Title: To George Washington from James Anderson (of Scotland), 15 August 1793
From: Anderson, James
To: Washington, George

Sir
Bee office Edinr. 15h Augt 1793

I received, a few weeks ago the letter of the 25 April which you did me the honour to write to me. Lord Buchan, at the same time favoured me with a sight of what you had written to him. I can make no other return but the most sincere thanks for these unmerited marks of your obliging attention—I shall at least make it my study so to act as not to make you ashamed of this kindness.

Tho’ it must be expected that in our attempts to obtain useful productions from one country with a view to benefit another we will often find that articles sent to us as valuable turn out to be of little use, we ought not from thence to slacken our endeavours; for, if out of a hundred trials one shall prove successful, much good will be done. No man can estimate the benefits that Britain has derived from the introduction of the culture of Broad Clover—Turnips, and potatoes into this island; and the benefits that America has derived from the culture of Rice is notorious—To obtain one other such article would be a sufficient recompence for thousands of abortive trials. From these considerations I continue to collect from all quarters, to the utmost of my power, to distribute to others. I have obtained many parcels of seeds from Botany Bay—but these not coming recommended by any notices of their utility, I distribute only to those who are curious about more and new plants—I use the freedom to send along with this a few specimens of seeds of plants I have lately received which are recommended for their utility, some of which may, perhaps at some future period prove useful to America.
1st Polygonum tataricum—Tartarian Buckwheat—was recommended to me as a perennial plant of great value as a food for cattle—I sowed the seeds about the end of june—and it is evidently an annual plant—as it has been already in flower for at least a fortnight—It grows vigurously, and has much the habit and appearance of the common buck wheat—The grain is more weighty.
 2d Asclepias Syriaca. a plant that affords a cottony down of the softness of silk. some notices of which are to be found in the Bee Vol. 13 p.  I sowed the seeds, which proved prolific. It is a perennial—has a sickly appearance—Concerning this plant I am promised farther information.
3d Turnips. These seeds were sent by Warren Hastings Esqr., who, whatever may have been his conduct in his public station, is, in his private capacity an amiable man, and a sincere promoter of science and useful arts—These seeds are said to have come from Thibet—But whether they possess any valuable peculiarities, or what these are, I cannot pretend to say The seeds were received only about two weeks ago—I sowed some of them which have sprung up—and will serve to propogate the species for farther trials.

N.B. The qualities of the Ruta baga, or Swedish turnips have been now tolerably well ascertained here—On dry ground, they are small and trifling, but upon damp stiff land where no other turnips would grow they swell to a very large size—Their qualities for the table are excellent—if enough boiled—otherwise they taste bitter.
4th Sesamum Orientale These seeds came from the neighbourhood of Astracan—and require a warmer climate than ours to ripen—It is there cultivated for the sake of the oil it affords—one third of the weight of seed can be obtained from it—This oil is of a pleasant bland taste as olive oil, and is not apt to turn rancid even in the hottest climate, tho’ it is there carried in skins exposed to the sun. In warm countries—where cows cannot be easily kept, or butter obtained in quantities—a fine kind of eating oil becomes a necessary of life—And as olives do not come into full bearing for many years—to young settlers, an annual plant which affords the same article in abundance and of a superior quality promises to be a great acquisition. Probably in the Carolina’s or Georgia this plant may prove of use—I am assured the seeds are perfectly fresh—but I have not tried them.
I use the freedom also to send a very small specimen of a curious artificial preparation of hemp which comes from silesia in Germany—It is at least a matter of curiosity, as it shews how far the ingenuity of man will go when stimulated with the hope of gain—It had a lustre like silk when I got it—but has been so much handled as to have lost much of its beauty—If it can be afforded at a moderate price it will be a valuable discovery—A gentleman of fortune in England to whom I sent a small specimen—has authorised me to write to Silesia which I have done, to see if the inventor will sell the secret—which if he does he means to publish—It must be a long time before manufactures which owe most of their value to labour, can be introduced with profit into America.
I send along with this parcel a copy as compleat as I can make it, of the correspondence in India of my worthy friend Dr Anderson at Madras—If any thing that is mentioned there promises to be useful in any of the American provinces I can easily order them from thence. Sir William Jones of Calcutta, whose influence in India at present is well known, is so good likewise as to interest the principal persons in that extensive district to communicate information to me concerning any thing that promises to be useful in Europe—so that, by his means, if you or any person in America wish for any article or communication from Bengal, or its dependancies, I think I can promise to obtain it—But long is it before returns from thence can be obtained—Dr Pallas too—who is now on an expedition into the southern parts of the Russian dominions is anxious to promote the dissemination of useful knowledge. And as I am authorised to correspond with him, by post without expence of postage, any information that may be wanted from thence can be obtained by the quickest conveyance In the 16th volume of the Bee now printing will be found a very valuable dissertation on the different varieties of sheep he found in the Great Tartary. and other parts of the Russian dominions he had visited, accompanied with plates done from drawings furnished by him—This dissertation gives a more perfect view of the natural history of this useful animal than I have met with in any other publication.
It is not to be supposed that you yourself can find leisure among the multiplied avocations that claim your attention, to advert to matters of this sort—But there are many men of liberal dispositions in America, who are not engaged in public affairs who might perhaps take pleasure in forwarding such pursuits To such men an opening of this sort might prove acceptable were it known.
Your sentiments respecting the conduct of America in regard to the unfortunate disturbances in Europe at present, as expressed in your letter to Lord Buchan, must command the approbation of every worthy mind. It is one of those evils to which our imperfect state in this world subjects us, that no good can be got without alloy—It is so difficult to draw the line between liberty and licentiousness—that the one can scarcely be obtained without some share of the other—The present state of France is most deplorable—and that of the other countries in Europe is not enviable—Happy is it for America that she is not embroiled in this general calamity—I flatter myself that the two inclosed papers give a fairer and more candid state of affairs in Britain at present than you can have access to find in any other publication—I hope to have your forgivenness for sending them thus—I believe ninty nine persons out of a hundred here think exactly as is there represented—I never before knew the public judge so wisely respecting a war.

In compliance with the obliging hint contained in your letters—I have at this time endeavoured to find an agent in Philadelphia to circulate the Bee But whether I shall be able to get it effected, is to me doubtful—for booksellers in general are a set of men with whom I have found greater difficulties in business than any others—I should have been wanting in duty to myself And in respect to your much honoured opinions, had I not done what lies in my power to establish a correspondence with america—which is the country of all others, where I expect to find men acting with energy as rational creatures.
I hope you will pardon the length of this letter—and that you will not con[c]eive that I have the inconsiderable presumption to expect that an answer to me is necessary—Should any thing occur in which my humble interposition can be of use in forwarding your wishes, I shall think myself highly honoured by your commands—And as long as I have reason to believe that it does not prove troublesome, I shall continue to send from time to time such little articles as fall in my way that I think may lend in any respect to the pleasure or emolument of the people in America. I have the honour to be—with the most sincere respect Sir your excellencys Much obliged, and Most obedient H⟨be⟩ Servt

Jas: Anderson

forgive the smallness of the specimens—this arises from necessity.


Title: From George Washington to Samuel Hughes, 15 August 1793
From: Washington, George
To: Hughes, Samuel

 Letter not found: to Samuel Hughes, 15 Aug. 1793. Hughes wrote GW on 19 Aug. 1793 that he “had the honor of receiving your letter of the 15th Inst.”


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Jefferson, 15 August 1793
From: Jefferson, Thomas
To: Washington, George

Sir
Philadelphia Aug. 15. 1793.

Mr Albion Coxe, engaged in England by mister Pinckney as Assayer of the mint, has not yet completely qualified himself by giving security as required by law; in the mean time he has been of necessity employed at the mint in his proper capacity, and of course is entitled to paiment for his services. the Director of the mint asks instruction on this subject, and I should be of opinion he might pay him for his services at the rate allowed by law, for the time he has been employed by him, and out of the general fund from which he pays his other workmen. this is submitted to your approbation.
The Director also informs me that much silver is brought to him to be exchanged for coin, but not having the coin ready the silver is carried away again. he is of opinion that if the Treasurer was directed to deliver him 1000. Dollars to be coined into dismes & half-dismes, & to be permitted to lie in the mint till

wanted for the Treasury, it would serve him in the mean time as a stock exchange, and enable him to take in the parcels of silver offered as beforementioned. he would by this means throw small silver into circulation & greatly relieve the demand for copper coinage. I have the honor to be with great respect & attachment, Sir, your most obedt & most humble servt

Th: Jefferson


Title: To George Washington from John Francis Mercer, 15 August 1793
From: Mercer, John Francis
To: Washington, George

Sir
Marlborough [Va.] Augt 15th 1793.

 From Yours of the 7th reach’d me at this place the day before yesterday, whether I came immediately after I left Philadelphia & where I have remain’d during the whole summer—I left the Deed with Doct. James Steuart to be executed by the several parties—he wrote me sometime since that this had been done & that the privy examinations were taken by a Judge out of Court, but that some formality still remainin[g] for myself to execute previous to recording—I woud have gone to Maryland for this purpose solely had I expected to have been detain’d here ’till this time—I shall return with my family in two weeks & any formality still requisite (but what it is does not occur) will be completed & the record

made & the Deed forwarded agreably to your desire. With high respect I am Sir Yr mo: Ob. hb. Servt

John Fs. Mercer


Title: Joshua Merryman to Tobias Lear, 15 August 1793
From: Merryman, Joshua
To: Lear, Tobias

Dear Sir
Baltimore 15 August 1793

As I trust you will gladly embrace an opportunity to oblige me, so there is no Man to whom I had rather lay myself under an Obligation. I apply to you, therefore, preferably to any body else, for a favor which I am extremely desireous to obtain. To wit, for you to name me to His Excelency the President of the United States as a candidate for the surveyers Office in this Town, which is Vacant by the Death of Mr Ballard, and favor me with your interest.
I have deemed a long list of recommendations Unnessisary, as you must have known me in Alexandria long enough to form some opinion of my Private Character. Should I be so fortunate as to succeed in my application, I shall be ready and Willing to give such security as may be required, for the faithful discharge of the Office. I remain with sentiments of respect, Your Most Obt Hble Servt

Joshua Merryman.


Title: To George Washington from John Sinclair, 15 August 1793
From: Sinclair, John
To: Washington, George

Sir
White-hall. London. 15th August. 1793.

I had the honour of receiving, your Excellency’s letter of the 15th March, only a few weeks ago. But at the same time delayed answering it, until it was in my power to inform you, of an

institution having commenced, namely a Board of Agriculture and internal improvement, which from the great mass of information it will accumulate, on subjects of general utility, will, I trust, be of equal use to Great Britain and America. I took the liberty of sending to your Excellency by Dr adair, the original plan of the Board, and I have now the pleasure of transmitting the first fruits of that important establishment. To wit.

1st. The plan of our Agricultural surveys, which are going on with such rapidity, in consequence of above 50 intelligent men having undertaken to execute them (in general gratuitously) that we shall be able to complete, the proposed survey of the whole Island in less than 6 months. The Board will then be enabled, to draw up a general report upon the subject, to be laid before Parliament, in consequence of which, I have no doubt, that some effectual measures will be taken, for the general improvement of the country, in the course of the ensuing session, either by removing discouragements where they exist, or by granting encouragements, where they are necessary.
2. The first rough outlines, of the agricultural state of Middlesex and of Huntingdonshire. They are certainly two of the smallest, and, in an agricultural point of view, two of the most backward counties in England, but these papers will sufficiently explain the nature of the plan we have adopted, which is, that of first procuring similar sketches, and afterwards submitting them to the consideration of every intelligent man in the district to which they respectively belong, previous to any publication. This is not only a proper mark of attention to the farmers and proprietors in these districts, which interests them more in the success of the measure, but thus we can hardly fail to obtain every fact, or even idea upon the subject, that can be of any material service in the cause.
3. Specimens of statistical reports to be circulated in England, and which I wish were reprinted and circulated in america. Your Excellency will see, in the preliminary address, that I have not neglected to avail myself, of your authority in favour of such an undertaking.

The success with which these measures are likely to be attended, will, I hope be some inducement, to procure a similar establishment, or a National Board of Agriculture, in america. We might then correspond together, and exert ourselves to bring

political society, and that best means of procuring the food of the people, by the cultivation of their own soil, to its greatest heighth of perfection.
I have had of late, several conversations with Mr Edwards, an American Gentleman, who seems to be very intelligent in matters of husbandry, and very well calculated to give, as well as to receive, information upon useful subjects. Having been accidentally led, to draw up my sentiments, respecting points mutually interesting to both Countries, in a letter to that Gentleman, I take the liberty of inclosing a copy of it, for your perusal, incase any thing should occur in it, that may be intitled to farther consideration.
I beg to conclude with my best acknowledgements to your Excellency, for the very satisfactory information you have procured me, respecting the sheep of America. The materials I have been collecting on that subject, are now almost complete. I hope therefore that it will soon be in my power to present your Excellency, and the Gentleman who took the trouble of drawing up answers to my circulated Queries, with copies of my intended publication, to be intitled, “a general history of the Sheep, with observations on the proper mode of managing them” &ca or something to that effect, for the work, has not as yet had even a beginning.
With my best wishes for your health and happiness, I have the honour to subscribe myself, with great regard & esteem, your Excellency’s very faithful and obedient humble Servant

John Sinclair

N.B. Since writing the above, I have this instant got a specimen of some Botany Bay seeds.


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Chew, Jr., 16 August 1793
From: Chew, Benjamin Jr.
To: Washington, George

Sir
Philada Walnut st. August 16th 1793

In consequence of the Enquiry I have had the Honor of making on your Account respecting the Disposition of William Pearce of Kent County Maryland to engage in your Service as Superintendant or the Overlooker of your Farms at Mount Vernon, it has been intimated to me by Letter that he is anxious to be in so distinguished an Employ—Contrary to my Expectation however Mr Pearce has himself come to this Place for the purpose of waiting upon you, assigning as the Reason, that he at present rents a Farm in the Neighbourhood of one which he holds as his own property and that in the course of a very short period it will be necessary for him to decide with his Landlord whether he means

to retain the Farm another year—the Testimonials he can procure of his Character and Abilities as a Farmer and Planter, from the Information I have received, are almost unexceptionable—at present he is a Widower but has several Children—of his arrangements in respect to his Family as well as on a variety of other Subjects, you no doubt would desire a minute examination—Should you, Sir, therefore wish to see Mr Pearce, I will take Care that he shall have the Honor of attending your Leisure at such hour as you may please to appoint—and if in the Result I shall have been fortunate eno’ in any way to have promoted your accommodation, it will afford me infinite Gratification. I have the Honor to remain Sir with the utmost respect Your very obedt hble Servt

Benjamin Chew jr


Title: To George Washington from John Barker Church, 16 August 1793
From: Church, John Barker
To: Washington, George

Sir
London August 16: 1793

The Princess D’Henin has confided to me the enclos’d Letter from our unfortunate Friend M. de la Fayette, with a Request that I would convey it to your Excellency; I do it with a peculiar Pleasure as it affords me an Opportunity of assuring your Excellency, of that perfect Respect and Veneration which I ever entertain for you, and at the same Time, of embracing an Opportunity of endeavoring thro’ your Means to render a Service to our poor Friend, who is treated in a Manner shocking to Humanity, and contrary to the general Laws of Nations—The Marquis’s  Friends have no Hope of procuring his Liberation, but by the Interference of you Excellency and the Government of the United States, I heartily wish it may be in your Power to effect it, for the Marquis is only treated in this Manner on Account of his sincere Attachment to the Cause of Liberty.
Mrs Church charges me to present her most respectful Compliments to your Excellency and Mrs Washington, to whom I request the Favor of you to present mine also—I have the Honor to be with every respectful Sentiment Your Excellency’s Most faithful, humble Servant

J.B. Church


Title: To George Washington from Henry Knox, 16 August 1793
From: Knox, Henry
To: Washington, George

Sir.
War Department, 16th August 1793.

I have the honor to submit, a letter received from James Seagrove Esqr: dated the 6th of July—and two letters from the Governor of Georgia of the 24th & 30th of the same month, with their enclosures. I am Sir, Most respectfully, Your very humble Servt

H. Knox secy of War


Title: To George Washington from William Tilghman, 16 August 1793
From: Tilghman, William
To: Washington, George

Sir
City Tavern [Philadelphia] Friday—16. Augt 1793

I have the honor of inclosing a bond which you will be pleased to execute, after filling up the blank left for the date. The inclosed copy of Mr Chalmers’s receipt will explain the nature of the transaction. I shall take the earliest opportunity of writing to Chalmers & you shall be informed of his answer as soon as I receive it. I must beg the favor of your sending the bond under cover to me, to be left at the City Tavern, any time before Monday next, on which day I shall leave the City. I have the honor to be with the most perfect respect Sir yr most ob. Servt

Wm Tilghman


Title: Resolutions of the Citizens of Essex County, New Jersey, 17 August 1793
From: Citizens of Essex County, New Jersey
To: Washington, George

[Newark, N.J., 17 August 1793]

At a numerous and respectable meeting of the Inhabitants of the County of Essex in the State of New Jersey, held at the Court House at Newark on the seventeenth day of August 1793—General

Elias Dayton was chosen Chairman & Elisha Boudinot Esqr. Secretary.
Resolved—one person only dissenting, That we regard the proclamation of the President; which announces the Neutrality of the United States in the war now existing among several of the Nations in Europe, As a declaration of the real disposition of these States, As a friendly admonition to all our Citizens, of the penalties to which they will be exposed under any violation of the law of Nations—and as a new proof of that watchful care and paternal affection for the true interests, prosperity and honor of this Country, which has so uniformly marked and eminently distinguished the administration of our first Majistrate.
Resolved—That as it is the indispensible duty of every good Citizen, so it shall be our constant endeavour to carry into effect the pacific system enjoined in the aforesaid proclamation, and to support our public Officers in all lawful and proper exertions to enforce and maintain the same.

Elisha Boudinot Secry Elias Dayton Chairman


Title: To George Washington from William Gordon, 17 August 1793
From: Gordon, William
To: Washington, George

My Dear Sir
St Neots Huntingdonshire [England] Augt 17. 1793.

The renewed choice of your Excellency to the Presidentship was what I expected; & I was much pleased, when looking over the Gazette of the United States, it appeared that the vote of every elector was in your favor. When the war commenced between G. Britain & France, I was repeatedly asked, What part will the Americans take? I always answered—I apprehend they will observe a strict neutrality; for peace & trade with the whole world is the interest of the United States. The arrival of your proclamation confirmed my opinion. But I suspect, that the court of St James’s will not admit of your acting upon the principle of neutral vessels making neutral property, with an exception of warlike articles. You will undoubtedly maintain the principle, should prudence prevent entering upon hostilities to support it: but by firmly maintaining the principle, instead of making the smallest concessions, you will vindicate your future conduct upon the occasion, whenever the opportunity offers of your supporting it by force without any considerable hazard to yourselves. This however has not influenced me to trouble you with the present letter; but something of more consequence to the United States.
There is a prevailing idea in G. B., if not in other parts of Europe, that whenever you are removed, the federal union will be dissolved, the states will separate, & disorder succeed, for that the American government cannot in its own nature be lasting. The confusions in France, & the eccentric publications in the U.S. tend to strengthen the idea. I am fully convinced from what I have read in the manuscripts you possess, that nothing will give you greater satisfication than being the means of disappointing such expectations. Some conjecture, that when you have been removed from these lower regions (may it be to the regions of perpetual bliss) for a few years, the states will quarrel about who shall be President, & thereby produce a separation. I am fully convinced that one, if not more, of the first persons in the U.S., is of opinion, that in time an hereditary President must be chosen, to prevent the dangerous contests that periodical elections will produce, similar to what has happened repeatedly in choosing Polish sovereigns. An hereditary President will become most probably, in a series of years, but another name for an hereditary monarch, & the whole spirit of government be changed into European, Asiatic, African, whatever may be its bodily shape. Allow me then to ask your opinion, whether the following plan might not, if brought into execution, be prev⟨mutilated⟩tive of such a deplorable event? Let an alteration be made in that part of the federal constitution, that relates to the choice of the President.
Let it be agreed by the U.S., that after your decease, or declining the Presidentship, the President shall be chosen alternately from each state (in the same form as now) for four years, the population of each state to determine the rotation, from the highest to the lowest, the first & the last. The population to be settled as soon as possible: & then the order for each state’s furnishing a President be declared. When every state has enjoyed the privilege; before the last in rotation has completed its term of four years, let the population of the states be taken afresh, & a new orderly list be formed, as the variations produced by sixty years & more may require—Though Virginia has furnished a President once & again, before such alteration in the choice of a President, her right to the order of the rotation not to be vacated. I cannot be absolutely certain, but I conceive that it was at length agreed by the former Congress, that the President should be chosen in rotation from the respective states, or a state that had not before furnished one.
Whether we may judge alike upon this delicate & important subject I know not: but I am convinced that your Excellency will give me credit for my attachment to the welfare of the United States; & will deem it respectful, that I have not communicated these thoughts to any other correspondent; & have entrusted it with you, to digest, & ripen, & bring forward the plan, if honored with your approbation, in your own way & time. I am too much attached to American liberty & the United States, than to fail in praying for their continued & increasing prosperity.
Mrs Gordon joins me in wishing your Excellency, & your Lady the best of divine blessings through the remainder of life, & an infinitely better life hereafter through the merits of our Lord & Saviour Jesus Christ. I remain my Dear Sir Your most sincere & affectionate friend

William Gordon

I deplore the situation of our friend de la Fayette, but can obtain no news of him, other than of his general imprisonment. May he be supported thro’ the trial, & at length be restored to the public & his friends.
 P.S. If what the News Paper which arrived yesterday mentioned should be true—That Mr Hamilton had written to all the American Ports to admit French prizes, but not prizes taken by the powers at war with France, & there is a settled determination on the part of the Americans to fulfil the articles of the treaty with them in 1778, wherein special privileges are granted them, beyond those here who are their enemies, however desirous you may be of observing a neutrality in other respects, I divine from the hauteur of ⟨the⟩ British ministry, that prudence will require your getting ready for a rupture, that you may have the chance of preventing it. May heaven forbid such a rupture! Should it take place, I can pray for my friends, though I can no longer correspond with them.


Title: Henry Knox to Tobias Lear, 17 August 1793
From: Knox, Henry
To: Lear, Tobias

Dear Sir.
War Department August 17th 1793

Please to Submit the enclosed report from the Secretary of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to the President of the United States. I have the honor to be Sir your humble Servant

H. Knox secy of War


Title: To George Washington from the Citizens of New Castle County, Delaware, 17 August 1793
From: Citizens of New Castle County, Delaware
To: Washington, George

[Wilmington, Del., 17 August 1793]

At a Meeting of a Number of respectable Inhabitants of the County of New Castle in the State of Delaware, Convened at the

Borough of Wilmington on the 17th day of August 1793 pursuant to Publick Notice for that Purpose given, the following Resolutions were proposed and Adopted.
First—Resolved that this Meeting, highly approve of the late Proclamation of the President of the United States, enjoining upon the Citizens of the United States, the Observance of Newtral Conduct towards the Belligerent Powers of Europe.
Second Resolved that it is the Opinion of this Meeting that the President by this Proclamation, has given an Additional Proof of sound discretion and Unremitting Vigilance in the Exercise of the Functions of his Station.
Third Resolved that it is the Opinion of this Meeting that the Prosperous and happy condition of our Country is Connected with, and greatly dependent on its state of Peace, that War would be destructive of its Commerce and Injurous to its Agriculture, and that the Proclamation is happily Calculated to avoid the Multiplied Evils and Misery of which it would be productive.
Fourth. Resolved that this Meeting, firmly perswaded that the Measures of the General Goverment are Wise Honourable and Advantageous, will be regulated in their Conduct by them, and will Contribute their Aid to Support them.
Fifth. Resolved that from the Opportunities the Persons now Convened have had of Discovering the Sentiments of the Inhabitants of this State, it appears, that they Correspond with those Expressed in the Preceeding Resolutions.
sixth Resolved that a Copy of these Resolutions, under the signature of the Chairman, be transmitted to the President of the United; States, and that the Proceedings of the present Meeting be published.

Jno. McKinly Chairman

A true Exract from the Minutes Matthew Pearce Secty


Title: To George Washington from David Porter, 17 August 1793
From: Porter, David
To: Washington, George

Revenue Cutter Active Baltimore August 17th 1793

I Beg leave
To return your Excellency my Sincere and unfeigned thanks for noticeing and commissioning me to the command of the Revenue Cutter Active on the maryland station.
 Also take leave to inform you of my intentions of Steping forward with recommendations for the surveyors Office of the port of baltimore, as I conceive the door Is yet open for candidates, delicacy woud not permit Me to make such early application as some others. had I have done it its probable shoud have succeeded with Little trouble, but hope it is not too late, Shoud I be Honoured with filling that Office none woud be more Attentive to duty And trust than myself. I was the Publicks faithfull and attentive servant during the Late war in capasity of Lieutenant on board our frigates with some of our ablest Commanders and Ever had their thanks and good wishes, but proved an Unfortunate man being often Captured and experiene⟨d⟩ the Cruelest treatment at Sundry times in different places, but to enter into particulars of such A nature woud be tedious to your Excellency.
I now solicit and pray for an office of profit on A peace establishment which if I am honoured To fill shall endeavour to give general and uniform Satisfaction it must be my sole dependence for Support through life for Self and family. I Am Your Excellency’s Obbt and Attentive Servant.

David Porter Master Of the Cutter Active


Title: To George Washington from the Citizens of Richmond, Virginia, 17 August 1793
From: Citizens of Richmond, Virginia
To: Washington, George

Sir
Richmond August 17th 1793

Impress’d with a full conviction of the wisdom of your administration in general, and especially approving that system of conduct which you have adopted, and steadily observed towards the belligerent powers of Europe, we, the inhabitants of Richmond and its vicinity in the Commonwealth of Virginia, are happy in an opportunity of conveying to you these our genuine sentiments.
When propitious Heaven had crown’d with victory the efforts of your country and yourself, while rejoicing America enumerated the blessings to be derived from so important a revolution, it was not reckon’d among the least of them, that, in future, the people of this favor’d land might in peace pursue their own happiness, tho’ war and violence shou’d desolate the European world, or drench it in human blood. So too, when the good genius of America had devis’d that change in our government, which her wisdom has since adopted, it was held an argument of some weight against the necessity of this change, and all in opposition to it with one voice declar’d, that situated as this country is, no madness or folly cou’d ever be so supreme as to involve us again in European contests. Nor was this opinion, so uniform and universal, in favor of peace, deriv’d from any other source  than a knowledge of the real situation, and a conviction of the real interests of America. It is impossible for the eye of cool and temperate reason to survey these United States without perceiving, that, however dreadful the calamities of war may be to other nations, they are still more dreadful to us, and however important the benefits of peace to others, to us it must be still more beneficial.
From those whose province it is to make war, we expect every effort to avoid it consistent with the honor interest and good-faith of America; from you, Sir, to whom is assigned the important task of “taking care that the laws be faithfully executed” we have already experienc’d the most active and watchful attention to our dearest interests.
Ever since the period when a just respect for the voice of your country induc’d you to abandon the retirement you lov’d, for that high station which your fellow citizens unanimously call’d you, your conduct has been uniformly calculated to promote their happiness and welfare. And in no instance has this been more remarkable, or your vigilant attention to the duties of your office more clearly discover’d than in your proclamation respecting the neutrality of the United States. As genuine Americans, with no other interest at heart but that of our country, unbiass’d by foreign influence which history informs us has been the bane of more than one Republic, our minds are open to a due sense of the propriety, justice, and wisdom of this measure, and we cannot refrain from expressing our pleasure at its adoption.
We recollect too well the calamities of war, not to use our best endeavours to restrain any wicked citizen, if such indeed can be found among us, who, disregarding his own duty and the happiness of the United States, in violation of the law of the land and the wish of the people, shall dare to gratify his paltry passions at the risk of his countrys welfare, perhaps of her existence.
We pray Heaven to manifest its providential care of these States by prolonging to them the blessing of your administration; And may the pure spirit of it continue to animate the government of America through a succession of ages. Signed by desire and on behalf of the Meeting,

G. Wythe.

Test., Aw Dunscomb Secy


Title: From George Washington to Frances Bassett Washington, 18 August 1793
From: Washington, George
To: Washington, Frances Bassett

My dear Fanny.
Philadelphia Augt 18th 1793.

I was unable this day wee[k—] a day I devote in part, to writing letters of private concernment—to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 7th instant.
As I shall always be sincerely disposed to give you my opinion upon any, and every point you may desire respecting the management

of your Estate, or the Children, it is my ⟨w⟩ish that you would never be backward in laying them before me. If I cannot instantly comply with your request, I may, nevertheless, do it in time.
The sentiments contained in my letter of the 10th of June were the best I could form under the view I had of your affairs, and recollection ⟨of⟩ the Will of the Testator. As it did not get to your hands before you had adopted measures for ⟨the⟩ disposal of the property in Berkeley, and ar⟨ran⟩gement of that in Fairfax, I do not see that better can be done than to allot the Negros in Fairfax in the manner proposed in your letter of the ⟨7⟩th instt. And with respect to the young fellow ⟨in Berkel⟩ey, who you say refused to be hired with the rest⟨, but⟩ who by the bye ought to have had no⟨thing to say in the case⟩, it is of no great moment now, ⟨whether⟩ he be added to those who are to remain ⟨in Fair⟩fax, or to chuse a Master in Berkeley. ⟨The five⟩ you have allotted to the former, besides ⟨the old⟩ woman & independant of him, will require the same kind of cropping as usual, to give them employment; and the same sort of Overseer as at present to look after them; whereas, upon the plan I suggested, a Man & boy with two plows under the direction of ⟨a⟩ Farmer ⟨(⟩who by agreement should be compelled to work as those under him do) I conceive the profit would have been greater, than with a larger number, managed as heretofore. But it is too late [(]at least for the ensuing year) to carry the latter plan into effect. It may be well therefore, if your present Overseer is indisposed to continue under these changes, to be enqui⟨ring⟩ in time for another; and by adding the ⟨fe⟩llow above you will have a better chance of getting a tolerable one; the force even with him, being too small to induce a man of character to engage; and too numerous ⟨to⟩ expect an Overlooker to labour in ⟨the mann⟩er one would do whose living depended upon it. In short, it is too large, or too small. too small to expect a good Ov⟨erse⟩er; and too large for the plan I had m⟨illegible⟩, &c which I had conceived would be better for the land, & more profitable to yourself.
 A Man & his wife just from England advertised themselves to work on Shares—He a complete farmer & she an excellent Dairy woman; but they were engaged before I ⟨sent to⟩ them. My love to Milly & the Children, & with the most Affectionate regard I remain Yr sincere friend

Go: Washington

P.S. You are welcome ⟨illegible⟩ any thing else ⟨illegible⟩ for the repairs proposed.


Title: To George Washington from the Citizens of Dorchester County, Maryland, 19 August 1793
From: Citizens of Dorchester County, Maryland
To: Washington, George

Cambridge [Md.] 19th Augt 1793

At a respectable meeting of the Landholders, & other citizens of Dorchester County, Eastern Shore of Maryland, on the 19th of Augt 1793, Col. John Eccleston in the chair, the following address to the President of the United States on his proclamation declaratory of neutrality, was brought in by a Committee appointed for that purpose & unanimously voted.
Sir
Impressed with a deep sense of the value of honourable peace, & anxious to preserve its blessings to our Country, we assure you, it was with sincere pleasure we saw the measure you pursued of declaring to the world the Neutrality of the United States towards the belligerent powers of Europe. Of war we have had a share. That it was in a glorious cause, will we hope ever prove in the recollection, a motive to a conduct both dignified & spirited; but we likewise hope that it will always be, as we believe it is at present, the disposition of all our fellow citizens, to cultivate that pacific national character so congenial with our Republican Government, & so necessary to its purity & duration. Your Proclamation we think conformable to the solid Interests of the country, its expressions warranted by the opinions & wishes of our fellow citizens, & to have been inspired by the true spirit of that Constitution, under which we enjoy the sweets of civil liberty, & abundant prosperity. To this additional proof of that vigilant patriotism, to which we have been so often & so highly indebted, we beg leave to give our unanimous approbation.

Jno. Eccleston Chairman

attested by. Chs S. ONeil Sectry to the meeting


Title: To George Washington from Andrew G. Fraunces, 19 August 1793
From: Fraunces, Andrew G.
To: Washington, George

Sir
New York Augt 19th 1793

I have this day received Mr Lears letter by your direction dated the 14th instant.
I am induced from the nature of this letter and in order to justify my conduct publicly to my friends with regard to the purchase of the Warrants in question to state to you some facts which perhaps Mr Hamilton has not thought convenient to make known to you, and I think I can prove clearly that it has not appeared, as Mr Lear says nor will ever appear that I knew any thing about them until I wrote you on the 30th July last.
If you will favor me by looking once more at my communication to you of the 30th July last, it will be found that a principal question remains still unanswered—What Mr Hamilton reasons are for declining the payment?
It appears extremely hard Sir, when a Citizen presents a claim against the united States to the proper Officers, and this claim is for some reasons rejected or postponed, that he cannot know what those reasons are—It is something like the practice in despotic Governments—Condemning and Executing without even giving the unfortunate a hearing.
 Noting particularly the latter part of Mr Lears letter—I cannot refrain from answering it in a manner which may render a further investigation of the subject necessary—I can Sir bring sufficient  proof other than Mr Hamiltons letters to me, that untill the time I purchased these warrant⟨s⟩ I knew not that they were in existance, nor can Mr Hamilton say otherwise since he and Mr Duer conducted the whole transaction: About 157,000 dollars out of 190,000 provided for by Congress in the year 1789 were actually paid during the Administration of this person with the Secretary and that in less time than one year after the passing of the act.
In June I waited on Mr Hamilton he opposed the payment in the same manner as stated in my letter of the 30th July. He in the course of conversation questioned me with respect to the number outstanding in New York—I told him as nearly as I could guess—and also as to the present value of them: I could only produce him in answer thereto my receipt for the payment—He said he pitied the embarrasment I laboured under and informed me that if I would lodge them with Mr John Lawrence late in Congress that Gentleman would advance me 2000 Dollars on them untill they could be regularly settled at the Treasury—Now Sir—from this circumstance what could I suppose other than that Mr Hamilton had some private motives known only to a few for postponing the Settlement—In addition to this Mr Hamilton said if I would engage my Honor that I would purchase no more of them he would make me Satisfied within a certain period to be agreed upon between ourselves, I repl⟨ied,⟩ if he would pay me, or give me a written official document to insure me payment, I would comply, he said he could not do this, but he gave me his word and honor that if I acquiesced with him they should be paid, he did not say regularly—This proposition in justice to my fellow Citizens, holders of Warrants I would not do. And what reason had I to suppose they could not immediately pass through the Treasury regularly since Mr Hamilton has acctually advanced me money from his private funds to be reimbursed when these warrants were paid.
From the following Statement of one circumstance that happened at the Treasury early in the administration of the Secretary—it will be found that I had reason to suspect he would take every advantage of my Situation in order to throw the profits into his own or other persons hands, who were in higher conditions in life & Who might probably grasp notwithstanding their public situations at every speculation that might Offer.
In the course of the first session of Congress certain monies were granted, allowed, and directed to be paid by that Body to Baron de Glaubeck—now Sir I do assert that Mr Hamilton did actually Aid, advise, and assist (and it was by his and Mr Duers means that it was done) in the purchase of this grant which was obtained for less than one third of the Value, and that it was done before any Settlement could be had at the Treasury as was said
 This alone Sir must I apprehend in the minds of the Candid and impartial, Justify me in placing neither faith nor confidence in Mr Hamilton; since a public Officer is always to be suspected—having once departed from a line of conduct which the Nature of his Oath and Office had fully pointed out—If Mr Hamilton in his report to you Sir, stated that I knew aught of these Warrants, even the smallest matter before I purchased them, he has said what was not true, excepting this I knew, he postponed in June 1792 the payment of three Amounting to 925 Dollars—belonging to a Mr Alexr Ogsbury—of this place—and I had no other Impressions of his conduct then, than what I have in the present instance—I must further declare sir, that the knowledge of all most every circumstance, relative to the payments made on Accounts of these Warrants, were obtained by me from printed documents almost at the Instant I wrote my letter to you of the 30. July, which documents Are new—orriginal and in my ⟨possession⟩. I shall only trouble you further by adding that my present Respectable Connections from the Assertions made and that may be made by Mr Hamilton and from Mr Lears last letter may think me to Blame in this Business. I therefore request you will examine my conduct with Candour when I publish as I shall shortly, a Statement of the Affair and of the Correspondence relative thereto. I have the Honour to be with very great respect & real Attatchmt yr Most Obedent Hhe Sert

Andw: G. Fraunces No. 44 Han: Sqr. N. Yk


Title: Tobias Lear to Alexander Hamilton, 19 August 1793
From: Lear, Tobias
To: Hamilton, Alexander

United States Augt 19. 179[3].

By the President’s command T. Lear has the honor to transmit to The Secretary of the Treasury the final report of the Commissioners for settling the accounts between the United States and the individual States, together with the Letter accompanying the same from them to the President.
 T. Lear is moreover directed by the President to observe to the Secretary, that the enclosed report was left at the President’s house during his late visit to Virginia, and therefore did not get to his hands ’till the 11. of July; it was then sent to the office of the Secretary of State to be there deposited & copies thereof prepared to be laid before Congress at their meeting. There being nothing express in any law respecting this subject as to the place where the report should be lodged—the implication to that effect was not particularly noticed, until the matter was mentioned to the President by the Secretary of the Treasury. The report was then sent for from the office of the Secy of State, but it having been put away by Mr Taylor, the principal Clerk, who was then gone to New York, it could not be found until his return this day.
The President has thought it proper that these circumstances should be noted to account for the delay in depositing the report; but he presumes that no inconvenience will arise therefrom, as the doings upon it may take effect in course from it’s date.

Tobias Lear S.P.U.S.


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Hughes, 19 August 1793
From: Hughes, Samuel
To: Washington, George

Sir
Mount Pleasant [Md.], 19th August 1793

As soon as I had the honor of receiving your letter of the 15th Inst. I wrote to my neighbour Mr Smith who is much better acquainted with Mr Sappingtons character than myself as he had him employed for sometime as an overseer on part of Spesutia Island which Mr Smith had leased from me—enclosed you have his answer on which you may fully rely. from the general knowledge I have of Sappingtons Capacity I think he will not answer for the scene of business you mention, nor do I know of any person qualified to answer your purpose.
I will make inquiry and if I hear of any one on whom you can place confidence I will immediately inform you—so far from thinking your commands a trouble I can assure you Sir that it would give me the greatest satisfaction to have it in my power to render you the least service. I have the Honor to be with the greatest respect Your most Obedient Servant

Saml. Hughes


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Jefferson, 19 August 1793
From: Washington, George
To: Jefferson, Thomas

Sir,
 [Philadelphia] August 19th 1793

I send, for the consideration & opinion of the Heads of the Departments and the Attorney General of the U.S. a communication from the Governor of Pennsylvania respecting the Privateer Citizen Genet—together with copies of two letters from the French Consul to the Governor on the same subject, and a Report of two persons who had examined the Aforesaid Privateer by the Governor’s order.
The Gentlemen will decide whether the circumstances reported respecting the unfitness of the said Privateer to proceed to sea, are such as would make it proper to depart from the rules already adopted, and allow a longer time for her to prepare to depart than is granted by the Governor—or whether the orders given by him on this head shall be executed.
It will be seen that this Subject requires dispatch—and the Secretary of War will inform the Governor of the result of your deliberations on this subject as soon as it is given.

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Alexander McCaskey, 19 August 1793
From: McCaskey, Alexander
To: Washington, George

sir
Baltimore Town Augt 19th 1793

Having been on business in York County Pennsylvania at the time of Coll Ballards Death, & being Just return’d I found myself Anticipated in my intention by a Number of Respectable Applicants
 for the Surveyors Office. But Presuming on your Excellency’s Candour & goodness I have ventured tho’ Late to remind you of my former Application by letter with the Recommendations accompanying it, to which I wou’d beg leave to refer, tho’ from the early & uncommon Industry us’d to secure to some of the Applicants, & my Absence having precluded me from the Mercantile favour, it is nevertheless with confidence I assure your Excellency, that Recommendations from other respectable Citizens not less Uniform in their Attachment to the Independance & Present Government of America can be procured.
Mr James Burn who now does the business of Surveyor & Inspector & has acted as Coll Ballards Deputy & Clerk, is my Son inlaw, Your Appointing me wou’d be a provision for two helpless families, & trust the business wou’d be executed with fidelity & Promptness. All the Applicants I have heard of are all ready in business, Aided by Powerfull & Rich Connexions, or in some place of Proffit under Government.
I am now of an Infirm Period of Life, having spent my best Days in the Army as your Excellency will recollect. I was a Deputy Commissary Genl of Forage under Coll Biddle, & was taken & kept a Prisoner on Long Island two Years, till I had Exhausted what little substance I had, & my Pay has been unfortunately Sacrifised by the treachery & Speculative View of a Pretended friend, & if it was not for the Filial Protection of Doctor Coulter who Married one of my Daughters I know not what Mr Burns family & my own might have suffered these last two Years—there are facts which I have taken the liberty to submit to your Excellencys Consideration & beg you to excuse the solicitude with which I urge my Claim to your Protection—& am with cincere respect & Attachment Your Obedient servant

Alexr McCaskey


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Mifflin, 19 August 1793
From: Mifflin, Thomas
To: Washington, George

Sir.
Phila: 19th Augt 1793.

The Commanding Officer at Mud Island, has reported to me that the following vessels have been stopped and detained, in pursuance of my orders.
1. The Brig Gayoso, commanded by Jas Graisbury, bound from Phil: to New Orleans, a prize to the Little Democrat; but originally owned by Reede and Forde, of Phila.
2. The Brig Pilgrim of Philadelphia, Capt. Benj: Earl, a Prize to the Little Democrat; but originally owned by Jos: Donnaldson sen. of this City.
3. The Schooner Derry, or Dairy Maid Capt: John Hammil, also a prize to the Little Democrat; but originally owned by John Leamy of this City.
 It appears from the affidavit which I have ⟨e⟩nclosed, that Twenty thousand Dollars were taken out of ⟨th⟩e latter prize, before her arrival in the port; and the money, as I am well informed, has been sent hither in a Pilot boat. I have, therefore, ordered the Pilot boat to be taken into custody; and I shall await your instructions, as well on that subject, as for the restoration of the Prizes. I am, with perfect respect, Sir, Your most obedt Servt

T. M.


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Mifflin, 19 August 1793
From: Mifflin, Thomas
To: Washington, George

Sir.
Phil. 19 Aug. 1793

In consequence of the letter, which I addressed to the French Consul, respecting the Privateer, Citizen Genet and communicated to the Secretary at war, for your information on the 17th instant, I have recd two answers, copies of which I have the honor to lay before you.
The allegations that were made of an extreme want of provision, on board that vessel, of her Leakage, and of the general bad state of her rigging, induced me to direct a survey, before I issued peremptory orders for compelling her to depart; and I now transmit a copy of the report of the surveyors, that you may exercise any discretion which you think proper on the subject.
 For my own part, I do not think it would be consistant with the tenor of your instructions of the 16 instant, to grant the indulgence of ⟨8⟩ days according to the Consul’s desire; and, therefore, notwiths[tanding] the report, I shall this morning issue an order for her departure in 24 hours; allowing her, during that time, to take in a reasonable supply of provisions. I am with perfect respect Sir Yr most obedt St &c.


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Mifflin, 19 August 1793
From: Mifflin, Thomas
To: Washington, George

Sir.
Phila. 19. Augt 1793.

Since the communication, which I made to you this morning, relatively to the Trunk of Dollars, deposited on board a Pilot boat, by the Little Democrat, and alleged to have been taken from the Dairy Maid, after her capture, I have received two Affidavits, of which I transmit copies for your information.
As the Captain of the Pilot-boat states, that the Trunk is consigned to Mr Genet, the Minister of the French Republic, I wish for particular instructions, with respect to the restoration of the money it contains, to the persons claiming it, as owner. I am, with perfect respect, Sir, Your most obedt Servt

Tho. Mifflin


Title: George Taylor, Jr., to Tobias Lear, 19 August 1793
From: Taylor, George Jr.
To: Lear, Tobias

[Philadelphia] Monday Morning 19. Aug. 1793

G. Taylor Junr presents his respectful Compliments to Mr Lear, and has the honor to send him herewith enclosed, agreeably to his note of the 13th instant to the Secretary of State, the Report of the Commissioners for settling the accounts between the U.S. and the individual States, together with the letter accompanying the same from them to the President. They had been placed in the Hands of one of the Gentlemen of the office to copy previous to G: Taylor’s late departure for New York, and Mr Blackwell not knowing this circumstance, could not find them.

The Note from Mr Hamilton’s office, concerning Tanner’s Commission—has been called for. It was not received with the Commission made out in his name. Perhaps Mr Lear can lay his hand on it, and will be so good as to send it.


Title: From George Washington to the Commissioners for the District of Columbia, 20 August 1793
From: Washington, George
To: Commissioners for the District of Columbia

Gentlemen
Philadelphia Augt 20th 1793

This will be handed to you by Mr James Greenleaf, a native of Boston, who has resided for some years past in Amsterdam, and has lately been appointed Consul for the U.S. at that Place.
This Gentleman, I understand, has it in contemplation to make certain proposals to you for building a number of houses in the Federal City, provided he can have lots upon such terms & conditions as may correspond with his interest in the undertaking while it tends, at the same time, to promote the great object of the City. I am pursuaded, Gentlemen, that you will listen with attention and weigh with candour any proposals that may promise to promote the growth of the City in the degree that Mr Greenleaf’s undertaking upon the extensive scale that it has been represented to me, would do. But it will lay with yourselves to decide how far the state of your funds will justify your closing with any proposals that may not tend to give them an immediate increase.
It will undoubtedly be essential to Mr Greenleaf that you should be impressd with just ideas with regard to his means of insuring the punctual performance of any engagements he may enter into in with you (if you shd come upon any terms with him)—and he will therefore undoubtedly take measures to satisfy you on this head. He has been represented to me as a Gentleman of large property and having the command of much money in this Country & in Europe; but I can say nothing on this head from my own knowledge. Having had occasion to make enquiry respecting him before his appointment to the Office of Consul, the Accounts which I received were highly favorable to Mr Greenleaf—both the respectability of his connexions in this Country and in Holland (where he married)—and as to his own Character. and I have reason to believe, that if you can find it consistent with your duty to the public to attach Mr Greenleaf to the federal City, he will be a valuable acquisition. with great regard I am Gentlemen.


Title: To George Washington from Henry Knox, 20 August 1793
From: Knox, Henry
To: Washington, George

Sir.
War Department August 20th 1793

I have the honor to submit, Enclosed, a letter just received from James Seagrove, dated at Savannah, August 4th 1793, with enclosures. I am, most respectfully, Sir, Your very humble Servt

H. Knox secy of war


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Millet, 20 August 1793
From: Millet, Thomas
To: Washington, George

sir,
Baltimore 20th august, 1793. the 2d year of the french republic.

I had promised to lay before the public my fears on the dispersing the french fleet in Several harbours, and on the letting So many of merchant-ships, in chesapeake-bay, Without any ship man of war. but feeling the consequences of that publication, I do Keep myself Within bounds to transmit to your excellency my opinion on that affair; if I Give you only Some Strong probabilities on this Subject, their grounding on the proceedings of Some Strangers of eminence give them Some rigth to your confidence.
any man in this country must be convicted that, in the great conspiracy of the Kings against the new french republic, the english are more struggling for the interests of their national Commerce and their revenge than for the restauration of the royalty in france. all their proceedings in their past Wars become acordingly With that attention. and it may be reasonably Supposed, if not asserted, that the devestation of the french colonies, by Polverel, sonthonax and their cooperators, is the effect as Well of the english policy, as of the aristocratic party.
it is Known that the favourite scheme of the british ministry is to invade all the branches of Commerce, and to atempt all for that purpose. in france, the aristocratick party Wishes to overthrow the national commerce, to procure a commotion favourable to the fall of liberty, and Will second the british ministry, as Well they Seconded Polverel and sonthonax. in that great their

combination So Well favoured by their faction in the national convention of france, and perhaps in her executive counsel, by the means of their agents spread thourough united states, as Well as in St Domingo, for it is the Same faction, Would not they have mind to counstrain united states to get up arms, either (the aristocratick party) against france, for giving them an oportunity to Seize all the french merchant Ships Which are deffenseless; or the english party against England, to give her an oportunity to take again possession of that So fair and So regreted Country; in the moment Where the revolution of france disordered that political Sistem which had favoured the independence of america; and Where all the powers of Europe are too busy in the Contest of Kings, to be intended upon the naval enterprises of england. in those two Suppositions, it was necessary to bring the french fleet deffenseless and not Well fitted to united States. for it is to be Said that its coming here is not only the consequence of the conflagration of Cape françois. I affirm that this purpose was laid long befor that melancholy event: if not by the orders of the executive counsel; for I don’t think such be mentionned in the instructions of the rear-admiral sercey, commander of the fleet; but by the instigations of the faction suggested by Polverel and sonthonax to the owners and Captains of the merchant Ships. it Would not be even voide of Sense to say that this conflagration Was the last of the means employed in order to do to Keep an equal pace together, both the ruin of that important city and the necessity of bringing here the french fleet, in order to second the schemes, both of british ministry and aristocratick party. it Would be possible to prove it: and if your excellency Wishes some notices on it, I am able to give you. since three years past I am employed in public affairs, either in general assemblies of St Domingo or near the national assembly. and I have been proscribed, arrested, embastilled by Polverel and Sonthonax, for having enligthened the public on their proceedings.
in these circumstances, sir, There is my Combination.
Would the faction, Which crushes france, and of Whom to agents are struggling near your excellency, claim the strict execution of the Treaties? of those treaties made by a King Whose the autority fell down With his life: treaties of Whom, according the Very expressions of the national convention, in their letter to your excellency, the consequences may be more dangerous

than useful to our allis; am I Well acquainted? Whilst the admiral gardner or other british Squadron falls upon french West indies, agreeing in it With the aristocratick party, united states are not they obliged, With their troops and vessels to assist the french colonies, if the[y] are claimed for? their assisting the contrerevolutionists Would not be the Worst consequence of the execution of that traity. but I Suppose that the english and aristocratick party Say to the executive power of united States.
since the last War, we maintain, as Well as the Spaniards, the Savages of ohio in arms against you, in order to be ready for an invasion, When We Will find a favourable oportunity. the species of your population which does not give you that overplus which fournishes Sailors and Soldiers, and cannot afford to furnish With arms enough people for the deffense of your Western boundaries, Will not permit you therefore to send troops and squadron in the french West indies. the german princes, by their contingent in the league against france are unabled to sell you their forces. how do you Will be able to fulfill the conditions of your treaties With france? if you are unabled to fulfill them, you must declare against her; and for the compensation of the lost of your Commerce in the french West indies Which morever are almost laid Waste, as Well as france, We Will send, We and spaniards, some Squadron in chesapeake bay to Seize and deliver you all her merchant Ships.
it So done, the aristocratick party Would enjoy the Satisfaction to deprive france and her colonies of the remainders of the riches of her National commerce and of all the supplies that the trade of united states can bring her. and England, under the pretexte to execute that condition and to preserve and deffend her New allies against france, Would Keep a Squadron on their coasts, and by the diligence of tories and other agitators, Would take the oportunity to invade by the Sea coasts, ohio and canada, at least the southern states; if not to cause a general insurrection, in united states, already So Well prepared by some persons of public capacity.
if it is not So, the agitators Will Say, There is indeed but too much reason to fear that you are involved in the general conspiracy of tyrants against france. they never Will, they never can forgive you, for having been the first to proclaim the rights of man. there is no nation more deeply interested than you are in the success of france. Watever fate awaits her

you are ultimately to share &ca you See the proceedings of the english privateers, distributing your Commerce Every Where. thus add your forces to those of france and—and you Will see the english and spanish Squadrons, Who Will not have more to respect the right of nations, their troops and their cooperators in your own bosom, to carry away all the french merchant Ships, to invade united states, together by Sea coasts, Canada and ohio, and lay Waste the country where have been first proclaimed the rights of man.
I Go, Sir, To new york to meet With the unfortunate general Galbaud so calumniated by the Very guilty of the Crimes Wich they are charging him so Wickedly. I have promised him to go to the national Convention With him, to lay before the french nation all that intrigues Wich involves as Well france, french Colonies, as united states.
I do Think, sir, that citizen Genêt Will not be eager to fit out the Ship he had promised to the general galbaud, overall knowing that I am With him, this governor is a Constitu[t]ed autority; that faction Knows that the national convention Will not be able to repell his acount, and that his account Will not be favourable to it. and I believe that it Will be useful to your neutrality and to the interests both of united states and of france that General Galbaud might be heared by the national Convention, and french people.
I will say to your excellency that when sir Eliot, private friend of the Minister Pitt, Went in france privately, in october 1790, he Wished to converse With a deputy from St Domingo, or a member of the general assembly of that island, then at paris. I am he Which he conversed With.
if your excellency thinks to get some notices on it With me, and to grant me the honour of an answer that I may receive, before my going away from baltimore-town, I Will haste my departure for philadelphia. I am, sir, with respect, of your excellency The most humble servant

Tas. Millet


Title: To George Washington from George Buchanan, 21 August 1793
From: Buchanan, George
To: Washington, George

Hon’d Sir,
Balt. August 21 1793

 Having just published a small work which Interests the States at large, I have thought it my duty to transmit you a copy, as it is incumbent upon every American to pay every respect to your worthey Character that he may have in his power. I am also happy Sir in having so good an excuse for writing to you, as my Friends have solicited me to offer as a Candidate for the office lately vacated by the death of Col. Balard I am one of the sons Sir, of the late Andw Buchanan Lieutenant General of Baltimore

County, whose firm attachment to the Interest of his Country during the last war gained him your applause & approbation; & after having spent a great part of his time & fortune in the service of his Country without seeking for pecuniary reward; he died leaving a large family of 9 Children out of whom 5 are now entering to the militia to follow the footstep of their worthey father. I have several times Sir had the honor of being introduced to you by Dr Shippen, & my Father in Law Chief Justice McKean, both of whom would speak impartially to you of my conduct & character: also Mr Jefferson, the Right Revd Dr White Dr Ewing, Mr Bingham, Mr Charles Pettit, & if necessary Sir, can procure a Character from the greatest part of the Inhabitants of Baltmore but having just got out of a sick bed, I have not had time to speak to any one, trusting that the evidence of the respectable Gentlemen above mentioned would be sufficient.
If therefore Sir it may please you to place a reward due to the memory of my Father, upon one of his sons who has but for his families support, the exercise of his profession, which is not adequate to the expenses—no exertions shall ever be wanting on his part to fill the office with dignity, exactness, & consistant with the Publick good; & for which I could immediately procure a security for any specifyed sum.
Being a Physician I could supply the deficiency of a Port Physician, without any additional expence to government, & which would give g[r]eat satisfaction to our Inhabitants, as they are annually subject to infectious disorders brought by Vessels from foreign ports, which caused their Petitioning to government about two years ago for the establishment of Hospitals & Port Physicians.
Hoping Sir that you may find me worthey the office, & capable of fulfilling its functions with exactness, I have the Honor of subscribing myself with much respect your very humble servant

Geo: Buchanan


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Jefferson, 21 August 1793
From: Jefferson, Thomas
To: Washington, George

[Philadelphia] Aug. 21. 93.

Th: Jefferson has the honor to inclose to the President a letter from mister Seagrove.
When he shall have considered of the questions of wages to Albion Coxe (till he shall have qualified himself to draw his regular salary) and the ordering a coinage of 1000 Dollars in small silver for the Treasury, he will be so good as to communicate his determinations.


Title: Tobias Lear to Thomas Jefferson, 21 August 1793
From: Lear, Tobias
To: Jefferson, Thomas

[Philadelphia] August 21st 1793

By the President’s command T. Lear has the honor to inform the Secretary of State, that the President has intended several times, when he has seen the Secretary latterly, to have mentioned his opinion respecting Mr Albion Coxe’s wages; but some other subject being introduced put it out of his mind. He now informs the Secretary, that it is his opinion, that Mr Coxe should be paid wages for the time he has been employed in the Mint, and so long as he shall continue to be employed (’till he shall have qualified himself) equal to the Salary allowed by law for the Assayor.
The President likewise informs the Secretary, that the sum of one thousand dollars will be furnished from the Treasury Department to commence a coinage at the mint—and if any agency of the President is necessary for drawing the said sum from the Treasury he will thank the Secretary to mention to him in what way it is so necessary that he may do it accordingly.
The President has understood that Mr Voight the Chief Coiner, has not yet qualified himself by giving security agreeably to the law. If this be the case, the President wishes the Secretary to consider how far it would be proper to permit a coinage to be commenced.

Tobias Lear

234 Sea Letters or Passports signed by the President are sent to the Office of the Secretary of State by the bearer hereof—and three large packets—one Addressed to the Consul of France—one to the Director of the ports at Martinique—and one to the Director of the Ports at the Cape—which came under cover to the President from the Post Office.


Title: Henry Knox to Tobias Lear, 21 August 1793
From: Knox, Henry
To: Lear, Tobias

Dear Sir.
[Philadelphia] August 21st 1793

Please to submit the, enclosed, to the President of the United States. Yours sincerely

H. Knox


Title: To George Washington from Alexander Hamilton, 22 August 1793
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

Treasury Department August 22d 1793.

The Secretary of the Treasury has the honor to enclose herewith for the perusal of the President, the copy of a communication which has just been receiv’d from the Collector of Wilmington in the State of Delaware.


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Jefferson, 22 August 1793
From: Jefferson, Thomas
To: Washington, George

[Philadelphia] Aug. 22. 1793.

Th: Jefferson has the honor to inclose to the President the letter of the National assembly to him of Dec. 22. 92. it’s most distinct object seems to have been to thank the U.S. for their succours to St Domingo. it glances blindly however at commercial arrangements, and on the 19th of Feb. the same assembly passed the decree putting our commerce in their dominions on the footing of natives & directing their Executive council to treat with us on the subject. on this the following questions arise.
1. Would the President chuse to answer the letter, acknoleging it’s receipt, thanking them in turn for the favors to our commerce, and promising to consult the constitutional powers (the Senate) on the subject of the treaty proposed?
2. Would he rather chuse to make no reply to the letter, but that mister Morris be instructed to negociate a renewal of mister Genet’s powers to treat to his successor?
3. or would he chuse that nothing be said on the subject to any body?
If the President would in his judgment be for a treaty on the principles of the decree, or any modification of them, the 1st or 2d measure will be to be adopted.
If he is against a treaty on those principles or any modification of them, the 3d measure seems to be the proper one.


Title: To George Washington from the Citizens of New London, Connecticut, 22 August 1793
From: Citizens of New London, Connecticut
To: Washington, George

Sir,
City of New London August 22d 1793

The Inhabitants of the City of New London presume with that frankness which becomes Citizens of a free Country to address you on the present important conjuncture of public Affairs. We readily acknowledge that the medling in political concerns by Bodies of people unorganized by Law for the purpose ought generally to be discountenanced by good Citizens; for although the Right of the people personally to express their opinion of public Measures is sacred & indisputable, yet it is too apt to be brought into exercise in addresses & resolutions by Cabal & Intrigue, and is perhaps more often listed in this way to overturn a Government, or to support a corrupt Administration, than to aid the measures of a good one; the importance however of the present occasion, & the apprehension that our Silence might be construed as an expression of Sentiments different from what we feel has induced us to come forward.
We have seen, Sir, with great Satisfaction your proclamation of Neutrality, & declare that this, and the other measures taken by the Executive relative to the European War, meet with our warmest approbation. We consider them as indicating a firm Resolution to preserve that line of Conduct towards the belligerent Powers which the Laws of Nature & Nations direct for Neutrals, & consistent at the same time with existing Treaties.
We hesitate not, Sir, to allow that our feelings take a decided part in favour of the French Nation; we regard them as the Nation who were our first & firmest friends in an hour of distress, and

as a people fighting against Oppressors in defence of the Rights of Men; this partiality for the French arising from these causes we believe we have in common with a very great majority of the people of the Union; yet we conceive that it would be the heighth of Folly & Madness for the United States unnecessarily to engage in the war; should the Legislature however determine otherwise, it would be our duty to submit; but untill this de[te]rmination is made by them the Laws of Neutrality ought unquestionably to be as sacredly observed as if the people of the United States were wholly indifferent in their attachment to the Nations engaged in the war, or ignorant of the Causes of it.
From our recent experience of the Calamities of War we deprecate the possibility that our Country may be engaged in that which now rages in Europe, apprehending that in additional to the accustomed evils of a State of War, such an engagement in the present infancy of our Republic would endanger our political existence; our hope that the United States will not be drawn into this unfortunate Situation is principally grounded on the unshaken confidence we entertain of your Wisdom, Virtue and Firmness, & of the Wisdom & Virtue of the federal Legislature. We doubt not the same Wisdom & Stability which has heretofore distinguished the President & the Legislature of the United States will continue to characterise their Measures, & lead them to seek the things that make for Peace, & in this pursuit we think they cannot fail to obtain the Blessing of Heaven, & the Countenance & Support of all good Men.
In expressing these Sentiments Sir, we are well assured that we express the general Sentiment of the people of the State of Connecticut.

Signed pr order, Richard Law, Chairman


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Jefferson, 23 August 1793
From: Washington, George
To: Jefferson, Thomas

[Philadelphia] Friday. 23d Augt [1793]

The President requests Mr Jefferson would bring with him the French Minister’s letter, communicating his powers to enter upon a New, & liberal Commercial Treaty.


Title: To George Washington from Auguste de Grasse, 24 August 1793
From: Grasse, Alexandre-François-Auguste de Grasse-Rouville, comte de (marquis de Tilly)
To: Washington, George

My General
Charleston [S.C.] 24 August 1793

Without doubt the french Inhabitants, who have been driven from the unhappy Island of St Domingo, & who have taken refuge

on this Continent, have informed you of the great distress which they have experienced. As to myself, after having lost a commodious dwelling & 200 Negroes; after having discharged with Zeal & activity, the duties of my military Command, & daily exposing myself in the service of my Country, & fellow Citizens to the dangers & fatigues of a War, equally novel & cruel; I have been compell’d, with many others to fly from the dangers of Assissination; happy in obtaining a Passport by the Sacrifice of my Commission, & being immediately thereon able to embark in an american Brig for the port of Charleston, accompanied by a Wife scarce recovered from the Agonies of Child-birth, with her Mother & her father, who was formerly a member of the supreme Council at the Cape. On our passage we were boarded by a privateer from providence, who to compleate our misfortunes, plundered us, of almost all the remnant, of the little, we had escaped with.
I ardently wished to have gone immediately to Philadelphia, but our departure was so precipitate, as to deprive us of the liberty of choosing. had I been able to have visited Philadelphia, it would have satisfied a Wish I have long had, to form & cultivate a more particular acquaintance with you; but am prevented at present from indulging this inclination, on account of the advanced season of the Year, & the indisposition of Mrs De Grasse and her mother.
If ought can alleviate my regret at my situation it is the humane, polite & generous reception, we have met with from the Inhabitants of this City: Our hearts are penetrated with the most lively gratitude.
I flatter myself, that during my stay here, you will permit me to correspond with you, and that I shall be honored with your Answer.
Permit me to speak with you, with that degree of freedom, which is due to the misfortunes of myself and family. The miserable disaster of St Domingo has compleated our ruin. The situation of france also renders me ignorant of my affairs in that Country; not having heard lately either from my family, or the manager of my interests there. I cannot deceive myself, by supposing, the Civilities we have experienced from the Inhabitants of this City can last for ever. it would be an abuse of their goodness to expect it.
Thus circumstanced, I address myself to you, wishing it possible,

to obtain from the united states, what woud be deemed a competent maintainance for myself and family. I will endeavour to secure the repayment by a mortgage of all my property, either in france or St Domingo, if alas! I possess any in the latter. It is absolutely necessary for me to be explicit: I offer my all, as a security; but without having a knowledge, what that all is, in my distressed situation.
Feeling as I do; I cannot but doubt the propriety of the step, I am this moment taking. should there appear the least impropiety in this application for relief, I pray you, let it rest, where it, should be, in your Bosom only.
The esteem you had for my father, added to my distressd situation, I trust, will sufficiently apologize for my requesting your salutary advice.
I reside with the family of Mr Holmes, whose reception, merits on our part, the warmest acknowledgment. I have the honor to be, with profound respect Yr Excellencys My General, Obd. Hbe Servt

Auguste De Grasse


Title: Tobias Lear to Thomas Jefferson, 24 August 1793
From: Lear, Tobias
To: Jefferson, Thomas

[Philadelphia] August 24th 1793

The President sends to the Secretary of State two letters which he has received from Baltimore, written by persons from St Domingo.
The President has no knowledge of the writer of the letter in English; but he wishes the Secretary of State to consider it, and if he thinks the circumstances therein mentioned deserve attention, the Secretary will communicate to the President such answer thereto as he may think proper to be given.
If in perusing the letter written in French, the Secretary meets any thing requiring the particular notice of the President, he will be so good as to point it out.


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Jefferson, 24 August 1793
From: Jefferson, Thomas
To: Washington, George

[Philadelphia] 24 August 1793

Thomas Jefferson with his respects to the President incloses a draught of the clause for the letter to Mr Morris for his consideration.


Title: Henry Knox to Tobias Lear, 24 August 1793
From: Knox, Henry
To: Lear, Tobias

Sir,
War department August 24th 1793

Will you please to submit the enclosed letters of the 27th and 30th July from the Secretary of the South Western Territory, and their enclosures to the President of the United States. I am Sir with great esteem Your humble servant

H. Knox


Title: From George Washington to John Eager Howard, 25 August 1793
From: Washington, George
To: Howard, John Eager

Dear Sir,
Philadelphia August 25th 1793.

It is not my usual custom to answer letters of application or recommendation for an office; because, having made it a point to keep myself free from any colour of engagement so long as an office may be vacant, I have thought it best to say nothing that might raise the expectation or depress the hope of the Candidates. But so numerous and respectable have been the applications and recommendations for the Office of Surveyor of Baltimore, that I have thought a deviation from my general rule might not be improper in the present instance.
I have been induced to appoint Mr Daniel Delozier to the Office of Surveyor of Baltimore, from the consideration, that, in addition to the strong & respectable recommendations forwarded by him, he must, from the station he has held for a long time as Deputy to the Collector of that Port, have a very competent acquaintance with the Duties of a Surveyor and an accurate knowledge of the laws by which the Office is to be regulated, which circumstance will undoubtedly be advantageous to the public as well as to those who may be immediately concerned in the exercise of its functions. But the weighty recommendations of Captain Kilty would make it a pleasing circumstance to have that Gentleman employed in the General Government—and as the present Collector of Annapolis intends resigning his place as soon as another person may be found to fill it; if Captain Kilty will accept that office it will give me pleasure to appoint him to it. with great esteem, I am Dear Sir, Your most Obedt Servt

Go: Washington

P.S. In case of Captain Kilty’s declining to accept the Office of Collector of Annapolis, you will oblige me by enquiring of the

friends of Mr John H. Purveyance (who I understand is now on a Voyage to the West Indies) if it is likely that he will accept that place, and letting me know the result of your enquiries. This Gentleman was warmly recommended for the Office of Surveyor of Baltimore, and I felt a strong inclination to have placed him in it, as well on account of the services which his father rendered to the Country in the late war, and the unpleasant situation in which he left his family, a⟨s on⟩ account of the merits of the young Gentleman himself.
Captain Plunket appears to have been his particular friend in bringing forward his late recommendations, and would be likely to know what would be agreeable to him in the present case.


Title: From George Washington to Howell Lewis, 25 August 1793
From: Washington, George
To: Lewis, Howell

Dear Howell
Philadelphia Augt 25th 1793.

I have duly received your letter of the 21st instant with the reports; & am about to reply to such parts as require it.
Not knowing precisely, the object of your enquiry, what Mares &ca have gone to the Jacks, I send a list of the whole; as appears by

Mr Whittings Memms; as also of those which went to the horse—marking those who have paid. in both cases.
As it is possible I may, with your Aunt &ca be at Mount Vernon about the 20th of next month; you might, if you have met with no Oats since you wrote last, buy 100 bushels from the holders in Alexa.; that there may be a certainty of a supply against that period, as I wish to save my own Crop of this grain for Seed.
Last Spring I sent a few grains of English Oats to Mount Vernon for the purpose of raising what Seed I could from them. Enquire if the Gardener or Butler can give any acct of them; & let them be taken care of, if in being.
I also sent home last Autumn a little of the double headed Wheat. this I know was propagated, & the Seed saved by the Gardener. Let the whole be sown in some safe place, where it will not get mixed, and the most can be made of it. With an eye to these, I care not where it is sown; whether at the Mansion house, if there be a good & sufficient spot of ground or at either of the Farms.
The Barley is not yet gone from hence, & it is questionable, notwithstanding two Vessels are up for Alexandria, whether it goes off before sunday next; tho’ one talks of leaving this Port about the middle of the Week. So soon as it arrives, let it be sown agreeably to my former directions.
Let the Timothy seed be threshed out, & brot home immediately, to save it from depredation. It may lye in the fine chaff (after the heads are well rubbed & the straws extracted); but, in order that I may know the qty saved, take a bushel in the Chaff & see how much clean seed it yields, by which to calculate the whole. Do precisely the same with the Clover Seed; for the longer these, or other things are tossed about, the more waste will there be; admitting (which I do not) that there is no toll taken from them.
How much ground has been sown in Turnips, Where, and is the seed come up well?
I did not express myself so fully as I ought, when I desired that the Corn ground which was about to be sown with Wheat, & in the Winter with grass-seed, should be laid as level as possible; for harrowing the ground after the wheat is sown will be injurious to the latter because by so doing the soil (where it is adicted to it) is more apt, by being level to run together, & to spew out the

plant which, by exposing the roots, perishes the grain; whereas the mouldering of the earth into the furrows by the frost & rains of the Winter, they, on the contrary are constantly receivg fresh covering⟨,⟩ protection, & nourishment. All I meant by laying the ground as leve[l] as possible, was, to give as little hill as possible to the Corn; & even to take as much as possible of that little away, a[s] could be done without injuring the plant. What has been done, cannot be undone, but let no more harrows follow the sowing: to go before it, in order to lay the ground smooth for the reception of the Seed, is always proper; & indeed indispensible; but the Wheat & other winter ⟨G⟩rain should always lay under furrow.
Desire all the Overseers to inspect their respective Stocks of Cattle, accurately, and if there be any old oxen, Steers, or Cows, which from their ages or other causes, seem to be upon the decline, to select them; that they may be turned on the Meadows or elsewhere, to recruit & be sold.
I presume something similar to this was done with the old Sheep, agreably to Butlers proposition which I sent to you, with my approbation; And it may be well always, when a matter is directed, to say whether it is complied with; for the mind is never assured of this until informed. There are two path[s] always to an order; to wit—giving, and executing it; and these always are in distinct persons; & the giver never knows what the receiver does, until it is reported. I mention this for your general government; & advise you to keep an Ass-skin, or some such kind of Pocket book, in which to note, as they occur to you in the moment, such things as are fit for communication; by which means your memory will never be burthened, but on the contrary when you set down to write, besides the parts of a letter which you have to answer, you have every thing you want to say before you, and have nothing more to do than to arrange them properly, where method is necessary.
Is there no Sheep at the Mansion House? none are in the Report from that place. and how comes it to pass that the Brood Mares are not reported there, as usual? Eleven, ove[r] and above what went to the Plantations[,] used to be reported by Mr Whitting; and unless you have reduced the number by a supply to Mr ⟨Stuart⟩, that number ought to be forthcoming. These were independent of all that had been given up to work; either at

the Mansion house, or any of the Farms. Peter must account for these.
Although by the Meteorological Acct which you have sent of the weather, there does not appear to have fallen a drop of rain in the week for which it is given, yet Thomas Green returns (in his report) loss by Rain. One or the other is probably wrong, I hope it is you, as a good rain in that week must have been desirable; and with what is now falling if it extends to you, must be the making of the Corn; at the sametime that it fits the ground for the reception of the Wheat.
I again desire that T: Green may be made with the other Carpenters (except in cases that cannot be dispensed with) to stick to the New Barn. Putting a single light into a window, is an excuse for the loss of a days work; and while these pretences are furnished him, or indeed any of the rest, I shall have his reports stuffed with nothing but trifling Jobs, that turn to no Acct.
What Ditches are they that the Mansion house people are weeding? I know of none at that place. And by the last Weeks report I see that 22 Bushels of meal has been brot from the Mill.
The person (old Jack) who serves it out, must acct for the necessity of this increase: 20 bushels used to suffice. why two & three more now?
I see (by Greens report) that Doll’s Will & Christopher have been two days in search after the Fish Boat. I hope they have found it: it ought to have been pursued until got. But why was it lost, is there not a lock to it? there was I know, and I know also, that locks are of very little use to me. They are bought, used a few weeks—then lost, or stolen. Others got, served in the same way—and so on.
I hope the greatest care will be taken of the Wool in the loft where it is kept; & a corrispondence in weight between the wool delivered, and the yarn taken in; and between the Yarn delivered to the Weaver, & the Cloth received from him.
Has the Gardener & his wife removed into their New house? Where does the other Dutch Gardener sleep? Is he diligent at work; & how does he behave in other respects?
Let me know as soon as you can the exact width, & length of the places that are tiled within the stone borders, between the steps at the middle & end doors, west front of the House. As these tiles never looked well, & are decaying, I have some thoughts of

replacing them with marble, which can be bought here cheaper than I can get them done there with stone, from those which have been imported into this City, from Italy.
As the Oat ground at Union Farm was not sown with grass-seeds at the time it was put in Oats, tell Crow it must be sown with Clover & timothy whenever the remaining part of the same Inclosure is laid to Grass—I mention the matter now, that it may not be lost sight of at the proper time for preparing it. whether any kind of Crop, without injury to the ground—already too poor, unless it could be aided by a Coat of Manure could accompany the Grass is a matter he may think on.
Has he (Crow) intimated his intention to remain, since the receipt of the letter I wrote him? These things ought to be reduced to certainty; or, when I least expect it, I may be put to the greatest non-plus.
We are all well at present, but the City is very sickly and numbers dying daily. All here join in good wishes for you and I remain Your affecte Uncle

Go: Washington


Title: Enclosure Memorial from John Anderson, 20 August 1793
From: Anderson, John
To: Washington, George

Glasgow College [Scotland] 1793. August 20th

The Memorial of John Anderson Professor of Natural Philosophy in the University of Glasgow, Humbly Shewth
That he has invented a Bronze Gun Metal, which has the advantages of Common-Iron-Guns, and of Common-Brass Guns, without their imperfections.
That he has invented a Carriage for Guns; by which the recoil of the Gun is destroyed, without giving motion to the Carriage. That the advantages of these two inventions are pointed out in printed papers which accompany this Memorial; to wit, N. 1 Essays on Field Artillery 1788. N. 2. Essais sur L’Artillerie de Campagne 1791. N. 3. Of Cast Metal Cannon. N. 4. Of Anderson’s Ship Gun.
That there can be no doubt of the usefulness of these two inventions, because they were brought to the test of experiment by French Armies under the Generals, La Fayette, Rochambeau, Durmourier, and Custine; and because the Memorialist received

the thanks of the French Nation, and, which he values much more, of the military officers who made use of them in very trying situations. Extracts in proof of this, marked N. 5 accompany this Memorial.
That these Field Pieces would be of very great advantage to the armies of the United States of America, whose enemies at present are successful, because it seems, they are in ground where common Field Pieces cannot be used. Whereas the Field Pieces invented by the Memorialist, though of a large calibre can be carried speedily without wheels; and fired in swamps without sinking; upon stones; or rough ground without recoiling; and upon the sides of steep hills without running down; properties which belong to no other Field Pieces whatever.
That though the Memorialist communicated the method of making the Carriages of his invention to the Generals of the French Nation; yet that he has communicated to no person whatever, the invention of the Gun Metal which may be easily kept secret. If therefore the United States of America should think it their interest to have the sole possession of that Gun Metal, and to have Carriages made of the Memorialists invention, he for a proper reward is ready to communicate both inventions; and would think himself highly honoured by being appointed Engineer, Arillerist, and Director of the Gun Foundery to the United States of America, which Office would likewise give Them a right to other things of his invention, besides the two specified, and explained in the five numbers above mentioned.

John Anderson, Prof. Nat. Phily


Title: To George Washington from the Grand Inquest of Chester County, Pennsylvania, 26 August 1793
From: Grand Inquest of Chester County, Pennsylvania
To: Washington, George

[c.26 August 1793]

Fully impressed with the importance of Observing those steps which (in our Opinion) will tend to preserve to the United States that peace, which they now by the blessing of God enjoy.
The Grand Inquest for Chester County in the State of Pennsylvania, beg leave to express the high Opinion they entertain of your wisdom & attention to the interest & happiness of your Country in Issuing the late Proclamation, declaring the Neutrality of the United States; And whilst as friends to mankind they most cordially deprecate the war now carried on by the Belligerent Powers, they conceive that pursuing a line of Conduct strictly impartial & friendly to all, will prevent those difficulties & distresses which are the concomitants of War, and which is now spreading devastation in Europe.
They are happy in this oppertunity to declare their intention to pursue the most effectual means in their power to preserve the Neutrality from violation and in making this declaration it

is but Just to observe that they are fully confident they are speaking the sentiments of their County.
Signed by Order of the Grand inquest for August sessions 1793—By—

Dennis Whelen Foreman


Title: From George Washington to Robert Lewis, 26 August 1793
From: Washington, George
To: Lewis, Robert

Dear Robert,
Philadelphia August 26th—93

Your letter of the 12th Inst: came to hand in due course of Post.
Nothing short of a very high price, would induce me to sell my small tract (of about 300 Acres) on Difficult Run in Loudoun County; for which, on Account of the Mill seat—quantity of Meadow land—contiguity to the Great Falls (where a town is erecting)—Georgetown, the Federal City, and Alexandria (from the last of which it is only 18 Miles[)]—I was, sometime before I left home, in treaty with a Dutchman for it at the annual Rent of Sixty pounds.
The lost Mountain tract which you speak of, in Loudoun County, wants explanation. I know not where it lyes, or what tract, at this moment, you allude to.
In my present way of thinking, scarcely double the price you offer for my Frederick Land would induce me to part with it. When the Shanondoah River is made Navigable—the accomplishment of which I entertain no doubt, in a short time—the value of lands contiguous thereto will rise in a ratio above calculation. Your Aunt & the family unite with me in best wishes for you & Mrs Lewis—I am your sincere friend and Affectionate Uncle

Go: Washington