Title: Enclosure: Report on Foreign Affairs, 12 May 1796
From: Pickering, Timothy
To:

              Wednesday May 12. 1796. ½ past three o’clock

          Mr Pinckney having desired to relinquish his mission and return to America, there will be a vacancy for a minister at London. Mr King has intimated that it would be agreeable to him to succeed Mr Pinckney. At all events, without fixing on the time, Mr King contemplates a relinquishment of his seat in the Senate.

A minister of his abilities & experience & law-knowledge would seem peculiarly desirable at this time for the mission to London. For independent of the general interests of the Union respecting further negociations, the important claims of the citizens for spoliations on their commerce may derive very material support from his interposition with the British ministers, and our commissioners much useful information & advice.
          Mr Short having decided on resigning his mission to Madrid, and desired letters of recall, for which he waits at Paris, a vacancy presents at Madrid.
          Mr Short says that the allowance of 4500 dollars, the salary to a minister resident, is quite inadequate to the expences of a residence at the Spanish Court. He also represents it as a matter of peculiar importance at that Court that a minister should hold an elevated grade. And as the Spanish minister recently appointed to the U. States, has the rank of minister plenipotentiary, this would seem to enforce the other reasons for giving the like grade to the new minister to go from the United States to that court. Mr Wm Smith of South-Carolina having manifested a desire to be employed in the diplomatic line, he appears extremely well adapted to the service at the court of Spain. A familiar knowledge of the French language, which Mr Smith possesses, would render his communications with that court perfectly easy.
          Should the President finally resolve on a change of the minister at Paris, perhaps no man could be found better qualified, there to represent & support the interests of the U. States and its citizens (the latter as well as the former are of great magnitude) than Mr J. Quincy Adams.

            Algiers
            The gentleman whom Mr FitzSimons consulted as a candidate for the consulate at Algiers, seems to have had no objection to the service, but on the score of compensation, which is limited by law to 2000 dollars a year. He speaks and writes French, Spanish & Italian, which would be extremely useful in that employment: but the final enquiry presents some circumstances less propitious—a want of enterprise—and his close connections with the editor of the Aurora.
            The result of my reflections on this subject is, that as Mr Barlow has accepted a temporary appointment under the orders of Colo. Monroe & Colo. Humphreys, he should be continued.

He is a citizen of France, as well as of the U. States; and going thither under the patronage of the French Government, he may be very useful, if he shall have arrived in time, to prevent the fatal mischief so much apprehended by a delay in the pecuniary arrangements to fulfil the agreement entered into by Mr Donaldson. Should Mr Barlow be named to the Senate, it is doubtful whether he woud be approved: his new religious character & his politics are obnoxious to leading men in the majority of that body. Before a permanent Consul, possessing the requisite knowledge, just political principles, the integrity and the abilities demanded for the maintenance of the interests of the U. States at Algiers, can be appointed, it will probably be necessary for Congress to provide a more ample salary. The discretionary powers of our consul there must be very extensive in a matter the most liable to abuse—the disbursement of large sums of money for which no vouchers can be obtained, and for which it will often be necessary to issue promptly, without waiting particular orders from Government. Probably four or five thousand dollars a year (or the salary of a minister resident) would alone tempt a fit character to accept the office: unless considerable commercial advantages could be connected with it; of which Mr FitzSimons, who has been so good as [to] make enquiry, has yet obtained no satisfactory information.
            The appropriation bill for Barbary Affairs has passed the House: as soon as it becomes a law the measures requisite to fulfil the engagements for Algiers may be begun.
            At my request, Mr FitzSimons has procured a British Mediterranean Pass, to serve as an exemplar in forming our own; which will serve I suppose for all the Barbary Powers including Morocco, whose emperor, Mr Simpson says, desires our vessels to be so furnished, according to the usage of the European powers.

            Morocco
            It will be desirable to have a consul for that Kingdom who is acquainted with the customs of the country. Such an one presents in the person of Mr Simpson, who is now our consul at Gibraltar. He is willing to accept the Consulate for Morocco, to reside at Tangier, to which place he says the French have removed their consulate, to avoid the great expences of a residence near the Court. Mr Cabot is personally acquainted with Mr Simpson, and knows him to be a man of worth. His negociation of the

recognition of our treaty with Morocco seems to have been very well & very economically conducted. Should a vacancy be thus occasioned at Gibraltar, and no fit candidate immediately present, Mr Simpson could be desired to employ an agent for the service of the Gibraltar Consulate until a regular appointment could be made—in the same manner as he must have done while he was last summer and autumn employed at Morocco.
            He says a present must accompany the annunciation of the Consul, and he has given a detail of the articles most acceptable, consisting of military stores.
            He says also that a house must be built at Tangier for the American Consul, as is done by the European powers. But we know not the fashion or size suitable for the purpose. The frame and lumber must be sent from America. I have consulted Mr FitzSimons on the subject, who thinks the building were better suspended, to obtain farther information.
            Mr Simpson also represents that occasional presents will be indispensable: but that some restrictions will be necessary. These will come into view in forming the instructions for the Consul when appointed.

            Naples
            John S. M. Matthieu, native of that place, is handsomely recommended for consul there. His own letter of the 14th of January manifests a very competent knowledge of the English tongue. Mr Vanuxem, who has written two letters in his favour, is a French merchant of Philadelphia, who many years since married in New Jersey, and has been carrying on business extensively, & enjoys I believe the reputation of an honest man. His description of the reputation Mr Matthieu acquired at St Domingo corresponds with that given by the French letter inclosed in Mr Bingham’s.

            Dunkirk
            Francis Coffyn, son of the late Consul his father, solicits the appointment of Consul for Dunkirk. He is now acting as such under Colo. Monroe’s sanction. He acted as Chancellor in the consulate for his father, and for some time conducted the whole business—during his father’s ill health.

            Belfast, Ireland
            James Holmes, recommended for consul at Belfast, by his fellow citizens, and by General Walter Stewart.

            Alexander Montgomery solicits the same office for himself or his brother Hugh. The letter is addressed to Mr Randolph, to whom it seems the writer was personally known during nine years residence at Richmond.

            Bremen
            There are two applications; neither appears on enquiry to be very satisfactory. I expect information in a day or two of a third; when the whole will be laid before the President.

            Hamburg
            Complaints have been made by Colo. Monroe against the present Consul, John Parrish, as an agent for the British, and adverse to France: a particular complaint was made for his engaging transports to convey the Emigrants to Great Britain.
            I had somehow understood that Mr Parish was a merchant of respectability, & enquired of his character. Mr Robert Morris informs me, that he is a merchant of great wealth and of the most fair & honorable reputation: that in the beginning of our revolution he was the correspondent of the Secret Committee of Congress; and before we had any funds, procured for the U. States articles of essential importance, to the amount of sixty thousand pounds sterling, which most opportunely arrived: that he is now the Chief correspondent of the American Merchants trading to Hamburg; and now has in consequence an agent or partner in this city, to whom Mr Morris referred me for information “deserving attention & credit in what he might say regarding Mr Parrish.” This gentleman says the transporting of the emigrants was thus. A considerable number of American Vessels (twenty or thirty) at Hamburg, wanted employment, or to be sold. Mr Parrish informed them of the call for vessels to transport the emigrants. Many readily desired to sell. The business was left with a Clerk of Mr Parrish’s. The sales were very advantageous to the American owners. Some of the American masters refused the employment. There was nothing in it repugnant to our treaty with France; which on the contrary provides for the very case—declaring that the enemy soldiers may be taken out & made prisoners—but the vessel to go free.
            Mr Parrish is not the English Consul at Hamburg. He does nothing for the British but as a private merchant whose ability integrity & respectability recommend him to the merchants of that nation.

            These are all the cases which seem to me in a situation necessary to be immediately decided upon. It has not been possible for me yet to read the entire correspondence of all our ministers. There are some regulations respecting consuls which when digested it might be proper to lay before the legislature at the next session. Whatever remains to be brought into the view of the President, must be the result of further examination.
            The distressed situation of my family obliges me to go to them immediately.

              T. Pickering


Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 13 May 1796
From: McHenry, James
To: Washington, George

          Sir.

            13 May 1796

        The Secry of the Treasury has mentioned to me this morning the substance of a communication, which he said he had imparted to you some time since. It respects certain instructions given by Mr Adet to persons who are on their road to the Western Country which affect and may bring into danger the peace and safety of the U.S.
        I inclose you papers containing matter apparently connected with this subject; that of the 24 was sent me, perhaps a week ago, by Mr Pickering; those tied together, I had to-day from General Wayne.
        When I conjoin with these circumstances, some of a private and others of a public nature, all tending to the same issue, there is too much room for apprehending a serious crisis to be approaching, which it may be proper to have the means to dissipate.
        I have said to Mr Woolcot, that I thought such instructions as he mentioned, would justify the President to direct the persons employed to execute them to be seized. If this can be done with propriety, and the instructions be as represented, and can be obtained, their publication, at a fit moment, might be attended with the happiest consequences.
        All these things together have made such an impression on my mind that I cannot help mentioning it to you for your own reflexions.
        Col. Rochfontaine has changed his request and now prefers a court of Enquiry. I have of course changed the order I had given to General Wayne to accord with his request. With the sincerest respect I am Sir your most ob. st

          James McHenry


Title: To George Washington from Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 14 May 1796
From: Wolcott, Oliver Jr.
To: Washington, George

          Treasury Department May 14th 1796.

        The Secretary of the Treasury has the honour most respectfully to submit to the President of the United States, certain documents in respect to Sylvanus Walker, Inspector of the revenue for the third survey of the District of South Carolina; by which it appears,
        1st. That the said Inspector wants the capacity so necessary to insure a due and correct discharge of the duties attached to his office.
        2d. That the said Inspector has subjected the United States

to considerable loss by omitting to enforce the execution of the Laws for creating internal Revenue.
        3d. That the said Inspector has neglected to render his accounts at the time and in the mode prescribed, although frequently required so to do by the Supervisor of the District of So. Carolina.
        For all which reasons, the Secretary of the Treasury is of opinion that the public Interest indispensably requires, that the said Inspector be displaced from office.
        If the President should see cause to remove Sylvanus Walker from the office he now holds, the Secretary would beg leave to mention William Benson as his successor; he being recommended as a person well qualified to discharge the duties of Inspector, by three of the Representatives of South Carolina, whose letter to the Commissioner of the revenue on that subject accompanies the other documents. All which is most respectfully submitted to the Consideration of the President of the United States.

          Oliv: Wolcott JrSecy of the Treasy


Title: From George Washington to Anne Louise DuBarry, 15 May 1796 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: DuBarry, Anne Louise

        Letter not found: to Anne Louise DuBarry, 15 May 1796. In DuBarry’s letter to GW of 28 July, she referred to “the Letter you honourd me with dated the 15th of may” (see GW to George Lewis, 28 April, n.2).


Title: From George Washington to Francis II (Holy Roman Emperor), 15 May 1796
From: Washington, George
To: Francis II (Holy Roman Emperor)

          To the Emperor of Germany.
          Philadelphia 15th May 1796

        It will readily occur to your Majesty, that occasions may sometimes exist, on which official considerations would constrain the Chief of a Nation to be silent and passive, in relation even to objects which affect his sensibility, and claim his interposition, as a man. Finding myself precisely in this situation at present, I take the liberty of writing this private letter to Your Majesty; being persuaded that my motives, will also be my apology for it.
        In common with the People of this Country, I retain a strong and cordial sense of the Services rendered to them by the Marquis De la Fayette; and my friendship for him has been constant and sincere. It is natural therefore, that I should sympathize with him and his family in their misfortunes, and endeavor to mitigate the calamities wch they experience; among which his present confinement is not the least distressing.
        I forbear to enlarge on this delicate subject—Permit me only to submit to your Majesty’s consideration, whether his long Imprisonment—and the confiscation of his Estate—and the Indigence & dispersion of his family—and the painful anxieties incident to all these circumstances, do not form an assemblage of sufferings, which recommend him to the mediation of Humanity? Allow me Sir! on this occasion to be its organ; and to entreat that he may be permitted to come to this country, on such conditions and under such restrictions, as your Majesty may think it expedient to prescribe.
        As it is a maxim with me not to ask, what under similar circumstances I would not grant, Your Majesty will do me the justice to

believe, that this request appears to me to corrispond with those great principles of Magnanimity & wisdom, which form the basis of sound policy and durable glory. May the Almighty and merciful Sovereign of the Universe keep Your Majesty under his Protection and guidance.

          Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to the U.S. Senate, 17 May 1796
From: Washington, George
To: United States Senate

          Gentlemen of the Senate.
          United States 17th May 1796

        An unexpected circumstance having obliged Jeremiah Wadsworth, to decline his appointment of Commissioner to hold a treaty with the Cohnawaga Indians, stiling themselves the Seven Nations of Canada; I now nominate Abraham Ogden Commissioner to hold the said Treaty.
        It having become necessary to remove Sylvanus Walker, Inspector of the Revenue for the third Survey in the district of South Carolina, I also nominate William Benson to succeed the said Sylvanus Walker in said Office.

          Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from John Gill, 18 May 1796
From: Gill, John
To: Washington, George

          Sir.
          Alexandria [Va.] 18th may 1796

        The Deed which I recd from you for the Tract of Land on Difficult, was put into the hands of my Clerk to get recorded, & by some means or other it has been mislaid & on examination I find has not been recorded—I am therefore at a loss to know the day on which the rent becomes due, & my wish being to pay it punctually I am under the necessity of requesting you to look at the Counterpart which you have & to inform me—I am sorry to give you this Trouble, but the neglect which has happened cannot now be remedied any other way—When you come to Virginia which I understand will be soon, I shall be obliged by your permitting Mr Craik to bring the Counterpart with him that I may have it copied, & executed again in order to have it recorded—With much respect I am Sir Yr mo. obed. servt

          John Gill


Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 18 May 1796
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Washington, George

          Department of State May 18. 1796.

        The Secretary of State respectfully lays before the President of the United States a list of names for public offices, in the form of a message to the Senate. The Secretary expected to have added to the list the name of a consul for Bremen: but his doubts as to the person among the candidates entitled to a preference not having been otherwise resolved, he had recourse to Mr R. Morris, who possessed information concerning one of them, & from circumstances could probably obtain immediately information of the others, which he promised to communicate, & which the Secretary expects to receive to-day.

          Timothy Pickering

          P.S. George Knox is recommended for Consul at Kingston upon Hull by so many respectable merchants of New-York, as to leave no room to doubt of his fitness, or of the utility of the appointment.


Title: From George Washington to the U.S. Senate, 19 May 1796
From: Washington, George
To: United States Senate

          Gentlemen of the Senate,
          United States 19th May 1796.

        I nominate
        Rufus King, of New York, to be the minister Plenipotentiary of the United States at the Court of Great Britain, in the room of Thomas Pinckney, who desires to be recalled.
        David Humphreys, of Connecticut, to be the minister Plenipotentiary of the United States at the Court of Spain; William Short, the Resident Minister to that Court having desired to be recalled.

          Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to the U.S. Senate, 19 May 1796
From: Washington, George
To: United States Senate

          Gentlemen of the Senate,
          United States May 19th 1796.

        I nominate
        James Simpson, at present Consul of the United States at Gibraltar, to be their consul for the Kingdom of Morocco

        John S. M. Matthieu, to be their Consul at the City of Naples.
        Francis Coffyn, to be their Consul at Dunkirk
        James Holmes, to be their Consul at Belfast in the Kingdom of Ireland.
        George Knox, to be their Consul at Kingston upon Hull in England.

          Go: Washington


Title: Statement of Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 19 May 1796
From: Washington, George
To:

          Philadelphia May 19th 1796

        In the latter part of March last, a Gentleman in whose honour & veracity I have entire confidence called upon me at my Office and informed me; that Mr Collot & Mr Varin, with another Frenchman whose name he did not know, were shortly to proceed on a tour through the western parts of the United States; that they were to visit the western parts of Pensylvania, the north western territory, Kentucky, & the South western territory, & that they were to be furnished with Maps & drafts of those Countries; that they were instructed by Mr Adet the French Minister, to observe the posts of the United States on the lakes & elsewhere, & to note all places possessing remarkable natural advantages either for defence or Commerce, that they were to proceed down the Mississipi to New Orleans, & were there in concert with Officers of the Spanish Government to ascertain the proper place for a Depot; that in their travels they were to ascertain & note the names of the persons of most influence in every town & Village, & were to avail themselves of opportunities of observing the temper of the Country in respect to a political connection with France; that they were to cherish sentiments favourable to such a connection by observing, that the interests of the eastern & western parts of the United States were in collision; that the period was not distant when a separation must take place & that the range

of Mountains on this side the Ohio, was the natural boundary of the new Government & that in the event of a separation, the western people ought to look to France as their natural Ally and Protector.
        The Frenchmen before mentioned were moreover instructed to use all means in their power, to promote the election of Mr Jefferson as President of the United States.
        The gentleman who gave me the information before related said, that I might rest satisfied with its truth, as he had seen the instructions in writing from Mr Adet the French Minister; he moreover said, that the expences of the mission to the western Country were to be born by the French Government.
        It is not to be understood that what is herein said of the Instructions, is literally exact, as the gentleman relied on his memory; he said however, that he had seen & read the Instructions but two days before he informed me of their purport as before stated.
        I communicated the information immediately to the President, with the name of the Gentleman from whom I received it & took measures for observing the conduct of the Frenchmen, particularly Collot, & am well assured that they left Philadelphia for the westward about the latter part of April—I have reason to believe that they carried Letters from Messrs Gallatin & Findley.
        Having conferred this day with the Gentleman who gave me the information before stated, he admitted it to be correctly related in this paper.

          Oliver Wolcott jr


Title: To George Washington from George Fitzhugh, 20 May 1796
From: Fitzhugh, George
To: Washington, George

          Sir
          Gloucester County [Va.] 20 May 96

        A few days ago, as I promised in my last I shoud do, I took a full view of your Estate in this place; its soil does not altogether answer my expectation, however its situation with the advantages ariseing therefrom will make it a very agreeable little Farm, and as your terms are such that I can conveniently purchase under will esteem it a singular favour you will not dispose of it to any other Person till you see me, which shall be as soon as I hear of your arrival at Mount Vernon.
        There is very little Timber, and what there is, is chiefly of Pine; believe me I do not mention this to decry the Land for much Timber was not an object with me, but to inform there has been great damage commited by intruders. With every sentiment of esteem I am very respectfully Sir Your Ob. Hble Sert

          George Fitzhugh


Title: To George Washington from Charles Lee, 20 May 1796
From: Lee, Charles
To: Washington, George

            20th May 1796

        The Attorney General having considered the information contained in Mr Wolcott’s note of the 19th instant most respectfully reports.
        That it affords reasonable ground to believe that the Republic of France has serious expectations to obtain from the King of Spain all or a part of his territories on the continent of North America, and contemplating a separation in government of the Western from the Eastern parts of the United States has commenced her plan of operations to facilitate and produce that event, and that Collot, Warin and another person are employed and paid by France and have received the instructions from Mr Adet the minister of France here, the substance of which is therein stated.
        Though these instructions from the representation made of them appear to have been digested with much art & caution and relative to some objects not to be reprehensible, yet in their general scope and at least in two particulars they direct a conduct towards the United States that cannot be justified according to the laws of nations.
        1st The emissaries are to cherish among the western people sentiments favorable to a political connection of that part of the United States with France by representing that the interests of the Western and eastern parts are in collision, which must soon produce a separation.
        2dly They are to use all means in their power to promote the election of Mr Jefferson as President of the United States.

        As to the first, it cannot be denied that an Ambassador who sets on foot dangerous projects, tending to disturb the domestic tranquility of that nation where he resides, who endeavours to excite discontents, and to foment discord, who recommends a political separation of one part of a nation from the other and a political connection of that part with his own state in all such instances commits offences, for which his recall might be demanded or for which he might be dismissed, or if the safety of the injured nation made it indispensable in extreme cases, for which he might be arrested and sent to his own country even under custody. For this doctrine reference may be made to Vattel, Book 4. Ch. 7 Sections 93 to 101—See also B. 2 Ch. 4 Sec. 56.
        The United States being a nation composed of many independent members united under one government, it is especially dangerous to their tranquility and union and consequently to their independence (for on their union rests their independence) for a foreign minister to interfere so far in their internal politicks as to endeavour to effect a dismemberment, and therefore such practices ought to be discovered checked and prevented by all just and lawful means.
        As to the second particular, “If any intrude into the domestic affairs of another nation and attempt to influence its deliberations they do it an injury” Vattel B. 1, Ch. 4 Sec. 37—It is the violation of this principle that forms one of the complaints of France against Great Britain in the present day.
        Therefore for the minister of the republic of France to endeavour by means of emissaries secretly maintained and dispersed at public expense to trouble the tranquility of the republic of America, by alienating the affections of one part from the other and endeavouring to effect a disunion, or to interfere in the election of the supreme executive officer, is contrary to every principle of honor and justice.
        The next enquiry must be, what are the measures which the executive should now pursue respecting this subject.
        There being a possibility and perhaps a probability of detecting and seizing the instructions to Collot, Warin and their associate in their own possession, it becomes the duty of the executive to use all lawful means to obtain them: if obtained they will furnish evidence completely satisfactory of the designs of the French Minister against whom at this time there does not seem any necessity of proceeding upon the information of Mr

Wolcott. To this end Governor St Clair should be furnished with a copy of that information signed by Mr Wolcott: So authenticated it may be presumed to obtain credit with any person acquainted with the situation and character of Mr W. who shall read it.
        If the emissaries or either of them happen to be found within the territory northwest of the Ohio, some credible person should make an affidavit before a judge or justice of the peace in that district to the purport following viz. that he has reason to believe and does believe that [ ] Collot [ ] Warin & [ ] are persons sent, paid, charged and instructed by Mr Adet minister Plenipotentiary from the republic of France near the United States, to set on foot and bring about a separation of the western from the Eastern parts of the United States, and also to interfere in the ensuing election of the president of the United States by promoting the election of Thomas Jefferson to that office; & also that he believes by searching their trunks and packages they will be found possessed of such instructions or other writings evidencing that they are emissaries from the minister of France aforesaid for effecting nefarious and injurious purposes against the Union and tranquility of the United States and against the continuance of the present government of the territory northwest of the Ohio.
        Upon an affidavit of this sort may be issued a special warrant to arrest the persons and seize the packages therein described and to bring them before a justice of the peace to be examined and dealt with according to law.
        If after examination nothing appears against them, they are to be discharged.
        But if any papers are found shewing any unlawful designs or employment, copies are to be taken by the justice, certified by him and kept in his care, and the originals are also to be certified by him and any other person present and sent to the Governor who is to transmit them by a safe conveyance to the president, retaining copies in his possession. If no overt acts of a criminal nature can be proved against any of them in that country, they may be dismissed, unless there be good cause to require them to give surety for their future good behaviour of which the civil magistrate must judge.
        In all events the Governor should communicate to the President whatever shall be the result of the examination.

        If any of them come within the reach of the military power, they may be apprehended as suspected persons and examined by orders from the Commander in chief who also will transmit the result of his enquiries to the President.

          Charles Lee


Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 20 May 1796
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Washington, George

            May 20. 1796.

        The Secretary of State respectfully returns the papers from Newbern, with the draught of an answer which seemed to him pertinent to the occasion.
        Mr Smith thinks it would by no means suit Mr Izard to undertake the St Croix business. In conversing afterwards on the subject with Mr King, Mr Cabot & Mr Ames, and looking over all the States eastward of Pennsylvania, no character appeared so eligible as David Howell of Providence, Rhode-Island. He was some years a member of the old Congress—has been a judge of the supreme court of Rhode Island, and is now a practising lawyer. Govr Bradford & Mr Bourne have no doubt of his readiness to accept the trust. And all agree in opinion of Mr Howells integrity, abilities, great learning & perseverance in whatever he undertakes.
        The doubt I suggested to Mr Strong, he communicated to Mr King, who is decidedly of opinion that the Agent to manage the St Croix business must also be nominated to the Senate. The candidates who are thought best qualified are Theophilus Parsons of Newburyport, & James Sullivan, now the Atty Genl of Massachusetts.

          T. Pickering


Title: from Gustavus Scott, 20 May 1796 [letter not found]
From: Scott, Gustavus
To:

        Letter not found: from Gustavus Scott, 20 May 1796. GW wrote Scott on 25 May: “Your favor of the 20th inst: came to hand yesterday.”


Title: From George Washington to the U.S. Senate, 20 May 1796
From: Washington, George
To: United States Senate

          Gentlemen of the Senate,
          United States May 20th 1796.

        I nominate Oliver Bowen, of Georgia, to be Marshal of the district of Georgia in the room of Thomas Glasscock, resigned.

          Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 21 May 1796
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Washington, George

          Sir,
          Department of State May 21. 1796.

        A demand is presented to me for 1868 49/100 dollars for transcripts of proceedings on American Vessels in the Vice Admiralty Court of Dominica, & other expences connected therewith; and some other smaller demands are depending. I have on hand but 1612 26/100 dollars. I therefore request the Presidents order on the Treasury Department for One Thousand Dollars, to enable me to discharge the above demands and others of like nature as they shall occur: and am very respectfully sir your most obt servant

          Timothy Pickering


Title: From George Washington to the U.S. Senate, 21 May 1796
From: Washington, George
To: United States Senate

          Gentlemen of the Senate,
          United States May 21st 1796

        I nominate
        Matthew Clarkson, of Pennsylvania, to be the Commissioner on the part of the United States, agreeably to the 21st article of the Treaty of Friendship, limits and navigation between them and his Catholic Majesty, to examine and decide the claims of the Citizens of the United States for losses sustained in consequence of their vessels and cargoes having been taken by the subjects of his Catholic Majesty during the late war between France and Spain.
        Andrew Ellicott, of Pennsylvania, to be the Commissioner and
        Thomas Freeman of the District of Columbia, to be the Surveyor, on the part of the United States, to run and mark the southern boundary of the United States, which divides their territory from the Spanish Colonies of East and West Florida; agreeably to the second and third articles of the treaty of friendship limits and navigation between the United States and his Catholic Majesty.

          Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to the Commissioners for the District of Columbia, 22 May 1796
From: Washington, George
To: Commissioners for the District of Columbia

          Gentlemen,
          Philadelphia 22d May 1796

        Your letters of the 13th and 14th instant have been duly received, and the Attorney General of the United States having given his opinion relatively to the Powers of Attorney; And having pronounced the proceedings to be accordant with the Act for Guaranteeing the Loan; matters have been arranged with Mr Gilmore for execution, and the Papers, agreeably to your desire, will be forwarded to Holland.
        A duplicate of the Power of Attorney to Messrs Wilhem & Jan Willink, is necessary to guard against the delay which would result from a miscarriage of the original. In short, as the vigorous prosecution of the Works depend upon the facility with which the Loan is obtained, no risk that can be avoided ought to be left to chance: For fatal indeed would it be to the operations in the City if a disappointment, or any considerable delay should take place. And here let me add—If I had been called upon for an opinion relative to this loan before arrangments were made with Mr Gilmore, I should, under my present view of the subject, have given a decided opinion against placing the whole of the sum, authorized to be borrowed in one year, upon this issue; if any part thereof could have been obtained in this country within, or not exceeding, the Provisions of the Law.
        In all probability it will be six months before the result of the application in Holland will be known. This may, & from the peculiar state of things in that country tis not unlikely will be, unfavorable. What is to be done in that case? and what in the meantime? You have declared, yourselves, that you do not place much confidence in aids from Messrs Morris & Nicholson, & point out no other specific resources. Notwithstanding these sentiments, I am unwilling to obstruct a measure which I presume you have

considered in all its relations & chances, & have therefore given facility to your plan; wishing heartily that it may be attended with success.
        The year 1800 is approaching by hasty strides; The friends of the City are extremely anxious to see the public Works keep equal pace therewith. They are anxious too on another account—namely—that the Commissioners should reside in the City where the theatre of the business lies. This was, and is, my opinion. It is the principle, and was declared to be so at the time; upon which the present establishment of the Commissioners was formed; that, by being on the spot, and giving close attention to the operations, they might prevent abuses, or correct them in embryo. It is said, if this had been the case, those defective walls, which to put up, & pull down, have cost the public much time, labour & expence, would never have been a subject of reproach. For these, and other reasons which might be added, it is my decided opinion & expectation that the Commissioners do reside in the City. and the nearer they are to the public Works the better, & more desirable it will be. I wish this as well on their own account, as on that of the public; because they would have it much more in their power to scrutinize all the movements of men & measures which are under their controul, than it is possible to do at the distance of two or three miles & periodical, or occasional visits. Being on the spot, & seeing every thing that occurs, they would be better enabled to systematize the business & have it conducted with greater œconomy; and finally, would insure to themselves those honors & consolations which flow from the punctual discharge of public trust.
        I have sent your advertisement of the sale of Lotts, to the places you have requested; but I beg that it may be unequivocally understood that, I am opposed to the sale of them in large parcels, to Speculators. It might be asked, if this was to happen, and with propriety too, why give these people the profit arising between the wholesale & retail prices, when, if the same means & industry in the disposal, were used by the Commissioners, it would be saved to the public? To sell by single lots, or at most squares, on moderate terms to those who will improve them, appear most eligable to me. particular cases may arise, to render a departure from this rule necessary, but such cases must speak for themselves—& the advantages to be derived from them must be evident.

        If there are any matters which you are desirous of laying before me, let me request that they may be prepared (if a decision is not required sooner) by the time I shall pass through the City; which is as likely to happen about the middle of next month, as at any period I can name at present. My stay at Mount Vernon cannot be long & I shall have many matters of private concern to attend to while there. With great esteem & regard I am—Gentn Your most Obedt

          Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to William Pearce, 22 May 1796
From: Washington, George
To: Pearce, William

          Mr Pearce,
          Philadelphia 22d May 1796.

        Your letter of the 15th instt, enclosing the Reports of the preceeding Week, came duly to hand.
        I am glad to hear that the weather has been Seasonable of late; but sorry indeed, to find by your letter that the grain & grass has received so little benefit from the rains which have fallen; here,

in great abundance. And it is peculiarly unfortunate after giving so high a price for clover Seed, that it should either not have come up, or been destroyed afterwards, by the drought. Has your Corn come up well, & how does it thrive? And how does the Oats—Peas—Chiccory—and other things which have been sown, and planted this Spring come on?
        It is much to be regretted, and I do regret exceedingly, that the Honey locusts which have been set out, should have perished—It would seem I think as if I never should get forward in my plan of hedging. With respect to the transplanting of Cedar (or any other evergreen) I am persuaded there is no other sure way of getting them to live, than by taking them up in the winter with a block of frozen earth around the Roots (and as large as it can conveniently be obtained—proportioned to the size of the plant)—This not only gives them their mother earth, but by its adhesion to the principal roots, it nourishes the body until the fibres from the former shoot sufficiently to secure the vegitation & thriftiness of the plant. I transplanted thousands of Pine & Cedar without getting scarcely one to live until I adopted the above method; after which, so long as it was practiced, I never lost one. Witness the pine groves by the Gardens; both of which were planted in this manner, and to the best of my recollection not one of them died: whereas, out of the first planting, just as they now are, not more than two or three of them lived.
        I am very sorry indeed to hear of the damage which the family piece of the Marquis de la Fayette has sustained. and am unable to account for it. If the window shutters had been left open, I should have attributed it more to the sun, than to the dryness of the Air.
        Ask Peter, if some of the Mares wch I took down with me, when I went alone to Mount Vernon in April of last year, did not go to the Jack at that time? If they did not, their foaling will be much about the time I shall be on the Road which will be unfortunate.
        For what purpose is the Well house from the Mansion, carried to Union Farm? Save a plenty of the best Hay of last year for my horses, as I had rather they should be fed upon old, than the Hay of this season, when I come home. I am Your friend

          Go: Washington


Title: from William Pearce, 22 May 1796 [letter not found]
From: Pearce, William
To:

        Letter not found: from William Pearce, 22 May 1796. GW wrote Pearce on 5 June: “Since my last I have received your letters of the 22d & 29th of last Month.”


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Pinckney, 22 May 1796
From: Washington, George
To: Pinckney, Thomas

        (Private)

          Dear Sir
          Philadelphia 22d May 1796

        To my letters of the 20th of February and 5th of March, I beg leave to refer you for the disclosure of my sentiments on the subjects then mentioned to you.
        Very soon afterwards, a long, and animated discussion in the House of Representatives relative to the Treaty of Amity, Commerce & Navigation with Great Britain, took place; and continued—in one shape or another—until the last of April; suspending, in a manner, all other business; and agitating the public mind in a higher degree than it has been at any period since the Revolution. And nothing, I believe, but the torrent of Petitions, and remonstrances which were pouring in from all the Eastern and middle States, and were beginning to come pretty strongly from that of Virginia, requiring the necessary provisions for carrying the Treaty into effect, would have produced a decision (51 to 48) in favor of the appropriation.
        But as the debates (which I presume will be sent to you from the Department of State) will give you a view of this business, more in detail than I am able to do, I shall refer you to them. The enclosed Speech, however, made by Mr Aimes at the close of the discussion, I send you; because, in the opinion of most that heard it delivered, or have read it since, his reasoning is unanswerable.

        The doubtful issue of the dispute, added to the real difficulty in finding a character to supply your place, at the Court of London, has occasioned a longer delay than may have been convenient or agreeable to you. But as Mr King of the Senate (who it seems had resolved to quit his Seat at that board) has accepted the appointment, and will embark as soon as matters can be arranged, you will soon be relieved.
        In my letter of the 20th of Feby, I expressed, in pretty strong terms, my sensibility on acct of the situation of the Marquis De la Fayette. This is increased by the visible distress of his Son, who is now with me, & grieving for the unhappy fate of his parents. This circumstance, giving a poignancy to my own feelings, on this occasion, has induced me to go a step further than I did on the letter above mentioned; as you will perceive by the enclosed Address (copy of which is also transmitted for your information) to the Emperor of Germany: to be forwarded by you in such a manner, and under such auspices as, in your judgment, shall be deemed best: or to arrest it, if from the evidence before you (derived from former attempts) it shall appear clear, that it would be of no avail to send it.
        Before I close this letter, permit me to request the favor of you to embrace some favorable occasion, to thank Lord Grenville, in my behalf, for his politeness in causing a special permit to be sent to Liverpool for the shipment of two sacks of the field Peas, and the like quantity of Winter Vetches, which I had requested our Consul at that place to send me, for Seed; but which it seems could not be done without an Order from government. A circumstance which did not occur to me, or I certainly should not have given it the trouble of issuing one, for such a trifle. With very great esteem & regard I am—Dear Sir Your obedt Servant

          Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 24 May 1796
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Washington, George

            May 24. 1796.

        The Secretary of State respectfully lays before the President of the U. States—the draught of
        A message to Congress on the subject of Genl St Clair’s letter—
        Message to the Senate naming a district attorney for Massachusetts—
        A letter to Mr Pinckney—and
        A letter to Mr Parrish, Consul of the U. States at Hamburg.

          Timothy Pickering


Title: To George Washington from James Madison, 25 May 1796
From: Madison, James
To: Washington, George

          Philada May 25. 1796

        Mr Madison presents his respectful compliments to the President, and begs to mention the wish of Joseph Nevil Esqr. (late a member of the House of Representatives) to be taken into consideration in the appointment of Surveyor, under the law for the sale of lands N. West of the Ohio. He takes the liberty also of inclosing a letter from General Posey, expressing his wishes with respect to an appointment, which Mr M. does not think it proper to withold, altho’ the precise object of them, may not correspond with the arrangements of the law.


Title: From George Washington to the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives, 25 May 1796
From: Washington, George
To: United States Senate and House of Representatives

          United States May the 25th 1796.
          Gentlemen of the Senate and of the House of Representatives,

        The Measures, now in operation for taking possession of the posts of Detroit and Michilimackinac, render it proper, that provision should be made for extending to those places and any others alike circumstanced the civil authority of the north western territory. To do this will require an expence, to defray which the ordinary salaries of the Governor and Secretary of that territory appear to be incompetent. The forming of a new County or new Counties and the appointment of the various Officers, which the just exercise of Government must require, will oblige the Governor & Secretary to visit those places and to spend considerable time in making the arrangements necessary for introducing and establishing the Government of the United States. Congress will consider what provision will in this case be proper.

          G: Washington.


Title: To George Washington from Alexander White, 25 May 1796
From: White, Alexander
To: Washington, George

          Sir
          Martinsburg [Va., now W.Va.] 25th May 1796

        Agreeably to my expectation I left Philada on Monday the 9th instant and arrived at Washington the ensuing Wednesday; the measures adopted to avail ourselves of the guarantee of Congress have been communicated by the Board, but my Colleagues seemed in a state of suspense respecting the commencement of the Works, having no assurance on which they could rely of obtaining the means of carrying them on—I felt much chagrine that at this critical period when the Eyes of the World were drawn a fresh towards the City by an event considered as favourable to it, that so unpleasant a prospect as a total stop to the buildings should be held up, and expressed this chagrine with reference to the supineness of the many wealthy men interested in the City, in terms of perhaps too much asperity—it however produced a request, that I would remain ’till a meeting of the Proprietors could be had, to which I readily agreed, and on tuesday 17th instant several Gentlemen met, and after a good deal of conversation and some propositions, which it is unnecessary to repeat, they agreed in the course of 30 days to advance on the credit of the City Funds from 12 to 20,000 dollars, if so much should be necessary for immediate operations—On Wednesday the Board met and directed the works to commence on the Walls of both Houses on Monday last, with all the force we can command, giving a considerable preference in point of numbers to the Capitol.
        When I was honoured with my present appointmt it was not expected, that I could immediately remove my Family to the City, but the time which has since elapsed might then be thought

sufficient to make the necessary arrangements: the fact however is otherwise. I have not during that whole time had one week to consider and dispose of my private affairs. My property has become more deranged and my business accumulated by my necessary absence from the Courts of March and April⟨.⟩ A great clamour is raised in the City respecting the non-residence of the Commissioners; though I accepted the Office with reluctance I do not now wish to resign I could not place myself in the situation I left, and to which I was perfectly reconciled, but I will not continue in Office without making known the conduct I mean to pursue; All I can do is, to place my property here in a situation which will render it productive, or at least save it from destruction in my absence; to purchase one or more Lots in the City; to build as fast as I can raise money to carry on my buildings; and when I finish a House to make it the place of my residence; in the mean time to pay all possible attention to the business of the City, consistent with prior engagements, which engagements I shall discharge as soon as possible, and in which I expect considerable aid from a Nephew lately come to the Bar—Should holding my Office under these circumstances be agreeable I shall continue my exertions to promote an object, in which from various causes I feel myself deeply interested, if not, I shall hold myself ready to resign whenever the President shall make known his Sentiments; the sooner this takes place the more agreeable; as my future Arrangements will in many respects depend on it.
        I expect this letter will reach you the 3d of June—An Answer by the Post which leaves Philada the next morning will find me at my own House near Winchester—but if it should not be convenient to write so soon, please direct to me in Washington where I expect to be the 12th of June I am really sorry to give you this trouble, but I thought a clear understanding necessary to avoid censure in future. I am with Sentiments of the highest respect and most sincere regard Sir Your most Ob. Servt

          Alexr White


Title: To George Washington from Richard Clarkson, 26 May 1796
From: Clarkson, Richard
To: Washington, George

          Sir
          Durham [England] 26 May 96

        I hope your goodness will pardon me the trouble of this adress, the reason for which I sincearly lament by the advice of my attorney Geo: Pearson Esqr: of this place, I gave a power of attorney to Mr. C: Richmond a native of this neiborhood (he being then here) who lives at Baltimore maryland impouring him to receive for me what was due from the will of the late Mr Colvill the Business I need not repeat to you Sir—the last letter from him was of 13th July 1794 from which time neither his friends here, nor I, have reced any acct from him, which occations me much Surprize under so long & so disagreable a Suspence Sir, it is not unnatural to Suppose the worst—indeed Sir I fear he is Dead, for I do not suspect his Veracity in the Least, his professions of friendship were Generous & disinterested, which assur’d him my entire Confidence as also Mr Pearsons—if he is living, I think he ceartainly wo’d have wrote long ere now—what I have to beg of you Sir is that your Goodness will so far Condesend as favr me with an answr & if Mr R: is alive or not which will ad to the Obligations already recd by sir Yr Most Hbe Servt

          Richd Clarkson

          P.S. permit me Sir to give you a transcript of what Mr Richmond gave me respecting the Business in his last letter of the above Date—he says, my friend Philip Richard Fendall Esqr. of Alexandria with whom your papers are—informed me a few days before I wrote to my Brother that his Neibor Mr Kieth had been applied to by him on the Subject of your Legacy—and that Mr Kieth answer’d—the Lawsute hat been brought to issue and a remainder found due to the residuary Legatees the last Summer; but that the money had not been paid to the Executer Genl Washington—that when the General received it, the money would be placed in the hands of the Chancellor of the State of Virginia, by whom the merrits of the Several Claims wo’d be desided upon—thus the matter at present rests and I am Convinced that no delay which can be avoided will be caused by the

President—it has been a troublesome and unprofitable Business to him and I know he wishes it out of his hands as soon as posable, you may rely upon my doing every thing within my power to bring the affair as far as you are concern’d to an issue & give you the Erliest Notice.


Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 26 May 1796
From: McHenry, James
To: Washington, George

          Sir.
          War office Thursday afternoon [26 May 1796]

        Mr Liston has this moment favoured me with the inclosed letter.
        If you have time to look over the draught of the letter to Capn De Butts, and can return it to-day I shall endeavour to get him dispached to-morrow. I have the honour to be Sir with the highest respect Your most ob. st

          James McHenry


Title: To George Washington from William Deakins, Jr., 27 May 1796
From: Deakins, William Jr.
To: Washington, George

          Dear Sir
          Geo. Town [D.C.] May 27th 1796

        I find some of the City Proprietors, have or Intend to remonstrate to you the Necessity of the Commissioners’ living in the City—there is no doubt it would be more agreeable, if the Commissioners lived at the public Buildings, but it cannot be an Object of so much Consequence as to cause the removal of good Men from the Office, Doctr Thornton has agreed to remove to the City, & Mr Scott is Erectg buildings for his Accomodation Near the City Line & within one Mile of the Presidents Square, his Situation will be as Convenient as if he was settled on the Eastern Branch or in the City Near the Stone Bridge, I think him a Valuable Commissioner, perhaps equal to any one that has yet been in the appointment, Mr White is also a Valuable Man Neither of these Gentleman will agree at present to settle in the City. if Mr Whites family should agree to remove No doubt they will settle in the City. but Mr Scott will never remove—from the Improvements he is now Making at so heavy an Expence the proprietors seem to Ask what is unreasonable, the Change of Commissioners or at least two of them, would be a serious Evil, it would derange the whole business of the City and thousands would be lost by such an Event. Scott is well Calculated for making Contracts & seems to have a perfect Knowledge of the Value of Work & Meterials the Contracts for the public buildgs have been made on much more favorable terms, than Contracts made by private Individuals who are laying out their own Money. It may be thought that my situation as Treasurer may give me a Bias in favor of the Commissioners, or that my Office as Treasurer may be an Object. I can with truth say Neither has any Influence on my Mind. I beleive I have lost more than I have gain’d by the Commission. I have frequently been largely in Advance for the City to prevent a discharge of the hands at a time when great Injury would have been done, & these Advances happened at times when I could have laid out my Money in produce & Cleared a profit of ten pCt in 60 days—& in all the Negotiations with the Banks for the Accomodation of the City I pledged my private Estate, otherwise the Money could not have been borrowed, the Bank of Maryland as well as the Bank of Columbia refused to discount my Notes as Treasurer of the City of Washington, however

as I expect there will not now (as soon as the loan is Negotiated) be any difficulty as to Money Maters when this happens, I shall probable resign my office into other hands, It may be an Object to others it is no Object to me—and as my residence is in Geo. Town the proprietors may be better pleased if this offi⟨ce⟩ is put in other hands, & if any Intimati⟨on⟩ of such a desire should come to you through the proprietors, I wish you to tell them that they may be gratified, I do not know they have any such wish but if they should I wish to set them at ease—I have frequently taken the Liberty to Communicate to you my Sentiments on public Matters that has come under my knowledge & I hope it will not be thought Improper, I am with Every Sentiment of Respect & Esteem—Dear Sir Your Obt Servt

          Will. Deakins Junr


Title: From George Washington to the U.S. Senate, 28 May 1796
From: Washington, George
To: United States Senate

          Gentlemen of the Senate.
          United States May 28th 1796

        I nominate Simeon De Witt, of New York, to be Surveyor General.

          Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to the U.S. Senate, 28 May 1796
From: Washington, George
To: United States Senate

          Gentlemen of the Senate
          United States 28th May 1796

        I nominate John Quincy Adams, at present Minister Resident of the United States at the Hague, to be their Minister Plenipotentiary at Lisbon.

          Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives, 28 May 1796
From: Washington, George
To: United States Senate and House of Representatives

          United States 28th May 1796
          Gentlemen of the Senate and of the House of Representatives.

        The extraordinary expenses, to be incurred in the present year in supporting our foreign intercourse, I find will require a provision beyond the ordinary appropriation, and the additional twenty thousand dollars lately granted.
        I have directed an estimate to be made, which is sent herewith, and will exhibit the deficiency, for which an appropriation appears to be necessary.

          Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Alexander Hamilton, 29 May 1796 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Hamilton, Alexander

        Letter not found: to Alexander Hamilton, 29 May 1796. Hamilton wrote GW on 1 June: “Your letter of the 29th was delivered me.”


Title: From George Washington to William Pearce, 29 May 1796
From: Washington, George
To: Pearce, William

          Mr Pearce,
          Philadelphia 29th May 1796.

        No Mail beyond Baltimore (Southerly) was received at the Post Office in this City yesterday; consequently, I got no letter from you; what may have been the cause I know not, unless the considerable falls of rain which happened here during last week, may have rendered the waters between Alexandria and Baltimore (if they extended so far) impassible.
        You have never mentioned in any of your late letters, nor has it occurred, at the time of writing mine, to ask, whether a Pipe of Wine, & box of Tea, which was sent from this place for Mount Vernon, had arrived, and in what condition. It was in March, or the beginning of April they left this—And another Vessel with Windsor Chairs and sundry other Articles for the same place, have been gone from hence long enough to have heard of their arrival ’ere this. These occurrences ought always to be noticed in your letters, to relieve one from the suspense which otherwise follows. Before we leave this, we shall send several other matters round, but whenever they are shipped you shall have notice thereof that they may be taken from Alexandria so soon as they arrive there; at which time procure a groce of good Porter to be taken down along with them. In the meantime, have a few

Bottles of Porter there, & some wine for particular company, who may be particularly recommended to you by myself: among these Mr Aimes, a respectable member of Congress (travelling for his health) will, I expect, be one, as he proposes to set out from hence for the Federal City about the middle of this week, and is one I wish to be well treated, while he stays. I have requested Mr Lear to shew him the way down to Mount Vernon.
        Is Maria and the two boys at that place now, or where are they? No mention has been made of them for sometime. When (from present appearances) will your early Wheat be ready to cut? and how does that, and the other small grain, Peas, & grasses come on? What was done with the Seed saved from the India Hemp last Summer? It ought, all of it, to have been sown again; that not only a stock of seed sufficient for my own purposes might have been raised, but to have dissiminated the seed to others; as it is more valuable than the common Hemp.
        Congress talk of rising about the middle of this week; but there is no dependance on it. In about ten or twelve days after the Session closes, it is likely I shall commence my journey homewards: as soon as I can fix the day, I will advise you of it.
        I have several times spoke concerning a necessary for the Quarter People, at Mansion house; and once or twice shewed Thomas Green the precise spot to place it—viz.—in the drain that leads from the old brick kiln back of the Well, towards the gully leading towards the gate; that, having this advantage the offensive matter might be washed off by the Rain water that collects in the gutter. I wish you would have this done before we come home that the yard of the Quarter may be always clean & Sweet. If the old necessary on the brow of the Hill can be moved with more ease than building a new one, let it be done, as it is not only useless where it is but is an eye-sore. Order the other two to be ⟨well cleaned &⟩ kept in good order. During my stay at Mount Vernon I expect much company there, and of the most respectable sort. it would be pleasing to us therefore to find everything in nice order. I wish you well and am your friend

          Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from William Pearce, 29 May 1796 [letter not found]
From: Pearce, William
To: Washington, George

        Letter not found: from William Pearce, 29 May 1796. GW wrote Pearce on 5 June: “I have received your letters of the 22d & 29th of last Month.”


Title: To George Washington from James Anderson (of Scotland), 30 May 1796
From: Anderson, James (of Scotland)
To: Washington, George

          Honoured Sir
          Cotfield near Edenburgh 30th May 1796

        Your respected favour of the [ ] Feby was transmitted to me by Mr Pinckney about a week ago, since which time I have felt uneasy lest you may have thought I neglected to return an answer, in time, to the letter you alude to dated in December last, which never has yet reached me. I shall regret, if in consequence of that circumstance, any thing that could have depended upon me shall have been neglected—But little is it in my power to be of the service I wish on any occasion!
        I never in my life experienced this inability more strongly than at present, for, I fear the circumstances of the two countries are relatively such as to bar all hopes of my being able effectually to forward your views. This does not proceed so much from any political arrangements, or legislative regulations here, as from

the situation of individuals respecting enterprises of the kind proposed: for things are much changed from what they were a few years ago, in that respect. At the period to which I allude, many respectable sober-minded persons of moderate fortune had their eyes directed to the American states as a country in which there was a greater prospect of rendering a small stock a foundation of a moderate independance that might be enjoyed in peace and tranquillity than elsewhere; but in consequence of the reports that have been circulated by a few individuals who have returned; corroborated by letters that have been received in all parts of this country by the relations of many who have remained, the desire of emigrating, among persons of the above description has died almost entirely away, and it is now only found to prevail to a considerable degree among persons of another description, who I should be very sorry to recommend to your notice.
        You must be sufficiently informed from other quarters, that there exists in this country (and I fear in other countries also) a small, but violent party who are highly discontented with the present form of our government. As this government, however, is firmly supported by a vast majority of the thinking people in all parts of the country, they find their efforts to change it so ineffectual as to have excited a rage in their minds that prompts them to wish for a change of situation. Of this class of emigrants many have of late years found their way into America, little I fear to its profit—and more are still desireous of going thither; nor do I know that ever any effort has been made by government to restrain them. Among persons of this description, were I to search for them I have no doubt but some would be found who would gladly close with any proposals that could be offered on your part—but my regard for you is too sincere ever to permit me to think of such a thing. I have watched this class of men for several years past, and barring a few persons of very mean intellectual powers, I have reason to believe that the whole party derives its existence from embarassment of circumstances, or an inordinate desire for rule, frequently, among persons of even large property originating from the same source. There are many men ⟨in⟩ every country who choosing to live in a stile beyond that to which their funds can easily reach, feel private embarassments that the world in general does not

perceive—this naturally tends to sour the mind, and to make it dwell with satisfaction on the gloomy side of every object, so that it at last becomes so exceedingly disposed to discontent, that every hint which touches on that string produces a forcible effect and they become at last seriously convinced that nothing good exists around them—Had the same person never felt the embarassment which gave the first gloomy biass to the mind, that biass would never have been experienced—On the contrary if the cheering sensation that results from easy circumstances had prevailed, content and satisfaction would have been the natural tendency of the mind. Whether these remarks are just or not, it is a certain fact that nine out of ten of the disaffected party here are men of dissipated manners, or such as are in needy circumstances neither of which would be proper for your purpose. Among the class of respectable opulent farmers, who in this part of the country at present form a very valuable part of the community, none are to be found, who would move even to a few miles distan⟨ce⟩ from their native place without very high encouragement indeed—And if such men were to go to America they would aim at becoming proprietors of land themselves, the purchase price of which is so much lower than in this country as strongly to impress their mind with that idea—But among this class of men at present for the reasons above given, few are to be found who have their views turned towards America.
        Before the war there was another class of men who without ever intending to leave this island had begun to purchase great tracts of land there, as a mercantile speculation, with a view to sell them out again in smaller allotments. But the immoderate profits that monied men can now derive from their capital by speculating in the funds here; has entirely driven all the ready cash of the nation into that vortex, so as for the present to put a stop to every idea of entering into distant speculations of any sort—Besides, the laws of some of the states lay bars in the way of such attempts and an idea begins to prevail here that the tenure by which such property is held is less secure than it was once imagined to be, which must have a tendency to repress similar enterprises, as it will probably have an effect also upon the state of your public funds. From all these considerations my hope of being able effectually to cooperate in forwarding your views by no means corresponds with my wishes, which occasions a

regret so strong that it perhaps makes me also more desponding than I ought to be. Should that prove to be the case, nothing will more add to my happiness in life—for next to enjoying tranquillity of mind myself there is nothing could be more pleasing to me than to think that I could be in any respect instrumental in augmenting the tranquillity and enjoyment that you have so good a right to expect. I shall do my best to put the papers you have entrusted to me into the hands of such persons as I think have the best chance of doing service—under the cautions you have, with your usual liberality recommended. I regret however, that from my inferior station of life, and the narrow sphere in which I move, that I can have less in my power than others might have had. The only thing that I can command in this case is my best wishes and these shall never be wanting.
        I am glad you approve the principle of the iron bridge. The calculations have been sufficiently accurate to prove beyond a doubt that in every case the charge must be greatly below that of a stone bridge—And that in some cases it could not amount to one tenth part of the sum—But these are particulars that are not at present of sufficient importance to require your attention.
        I have used the freedom to request the favour of Mr Pinckney to transmit to you an additional volume of Essays relative to Agriculture and Rural affairs (bei⟨ng the thi⟩rd) just now published by me, which I beg the favour of you to ho⟨nour⟩ with your acceptance—Should a time ever arrive when you could be permitted to direct your undisturbed attention to objects of that nature you would find it a source of much enjoyment—But at present objects of greater magnitude call for your attention. This volume gives a view of some of the internal arrangements in Britain, that are not, I presume, very generally known abroad. I have the honour to be, with the most respectful esteem Sir your most obedient Hule Servt

          Jas Anderson


Title: From George Washington to the Commissioners for the District of Columbia, 30 May 1796
From: Washington, George
To: Commissioners for the District of Columbia

          Gentlemen,
          Philadelphia 30th May 1796.

        As no Mail southward of Baltimore was received at the Post Office in this City on Saturday; and as you may not have understood by my letter of the 22d instt, that the duplicate of the Power of Attorney to Messrs Wilhem and Jan Willink was required to be forwarded through me, I address this to you, in order to remove the doubt if any there be; as copies of the other papers are ready, and only waiting your duplicates to be dispatched.
        In consequence of your recommendation of Mr Freeman, he was nominated, and by the advice & consent of the Senate has been appointed, Surveyor for running the Territorial line between the United States and Spain, at the rate of (*) dollars pr annum.
        This service cannot commence before the Ratification of the Treaty by Spain is received; and the Commissioner and Surveyor on the part of that Power are known, & ready to proceed. It will not therefore interfere with any Services you may require, and Mr Freeman can render, until he is called upon to execute this business; which, probably, will not be before Autumn. At which time the Commissions will issue.
        His request was to be employed in settling the Northern boundary between the United States and Great Britain, but the appointment of the Surveyors for that purpose is left to the Commissioners, who are to decide ultimately; I did not incline therefore to bring forward the name of any one for this service, even to our own Commissioner. With esteem & regard I am—Gentlemen Your obedient Servant

          Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Tobias Lear, 30 May 1796
From: Lear, Tobias
To: Washington, George

          My dear Sir,
          Washington May 30th 1796

        I have this moment returned from Berkley County where I have been detained much longer than I expected on account of the difficulties raised by the Wagers; because the land was not taken possession of on the first of April, agreeably to contract. These I have at last surmounted, and have received possession for the United States; but the deeds are not yet executed, as one of the parties is in Philada. The money, of course, is not yet paid. They have, however, obligated themselves to have the deeds ready by the first of july. The Court have not yet decided on the Saw-mill tract; but have engaged to do it in the August term. I have taken possession of that, so far as to have any use of it or the Saw mill that may be wanted for the United States in the mean-time.
        You will have the goodness, my dear Sir, to let Mrs Washington know that I can procure no dble refined Sugar in this quarter,

but at a price higher than in Philadelphia, and therefore have not purchased any.
        I intend tomorrow to visit my little folks, who, I hear, are well. I expect my son Lincoln here in the course of a week or ten days, with a young man who is highly recommended as a tutor. I expect my mother will come on with him and pass the summer with me.
        Mr Pearce informed me, the day before I sat off up the Country, that Mr Smith had agreed to take your flour @ $14, on a Credit of 6 Months, which I think was doing very well with it; for it is now down to 9½ dollars Cash—and very dull. Upwards of 40,000 barrels are in Alexandria, and no demand abroad to justify shipping even at 9 dollars. Large quantities are still in the Country, and coming in daily. I was detained at Harpers ferry from tuesday ’till saturday last, during which time upwards of forty boats passed by and sailed from thence, loaded with flour, each carrying from 100 to 120 barrels. The wheat and other grain in the part of the Country where I have been look remarkably well—and there is more in the ground than was ever before known in one year. The rains which have been falling almost incessantly for 6 days past may injure the Crops; but, without such an event, they will be the largest ever known. The early wheat, and the common which was sown early, will receive most injury.
        The people throughout the Country where I have been (and I have travelled pretty extensively for 2 weeks past) appear highly satisfied with the treaty having gone into effect, and if the British give up the posts according to stipulation, I see nothing to interrupt the happiness of our Country. Should they not do it, there will be but one voice in the community.
        I shall have the honor to write to you by the next, or following post and hope soon to have the happiness to see you in this quarter.
        I have not yet heard from Mr B. Bassett since I wrote to him from Philadelphia. I shall write to him again, and should he not come or send for Maria before I get my boys fixed I shall have her attended to with them.
        Please to make my best & most affectionate Respects acceptable to Mrs Washington—and my kindest regards to my good friends Mr Fayettee, Mr Frestel and Washington. With the

purest respect & most perfect attachment I have the honor to be, My dear Sir, Your grateful & affectionate friend.

          Tobias Lear.


Title: To George Washington from John Sinclair, 30 May 1796
From: Sinclair, John
To: Washington, George

          Sir
          Whitehall [London] 30th May 1796

        Being unfortunately much troubled with an Inflammation in my Eyes, I beg Your Excellency will have the Goodness to excuse the Liberty I take, in making use of a borrowed Hand.
        The Session of the Board of Agriculture has closed for this Year, and I am now preparing to go to Scotland, which hurries me much; but I could not think of leaving this Town, without having the Honour of acknowledging the Receipt of Your obliging Letter of the 20th of February, with the Inclosure. I regret much that any Circumstance should have prevented for the present (but I hope that some time or other it will be effected) the establishing of that Agreement so interesting to Humanity, and from which all Nations must derive such Benefit, but, I hope

that Your Excellency will have it in View, whenever a proper Opportunity occurs.
        We have printed an additional Appendix to the Chapter on Manures, on which we should be glad to be favored with the Remarks of the intelligent Farmer to whom the former Paper on that Subject was given. We are now carrying on a Set of Experiments, under the Directions of Dr Fordyce, which I trust will clear up the Doctrine of Vegetation and Manures. The Queries respecting Live Stock, Copies of which are also sent, will, I trust, throw much Light on that important Department in Husbandry.
        I take the Liberty at the same time of sending to Your Excellency Copies of my Address to the Board, explaining the Progress we have made during the last session; also specimens of the Manner in which we acknowledge the Receipt of Communications, and return Our Thanks to those who merit them.
        I am glad to hear that Your Excellency preserves good Health, and if you wish to enjoy Tranquillity and Ease, as you cannot expect that Satisfaction in America where even at Mount Vernon you would be perpetually applied to on Matters of Business, I hope you will excuse me expressing my Hopes and Wishes, that you would think of spending at least one Year of Tranquillity and Ease in England, where, I am sure, you would be received in a Manner highly flattering and agreeable, by all Ranks and Descriptions of People, and by none with more Respect and Regard than by Him, who has Honour to subscribe himself, Your Excellency’s faithful and obedient Servant

          John Sinclair

          N.B. I hope that a very beneficial Intercourse will be established between America and Great Britain, in the article of oil Cake—I have ordered the Bookseller to send Your Excellency two Sets of the corrected County Reports, as they come out, and he will settle regarding the Price with his Correspondent in America. I think that there cannot be too many of those Reports circulated there—I shall write to Your Excellency from Scotland respecting the Farms on the Mount Vernon Estate.


Title: To George Washington from William Strickland, 30 May 1796
From: Strickland, William
To: Washington, George

          Sir
          London May 30th 1796.

        By the civility of Mr Pinckney in seeking me out in this place, I had the honor of receiving your letter a few days since, & am consequently enabled to acknowledge the receipt of it by the Packet which will be made up tomorrow. I am extremely happy in being favoured with your recollection & should an opportunity present itself of being of service to you in making known to any one, who, as you state it, may have resolved on transplanting himself, the terms on which you propose disposing of your property or any other particulars connected with it, which may have come to my knowledge, I shall seize it with pleasure; but I am apprehensive that the power to be of service, may fall far short of the inclination; According to observations I have made both here & in America; of all classes of people, the farmer appears most rarely to emigrate & they who do emigrate, to have often other than good motives for it. The cause of this is easily assigned; of all the different professions in this country the farmer is the most respected, enjoys the greatest number of comforts, distinctions, & immunities & possesses the most property; he is moreover from habit or principle strongly attached to the soil on which he has been brought up, & to the country that places him in a station of so much respectability, & is according to his views & station in life in my opinion better circumstanced here than in any other country I have seen; it is therefore not to be wonderd at that so few people of this description should quit it; I therefore despair of meeting with such respectable characters, as I ought to introduce to you or you would choose to receive; but chance may throw them in my way. This statement of mine

has been frequently controverted in America, but I am sure your liberality will allow me to state an opinion founded on much observation, and which has been confirmed by the few gentlemen from America (& I wish for the sake of both our countries that they had been far more numerous) who with decerning eyes have travelled in this country.
        The letter with which you have favourd me, affords an opening which I regretted having lost when in America, for making a few agricultural remarks on subjects which struck me during my last year’s tour, & which the short time I was in Philadelphia after my return from the southward deprived me of the opportunity of communicating. these I will take the liberty of addressing you upon soon after my return home, when I shall also farther notice your letter, & the paper accompanying it, as naturally connected with the other subject; not having my memorandums with me in London I am not able to enter upon it at present.
        I was in hopes of having an opportunity, when in America, of introducing to your acquaintance a particular Friend of mine, who crossed the Atlantic with me, but who not having been in Philadelphia during that period, it never occurred. The person I allude to is Mr Miles Smith now residing at Ross Hall near New-Brunswick in N: Jersey, which estate he has purchased. Mr Smith is a gentleman of good family & connections in the county of York, with whom I have been intimately acquainted the greatest part of my life, & I take the liberty of mentioning him to you because, exclusively of his being an estimable character in every point of private life, he is by far the best practical farmer on a great scale of any gentleman with whom I ever was acquainted, & particularly in every branch of agriculture connected with the Plough or Sheep, & was looked up to as such by his whole neighbourhood, & nothing can more fully prove his intelligence than a most beautifully cultivated estate, which I remember not many years since little better than a wilderness, of which he still keeps the occupancy in his own hands, in Yorkshire. It appears to me that Mr Smith could not be in any part of the United States which I have seen, without being able to suggest much for the improvement of it; but as Mr S: has unfortunately lost his wife, since I returned to this country, & is left with a numerous young family, it is possible he may be under the necessity of returning home again; Such a character I am confident I need not

apologise for mentioning to you, having observed the patronage you have always extended to the meritorious stranger, & your desire of communicating with all those who could be of service to your country. I will add that Mr Smith has not had the slightest intimation of my intention of mentioning his name to you, in order to avoid any expectation on his part or inconvenience on yours, & that I shall not for the same reasons hereafter notice it to him.
        By a letter I received some time since from Mr Wadsworth of Connecticut, I was sorry to find, that of some seeds in part the same as those I took the liberty of presenting to you, few had grown, probably from having received damage on Shipboard, tho I had taken what care of them I was able; should yours have succeeded no better, there could no longer be any doubt of the fact & I should be desirous of being informed of it that I might have an opportunity of replacing any you would point out, or would allow me to substitute in their place; give me leave to add that I could experience no greater satisfaction, than in being of any service to you in my power in this country, or in executing any commission with which you would charge me; it would be the slightest return I could make for the civilities & attentions I received from you when in America, which I shall ever remember with pleasure & gratitude.
        The Board of Agriculture are steadily pursuing the object of their institution, with every prospect of this country & perhaps others, reaping much advantage from it, as I convey to you, along with this letter a parcel and a letter which Sr John Sinclair has this day put into my hands; I need say nothing more on this subject. I beg you will make my best respects to Mrs Washington & that you will believe me to be with the truest esteem & respect Sir Your very obedient, Humble Servant

          Wm: Strickland

          P.S. My direction (should it at any time be required) is W: S: York England.


Title: To George Washington from James Francis Armstrong, 31 May 1796
From: Armstrong, James Francis
To: Washington, George

          Sir
          Trenton [N.J.] May 31st 1796

        I beg leave to bring before your mind that, if a vacancy in any office in your appointment, for which you may judge me fit, should occur, you would consider me as a candidate. The Secretary of the Treasury will detail the motives upon which I found my request. I have the honour to be—Sir, your most obedient Servant

          James F. Armstrong


Title: To George Washington from the Commissioners for the District of Columbia, 31 May 1796
From: Commissioners for the District of Columbia
To: Washington, George

          sir—
          City of Washington 31st May 1796

        We have this day, the honor of your Letter of the 22nd of this month, which was detained on the road by the late heavy rains—The Duplicate of the powers to Mesrs Wilhem & Jan Willink, we should not fail to forward by the next post, but as the original was signed by Mr White, it will be more in order to have his signature to the Copy—It shall be our first business, on his arrival, which we expect will be in few days—Your objection to placing the whole Sum authorized to be borrowed in one Year, upon the issue of a negotiation in Holland; which, under existing circumstances, may be ineffectual, we likewise had under consideration, but the result was—if we could borrow money here, it might be repaid upon the successful issue of the Dutch negotiation and we should thus run no risk of interrupting our operations—Under this Idea, we have proceeded, & have obtained an accommodation from some of the proprietors of the City—They agreed to offer their notes at the Bank of Columbia for $12,000 for the use of the City of Washington, for 2 months, to be repaid from the first receipts of the Commissioners after taking up the notes passed in their own private capacity, to the amount of 20,000 Dollars—3,000 Dolls. have been obtained and loaned to the City.
        We opened the Works on the 23rd Ulto—and although the Weather has been uncommonly wet and unfavorable, yet we have made a very great progress, and we hope that no just cause of complaint, can possibly exist—It is not unknown to us that some unthinking persons have attributed the mal-construction of the foundation-Wall of the Capitol to the want of attention

on the part of the Commissioners—but if they had visited and walked over the Walls three times a day, it would not have been possible to prevent imposition where men are resolved to practice it, and the Commissioners had reliance on the Work, not only from the Character the undertaker then enjoyed; but also on the care and attention of the Superintendant—Many disadvantages are attributed to the non-residence of the Comms. in the City—We lament that any person could expect us to live there, before houses are prepared for accommodation—some of the board have always said, that they mean to remove thither as soon as even decent houses could be had—The proprietors have not been active in their preparations, otherwise, this cause of their complaint would not now exist. The board are disposed to do every thing in their power, not only to give satisfaction to the public, but also, to obtain the approbation of those whose knowledge of their affairs may enable them to judge more justly & truly of their conduct—Your wishes with respect to the Sale of Lots, we are happy to have anticipated—We know it to be a principle which you have constantly inculcated to encourage individuals disposed to build & settle & to discourage large speculations—Such principles we have made the constant rule of our conduct, and we think it the only certain mode of disposing of the public property to advantage, except our necessities may require a certain departure from this established rule—In such a case, however, we should act with caution, and consider the evidence of its advantages, as requisite to our justification—If the situation of the Bank of the United states is such, as to afford any prospect of success—We think it would be prudent to endeavor to obtain 20 or 30,000$ through that channel—We think 10,000$ ⅌ month, with our other funds, might do, during the building season—Some conversation on this subject, passed between Mr White & the Secy of the Treasy—Would Mr Wolcott interest himself with the Directors, it might have a good effect—The sum wanted ought to be repaid out of the first receipt under the Loan—& an advance of 10,000$ ⅌ month could not be sensibly felt, by the Bank—We have written to Genl Stewart, one of the Directors, for information on the state of the Bank—no answer has yet been received—Any thing that may [be] deemed worthy of your attention, and which may escape us, at present,

we shall not fail to lay before you, when We have the happiness to welcome you to this place. We are Sir &c.

          Signed—G. ScottW. Thornton


Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 31 May 1796
From: McHenry, James
To: Washington, George

          Sir.

            Tuesday afternoon [31 May 1796]

        If you see no objection to the inclosed letter in answer to Mr Hawkins received to-day it may be sent by to-morrows mail. I have the honour to be Sir with sincere regard Your ob. st

          James McHenry


Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 31 May 1796
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Washington, George

            May 31 [1796]

        The Secretary of State has the honor to inclose a letter from our Consul at Cadiz, with one for the President.
        The secretary recollects a Colo. Tatem’s calling on him last summer. He said he had been formerly in the southwestern territory—talked about very valuable maps of the U. States or some of them which he had made and was making; but needed pecuniary aid to complete & publish his plans—he might have intimated a hope of governmental aid.

          T. Pickering


Title: To George Washington from Alexander Hamilton, 1 June 1796
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

          Sir
          New York June 1. 1796

        Your letter of the 29th was delivered me by Mr King yesterday afternoon. I thought I had acknowleged the Receipt of the paper inquired for in a letter written speedily after it—or in one

which transmitted you a draft of a certain letter by Mr Jay. I hope this came to hand.
        I am almost afraid to appear officious in what I am going to say; but the matter presses so deeply on my mind that fearing you may not recollect the situation of the thing and that it may happen not to be brought fully under your eye, I cannot refrain from making the suggestion to you. It regards a Bill which I am told has lately passed the two houses of Congress authorising a sale of Bank Stock for paying off a sum due to the Bank—You will perceive by the 8th and 9th Sections of the Act intitled “An Act making further provision for the support of public Credit and for the Redemption of the public Debt” passed the 3d of March 1795 that the dividends of the Bank Stock are appropriated to the Sinking Fund with all the force and solemnity of which language is capable and that to divert them in the manner proposed (and this too without any substitute in the act which so diverts) will be a formal express and unequivocal violation of the public faith—will subvert the system of the Sinking Fund and with it all the security which is meant to be given to the people for the Redemption of the Public Debt, and, violating the sanctity of an appropriation for the public Debt, will overturn at once the foundation of Public Credit. These are obvious and undeniable consequences, and though I am aware that great embarrassments may ensue to the Treasury, if the Bill by the objection of The President is lost and no substitute for it takes place towards the reimbursement of the Bank—Yet I am sure no consequences can ensue of equal moment from the rejection as from the principle of the Bill going into execution. All the Presidents administration has effected for establishing the Credit of the Country will be prostrate at a single blow—He will readily make all the necessary comments upon this position. It grieves my heart to see so much shocking levity in our Representative Body. Most respectfully & Affecty I remain Sir Yr very Obed. Ser.

          A. Hamilton


Title: To George Washington from Elizabeth Willing Powel, 1 June 1796
From: Powel, Elizabeth Willing
To: Washington, George

          Dear Sir
          [Philadelphia] Wednesday June 1st 1796

        Feeling myself incapable of nourishing an implacable Resentment; and in conformity with your better and dispassionate Judgment I have after maturely considering all that passed Yesterday, determined to dine with you Tomorrow, when I will endeavor to meet your Ideas with Fortitude. With Sentiments of Respect & Affection I am Sir Your sincere Friend

          Eliza. Powel