Title: From George Washington to Alice DeLancey Izard, 20 July 1798
From: Washington, George
To: Izard, Alice Delancey

Madam,
Mount Vernon 20 July 1798

By the last Post, I had the honor to receive your favour of the 25th Ulto from Charleston; and pray you to be persuaded that, no one could hear of the improving state of Mr Izards health, and prospect of his recovery, with more pleasure because few, if any of his acquaintances, regretted the loss of the first more than I did. On the prospect of the latter I sincerely congratulate you, as I do on the safe return of your Son; who, if circumstances had permitted, I should have seen with pleasure at this place, on his way to Carolina.
If I rightly understand the grd of Mr Izard’s complaint, I persuade myself that both you & he, upon a reconsideration of the case, and the consequences of a contrary principle in the decisions of the Executive thereon, will readily perceive that no injustice has been done him.
Usage, and the Policy of a State in the establishment of a new Corps, ⟨as⟩ Independant of and ⟨unconnected⟩ with the old—Officers and privates come in together, the former as a means to obtain the latter, and rarely is otherwise, except to reward Meritorious Officers, distinguished for signal Services who cannot be advanced in their own Corps out of the usual rotine of promotion; but this, when done, is considered as a favour, not claimed as a right; and sometimes proves the reverse, by throwing them out of Service altogether, their Corps being the first for disbandment.
But there is another, and more interesting point, in which to view this subject, and proves beyond contradiction, the inadmissibility of Mr Izard’s claim.
In Military, more so perhaps than in other matters, Principles must be established & adhered to, or discontents wd be endless, and disorder great. What is right in one case, must be right in every

case, similarly circumstanced. Upon the principle then that Mr Izard complains, viz: that it was injurious to make Captains of those who had never served, in the new Corps, while there were Officers of inferior grades in the old, let me ask what would be the operation of it in the Army about to be raised, for it applys as forceably to the Infantry, as to the Artillery?
At present, we have four Regiments of Infantry in existence. Twelve are voted to be immediately raised, and if circumstances should require the Provisional Army, nearly double that number will be wanted in addition. Would it not be a matter of surprize then, and absolutely defeat the measures of Government if no New officers were to be appointed in this Army until those of the four Regiments were first provided for? Certain I am, Madam, that your good sense would be the first to cry yes. The case of Mr Izard is exactly similar, although the evil would not be so extensive.
My wishes that Congress would establish a Military Academy, and Corps of Engineers have often been communicated to that Body, and it is to be regretted that the want of many useful Institutions are not seen until they are felt. Mrs Washington & Miss Custis are thankful for your kind remembrance of them and unite with me in every good wish for Mr Izard, yourself & family—and with the highest respect I have the honor to be Madam Your Most obedt Hble serv.

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Thompson & Veitch, 20 July 1798 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Thompson & Veitch

Letter not found: to Thompson & Veitch, 20 July 1798. On 30 July Thompson & Veitch wrote GW: “We are favoured with yours of the 20th Instant.”


Title: To George Washington from James Athill, 21 July 1798
From: Athill, James
To: Washington, George

Sir
Antigua July 21 1798

When I had the honour to be at your hospitable mansion in the last Autumn with Mr Liston, I took the liberty to propose to send you some plants to assist in furnishing your green house, to which you politely consented. I then expected to have been here before Christmas, & to have had much time & leisure to prepare a collection

not entirely unworthy your acceptance. Several circumstances however have contributed to frustrate my expectations: instead of getting to this island, the first land I arrived at after leaving Virginia, was Jamaica, & the voyage from thence is, under the most favorable circumstances very tedious.
Within a few days after my arrival here I was obliged to go to the island of St Christopher’s to assist at a meeting of the General Assembly of the islands that form this government, so that I was not settled again at home till the month of May. This will I hope be some ground of apology for the small collection, of which I have now the honour to request your acceptance. It is contained in six boxes numbered from 1 to 6, & opposite to each plant is a stick with a number on it, & I shall inclose a list, corresponding with the numbers in each box, containing an account of the Technical or genuine name, the vulgar name, the order & class (according to the Linnæan system) to which each plant belongs, & the country from whence it came originally, as far as they are known to me. In this small collection I have not placed many native plants, tho’ they may perhaps be equally objects of curiosity in America, with those which are exotics here, nor can I be very certain that I have sent specimens of all the exotics to be found in this island. However, Sir, if you do me the honour to receive favorably the few plants I have now the pleasure to send, & will permit me to enlarge the collection at some future period, I shall have infinite satisfaction in endeavouring to make what I may next send, as worthy as I can of the person to whom it is to be presented.
I have also taken the liberty of sending a ram & 4 ewe sheep of the breed of these islands. not that they are equal to the sheep of America, but because it is possible, from the singularity of their appearance, you may think them acceptable to run in a meadow near your house. should that not be the case, they need not, in all events, give you much trouble.
Permit me, Sir, to assure you that if you forgive the liberty I take in thus intruding upon you, & if you should go a little further, & receive favorably this trifling but sincere effusion of gratefull respect, you will add much to the happiness I hourly experience, from having had the honour to be your guest for three days, which I shall ever consider as the most memorable & proudest event of my life.

I beg, Sir, that you will permit me to offer my most respectfull compliments to Mrs Washington & Miss Custis, & that you will accept the assurance of the high consideration & respect with which I have the honour to be Sir Your most Obedient and most humble servant

James Athill


Title: To George Washington from George Washington Parke Custis, 21 July 1798
From: Custis, George Washington Parke
To: Washington, George

Dearest Sir
Annapolis [Md.] July 21st 1798

By the returning mail I ⟨hartily⟩ acknowledge your last favour, and am sincerely happy in having given you full satisfaction in an affair so interesting and mutually effecting to both my friends & myself.
I this day finish the six books of Euclid and with that the course marked out for me while in Annapolis[.] College breaks up Monday week the 30th and I shall allways be ready when you may send for me—I shall enclose my accounts by next post so as to be ready to leave this as soon as convenient—I would thank you to inform me whether I leave it entirely or not so that I may pack up accordingly. With sincere affection to all friends I bid you Sincerely Adeiu

Geo. W. P. Custis


Title: From George Washington to John Tayloe, 21 July 1798
From: Washington, George
To: Tayloe, John

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 21st July 1798

This instant, on my return from my usual ride, your favour of the 15th was put into my hands by your Servt.
At the sametime that I express the pleasure I feel at seeing Gentlemen

of your fortune, ease and Independent situation, step forward in vindication of the rights of our Country, it is incumbent on me to add, that appointments in the army which is to be raised, do not lye with me. but I shall not fail to send your letter to the Secretary of War, to be laid before the President of the U.S., who, I am persuaded, will view the tender of your Services in the favourable light I do myself.
If I take the field, a variety of circumstances must combine (some more powerful than my wishes) in the choice of my Aids, for which reason I shall avoid all engagements; and hold myself perfectly free until that period shall arrive, or is close at hand; unless singular cases shou’d arise, that I may be under no embarrassment in the selection of them at that time. Mrs Washington and Miss Custis are thankful for the kind remembrance of them by Mrs Tayloe & yourself, and unite with me in best regards for you both. With great esteem, I am—Dear Sir Your obedt Hble Servant

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Tobias Lear, 22 July 1798
From: Washington, George
To: Lear, Tobias

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 22d. July, 1798.

I am very sorry to learn by Mr. Dalton’s family (now here) that your ague and fever stick by you. If not such as to confine you, your Coming & remaining here while his visit lasts wd. be a kindness to me and company for him; many matters pressing upon me at this time, that cannot, without much inconvenience be postponed, will not suffer me to pay him those attentions I could wish. I am Your friend & Affecte. Servt.


Title: From George Washington to James McHenry, 22 July 1798
From: Washington, George
To: McHenry, James

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 22d july 1798.

Your favour of the 18th was brought by the Post of yesterday.
The nominations, according to your list, will be agreeable to me; although I retain the opinion, that Colo. Smith is better calculated for a command in the line, than for Adjutant General. But what have you done respecting the Quarter Master General? I hope, and trust, it is not intended to Overlook the character I recommended in pointed terms; than whom, I will confidently add, one more adequate is not to be found in the U. States, let the Operations of the Army be in what quarter it will; nor so fit, if they be in the States South of Maryland; as he knows and is known by, every one in those Regions, being the Deputy Quarter Master General, under General Green, in all his active movements; and as much esteemed as he is extensively known. In a word, if this appointment does not take place after my explanations, (which I was careful to have well understood, respecting this Officer); and after it was given specially, in charge to you, to consult me thereon, I shall feel very much hurt, on the general ground I took; and more so, by confiding with certainty that that Officer, for the reasons I assigned, would be made agreeable to me, I wrote to Colo. Carrington & received the answer herewith enclosed; which may be returned after the proper use is made of it.
I desire it may be understood that my prediliction for this Gentleman proceeds from no other cause than a full conviction of his fitness to fill the Office to which he was assigned, in my mind; for being seperated from the main army he is infinitely better known to me by character, than from personal acquaintance (which in fact is slight)—and from the steady & firm support he has given to the Government ever since. Such a character, with his Military knowledge, intelligence and experience in the duties of Quarter Master, would render him an acquisition to any army; and the only fear I had, was, that he would decline accepting it. The present Qr Master Wilkins (I think his name is) may be adequate to the Civil duties of that Office, & while the present Troops are doing Garrison duty in the Western Country, little more is necessary; but bring him to an assembled, & moving army in the field, where Incampments & a thousand Military duties would be thrown upon

him, and he would be found altogether incompetent, from an entire unacquaintedness with the Scenes.
By what circuitous rout did you come at, Severe, in the Wilderness? He may be an estimable character for ought I know, but from the Impression I have of him, he is better qualified to cut off Indians, than to discipline an Army and lead Brigades to the mouths of Cannon. But as I may have mistaken his character, I shall halt here, in my strictures on it.
Also enclosed, you will receive a letter from John Tayloe Esqr. to me; whom you must know by character, being the brother of Mrs Lloyd, & Soninlaw to Mr Ogle of Annapolis. He is among the most wealthy & respectable men in this State; active, zealous & attentive to whatever he undertakes; on the Western expedition, against the Insurgents, he commanded a Troop of horse, and (I believe, but am not sure) was Aid to the Commander in Chief. What he looks to now, beyond the expression of his letter, I know not; with respect to the more definite part of it, I have one answer—and that has been, & will be given to every application (unless some very particular one should come forward)—namely, that until I take the field, or am in a situation to require Aids, I shall hold myself perfectly disengaged, and free; as in the choice of my (established ones) there are many considerations, besides the mere indulgence of my wishes, to be combin’d. In addition to this, I have informed Mr Tayloe that I would transmit his letter to you; to be laid before the President; not doubting but that it would give him, as it had done me, pleasure to find Gentlemen in his situation, and Independent fortunes, stepping forward at such a Crisis with a tender of their Services. I presume, he would prefer an Appointment in the Cavalry—and I have no doubt that he could raise a very fine Troop: but whether he would be satisfied with that, or whether more could be offered with due attention to the old Cavalry Officers of known and acknowledged celebrity, I am not prepared to decide. Possibly, such an appointment, with the Priviledge of chusing his own Lieutenant & Cornet, might induce his acceptance. And here, I will take the liberty of giving it as my opinion once for all, that when the President has fixed upon Officers of established character to Command Companies—Gentlemen who prise their own honour, and the reputation of their Company, that it would be good policy to let them chuse, or at least to recommend, their own Subalterns; It would facilitate recruiting—contribute much

to the harmony of the Company; and if the Captain himself is properly chosen, it may be relied on that he will be cautious not to hazard his own, and the reputation of his company with bad Officers if known, or even suspected, to be unfit for his purpose.
I do not recollect enough of the present Officers in the Cavalry, or of those who have been disbanded, to say with decision which of them is best entitled to the Commd of that Corps; but I have no hesitation in declaring it as my opinion, that Major Talmadge (formerly of Sheldons horse) would not disgrace it, & is to be preferred to his former Colonel.
In furnishing the list I gave you, when here, from whom Field Officers might be selected for the Corps to be raised, I omitted (not seeing his name enrolled) Major Ragsdale of the Artillery. His character in that Corps, I am told, stood high. How it has happened that he is yet in the background, whether from choice, or because he has been overlooked, I am unable to say. He is of this State, as Talmadge is of New York.
A Lieutt Marsteller (at present of the Troop of Horse, in Alexandria) has been recommended to me as a man wishing, and deserving of an Appointment in the Army, about to be raised. A Doctr Peyton, son of a very worthy man, and brother to two of the best Officers in Lee’s Corps of horse during the Revolution War, has also applied for a birth in the Medical line. I have answered, that appointments are not with me—that recommendations accompanying my letters to them should go to the President direct, or through the Secretary of War. Possibly you may see these. They must speak for themselves. The first is well spoken of as an Officer and Gentleman. He was in the horse on the Western Expedition, and by accident received a wound. The other (Doctr Peyton) is but lately returned from an absence of five years, in Europe, I believe in the Study of Physick. I have also been told that the Captn (Young) of the Alexandria Troop is desirous of employment, but as his application has not been direct, I but barely mention the fact. Doctr Craik did say something too, respecting his Son (who was in my family) going into the Army, but as nothing definite passed I shall say nothing more on the Subject. His Son in law West (Major in one of the Uniform Corps) is desirous in case the Provisional Army is raised, of obtaining an Appointment therein.
And now, having laid before you every thing that has occur’d to

me—I shall add no more, at present, than that I am Your Obedt & Affecte Servant

Go: Washington

P.S. I do not know whether Mr Edwd Rutledge would come forward, or not; but I know of none exceptg Genl Knox who would Comd the Corp of Artillery more respectably.


Title: To George Washington from William Washington, 22 July 1798 [letter not found]
From: Washington, William
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from William Washington, 22 July 1798. On 27 Sept. GW wrote Washington about “your letter of the 22d of July.” The letter, sold by Stan Henkels, item 796, 19 May 1905, is “introducing Major James Simms” (American Book Prices Current, 11 [1905], item 628).


Title: To George Washington from Jonathan R. Wilmer, 23 July 1798
From: Wilmer, Jonathan R.
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Annapolis [Md.] July 23d [17]98

In addressing you on a subject extremely interesting to my feelings, I experience those sensations, which flow from, and are incidental to the occasion. Observing that you have again determined to forgo the pleasing endearments of domestic retirement, and aid the interest and ⟨illegible⟩ of your Country by taking the Command

of it’s Army; I have suggested to myself the liberty of being a Candidate for the Appointment of one of your Aids.
In making the present application; I am actuated by an assurance from every principle that has hitherto characterised your conduct, that merit alone will give a cast to the seats of preference. If, Sir, a recommendation from the Executives, confirmed by the opinion of the most respectable Citizens of this State, relative to my character, education, deportment, and competency will operate on your mind; I can without difficulty procure the most flattering testimonials.
No doubt, many persons whose wealth can maintain them without any compensation from Government will be ambitious of the Station. I confess my fortune is too circumscribed to tender my voluntary services. My reason for not soliciting an active command proceeds from a wish to fill such a situation as would not entirely interrupt the progress of my professional information. I now have the honor of composing part of the Executive of this State. But I consider that every young American ought to contribute his personal exertions, and not remain as idle spectator in the civil department during the approaching conflict.
I feel an auspicious hope, that the energy of our measures will convince France, that altho’ a few deluded persons, who are indebted to confusion and unsettled times for their consequence, may foster the spirit of faction; still the people of America are resolved to support their happy Government and it’s virtuous administration. When I speak of the people of America, I recognize that class of Citizens, whose talents, virtues and love of temperate liberty are calculated to give importance to social order.
May I, Sir, indulge the expextation of hearing from you. If you will rest the fate of my application on the approving language of Maryland; I will immediately resort to the most satisfactory credentials. I have the Honor to be with the highest sense of respect & regard Yr most obt Servt

Jona. R. Wilmer


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Cadwalader, 24 July 1798
From: Washington, George
To: Cadwalader, Thomas

Sir,
Mount Vernon 24th July 1798.

In answer to your favour of the 20th, I can assure you with much truth that I had a very sincere and Affectionate regard for Genl Cadwalader, your father, when alive; and that it would give me great pleasure to do any thing in my power, consistently with the object in view, to serve his Son.

But if circumstances should render it expedient for me to take the Field, the variegated, & important duties of the Commander in Chief are such as to require, indispensably, that the Gentlemen of whom his family are composed should be experienced, & well acquainted with the duties they are to perform. This then, candour bids me say, is an insuperable bar to your wishes for an appointment as one of my Aids; and it is more than probable my old Secretary Lear of whom I have had fourteen years proof, of his Integrity and abilities, will fill this Office under my present appointment.
Of what age you are, I know not; if twenty one under which no appointments, knowingly were made when I was in the Administration of the Government (except in the case of young Mr Izard who was sent to qualify himself as an Engineer in one of the Military Academies in France) there is no doubt if it be your desire, and that of your friends, but you might receive a Commission in the line of the Army. Mrs Washington unites with me in compliments & best wishes to Mrs Cadwalader and with esteem & regard I am Sir Your Obedt Hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Francis Corbin, 24 July 1798
From: Washington, George
To: Corbin, Francis

Sir,
Mount Vernon 24th July 1798

I have been duly honored in the receipt of your favours of the 7th & 18th Instant. The first of which, would have received an early acknowledgment had I not been occupied with very unexpected business, which has kept me pretty closely engaged for the last ten or twelve days.
I ought not indeed to have delayed it so long—1. because the Gentleman on whose behalf (Doctr Belknap) I troubled you, I perceive by the Boston Gazette is since dead. and 2. because my gratitude ought sooner to have been expressed, in return for the favourable sentiments you have been pleased to express in my behalf. Let me now thank you for them.
Candour, Sir, requires I should inform you, that if circumstances shd make it necessary for me to take the Field, my Aids must be composed of some of the most experienced Officers I can obtain; the various & complex duties of the Commander in Chief requiring it; while it is more than probable my Old Secretary, Mr Lear, of whose abilities, prudence and Integrity I have received proof near fourteen years, in my own family, will be called to the same Office under my new appointment.
It is right too, that I should signify it as my belief, that the Field Officers in the Augmented Corps, will, more than probable, be selected from the Officers of most celebrity of the Old army; but if the Provisional Force is called out, there will be openings for the Spirited Gentlemen, of influence, in the different States to come forward.
At all times, when it comports with your convenience, I should be glad to see you at this place, being—Sir Your Most Obedient Servant

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to George Washington Parke Custis, 24 July 1798
From: Washington, George
To: Custis, George Washington Parke

Dear Washington
Mount Vernon 24th July 1798

Your letter of the 21st Instt was received ⟨last night⟩ The question, “I would thank you to inform me whether I leave it entirely, or not,

so that I ⟨may⟩ pack up accordingly,” really astonishes me! for it would seem as if nothing I could say to you made more than a momentary impression. Did I not, before you went to that Seminary, and since by letter, endeavour to fix indelibly on your mind, that the object ⟨for⟩ which you were sent there, was to ⟨finish a course of education which you yourself were to derive⟩ the benefit of hereafter, ⟨and for pressing which upon you, you would be the first to thank your friends so soon⟩ as reason has its proper sway ⟨in the direction of your⟩ thoughts?
As there is a regular stage between Annapolis and the Federal City, embrace that as the easiest, and most convenient way of getting to the latter, from whence Mr Law, or Mr Peter will, I have no doubt—send you hither—or a horse might meet you there—or at Alexandria, at an appointed time. The family are well, and I am as usual, Your Affectionate

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from John Smith, 24 July 1798
From: Smith, John
To: Washington, George

Sir
Markett Street No. 236Philadelphia July the 24 1798

Many Ladys & Gentlemen who have seen my Vitrify’d paintings in staind Glass wish’d much for your portrait because it will ever be the same—likewise His Excellencys the Presedents Sir its the revival of a Art which as been lost for many centreys no time or climate can cause the least chainge in the colours and can be made cleane in a moment if dirted by insects—when pleasd in a roome like other Draings they have the aperence of ⟨fare⟩ Oil paintings but when fix’d in a Window guarded by wire lettice its transporent brilliancy exceeds every other kind of paintings if I am honored with your consent it will be the Greatest gratification there are very good likeness’s by Mr Steward & other from whome I flatter my self I shall be enabled to give satisfaction. Sir I am baging pardon for this liberty your Excellencys Most obt and most Hbe

John Smith

permis me to mention the teerms agreed on for each portrait fifty Dollers teen to be paid at the time subscribing and the remainer on receiving the picture.


Title: To George Washington from William Augustine Washington, 24 July 1798
From: Washington, William Augustine
To: Washington, George

My Dr sir
Haywood July 24th 1798

Your favr of the 26th Ulto I recd to day—I had been apprehension, from not hearing from you that my Letter had miscarried; it was intended to have been sent by Mr Neal the B[r]other of your manager, his father (who is in my employ) the morning I wrote it informed me that his Son would call at my mill for my Letter. I was to go to our Court that day, but before I got to my Mill Neale had called and was gone on; when I got to Court I met with a Mr James Thomson who informed me that he was then on his way to Alexandria I gave the Letter to him and he promissed me that he would put it in the Post Office as soon as he got to Alexandria—Your proposals for a Contract for Corn appear to be very fair—I have only a few observations to make, that as you have confined me to the Single Market of Alexandria and the Cash price at the time of delivery, that you will consent to pay the freight, for I assure you that generally I have obtained a high & sometimes a better price for my Corn at my landing than my Neighbours in smaller quantities could get in alexandria the quantity and at one Landing being an object with a Merchant—I am affraid you may think me unreasonable in this request, if so I hope you will excuse it, and attribute it to my Candor—Its my earnest desire to oblige you in this business, and I had rather sacrifice the freight than not do so, if you think my request unreasonable—If not inconvenient to you it would suit me much better to deliver it in March & by the 15th or 20th of Apl because after that time we are busily ingaged in another Crop and it would be a great draw back to us to have to beat out and deliver a quanty of Corn at that time.
Inclosed I send you an old Will of one Martha Hayward dated 6th May 1697, which I got from Mr John Washington; its probable it may throw some light on the inquiries of Sir Isaac Heard, the Lady appears to have been the relation of our ancestors, and Wild (one hundred & ⟨one⟩ years ago) the chief of her Estate—to the Sons of John & Lawrence Washington of Westmoreland The

question is whether this John & Lawrence be the original John & Lawrence who migrated to America, The Will is of no importance now to Mr Jno. Washington & he begs you will keep it If this Lawrence & John should have been those who migrated to America, then Lawrence must have been the Eldest & our Progenitor; as he left only two Sons John & Augustine; the one your Father, the other the Father of Colo. Warner Washington⟨.⟩ from the Sons of this John mentioned in the Will must have sprung the various other branches of the Washington family—that Lawrence was our progenitor is convincing to me from the following inscription on a Tombstone near my vault—“here Lyeth the Body of John Washington Eldest Son to Capn Lawrence Washington who departed this Life the 10th of Jany 1690 aged Ten Years & Six Months; also Mildred Washington Eldest Daughter to said Washington who departed the 1st of Augt 1696 aged 5 Months” from this inscription it appears that Capt. Lawrence Washington must have had two Sons by the Name of John, the first died 1690, for after this in 1697 Martha Hayward makes a devise to John Washington the son of Capt. Lawrence Washington, which John must have been the Brother to your Father—In your Lettr to me you say John & Lawrence migrated to America about the year 1657—which makes me think it must be the same John & Lawrence mentioned in the Will, in 1697—as they appear to have had considerable families, & must I think have been too old to have been the Sons of John & Lawrence who came over in 1657—for in the year 1690 Cap. Lawrence Washington lost a Son aged Ten Years, which must have been born in 1680 only 23 Years after their arrival in America. My sincere respects to Mrs Washington and am my Dr sir Your sincerely Affectionate Nephew

Wm Augt. Washington


Title: From George Washington to James Anderson (of Scotland), 25 July 1798
From: Washington, George
To: Anderson, James

Esteemed Sir,
Mount Vernon 25th July 1798

Your favour of the 8th of February came safe, and would have received an earlier acknowledgment if anything had sooner occurred, worthy of communication.
I hope you have not only got relieved of the fever from which you were then recovering, but of the langour with which it had affected you; and that you are now engaged in the literary pursuits of which you gave the outlines—and which with your pen and under your arrangement of the subjects, must be curious, entertaining and Instructive. Thus persuaded, if you propose to carry the work on the plan of subscription, it would give me pleasure to be enrolled in the list.
I little imagined when I took my last leave of the walks of Public life and retired to the Shades of my Vine & Fig tree that any event would arise in my day that could bring me again on a public theatre. But the unjust, ambitious and intoxicated conduct of France towards these U. States has been, and continues to be such, that they must be opposed by a firm & manly resistance, or we shall not only hazard the subjugation of our Government but the Independence of our Nation also; both being evidently struck at by a lawless Domineering Power who respects no Rights, and is restrained by no Treaties when it is found inconvenient to observe them.
Thus situated—sustaining daily injuries—even indignities, with a patient forbearance, from a sincere desire to live in Peace & Harmony with all the World—The French Directory, mistaking the motives—the American character; and supposing that the People of this Country were divided, & would give countenance to their nefarious measures, have proceeded to exact loans (or in other words contributions) & to threaten us, in case of non compliance with their wild, unfounded & inconsistent complaints that we should share the fate of Venice & other Italian States.

This has roused the People from their slumbers & have filled them with indignation from one extremity to the other of the Union, and I trust, if they should attempt to carry their threats into effect & invade our Territorial, as they have done our Commercial Rights, they will meet a Spirit that will give them more trouble than they are aware of in the Citizens of these States.
When every thing Sacred, and dear to Freemen is thus threatned, I could not consistent with the principles which have actuated me through life remain an idle spectator—& refuse to obey the call of my Country to lead its Armies for defence and therefore have pledged myself to come forward whensoever the exigency shall require it.
With what sensations at my time of life (now turned of 66) without ambition or interest to stimulate me thereto, I shall relinquish the peaceful walks to which I had retired, and in the shades of which I had fondly hoped to spend the remnant of a life worn down with cares in contemplation on the past and in scenes present & to come⟨,⟩ of rural growth; let others & especially those who are best acquainted with the Construction of my Mind decide, while I believing that man was not designed by the All wise Creator to live for himself alone Prepare for the worst that can happen.
The Gardener you were so obliging as to send me continues to conduct himself extremely well. He is industrious sober and orderly—and understands his business—In short I never had a hired servant that pleased me better, and what adds to my satisfaction is that he is content himself, having declared that he never was happyer in his life. My best wishes will always attend you, and with very grt esteem & regard I am Sir Your most Obedt & Obliged Humble Servant

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Charles Carter, Jr., 25 July 1798
From: Carter, Charles Jr.
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Culpeper July 25 1798

I have lately receiv’d a letter from my brother William Champe Carter of Albemarle requesting, that I would solicit you to countenance his application for the Commission of Captaincy in the Provisional Army—I have with the greatest readiness yielded to his request, as I think it praiseworthy in young men of fortune & character at this juncture to step forward in defence of the rights of their Country—it may also be well on the score of policy to distribute a few Commissions in that District of Virginia, for it cannot be denied that a certain character in his route from Philadelphia to Monticello used every indirect means of damping the patriotic spirit of the people—should the commissions for this grade be filled, it would be agreable to this Gentleman to be attached to the family of some General Officer as an Aid de Camp, and I can venture to mention him as possessing capacity & manners calculated to engage esteem.
It was the intention of Mrs Carter & myself to have visited you the last Spring, but the loss of a carriage horse compelled us to relinquish it—we shall make our arrangements against next Spring & (should your public engagements not call you from home) we shall certainly do ourselves the pleasure of visiting you—Be pleased to present the affectionate respects of Mrs C. & myself to Mrs Washington & to believe me with every sentiment of regard & esteem yr Most ob.

Chas Carter Junr


Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 25 July 1798
From: McHenry, James
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Philadelphia 25 July 1798

I inclose you the abridged rules and regulations for the formations, field-exercise and movements of his Britannic Majesty’s forces; also some letters I have received and copies of the answers thereto on the subject of supplying you with aids de camp.
I shall employ the Inspector General in revising what I have prepared relative to a system of discipline and police for the armies of the United States, and submit the whole to you as soon as possible after it returns into my hands.
The President left town this morning for Braintree. With the most sincere respect I am D. Sir your most ob. st

James McHenry


Title: From George Washington to Charles Fenton Mercer, 25 July 1798
From: Washington, George
To: Mercer, Charles Fenton

Sir,
Mount Vernon 25th July 1798

Your letter with its enclosures have been received; whether in the ordinary course of the Mail I am unable to inform you, as you have omitted to give it a date. From the copies of yours to Doctr Smith, and his to the President, which are dated the 9th & 10th of June, It is to be feared that there has been much delay in the case.
From the very sincere regard I entertained for your deceased Uncles and father, while living; but more especially from the favourable character given of yourself by Doctr Smith, I feel every disposition to second your wish to enter into the Army of the United States, in defence of those rights which have been, & continue to be, so outrageously attacked, by a Power which disregards all Law, & all Treaties which are found inconvenient for them to observe and, accordingly, have made your desires known to the Secretary of War, in a letter of this date, and wish, if not too late, that it may have the desired effect.
A close study of Law, would be incompatible with the Military duties you would have to perform as an Officers—but a considerable portion of your time might be devoted to the reading of it; and be more eligibly spent than in the dissipations which are but too common in a Camp or Quarters. I am Sir Your Very Hble Servant

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to John Trumbull, 25 July 1798
From: Washington, George
To: Trumbull, John

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon, 25th July 1798

Your favor of the 6th of Mar. with the proofs of the two first Prints of the American Revolution came duly to hand, and merit those thanks which I offer with great cordiality.
Such repeated proofs of your kind attention to me, affect my Sensibility without enabling me to express it in the manner I wish; further than to assure you, in strong terms, of my sincere friendship; of which I hope, & trust, you had no doubts before.
New Scenes are opening upon us, and a very unexpected one, as it respects myself, is unfolding. What will be the final result of these measures is only known to that Providence in whose directions all things are. When I bid adieu last to the Theatre of public life, I thought it was hardly possible that any event would arise, in my day, that could induce me to tread that stage again.
But this is an age of Wonders, and I have once more consented to become an Actor in the great Drama. The conduct of the French Nation towards our own, has been so extraordinary and outrageous, as to have drawn forth an expression of the public sentiment as unequivocal, & pleasing to the friends of this Country, as it was unexpected, and must be Mortifying to the Rulers of that—and their Partizans here. Both of whom, it is now evident, have been greatly mistaken in their calculation of the temper of the People, from one end of the Union to the other.
When may we look for the pleasure of seeing you in this Country again? Mrs Washington (who is as well as usual) and Miss Custis unite with me in every good wish for you; and with much truth I remain, Dear Sir, Your Most Obedt & Affecte Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to James McHenry, 27 July 1798
From: Washington, George
To: McHenry, James

Private
Dear SirMount Vernon 27th July 1798
The Greyheads of Alexandria, pretty numerous it seems, and composed of all the respectable old People of the place; having formed

themselves into a company for the ^defence of the Town & its Vicinity, are in want of Colours; and it being intimated that the Presentation of them by Mrs Washington would be flattering to them; I take the liberty of requesting the favour of you to have made & sent to me as soon as is convenient, such as will be appropriate to the occasion. Handsome, but not more expensive than becomes Republicans (not Bachite Republicans) is reqd. If you think a Motto would be proper, the choice of one “chaste & unassuming”—is left to your own judgment. Send the cost, & the money shall be remitted by Yours always

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to William Hambly, 28 July 1798
From: Washington, George
To: Hambly, William

Sir,
Mount Vernon 28th July 1798

Bearing in grateful remembrance the very fine Cheeses you had the goodness to send me, Mrs Washington prays your acceptance of half a dozen Hams of her own curing. I am Sir Your Most Obedt Hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Anthony Macharg, 28 July 1798
From: Washington, George
To: Macharg, Anthony

Sir,
Mount Vernon 28th July 1798

Your letter of the 16th instt has been duly received. A person understanding, as you profess to do, the art of training horses &

Instructing their Riders for Military Service, would certainly be very useful in the Cavalry of the United States; but whether provision is made for such an Officer, in the Law which establishes them, I am unable to say.
All therefore I can add, on this subject, for want of this knowledge, and a better knowledge of your character and fitness for the Office you seek, is, to advise you to apply to the Secretary of War by letter, to be informed whether on public or private account, it is likely you cd be employed for the purpose you mention; but previous to this as you probably are unknown to him and strangers I presume will not be admitted who cannot produce ample testimonials of their character, and good deportment, as well as fitness for teaching I recommend it to you, as an indispensible measure to have your character well certified by the principal Inhabitants of Norfolk and such Officers of the Government as may reside at that place and transmit the same—with this letter to the War Office and it will place the application on decisive ground when you receive his answer—without which, as a stranger, it is not probable your application would be attended to. I am—Sir Your Very Hble Servt

Go: Washington

P.S. Among other things, which the Secretary might wish to know, are—your Country—how long you have been in the United States—and what have been your pursuits ⟨since⟩.


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Peter, 28 July 1798
From: Peter, Thomas
To: Washington, George

Dear sir
Hope Park 28th July 1798

I have received your two Letters of the 15th & 25th Current, the former inclosed two Tobacco Notes of Nanjemey Inspection—Nett weights Twenty Hundred & thirty five pounds.
I left them in the hands of my Father to be disposed off with the others, when he makes sale of his.
Thursday Morng an Express arrivd here from Marlbro for Mrs Stuart her Mother being dangerously Ill.
I attended her down but the weather being excessively Hot & only two Horses we did not arrive there untill ten, two Hours before which, she expired—Dr Stuart sets off to his Fathers to day but from some late information scarcely expects to see him alive—We are happy to hear you are all well. We are as much so as the very warm weather will permit and I am Dear sir with Esteem yours

Thomas Peter


Title: From George Washington to James Ash, 29 July 1798
From: Washington, George
To: Ash, James

Sir,
Mount Vernon, 29th July 1798

I have been duly honored with the receipt of your favour of the 23d Instant.
As you are known to, and have a reliance on the friendship of the Secretary of War, there can be no doubt but that his recommendation of you to the President of the United States would ensure you a Commission in the line of the army.
With respect to the Gentlemen who are to compose my family as Aids de Camp, so many considerations must combine in the choice of them that I shall delay making it—unless a particular case should occur—until I take the Field. With thanks however for your offer I am Sir Your Most Obedt Hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Clement Biddle, 29 July 1798
From: Washington, George
To: Biddle, Clement

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 29th July 1798

Your letter of the 9th ulto (to which I replied on the 17th following) is the last I have received from you. And nothing more have I heard of the Pictures from Mr Savage, & the last Vol[um]e of the Encyclœpediæ which you say you were then about to ship in a Vessel loading for Alexandria.
For my sentiments respecting the old Coach, & Table Ornaments, I refer to my last of the above date—17th June—& repeat my request of a picture frame of the quality & size therein mentioned. With esteem & regard I am—Dear Sir Your Obedt Servant

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Alexander Hamilton, 29 July–1 August 1798
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

My dear Sir
Philadelphia July 29 [and New York, 1 August] 1798

Your letter of the 14th instant did not reach me ’till after the appointments mentioned in it were made. I see clearly in what has been done a new mark of your confidence, which I value as I ought to do.
With regard to the delicate subject of the relative rank of the Major Generals, it is very natural for me to be a partial judge, and it is not very easy for me to speak upon it—If I know myself however, this at least I may say that were I convinced of injustice being done to oth⟨ers⟩ in my favour, I should not hesitate even to volun⟨teer⟩ a correction of it, as far as my consent could avail⟨.⟩ But in a

case like this, am I not to take the opinion of others as my guide? If I am, the conclusion is that the Gentlemen concerned ought to acquiesce. It is a fact, of which there is a flood of evidence that a great majority of leading federal men were of opinion, that in the event of your declining the command of the army, it ought to devolve upon me, and that in case of your acceptance, which every body ardently desired, the place of second in command ought to be mine⟨.⟩ It is not for me to examine the justness of this opinion. The illusions of self-love might be expected too easily to give it credit with me. But finding it to exist, am I at liberty to seek to postpone myself to others, in whose hands, according to that opinion, the public interests would be less well confided? Such are the reflections which would have determined me to let the business take its course.
My own opinion, at the same time, is that of the two Gentlemen postponed to me, the cause of complaint, if any, applies emphatically to General Knox—His rank in the army was much higher than that either of Pinckney or myself. Pinckney’s pretensions on the score of real service are not extensive—those of Knox are far greater. Pinckney has no doubt studied tactics with great care and assiduity. But it is not presumeable that he is as well versed in the tactics of a General as Knox. Pinckney’s rank at the close of the War was only nominally greater than mine. It was indeed of more antient date. But when in the year 1777 the Regiment of Artillery were multiplied, I had good reason to expect that the command of one of them would have fallen to me had I not changed my situation; and this in all proba[bi]lity would have led further. I am aware at the same time that there were accidental impediments to Pinckney’s progress in preferment, but an accurate comparison would I imagine shew that on the score of rank merely the cloak of superiority on his part is not strongly marked. As to military service I venture to believe that the general understanding of the late army would allow a considerable ballance to me. As to civil services since the war, I am extremely mistaken, if in the minds of Fœderal men there is any comparison between us. The circumstances of the moment, it is true, give him a certain eclat, but judicious men reduce the merit to the two points of prudent forbearance and the firmness not to sacrifice his country by base compliances. In all this, it is very far from my inclination to detract from General Pinckney. I have a sincere regard for him and hold

him in high estimation. At the same time, endeavouring to view the matter with all the impartiality which my situation permits, I must conclude that General Pinckney, on a fair estimate of circumstances ought to be well satisfied with the arrangement.
After saying thus much, I ⟨will⟩ add that regard to the public interest is ever predominant with me—that if the Gentlemen concerned are dissatisfied & the service likely to suffer by the preference given to me—I stand ready to submit our relative pretensions to an impartial decision and to waive the preference. It shall never be said, with any color of truth, that my ambition or interest has stood in the way of the public good.
Thus, Sir, have I opened my heart to you with as little reserve, as if to myself; willing rather that its weaknesses should appear than that I should be dificient in frankness. I will only add that I do not think it necessary to make public beforehand the ultimate intention I have now disclosed. It is possible the difficulties anticipated may not arise.
But, My Dear Sir, There is a matter of far greater moment than all this which I must do violence to my friendship by stating to you; but of which it is essential you should be apprised. It is that my friend, ⟨McHenry,⟩ is wholly insufficient for his place, with the additional misfortune of not having himself the least suspicion of the fact! This generally will not surprise you, when you take into view the large scale upon which he is now to act. But you perhaps may not be aware of the whole extent of the insufficiency. It is so great as to leave no probability that the business of the ⟨War Department⟩ can make any tolerable progress in his hands. This has been long observed; and has been more than once mentioned to the President by members of Congress. He is not insensible, I believe, that the execution of the department does not produce the expected results; but the case is of course delicate and embarrassing.
My real friendship for ⟨McHenry⟩ concurring with my zeal for the service predisposed me to aid him in all that he could properly throw upon me. And I thought that he would have been glad in the organisation of the army and in the conduct of the recruiting service, to make me useful to him. With this view I came to this City & I previously opened the way, as far as I could with the least decency—But the idea has been thus far very partially embraced and tomorrow or next day I shall return to New York without much

fruit of my journey. I mention this purely to apprise you of the course of things and the probable results. It is to be regretted that the supposition of cooperation between the ⟨Secretary at War⟩ and the principal military officers will unavoidably throw upon the latter a part of the blame which the ill success of the operations of the war department may be expected to produce. Thus you perceive, Sir, your perplexities are begun. Most respectfully & affectionately I have the honor to reman Dr Sir Yr vy Obed. Serv.

A. Hamilton

P.S. Since writing the above I concluded to write a letter of which the inclosed is a copy. This effort to save a man I value & promote the service has under the circumstances cost something to my delicacy.
Mr Harpur of the house of Representatives is desirous of being in your family—He is a man of very considerable talents & has the temper of a soldier. The shade to his useful qualities is Vanity. But I think the good much outweighs the ill. Pardon this liberty in a point so delicate.
New York Aug. 1. The above was written at Philadelphia—But a very pressing call to this place added to occupations there prevented my being able to copy & forward it ’till now.
Give me leave to suggest the expediency of your asking of McHenry a statement of all the Military Supplies, (Cannon Arms &c. &c.) which are already provided and of the means & measures provided and in execution for augmenting the quantity. This will give you necessary information & prompt to exertion.
The writer of the inclosed letter is a man of respectability. But I could recommend his primary object.


Title: To George Washington from Henry Knox, 29 July 1798
From: Knox, Henry
To: Washington, George

(Private)
My dear SirBoston 29 July 1798.
Yesterday I received your favor of the 16th instant, which I opened with all the delightful sensations of affection which I always before experienced upon the receipt of your letters. But I found on its perusal, a striking instance of that vicissitude of human affairs and friendships, which you so justly describe. I read it with astonishment, which however subsided in the reflection, that few men well know themselves, and therefore that for more than twenty years, I must have been acting under a perfect delusion. Conscious myself of entertaining for you a sincere, active, and invariable friendship, I easily beleived it was reciprocal. Nay more, I flattered myself with your esteem and respect in a military point of view. But I find that others greatly my juniors in rank, have been, upon a scale of comparison, preferred before me. Of this perhaps the World may also concur with you, that I have no just reason to complain. But every intelligent and just principle of society required, either that I should have been previously consulted on an arrangement in which my feelings and happiness

have been so much wounded; or that I should not have been dragged forth to public view at all, to make the comparison so conspicuously odious.
I revere the Cause of my Country far beyond all my powers of description. I am charmed with its honorable and dignified proceedings relatively to foreign nations, under the former, and present administrations, of the supreme Executive. And I shall be proud of an honorable opportunity of sealing the truth of these opinions with my blood. It will be to me a malignant shaft of Fate indeed if I am to be excluded from active service, by a constant sense of public insult and injury.
  You are pleased to say that “the first of these (meaning Genl Hamilton) ‘in public estimation’ as declared to me, is designated to be second in Command; with some fears I confess of the consequences; although I must acknowledge at the same time that I know not where a more competent choice could be made.”
It would be absurd in me to complain of an arrangement already made with any view to a change. But I cannot refrain from observing that the question may be asked, how this public estimation is manifested? In Virginia and the southern states? In new England, and the middle States? If so, I can only say that such estimation was not publickly manifested, and is unknown to me. I have understood that when the list was presented to the Senate, some members from a mere sense of justice were desirous that the seniority I held the last War should be considered, but they were silenced by the observation that the list was yours, and therefore it could not be altered. To you, it was declared to be the public estimation. The conclusion seems to be authorised, if the statement of the senate be true (for which however I cannot at present pledge myself) that there has been a species of management in ⟨the⟩ affair of which you are not apprised.
I say nothing relatively to Mr Pinckneys rank. He will judge for himself. If there be an immediate pressure of an Invasion in the southern States, he may submit for a time to the arrangement. But if no such pressure should exist I have mistaken his character greatly if he will accept.
In this case it would appear that Messrs Hamilton and Lee would be the second and third General officers. New England which must furnish the Majority of the Army if one shall be raised, will be without a Major General or have the junior One. Whether they will

possess such a sense of inferiority as to bear such a state of things patiently, or whether their zeal and confidence will thereby be excited Time will discover.
I submit fully to the idea, that the period is rapidly approaching, when successful resistance, or absolute conquest, will take place. The French with their immense force, will find some opportunity to elude the english fleets and to sail with a formidable force to this Country, either directly, or circuitously by the West Indies. Their black troops from the islands, will be made a powerful instrument in the Invasion of the southern states on the well grounded expectation of exciting the slaves, to all the enormities heretofore practised by the negroes of the islands on their former Masters. Natural desire of liberty, joined to the all powerful operation of Ambition, would be irresistible in the minds of our Negroes.
In addition to this project which I beleive is fixed upon, I have been informed from a person inducing a degree of belief, and which is strongly corroborated by circumstances, that the french Agents in New Orleans Pensacola, and Augustine, are and will be busy to raise the southern Indians to War, and also to seduce the people of Tennassee and Kentucky from their allegiance to the Union.
New York presents a tempting object to an Invader. The experience of the british have stamped an incalculable value on that place well known to the french. The fortifications which have been, and are executing, are of themselves, utterly inadequate to the protection and security of that city and Hudsons River. They ought to be combined with small artificial Islands after the manner of the french at Cherbourg. These should stretch from Governors Island to Bedloes. Chains should be extended from each absolutely barring all access in the day of danger. The summits should be crowned with strong batteries for hot shot. The narrows should also be fortified and always strongly garrisoned with abundance of troops. If however Twenty or thirty thousand of the Enemy should effect a landing on long Island, all the fortification excepting supported by a superior force in the field would be nugatory.
If such a train of events should occur and events infinitely less probable have occured in thick succession for the last seven years, all the military energy of america will be required. Then an opportunity

may be afforded in which a better value may be set upon my services than at present, and I may be permitted to exert myself unshackled by any degradation of character.
I have received no other notification of an appointment than what the Newspapers announce. When it shall please the secretary of War to give me the information, I shall endevor to make him a suitable answer. at present I do not perceive how it can possibly be to any other purport, than in the negative, unless the relative rank of the late War, should govern according to the established and invariable usuage of the former War. The present is suggested to be a new arrangement, & totally irrelative to the former Army. The principles of rank were then established by resolves of Congress, as a part of the military law. I am uninformed of any act of the present government which has repealed the former laws upon the subject of rank. This point however may hereafter be more fully investigated.
In whatever situation I shall be, I shall always remember with pleasure and gratitude the friendship and confidence with which you have heretofore honored me. I am with the highest attachment your obedient Servant

H. Knox


Title: From George Washington to Richard Clough Anderson, 30 July 1798
From: Washington, George
To: Anderson, Richard Clough

Sir
Mount Vernon, July 30, 1798

In the course of last Wint⟨er⟩ A Mr Massay passed through Alexandria on his way to Philadelphia, & reported a⟨t⟩ the former place, that I should lose my la⟨nd⟩ in the Northwestern Territory—on the little Miami.
Not perceiving how this coul⟨d⟩ happen, fairly—and not supposing th⟨at⟩ it would be taken from me otherwise, ⟨&⟩ without allowing me a hearing; I paid but little attention to the Report until Mr George Graham called upon me the other day, and in conversing on this subject gave it as his opinion that, the land was in real jeopardy by re-entry under some error in the former proceedings, and advised me to write to you relatively thereto.
This I now do, under full conviction however, that as the former Surveys were made under your Auspices; examined & recorded in your Office; and Patents granted thereupon in the year 1790 with the following recital “In consideration of a Military warrant of 3000 Acres granted to John Roots by Lord Dunmore the 7th December 1770 and assigned by the said Rootes unto George Washington Esqr. the 14⟨th⟩ February 1774 and exchanged by a Resolution of General Assembly passed 30th Dec⟨r⟩ 1784 for a Warrant of 3000 Acres No. 3753 an⟨d⟩ dated the 14th Feby 1785”—I say, under full conviction that you would not suffer the lan⟨d⟩ to be wrested from me by any Subsequent transaction in your Office,

without givin⟨g⟩ me notice thereof in time to assert my pri⟨or⟩ claim, I now give you the trouble of this A⟨d⟩dress; adding at the sametime, that if an⟨y⟩ thing is necessary on my part to give more validity or greater legality to former proceedings, I am willing to encounter the expence, rather than enter into a tedeous & expensive Chancery suit, which I assuredly will do before my property shall be taken from me.
I would thank you Sir, for full information, and your advice relative to th⟨is⟩ matter, as soon as it is convenient. Be⟨ing⟩ Your Most Obedt Humble Servant

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to John McDowell, 30 July 1798
From: Washington, George
To: McDowell, John

Sir:
Mount Vernon, 30th July, 1798

Being very much engaged of late in a manner I little expected, I have not only suffered your favor of the 19th instant to remain

unacknowledged, but not attending to the time of the vacation of St. John’s college, I have suffered that also to arrive, or to approach too near for the enclosed remittances to defray the expenses of Mr. Custis, before it is probable he left Annapolis.
Allow me the liberty, for this reason, to put the accounts which he has just transmitted to me, under cover to you, with bank-notes of Columbia for one hundred dollars, to discharge and take a receipt thereon, to be returned to me.
The pressure which is upon me at this time will not allow me to say anything relatively to the course of studies marked out for Mr. Custis when he returns to college. I will write more fully to you on this subject at a future time. Sir, I remain, your most obedient,

G. Washington.


Title: To George Washington from Clement Biddle, 31 July 1798 [letter not found]
From: Biddle, Clement
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Clement Biddle, 31 July 1798. On 13 Aug. GW wrote Biddle: “I have received your letter of the 31st Ulto.”


Title: From George Washington to James McHenry, 31 July 1798
From: Washington, George
To: McHenry, James

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 31st July 1798.

To a person as well acquainted with the writers of the letters herewith enclosed, as you are, it is hardly necessary to add a word in further recommendation of Major Parker to an appointment in the augmented army. and yet, there is some thing so singularly meritorious in his whole family as Military men that I shd think I was not doing Justice to the Service were I not to advise—if in time—that he should be Commissioned as a field Officer (being a Captn at the close of the last War & an Aid de Camp to General Morgan on the Western Expedition[)].
Majr Parker thinks a number of Men could be raised in Berkley and Frederick Counties in the last of which he resides, in the Neighbourhood of Genl Morgan & your old friend Richd Kidder Meade, who I am sure wd give him all their assistance. I am Yrs Always

Go: Washington

The Letters accompanying this may or may not, as you shall ⟨think⟩ best, be returned to me.


Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 1 August 1798
From: McHenry, James
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
War Department [Philadelphia] 1 Augt 1798

This will serve for scarce any other purpose than to acknowledge your letter of the 22 July ulto and two others respecting candidates for military appointments.
I inclose the act to augment the army of the U.S. You will see that it does not provide for a Quarter Master General, and that the Provisional army law provides that the Quarter Master General under it shall have the rank & pay of Lt Colonel only. I thought it best therefore that no Quarter Master General should be appointed ’till Congress meet again when they may amend their act.
I hope to be able to write you again this week, but it is doubtful, as it will depend upon my being able to write to the President which I am affraid I cannot do under my present press of business as the objects I intend to address him upon are pretty important and will require deliberation. With the most sincere regard and attachment I am Dr Sir Your ob. st

James McHenry


Title: From George Washington to Charles Carroll (of Carrollton), 2 August 1798
From: Washington, George
To: Carroll, Charles (of Carrollton)

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 2d Augt 1798

I have had the honor to receive your favour of the 29th Ulto, and feel much flattered by the tender of Mr Carrolls services as one of my Aids de Camp. Indeed, nothing can be more grateful to my Sensibility, than the numberless offers of a similar kind from Gentlemen of the first families, fortunes and expectations, in all parts of the U.S.
But you know, my good Sir, that my coming forward, or rather taking the field, depends upon the contingencies mentioned in my letter to the President of the United States, which, I perceive, has been given to the public; and until that event takes place that I shall have no occasion for aids de Camp. You also know, that it is an invariable maxim with me, never, before hand, and until the moment requires it, to pledge myself by promises which I might find embarrassing to comply with—and in the case before us, this precaution becomes peculiarly necessary, & Interesting; for in the choice of aids de Camp, by the Commander in Chief, a variety of considerations (more powerful often than wishes, to gratify his own inclinations, or the desires of friends) must combine; among which, none is of greater, or more essential importance than experience & a thorough knowledge in his (first, and principal) aids, of the duties they are to perform. With this and a single idea given to them by the General, they are enabled to enlarge upon, & convey his meaning in detail; which diffident young men without experience would not, nor ought not to hazard. Aids to the Commander in Chief—or Officer commanding a separate army—ought also to be men of business, and ready penmen; for the number of letters which are written, received and to be answered; Orders to be given; Instructions to draw &ca &ca call for these qualifications: and often give close employment to all around him.
I have been more diffuse in my reply to you, on the Subject of Aids de Camp, than I have been, or shall be to others; because I would wish you to understand the principle upon which I act, and the necessity there is, that my principal aids should be men who have seen a good deal of Service, and are well acquainted with the Duties of their Office—of Camps—and regular rotine.
Although I highly approve of the measures taken by Government to place this Country in a posture of defense, I even wish

they had been more energetic, and shall be ready to obey its call, under the reservations I have made, whensoever it is made; yet I am not without hope, mad & intoxicated as the French are, that they will pause before they take the last step. That they have been deceived in their calculations on the division of the People, and the powerful support they expected from their party, is reduced to uncertainty; though it is somewhat equivocal still whether that party, who have been the curse of this country, and the sourse of the expences we have to encounter, may not be able to continue their delusion. What pity it is, this expence could not be taxed upon them. But finding I am getting from Aids de Camp to Politics, I will halt where I am, and assure that with very great esteem and regard I remain Dear Sir Your Obedt Hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Tobias Lear, 2 August 1798
From: Washington, George
To: Lear, Tobias

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 2d Augt 1798

I was glad to hear by Charles that you were much better than when we saw you last. If you have missed the Ague, care, & Bark, is necessary to prevent a relapse; & this prudence requires.
Monday next being the day fixed on by the Constitution of the Potomac Company for its annual meeting, & as you seem resolved to relinquish your present Office of President, I wish you would turn your thoughts attentively to the situation of it, and revolve

seriously on characters fit and proper to supply the places of those who perhaps ought to, as well as those who will quit, the Directorship; that our struggles in that interesting & expence concern, the labour of years may not end in disgrace & loss.
The little leisure I had before my late appointment (from Visits, my necessary rides—& other occurrences) to overhaul, arrange—and seperate papers of real, from those of little or no value, is now, by that event, so much encroached upon by personal & written applications for offices, and other matters incidental to the Situation of the Commander in Chief, that without assistance I must abandon all idea of accomplishing this necessary work, before I embark in New Scenes; which will render them more voluminous, & of course more difficult. A measure which would be extremely irksome to me, to submit to, especially as it respects my A/cts which are yet in a jumble. My earnest wish and Desire being, when I quit the Stage of human action, to leave all matters in such a situation as to give as little trouble as possible to those who will have the management of them thereafter.
Under this view of my situation; which is far from being an agreable one; & at times fill me with deep concern—when I perceive so little prospect of complete extrication—I have written to the Secretary of War to be informed whether (as my taking the Field is contingent, & no pay or emolument will accrue to myself until then) I am at liberty to appoint my Secretary immediately; who shall be allowed his pay & Forage from the moment he joins me. If he answers in the affirmative, on those terms, can you do this? Have you heard from the Master of the Academy at Charlestown? At any rate, my opinion is, you had better, with the least possible delay, get the boys fixed permanently at some good school they will, otherwise, lose precious moments. Let me hear from you—I am in haste—but always Your Affecte

G. Washington


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Nelson, 2 August 1798
From: Washington, George
To: Nelson, Thomas (1764-1824)

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 2d Augt 1798

Your letter of the 27th Ulto came to my hands by the last Post, and I thank you for the Offer you have made me of your Services as one of my Aids de Camp; But as you will have seen by the reservation

made in my letter to the President of the U. States (which I perceive is published in the Gazettes) that my coming forward depends upon contingencies; so, the appointing of my Aids, will be regulated by that call upon me, until which, I shall have no occasion of Aids; and ’till then shall hold myself perfectly free; (unless some particular case should occasion a departure from it); as in the choice of mine, many considerations (some more powerful than friendship, or the indulgence of my own Inclinations) must combine. Mrs Washington is thankful for your kind remembrance of her—and I am Your Affecte & Obedt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to James Mease McRea, 4 August 1798
From: Washington, George
To: McRea, James Mease

Sir
Mount Vernon 4th Augt 1798

The letters enclosed, were sent up to your Office yesterday afternoon, and were returned to me. It is not the first, nor second time I have been served in this manner; but it may be considered as an evidence of the inattention with which the duties of your Office are discharged. I am Sir Your Hble Servant

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Marshall, Jr., 4 August 1798
From: Marshall, Thomas Jr.
To: Washington, George

Sir
Mason County [Kentucky] Augt 4th 1798

When I was at my fathers in the Month of June last he directed me to pay two years taxes on two Surveys of yours on Rough Creek into the treasury which I did to wit for the years 1796 & 1797 One third of the amount of the last years Taxes being reduced by our last Assembly it amounted to only £6.8. the Auditors rect for these I left at my fathers, and at the same time I entered your Lands with the Auditor for future Taxes agreable to an Act of our Legislature for non residents so that in future whoever you may direct to discharge your taxes will at any time See the State of the Acct at the Auditors office [.] within I send you a Statement of your Tax Acct with my father he has forgot whether he drew upon you for the first receipt of Taxes or not, but as his books does not show of more than one drawing, I have stated the whole Sums actually paid and also a copy of the Sheriffs receipts for Such Sums as have been paid to him if my father has drawn upon you formerly for more money than the £5.14.5 which is Credited be so oblieging as to enter the Credit, yourself and pay the ballance of the Ac[coun]t to Mr Rawleigh Colston of Frederik who is authorised to draw upon you for whatever may be due. it is wanted by my father for my younger Sisters who are at present at Mr Colstons. any future directions you may chose to honour my Father with respecting the

Taxes of your lands I will see attended to as he is rendered by his age and infirmities incapable of attending to Any thing that requires any personal exercions. I am with every Sentiment of respect Your Humble Servt

T. Marshall Jr


Title: From George Washington to Timothy Pickering, 4 August 1798
From: Washington, George
To: Pickering, Timothy

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 4th Augt 1798

Your letter of the 12th Ulto came duly to hand, but the expectation that Congress would rise sooner than it really did, in the first place; and the supposition that Mr Craik would return home, so Soon as [it] did rise in the next, have delayed my acknowledgment of its receipt, and giving direction relative to the money paid you on my A/c by Judge Addison, until now.
But learning from Doctr Craik (now here) that his Son is gone to the Seaboard, for a stay of ten or twelve days, I do, in order to relieve you from further suspence, request, unless it would suit the Treasury Office to receive the money there & give me a draught upon the Collector in Alexandria, that you wd retain it in your hands to be sent by Mr Ck or some other safe conveyance.
But previous thereto, let me pray you to pay Colo. Clem: Biddle Two hundred Dollars on my behalf—out of the $1700 deposited in your hands for my use, by Mr Addison, as part of the Instalment due on the Bond of the deceased Colo. Matthew Ritchie. With great esteem & regard I am Dear Sir Your Obedient Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Edward Carrington, 5 August 1798
From: Washington, George
To: Carrington, Edward

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 5th Augt 1798

Your consent to accept the office of Quarter Master General to the armies of the United States, gave me sincere pleasure. Not finding—after the arrangement of this matter with the Secretary of War—your name in the list of nominations and appointments (announced by the Papers)—I wrote to him to be informed of the cause; and received the following answer.
“I inclose the Act to augment the army of the U.S. You will see that it does not provide for a Quarter Master General, and that the Provisional Army Law provides that the Qr Mr Genl under it shall have the Rank & pay of Lt Colonel only. I thought it best therefore that no Quarter master General should be appointed ’till Congress meet again when they may amend their Act.”
This explanation, though I regret the cause, will allow you the time you seemed to wish, to make other arrangements—unless an actual Invasion (which I do not think probable) or such demonstrations of it as cannot be mistaken, should call us all to arms, in which case I am persuaded you would be among the last to stand upon punctilio.
When the Secretary of War was at this place, the Bill for augmenting the Army of the U.S. was then pending in Congress; and before he got back to the Seat of Government it had passed, and Congress had adjourned. This will account for the unfinished State in which (to my surprise I confess) the important Department of Quarter Master was left.
I felt it incumbent on me to give you these details, lest my former letter, & attempt to embark ⟨you in⟩ the service, should, ⟨on the face of it, appear to⟩ be more strongly marked with precipitancy than discretion. With very great esteem & regard—I am—Dear Sir Your Obedient Servant

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to William Fitzhugh, 5 August 1798
From: Washington, George
To: Fitzhugh, William

My dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 5th Augt 1798

My present want of a riding horse is great, but if I should be called to the field it will be much greater.
As I am much out of the way of seeing, or hearing of such as would answr my purposes—especially in the latter case—and know that you are a good judge of the parts, and general symmetry of a horse of figure. You would do me a favour if such an one as hits your own taste should fall in your way to buy him for me. the cash to be paid on delivery.
In age, I should not be willing to exceed Seven years—eight at most—younger, but not under four last Spring would be better—For colour, I will not contend, but would prefer a perfect White—a dapple grey—a deep bay—a chestnut—a black—in the order they are mentioned. The Size & strength must be equal to my weight, which without the Saddle may be estimated at 210 lbs. Being long legged, or tall, would be no recommendation; as it adds nothing to strength, but a good deal to the inconvenience in mounting.
Under my circumstances, I cannot limit you in price; but shall add, that I never expected to be Master of a riding horse that would cost more than four hundred dollars.
As I had no idea that Mr David Randolph (being on a journey) would have parted with the horse he thought might have suited me, I took but little notice of him; which I have been sorry for since as he is not within reach now. I asked him however what such a horse would cost, he answered four hundred dollars—that fine horses were scarce & dear. Remember us in affectionate terms to Mrs Fitzhugh & the rest of your family, and believe me to be as I sincerely am—always Yours

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to William Heth, 5 August 1798
From: Washington, George
To: Heth, William

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 5th Augt 1798

Your favor of the 30th Ulto was brought me by fridays Post.
The sentiments you have expressed, relatively to the qualifications which ought to be possessed by the Aids de Camp of the Commander in Chief, or Officer Commanding a separate army (to go no further) accord precisely with my own. And although I do not chuse to be under any engagement, lest something might occur that would render promises embarrassing, I have no hesitation in repeating, that I shall keep you in my mind.
In the choice of my Aids, I shall add (in confidence) that several things must be attended to—Geographical—Political—&ca which renders it quite expedient & proper, that whenever I am called upon I may take a full range of all the circumstances before me, unembarrassed by engagements, & govern myself accordingly.
The provisional Law for raising an Army often thousand men, is, as you know, contingent in its operation; and not having it at hand to refer to, I do not recollect what, or whether any pro⟨vision⟩ is made therein for a Pay Master General. In the Law for augmenting the Troops no mention is made of one—and under the old establishment, I believe there would be nothing found in the Office of Paymaster to make it an object. At any rate, I do not suppose (or think it proper) that Military Rank is, or will be annexed to it; but if upon a consultation of the several Military laws which are in existence, at this time, and comparing them with my suspension of the choice of Aids de Camp, & after what I have said on the subject, the uncertainty on whom that choice may light you should feel disposed to fill the Office of Pay master General (if such there be) I will delay no time in making it known at the War Office.
It is too difficult, I conceive, to pronounce with certainty, on the strength of the French Party in the United States; that they are a well organized body I have no doubt; that they proceed systematically I am equally well satisfied of. that they are more formidable on that account is certain. For a while, like a man stunned by a severe blow and staggering with the affect of it, they were silent; but this silence was not of long duration; only until new devises could be contrived and consequent orders issue. for now, the Gazettes of the Bachites come forward with more boldness than ever.
That the great Mass of the People are beginning to have a right

understanding of the principles on which our dispute with France is founded, notwithstanding the unwearied pains that are used to keep them hoodwinked; I am well persuaded, but I fear the strength of the inemical party will not be clearly ascertained before the dangerous crisis shall have arrived when most will be to be app[r]ehended unless a good deal of exertion previous thereto is made by those who are friends to the Constitution and the Government, for certain it is that the Agents & Partizans of France leave nothing unessayed to bring all the Acts, & Actors of Government into disrepute; to promote divisions among us; and to enfeeble all opposition to the views of the Directory of that Country on the Rights, freedom & independence of the U. States.
I thank you for your kindness in offering to render me any Service in your Power on the other side of Alliganies, but at present I have nothing that I would give you any trouble in. I wish you a pleasant journey & safe return, being Dear Sir Your Most Obedt and Affectionate Servant

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Archibald McClean, 6 August 1798
From: Washington, George
To: McClean, Archibald

Sir
Mount Vernon 6th Augt 1798

The annual meeting of the Potomack Company requires my attendance in Alexandria to day. It will be held, I presume, at Gadsbys; If so, I shall be there from ten O’clock until three and shall be ready to see you at any hour between: the earlier the better.
Enclosed is the Patent for the 587 acre tract (with a plat thereof on the back); and a memorandum of my understanding of our agreement; by which the writings are to be drawn.
Mr Keith has usually done this kind of business for me, and I presume would draw the writings between us as accurately as any other. but it is indifferent to me who the draughtsman is, if professional, and can be correct.
If a Lease is prefered to an absolute Sale, the usual covenants to enforce buildings—Planting Orchards—Making Meadow—Reentry in case of Non-performance &ca &ca must be inserted—for although the priviledge of becoming the purchaser in fee in seven years is granted, it is not less incumbent on me to attend to the

Property while the right remains unalienated. To render it unnecessary hereafter, to see that these covenants are complied with, and to avoid difficulty in securing the Rents, were my inducements for suggesting the alternative of a final bargain, on the terms proposed in the Memm but I repeat, that I am equally ready to execute the other. I am—Sir Yr Very Hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Bushrod Washington, 7 August 1798
From: Washington, Bushrod
To: Washington, George

My dear Uncle
Richmond Augt 7. [17]98

  I recieved a few days ago; a letter from Mr John Nicholas in which after speaking of the violence of a certain party in that County, and the lengths to which they go he says, “among other things, you will see in Davis’s paper of the 24th July a hint at the affair with which you are acquainted from the celebrated John Langhorne himself. I am hinted at as the ‘dignified character of an informer.’ I have no objection to be thought an informer, when the information I gave will be found to be to guard the man who had rendered me and my country the greatest of ⟨mutilated⟩ services, against a villain or villains who never ⟨mutilated⟩ never will render any: yet no abuse will make th⟨em⟩ extort from me any thing which they can make a handle of against that character. This I will thank you to inform your friend that he may have no uneasiness at any hints he may see in the papers. I well know that Mr Langhorne was a scoundrel; but I did not suppose he would ever be so stupid as to provoke a publication of his own villainy. This will never be done by me without the consent of Genl W—(that is the history of the whole affair) and not then but upon my own responsibility, to shew in what light I really stand as a dignified informer without ever letting one of the scoundrels have the smallest idea of the contents of the friendly private letters to me. It was my intention to have gone to M. V. in May to have some conversation on this and other subjects, but a visit from my friend Major Jno. Nelson & family whose Lady is sister to mine about that time, and who are now with me has obliged me to postpone it. I hope it will not be

long before I shall have it in my power to pay that desirable visit.” You will observe from some expressions in this letter that my friend is not in a very good temper with that party who are persecuting him not a little for obstinacy in maintaining opinions different from what they profess and openly avow (as he informs me.) As to the permission which he seems to ask, you will Judge of the propriety of granting it, and will if you see proper write to him or myself upon the subject.
Permit me my dear Uncle to say ⟨mutilated⟩ I have felt in common with my fellow Citizens the ⟨mutilated⟩ attached to your late appointment, and the gratitude due ⟨mutilated⟩ your acceptance of it. Consulting my private affections, I sincerely lament the necessity which calls you again from your retirement to the busy scenes of public life.
I had the deeds which Mr Keith sent me of yours recorded at the last General Court.
Mrs Washington Joins me in love & best wishes to you & my Aunt & I beg you to believe me My dear Uncle Your sincere friend & affect. Nephew

Bushrod Washington


Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 8 August 1798
From: McHenry, James
To: Washington, George

Dr Sir,
War Department [Philadelphia] 8th August 1798

I am sorry to be obliged to communicate to you, that a malignant fever, has again not only made its appearance, but some progress in this unfortunate City; and that an attack of my old bilious complaint, at present confines me, and prevents me, from making preparations, for removing my family, and the Office.

The enclosed copy of a late letter, to the President of the United States, will inform you fully of my proposals to him, for arranging the twelve regiments of Infantry; calling to my effective aid, for purposes connected with great public utility, the Inspector General, and General Knox; and also of my ideas, on the subject of allowing you a Secretary, and to him the emoluments provided by law. I am Sir with great consideration & respect your obedt hble servant

James McHenry


Title: To George Washington from Robert Morris, 8 August 1798 [letter not found]
From: Morris, Robert
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Robert Morris, 8 Aug. 1798. On 19 Aug. GW wrote Morris: “Your favour of the 8th Instt was received the 16th.”


Title: To George Washington from Charles Carroll (of Carrollton), 9 August 1798
From: Carroll, Charles (of Carrollton)
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Doughoragen [Md.] 9th Aug. 1798

I was yesterday favored with your letter of the 2d instant. Your sentiments respecting the proper qualifications of Aids to a Commander in chief, or of a separate army are very just; unquestionably persons of experience should have the preference for the forcible reasons you mention; but I thought that they, who had acquired experience by actual service during the last war, would aim at, & aspire to commands in the army proposed to be raised, or at becoming colonels Majors &ca and that young Men chiefly would solicit to be appointed aids.
I sincerely wish that you may not be forced to quit your retirement & place yourself at the head of our army: nothing, I fear, will prevent the Directory from landing a strong force in one of the Southern States, but the want of the means; it is obvious, they aim at splitting the countries surrounding France into small Democracies entirely dependant on the rulers of the great nation; they view with a jealous eye the growing strength of this country, and if they can, they will nip it in the bud by dismembring the Union. They have too many partizans among us, influenced by a variety of motives, who will aid their measures, when they dare to cast off the mask on these traitors. I wish with you, that the expense of our

preparations could be thrown, but the mischief is, the far greater part (were it even practicable to subject them solely to the expense) have little or nothing to pay, and this poverty is one of the causes, which has inlisted them under the banners of France.
I have observed that through all the changes of parties & rulers in France, one object has been steadily pursued, the aggrandisement of the terrible Republic, & the depression of its neighbours: All the men placed at the head of the french councils have had ambition and enterprise; France, if left in possession of its acquisitions, will, on the return of a general peace⟨,⟩ turn its attention to the acquirement of a powerful marine which can be acquired only by an extensive commerce, supported by extensive & opulent colonies—I suspect therefore that the Directory will wrest from Spain Louisiana & from Portugal the Brazils. The single Island of St Domingo, when reduced to order & improved, as the french part of it was before the revolution, will support a flourishing trade. What can prevent Russia, Prussia & Austria from combining with England to defeat the ambitious designs of France. I fear mutual jealousy, weakness of the princes, who nominally govern those countries, the corruption of some ministers, & exhausted finances.
It is said, Mr Marshall reports the finances of France to be at the lowest ebb; the want of money may give a temporary respit to Europe, & to this country: but if the interval be not improved in a forming a solid Union against the ambition & disorganising projects of the french Oligarchy, they will be soon revived. Should the present system of France (government it cannot be called) endure any length of time, it will endeavour to undermine by secret intrigue, or subvert by open force the monarchies of Europe, for the co existence of those governments is incompatible with that of France; the latter indeed is yet to undergo great changes, & may terminate in a Monarchy, perhaps more formidable to the Independence of Europe, than the subsisting Oligarchy, which from the seeds of internal decay can not be expected to survive many years.
Excuse, Sir, this effusion of political conjectures, your letter has partly drawn them from me. I remain with the greatest respect & esteem Dr Sir Yr most obdt hum. Servant

Ch. Carroll of Carrollton


Title: From George Washington to Alexander Hamilton, 9 August 1798
From: Washington, George
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Private
My dear Sir,Mount Vernon 9th Augt 1798
By the same Post which brought me your favour, began in Philadelphia and ended in New York the 1st instant, I received a letter from General Knox dated the 29th Ulto, in answer to one I had written him on the 16th of that month. In confidence, and as a proof of my frankness & friendship, I send both of them to you, together with my reply of this date; which, after reading be so good as to return to me.
Giving you the perusal of this correspondence, supercedes the necessity of my going into further details on the subject of relative rank; except, if the Commissions are yet to issue, and it be practicable at this time, and consistent also, I should not be indisposed (so far as my agency in the business extends, if that would satisfy General Knox) to make him the Senior of General Pinckney. But as the President is absent—and it might have been the understanding of the Senate that the latter should be first—the propriety of the change, unless it could be effected with the consent of Genl Pinckney, might at least be questioned. Though, upon more mature reflection I do not see upon what principle he could object. I have a high opinion of General Pinckneys qualifications as an Officer, and his integrity as a man, but under the impression I am that the Southern Hemisphere will be the grand theatre of action, I shall honestly confess that my primary object in gratifying him, is, that he may come forward with all his force.
Your opinion respecting the unfitness of a certain Gentleman for the Office he holds, accords with mine, and it is to be regretted, sorely, at this time, that these opinions are so well founded. I early discovered, after he entered upon the Duties of his Office, that his talents were unequal to great exertions, or deep resources. In truth they were not expected; for the fact is, it was a Hobson’s choice. But such is the case, and what is to be done?
I am held in the most profound ignorance of every step that has been taken since he left this place; and but for other letters which I have been obliged to have ready for this days Post, I should have written very seriously to him on several matters highly interesting to me, if I am to be called to the field; and that which you have mentioned among the rest. I am not, at this moment, made acquainted

with a single step that is taken to appoint an Officer, or Recruit a man, or where the rendezvouses are. Numberless applications have been made to me, to be recommended for Commissions, and such as appeared to have merit I forwarded, but know nothing of the Result.
Let me hope that you will be able to devote a good deal of your time to the business of recruiting good men—and the choice of good Officers. It is all important. I will endeavour to impress him with the propriety of requiring your assistance in these matters; and of the necessity of making you the full allowance of Pay &ca for these Services. By bringing you thus in contact, a thousand other matters will fall in of course. Delicacy—if matters become serious—must yield to expediency. The stake we play for, is too great to be trifled with.
Mr Harper has been presented to my consideration before, as an Aid de Camp—but as I shall have no use for my Military family until matters are more matured, I am unwilling to be embarrassed by engagements. My Aids, as you well know, must be men of business; and ought to be Officers of experience. Many, very many young Gentlemen of the first families in the Country have offered their Services; and all have received one answer, to the above effect. Indeed in the choice of my Aids a variety of considerations must combine—political—geographical &ca as well as experience.
What is become of Walker? Colo. Heth has offered, and stands well in my estimation, without a promise. No Foreigner will be admitted as a member of my family, while I retain my present ideas; nor do I think they ought to be in any situation where they can come at secrets, & betray a trust.
Write me as often as you can, conveniently; and believe me to be what I really am—Your sincere & Affecte friend

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Lewis Murarius, 9 August 1798
From: Washington, George
To: Murarius, Lewis

Sir
Mount Vernon 9th Augt 1798

I have had the honor to receive your favour of the 16th Ulto and thank you for your politeness in offering to become a member of my Military family. But as I do not mean to form One until the time is near at hand when I shall take the Field, and then a variety of circumstances must combine in my choice—It is my wish that you may not forego any other prospects in expectation of being admitted therein. I am Sir Your Most Obedt Hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from James Welch, 9 August 1798
From: Welch, James
To: Washington, George

Sir.
Kanhaw County Charleston August 9th 1798

No Doubt but you have charged me with Neglect for not Writing you before this time but being so far Distant from a Post Office has deprived me of that Previledge, I have Surveyed the 10990 Acre Tract of Land & find it wants 610 Acres to make out the Compliment called for in the Original—but I am determined to have it run over again for fear there may be some mistake made, I have also Surveyed the Cole River Tract & find it holds out for Compliment, I have got 30 Setlers on the Land, & considering the season they moved on they have fine Crops, I find there will be no Difficulty in geting as many setlers Yearly as I can furnish with Provision, the People are Emmegrating very fast to this countrey but they are Generally very poor, I expect to have 30 or 40 Setlers on from Pensylvania in the Month of November next these are people in good Circumstances  there is no News in this part of the World worth relating, Only the people appear to be unanimous in Supporting the constitution they exist under, I am Sir your Excellencys Obt Servt

James Welch