be masters of the disposal of the ground for Such purposes as may be most conducive to our advantage.
          The injury we have Sustained by this detention, is far beyond Description, but I Shall not trouble your Excellency with this consideration, as we Shall fully enter upon this Subject, before the persons, who will have to pronounce on the damages incurred, and the indemnity we deem ourselves entitled to: I Shall only entreat your Excellency to make Some enquiries on the Subject, and to give Such instructions to the Secretary at war, as being conducive to the public Wellfare, may not be injurious to us as individuals. I am with respect Your Excellency’s most Obedient and most humble Servant

            P. Marmie


Title: To George Washington from John Dandridge, 8 October 1789
From: Dandridge, John
To: Washington, George

            Sir,
            Williamsburg Octr 8th 89

          I take this moment to inform you that I have just recorded a Deed of the Land in Gloucester, to you, agreeable to the price offered in your Letter on that subject; to wit £800.
          You will be so good as to present my affectionate duty to my Aunt, & inform her that her Friends here are well. I am, Sir, with respectful regard, Yr Obt Sert

            J. Dandridge


Title: To George Washington from Wakelin Welch & Son, 8 October 1789
From: Wakelin Welch & Son
To: Washington, George

            London 8th October 1789

          We had the honr of receiving your Excellencys favour of the 16th Augst the two inclos’d Letters therein we forwarded & whenever Messrs Fenwick & Co. draws for the Wine their order shall be punctualy paid.
          One Adams here is Suppos’d to be the first optician we have, he purposes to make the Terrestial Globe upon the New & approv’d method, it may take up two Months to Compleat & that will be as early as a Conveyance may offer, for after this Vessell none is expected to Sail before February.
          The Bag Sent by the Packet is as yet not Sent up, they come no further than Falmouth, & whether the Capt: is permitted to forward it, without an order from the Post Office we shall make an Enquiry after. We beg leave to Subscribe Ourselves Your Excellys Much Oblig’d & Hume Servts

            Wake. Welch & son


Title: To George Washington from Henry Knox, 9 October 1789
From: Knox, Henry
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            War Office October 9th 1789.

          I have the honor to submit to your inspection a general return of the Ordnance, Arms, and Military Stores in possession of the United States specifying the places at which they are deposited.
          The stores in general were placed in their present situation by the chances or events of the late War—Springfield in Massachusetts and Carlisle in Pennsylvania excepted—At these places buildings were directed by Congress to be erected for the reception of the public Stores—The buildings at Springfield are of wood and of course will soon decay, excepting the Magazine which is of brick well constructed and executed—The buildings at Carlisle are numerous and well constructed being all built of brick and stone—There are but few stores there at present, most of the unserviceable stores having been sold by order of Congress—The buildings were also directed to be sold to the trustees of Dickenson Colledge, but they and the Board of Treasury could not agree respecting the price—Some of the buildings having been damaged by a late hurricane are ordered to be repaired, and I have directed that such of them as are not immediately wanted for the public use be rented to the trustees of the said Colledge to be returned whenever demanded for the public use—From the inland situation of Carlisle it is very equivocal whether it would be wise in the public to make it one of their principal Arsenals—The expence of transportation and retransportation would in a very few years amount to an excessive sum.
          The stores contained in the return are highly valuable and

require a constant attention in order to preserve them, particularly the Arms and Powder.
          The powder at Springfield and West Point, in which is included the greatest quantity in possession of the public is in good order, great attention having been paid to its preservation.
          The Arms at Springfield and those at West Point which have been repaired are in order for immediate use—The arms in Philadelphia require to be cleaned.
          The damaged Arms at West Point and in Virginia are generally worthy of repairs.
          The stores at the several places are in charge of store keepers, or a Commissary or deputy Commissary of stores, who are allowed annually the sums herein specified.

              Providence
              Dollars

              A store keeper
              96

              Springfield

              A Deputy Commissary
              480

              An Assistant
              180

              Fort Harkimer and the Mohawk river

              A Store keeper
              172

              West Point

              A deputy Commissary
              480

              Philadelphia

              One Commissary
              500

              One Assistant
              360

              French Creek a keeper of the

              Magazine
              60

              Carlisle A store keeper
              100

              New London & Manchester

              A deputy Commissary
              480

              Charleston South Carolina

              A Store keeper
              100

              3008

          The public are annually charged with the following sums for the rents of buildings, and the post of West Point—To wit

              Philadelphia
              752.66 2/3

              Manchester & New London
              350

              For the Post of West Point
              400

              1502.66 2/3

          The places at which the stores generally are deposited ought to be considered merely as temporary accomodations. They are improper for the permanent Arsenals of the United States—But as this is an object of great national importance it will require a particular discussion—I shall therefore have the honor Sir of submitting to your consideration some ideas on this subject, and a general plan for the establishment of naval and military Arsenals for the service of the United States. I have the honor to be With the most perfect respect Sir Your Obedient Humble Servant

            H. Knox


Title: To George Washington from Richard Law, 10 October 1789
From: Law, Richard
To: Washington, George

          New London [Conn.] Oct. 10th 1789. Acknowledges commission as district judge for Connecticut. “A good Judiciary, am sensible, is of the utmost importance, and essential to the well being of every free Government—how far the present Judicial System will answer the Valuable End designed, is perhaps somewhat problematical, and must depend on experiment—much wisdom care & attention has ben, doubtless, employed in the formation & construction of so complicated a Machine, in order to make it answer all the federal purposes and yet not to clash or interfere with the State Judiciaries, however as the modes of proceeding are left in some measure undefined, and the Objects are Sarious & complex—much skill, prudence & delicacy will be requisite to preserve harmony & Consistancy in the Execution.”


Title: To George Washington from Otho Holland Williams, 10 October 1789
From: Williams, Otho Holland
To: Washington, George

            Dear Sir
            Baltimore 10th October 1789.

          The appointment of Coll Harrison to the Office of Judge in the supreme Court; and that of Mr Hanson to the Office of Chancellor, in this State; have created vacancies in the Commission of our general Court which, it is expected, will be filled by some of our most antient law Characters, to whom that situation will be most agreeable.
          The resignation of Mr Thomas Johnson, which is here spoken of as a matter of certainty, induces me to mention these circumstances: and to embrace the opportunity of introducing to your Notice, Mr Robert Smith, of this town, as a Gentleman eminently Qualified to succeed Mr Johnson in the Office of district Judge. The facility with which recommendations are to be procured by any body, and from, almost, every body, renders that mode of judging of merit little worthy of your confidence; But, Sir, if the most Flattering sentiments in Mr Smiths favor, expressed by the most learned, and respectable, Men in Maryland will justify the liberty I now take, there will be no difficulty in obtaining that Testimony. In the mean time I beg leave to inform you that Mr Robert Smith is the Son of Mr John Smith, Senator in this State: and Brother to Colonel Samuel Smith, who has the honor to be known to you. Mr Smith studied Law five years in the Office of Mr Robert Goldsborough, the elder, with the professed design of qualifing himself as a Councellor and has been, since, six Years in very successful practise in the most considerable Courts of Law and Equity in this state. He is much esteemed as a gentlemen; and, as a Citizen very much respected; particularly by the friends of the present government, in the support of which his exertions have been sensibly felt by its adversaries.
          The great object of an established System being secured, Mr Smith, and his brother Coll Smith have been principally instrumental in composing the Political differences, in this town; in consequence of which the late Election here was determined

without a contest. These matters, Sir, are mentioned not only to give Some testimony of his abilities, but to evince the Estimation of his Character in the opinion of the public.
          As this is a private letter I beg Your permission to add a line on another Subject.
          Mrs Carroll prevented my intended visit to Mount Clare, by doing me the honor to call at my House in town. We recapitulated all circumstances respecting the fruit trees: and agreed that it is most eligible, at Present, to send only the small ones. I expect to Ship half a dozen, for Mount Vernon, tomorrow. I am, Dear Sir, Your Most Obedient and Most humble Servant

            O.H. Williams


Title: From George Washington to Betty Washington Lewis, 12 October 1789
From: Washington, George
To: Lewis, Betty Washington

            My Dear Sister,
            New York, Oct. 12th 1789

          Your letter of the first of this month came duly to hand.—I believe Bushrod is right with respect to the distribution of the negroes—When I gave my opinion that you were entitled to a

child’s part it did not occur to me that my Mother held them under the will of my Father who had made a distribution of them after her death.—If this is the case, and I believe it is, you do not come in for any part of them.
          I thought I had desired in my former letter that all personal property not specifically disposed of by the will had better be sold. This is my opinion as it is from the Crops and personal Estate that the Debts must be paid.—The surplus, be it more or less, is divided among her children; and this I presume had better be done in money than in Stock, old furniture or any other troublesome articles which might be inconvenient to remove, but in one or the other of these ways they must be disposed of, as they are not given by the Will.—If there is anything coming to the estate it ought to be collected.—In a word, all the property except Lands and negroes is considered as personal, and after the Debts are discharged is to be equally divided into five parts one of which five you are entitled to.
          A sort of epidemical cold has seized every ⟨illegible⟩ under it—hitherto I have escaped and propose in two or three days to set out for Boston by way of relaxation from business and reestablishment of my health after the long and tedeous complaint with which I have been afflicted, and from which it is not more than ten days I have been recovered, that is since the incision which was made by the Doctors for this imposthume on my thigh has been cured.
          Mrs. Washington joins me in every good wish for you and our other relations in Fredericksburg. And I am My dear Sister Your most affectionate Brother

            Go. Washington