Title: From George Washington to James McHenry, 10 August 1798
From: Washington, George
To: McHenry, James

Private & confidential
My dear Sir,Mount Vernon 10th Augt 1798
You will consider this letter as private & confidential. Dictated by friendship, and flowing from the best intentions. If then, any

thing should be found therein wch may have too much the appearance of plain dealing, look to the motives, and manner of the communication, & my apology will be sought for in yr candor.
From the moment I accepted my appointment as Commander in Chief of the Armies of the U. States, I considered myself as nearly allied to the Secretary of War, & entitled to particular attentions from him, notwithstanding I drew no pay, nor was acting in the field. It could not have been supposed, had it not other wise been expressed, that I would be called to the Army in the moment of danger as ignorant of its formation—its municions, & every thing relating thereto, as if I had just dropped from the Clouds.
My Sollicitude, often & strongly expressed, relatively to the formation of the Army, could not but have impressed you with my ideas of its importance; but if stronger evidence was necessary, the offer I made to go, at this hot season, and in other respects inconvenient, to Philadelphia, would be conclusive. But what fruit has it produced? To this moment I am ignorant of every step that has been taken in the appointment of the Battalion Officers; for recruiting the Men—fixing the places of Rendezvous &ca.
With respect to the Quarter Master General, finding no mention made of one in the list of appointments—nor anything said of him in your letter of the 18th of July announcing them, I waited sometime to see if any explanation of this matter would be given, but finding none I wrote to you on the 22d of that month to be informed of the cause, and not until the first of this, was I answered. And with respect to the Adjutant General, I am, to this moment, unadvised of the result of Colo. Smith’s nomination. I have heard indeed that Colo. North was appointed, and that it had been announced in the News papers; but this I have not seen, altho’ I have examined them with an eye to it as accurately as my hurried situation would allow.
Having staked my life—my reputation—my fortune—my ease, tranquillity & happiness—in support of the Government, & Independence of our Country; it is not a little interesting, & important for me to be advised, of the measures which you are pursuing to organize & provide for the augmented force: for as that act is absolute, no delay can be admitted; and it is much to be desired that it may take the field with eclat, wch will not be effected without great exertion. And as it will not be supposed that the President, well disposed, sensible and zealous as he is, can have many

relative ideas in arrangments of this sort, more responsibility will attach to you; and as the multiplicity of matter and burthen will be great, let me entreat you to call on the Inspector (allowing him full pay & emoluments) for assistance.
The business of recruiting, in the result, belongs to his Department, then why not let it commence & be prosecuted agreeably to your general instructions to him under his auspices? It is much easier at all times to prevent an evil than to rectify mistakes. It is infinitely better to have a few good Men, than many indifferent ones. and Officers whose Recruiting emoluments depend upon numbers, will not be over scrupulous in their choice, with out the fullest conviction that the Inspection of the men will be as rigid as the Instructions that are given. You would besides, find him in your hurried situation, extremely useful in a variety of occurrances, which cannot always be foreseen or provided against. I would have suggested a similar measure with respect to General Knox as it related more particularly to Arms, & the Ordnance Department but (under the rose for the present) he seems to be so much dissatisfied with the arrangement of the relative rank of the General Officers that I have no expectation of his serving.
Let me conclude by requesting to be informed, in what State the formation of the augmented corp is? Whether the applications for Commissions are numerous, & the characters good? What arrangements are made for recruiting? where the general rendezvouses are to be? Who are appointed to superintend them? What is the present state of your Military supplies, what the means, and what the measures, for augmenting them? With much truth & sincerity, I remain Your Affectionate and Obedient Servant

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to James McHenry, 10 August 1798
From: Washington, George
To: McHenry, James

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 10th Augt 1798

The letter from Mr Ames to Mr Bent, containing further evidence to his good character, I send.
The other letter from Mr Carter (who married a Niece of mine) though private, I send also but request it may b⟨e⟩ returned; what he says of a cert⟨ain⟩ character—may be treasured up, but reported as coming from him.
His brother is an utter stranger to me, and therefore I can add nothing to what he has said of him. The family you know, are among the most wealthy & respectable in this State.
My Nephew Lewis might (but as he has never applied to me, I cannot say that he would) be glad of some appointment. He was an Aid to Genl Morgan on the Western Expedition. I am—Dr Sir—Yr Obedt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to William Vans Murray, 10 August 1798
From: Washington, George
To: Vans Murray, William

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 10th Augt 1798

I doubt not, but that you have already set me down as an unprofitable correspondent, and with too much truth perhaps; but not with as much culpability on my part, as appearances may indicate.
I have written you several letters, and having put one or two for Mr Dandridge under your covers, without receiving any acknowledgment

of them, the presumption is, that they have fallen into other hands. Nothing however was contained in either of them that could entitle them to the honor of a place in the Beaureaus of France; to which several of my private letters, it seems, have found a passage. and but for the impropriety of such conduct, and the deprivation, & invasion of anothers right, all might go; as I write nor say nothing I wish to conceal from that nation; My Politics being streight, and my views undisguised towards it, & all others.
In examining my file of unanswered letters, I find two of yours, dated the 9th of October & 1st of November among them. In acknowledging the receipt of which, permit me to thank you for the interesting communications which are detailed therein; and to express a wish, that in your moments of leisure, you would favor me with a continuation of matters so satisfactory to be informed of.
I should have wrote oftner to you, if, in retirement, I had found matter sufficient for amusement: but revolving days producing similar scenes of domestic & rural occurrences—none interesting except to those who were engaged in them; knowing that all things of public concern, together with the Gazettes of different complexions were regularly transmitted to you, from the proper Department; and knowing also that you had friends near the fountain of Intelligence who were in the habit of corresponding with you, I conceived that details of the latter kind, from me, might be less correct and at best but second hand information, & therefore avoided giving you the trouble to receive it.
But new, and unexpected scenes opening upon us, and all my plans of retirement likely to be marred by the Domineering spirit and boundless ambition of a Nation whose Turpitude have set all obligations divine and human, at naught—may in time to come enable me to communicate some things more interesting than are to be found within the circle of my present perambulations. In doing which I shall always feel pleasure.
Little did I expect, when my valadictory address was presented to the People of the United States, that any event would occur in my day, that could draw me from the peaceful walks and tranquil shades of Mount Vernon; where I had fondly hoped to spend the remnant of a life, worn down with public cares, in ruminating on the variegated scenes through which I have passed—and in the contemplation of others which are yet in embrio.
I will hope however, that when the Despots of France find how much they have mistaken the American character—and how much

they have been deceived by their partisans among us, that their senses will return to them, and an appeal to Arms for the purpose of repelling an Invasion, at least, will be rendered unnecessary. To be prepared for them, however, is the most certain, & perhaps the least expensive mode of averting the evil. Neither they, nor there abetters here, expected I believe, that such a spirit would be roused as the occasion has manifested, amongst all classes of our Citizens—except the leaders of opposition—upon their obtaining correct statements of the treatment they have received from their good and magnanimous Allies. The difficulty under which they will find themselves, lyes in treading back their steps. But Envoy Logan may be sent to help them out of it; or, which is to the full as likely, to direct them in another course to obtain the same end.
Present me, if you please, to Mrs Murray; in which Mrs Washington & Miss Custis unite, as they do to yourself, & in remembrance to Mr Dandridge. and be assured of the sincere regard & esteem of—Dear Sir Your Most Obedt & Affecte Hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Peter, 12 August 1798
From: Washington, George
To: Peter, Thomas

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 12th Augt 1798

Your letter of the 9th was handed to me yesterday—enclosing one from Colo. Deakins, and a Tobacco Note as below—for which I transmit a receipt.
I am ignorant of the principle, on which I am called upon to pay for picking a Tenants tobacco; but presuming it was proper, I thank you for having done it. And I pray you to add to the expence as much Tobacco as will make the Hhd sufficiently heavy: and to deposit it with the rest in the hands of Mr Peter, your father, to be disposed of in whatever manner, and on whatever terms, he shall part with his own.

Enclosed is a Post note on the Bank of Columbia for one hundd dollars which I pray you to receive—and after deducting what I owe you, & what may arise in making the Tobo Note (which is returned) sufficiently heavy, forward the balance, at a convenient time to—Dear Sir Your Affecte Hble Servt

Go: Washington

Mrs Washington, Nelly & Washington (now at home) are all well & join in love to Patsy yourself & the Children—Genl Spotswood and family are here.


Title: From George Washington to Bushrod Washington, 12 August 1798
From: Washington, George
To: Washington, Bushrod

My dear Sir
Mount Vernon 12th Augt 1798

I have received your letter of the 7th instant, giving an extract of Mr Nicholas’s letter to you. With respect to the request contained in it, I leave the matter entirely to his own discretion with your advice to advance, or halt, according to the tenableness of his ground, & circumstances.
If he could prove, indubitably, that the letter addressed to me, with the signature of Jno. Langhorne, was a forgery, no doubt would remain in the mind of any one, that it was written with a view to effect some nefarious purpose. and if the person he suspects, is the real Author, or abettor it would be a pity not to expose him to Public execration; for attempting, in so dishonorable a way; to obtain a disclosure of Sentiments of which some advantage could be taken—But Mr Nicholas will unquestionably know, that if the proofs fail, the mat⟨ter will⟨ recoil and that the statement must be full, and not a partial one that is given to the Public; not only as the most satisfactory mode of bringing it before that tribunal, but shortest in the result: for he will have a persevering phalanx to contend against.
It seems to me that he would be obligd to disclose the manner, in which his correspondence & mine began, & the motives wch led to it; for until the discovery was made, & communicated by him to me, that Jno. Langhorne was a fictitious name, I had not the smallest suspicion thereof; but, on the contrary, viewed the production

as that of a Pedagogue; who was desirous of exhibiting a few of his flowers, and after returning a civil, but short answer, never thought more of him, or his letter, until the history of the business was developed by Mr Nicholas. All this must appear; or contrivance would be retorted. I will only add that, as Mr Nicholas has made you a confidant in this business, I shall acquiesce with pleasure in any steps he may take, that will bring ⟨me forw⟩ard, with your concurrence. If a trick so dirty & shabby as this is supposed to be, could be clearly proved, it would, in my opinion, be attended with a happy effect, at this time; but, on the other hand, if it should be attempted & fail, the reverse would be the consequence.
I little thought when I retired to the Shades of Private life, last year, that any event would happen, in my day, that could bring me again on the Public theatre; but so it is; & the remnent of a life which required ease & tranquillity, will end more than probably in toil & responsibility.
Your mother left us on friday; for your Brother Corbins, after giving us the pleasure of her’s & Nancy Washington’s Company, eight or ten days. Corbin’s wife is much better, & hopes are entertained of her being perfectly restored.
Your Aunt & the family unite with me in best wishes for yourself & Mrs Washington; and I am, my dear Sir, Your Sincere friend and AJfecte ⟨Uncle

Go: Washing⟩ton


Title: From George Washington to Clement Biddle, 13 August 1798
From: Washington, George
To: Biddle, Clement

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 13th Augt 1798

Since my last to you I have received your letter of the 31st Ulto enclosing a Statement of the A/c betwn us—and have also received the Pictures and Books in good order.

When I sent Doctr Bartons Note to you, I accompanied it with information, that there was no other way of dealing with him than to obtain security for payment of the money at a future day—for if I was to bestow the epithet on him which he deserves it would not be a mild one. It is not the value of the money I regard, but to be imposed upon in such a way by a man who was an utter stranger to me is somewhat vexatious.
Some money being paid to Colo. Pickering by Judge Addison, for land I sold the decd Colo. Ritchie—I have requested Two hundred dollars thereof to be delivered to you, in discha: of my bal[anc]e—I am—Dr Sir—Yr Obedt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from John McDowell, 13 August 1798
From: McDowell, John
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Annapolis [Md.] Augt 13th 1798

When I returned to Annapolis last Saturday, I had the honour to receive your letter of the 30th Ulto inclosing one hundred and five dollars to defray the expences of Mr Custis. I have paid off all the accounts, except that of Mr Stuart, who is not in town at present; and transmit them to you, with the receipts on them as you desired. There remains in my hands a small ballance, which shall be applied, as you may direct when he returns.
I feel much pleasure in having it in my power to give you more favourable accounts of Mr Custis, than when I wrote to you before. He has of late been much more attentive to business; and has applied himself to the study of Euclid with such advantage, that he is now pretty well acquainted with as much of the elements, as is usually read in our schools. I now begin to entertain a much better opinion of his abilities than I did at first, and am persuaded that nothing but attention and persevering diligence are necessary to enable him to acquire a very respectable share of knowledge of any

kind. Should he be possessed of these requisite qualities, of which I do not despair, I flatter myself he may be in time the man you wish to see him. I intended, after he had finished Euclid, that he should learn trigonometry and some branches of practical mathemati[c]s, which would now be easy & agreeable to him. When the weighty and important concerns, the pressure of which you must feel at this time, will permit you to attend to it, I shall be glad to have your thoughts on the course of studies, which you wish Mr Custis to pursue, and extremely happy, if I can carry it into effect so as to answer your wishes in any degree. With entire respect, I am, Sir, Your most Obedt & Humbe Servt

Jno. McDowell


Title: From George Washington to James McHenry, 13 August 1798
From: Washington, George
To: McHenry, James

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 13th Augt 1798

The Messenger that carried my letters of the 10th to the Post Office brought me your favour of the 6th—and yesterday I received that of the 8th.
It gave me sincere pleasure to find by the latter, that you had suggested to the President, prompt & decisive measures for Organizing and recruiting the twelve Regiments of Infantry, &ca; and the propriety also of requiring the Services of the Inspector General,

and Major Genl Knox, to aid you in arranging the details, and superintending the Execution of different parts of your multiplied duties; occasioned by the business coming upon you en mass. Without such aid, & subdivision, it would be impossible, in my opinion (in such an emergency) to carry the Act for augmenting the Army, into effect, with the precision and promptitude it seems to have been contemplated.
Any assistance I can give, consistently, to carry your Plans into effect, you may command with freedom.
It is extremely painful to hear that the Yellow fever has again made its appearance in the unfortunate City of Philadelphia, and is spreading its malignancy; and it is with much concern I am further informed, that you have a return of your Billious complaint. I hope, effectual measures will be pursued to check the first; and that you are, or soon will be, perfectly recovered of the latter. With very great esteem and regard—I am—Dear Sir Your Most Obedt Hble Servant

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 13 August 1798
From: McHenry, James
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Philad. 13 Augt 1798

I am happy to inform you that I was able to attend in the office to-day. To-morrow I set out with my family to Trenton where we propose to remain ’till we can return with safety to the City.
Mr Hodgdon has orders to send you press paper, writing paper, and press ink powder. I have also sent to Mr Law, the tin box received at New York from the East Indies, and directed to you. The colours ordered for Miss Custis is in great forwardness. I visited them to day. The devices for the colours directed for Mrs Washington has not yet been furnished the painter. I have thought of a medallion of the President borne towards the stars by our Eagle with some characteristic emblems, but I have determined upon nothing. I am very sincer[e]ly and affectionately yours

James McHenry


Title: To George Washington from Jacob Read, 13 August 1798
From: Read, Jacob
To: Washington, George

Sir,
New York 13th August 1798

A desire to fulfill the Wishes & to further the Veiws of a Friend who I most Sincerely Esteem and who I believe possesses much of your good opinion must be my appology for troubling you with the present Letter—In doing so I cannot omit the pleasing opportunity of offering you my most Sincere respects & good Wishes, and of expressing to you the happiness I felt on receiving the Intelligence of your Accepting the Command of the Armies of the United States—Had it been possible Sir for any Incident to have endeared you Still more to a grateful and Admiring Country! or to have raised you higher than you So deservedly Stood in the Esteem of the American people! this last Act! this Ma[g]nanimous Sacrifice! was the only one that coud have done So! Permit me Sir an humble Individual to offer you the Tribute of my best thanks and in felicitating my Country on this happy event to Exult in the Idea That Tuero duce nil desperandum!
You will please Sir to recollect that Mr Ralph Izard some five or Six Years past by your Permission Sent his son George to study the Military art at Metz in France—he returned last Winter and from a slight Acquaintance with him he appears to me to be a

Sensible Amiable fine young Gentleman—very Manly in his person and Correct in his deportment—He is also said to have profitted much of his advantageous Situation in France and to be a very good Engineer—he is now employed in Erecting Some works at Charleston in So. Carolina and by his reports and Plans has given great Satisfaction to the Secretary at War.
Mr Izard has been exceedingly hurt and is Still very sore at Seeing a Number of young men (Some of whom never were at all in the army or had Studied Military Science an hour) appointed Captains and put over his son’s head on raising the Second Regiment of Artillery—I have had frequent Letters from him on the Subject but nothing Cou’d be done Consistent with the Plan the President and Secretary at War had adopted—on hearing the report only of your having Accepted the Chief Command he wrote to me the Inclosed Letter which I pray leave to offer for your perusal with request that you will have the goodness not to mention that I have done so—I shou’d not trouble you with this Letter or the perusal of the Inclosed but that I do not know on what other Grounds than Mr Izard’s Special request I cou’d use the freedom at all to address you on the subject.
I pray you Sir to offer Mrs Read’s and my own most respectful Compliments to Mrs Washington and to accept for yourself the Tender of our greatest Esteem & best Wishes. I am Sir Your most Obedt Humble Servt

Jacob Read


Title: From George Washington to David Stuart, 13 August 1798
From: Washington, George
To: Stuart, David

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 13th Augt 1798.

If you, or Mrs Stuart could, by indirect means, discover the State of Washington Custiss Mind, it would be to be wished. He appears to me to be moped & Stupid. says nothing—and is always in some hole or corner excluded from Company. Before he left Annapolis,

he wrote to me desiring to know whether he was to return there, or not, that he might pack up accordingly—I answered, that I was astonished at the question! and that it appeared to me that nothing that could be said to him had the least effect, or left an impression beyond the moment. Whether this, by thwarting his views, is the cause of his present behaviour, I know not. Enclosed is his letter & my answer. to be returned when read. We are as usual; and unite in best regards for you Mrs Stuart and the family. I am—Dear Sir Yr Obedt & Affecte

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Edward Carrington, 14 August 1798
From: Carrington, Edward
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Richmond August 14. 1798

I have had the honor to receive your letter of the 5th Instant. Observing the omission to which you refer, in the list of appointments, I was led to read the Act for augmenting the Army; and the defect noticed by the Secretary of War in the paragraph of his letter which you have been so good as to quote, gave rise to an anticipation in my mind, of the cause he mentions. I had not noticed the circumstance he refers to in the provisional Army Act; and am under infinite obligation to him for his attention on the occasion.
An unfeigned zeal in my Countrys interests, together with a respect which I shall ever conceive due, in a particular manner, from me, to your wishes, induced an assent to accept the Office of quarter Master General to the Armies of the United States. No doubt existed in my mind, and I am sure you were under the same impression, that every legal provision to render the Office, involving, as it does, such extensive and hazardous responsibility practicable, had been, or would be made; for the acceptance under other circumstances would consist, neither with the public interest nor the safety of personal character. The practicability of the Duties of the office, depends in no small degree on the respectability attached, in the opinion of the Army, to the holder; and this respectability is very materially dependant on two circumstances—emoluments admitting of some degree of liberality of expence—and a military

rank considerably above that designated in the provisional Army Act, to exempt him from a captious treatment to which his situation, without it, will constantly expose him and those employed by him. As to the latter point, it would be infinitely better to have no rank at all, than that which is designated, because it has the appearance of fixing the rate of respectability at that standard, whereas without any definition of Rank, the nature & extent of the Office itself, with a proper conduct, would ensure a much higher Standard. These observations strike me as well founded in regard to the public interest in the efficiency of the Office. But the kind indulgence with which you have, on so many occasions honored me, emboldens me to offer to your consideration some of a personal nature, which appear to me to claim attention. Your conclusion, that, in case of real danger to my Country, I shall be amongst the last to stand on punctilio, is I trust well founded; and, with pride, I feel a confidence that my uniform conduct in, and out of service, have evinced to you this truth. But there is a care which in a mind conscious of, even a small degree of, merit, cannot be lost sight of, which is the acquisition & preservation of respectability in the eyes of his fellow citizens. the station of a private soldier can at no stage of life, nor under any circumstances, detract from the respectability of any man, whatever may have been his previous military rank; but a voluntary acceptance of a rank no higher than he held 20 years before while, in the general course of appointments, so far as his compatriots are Noticed, they are advanced many grades, above, & some of them from grades far below him, would in my opinion be a self affixture of the seal of his own degradation. this must be the consequence even were the rank taken positively in the line of the Army; and much greater must the degradation be, when the rank is a mere appendage to a staff appointment to which the legislature has affixed a low standard of estimation, & for the acceptance of which no motive will be admitted but those of a pecuniary nature.
That I may not be misunderstood, some addition may be proper to my observation on the late appointments. I by no means suppose that appointments now made of characters formerly in service, can be so arranged as to preserve the former relative rank—an attempt to do this would, on a variety of grounds produce a distructive embarrassment. and one who should stand on a punctilio of that kind; would expose his ignorance, or arrogance. No

disagreeable sensation ought to be felt by any officer who shall recognize in the New Army a Superior in grade in one who was his junior in the old, where, in the main, a common respect, on a general principle, appears to have been observed.
I have taken the liberty to present to you these observations, as arising out of the situation of the business which has given rise to our correspondance; a Situation which you were as little apprised of as myself. Should my opinions on any point appear to you erroneous you will give me pleasure by saying so, for I have received at your hands so many honorable testimonials of your good opinion and friendship, that I have no hesitation in still submitting myself to your disposition in the present instance, either as the business now stands, or shall be placed. I have the honor to be with the highest respect & most affectionate regard Dear Sir Your Most Ob. ser.

Ed. Carrington


Title: To George Washington from William Heth, 14 August 1798
From: Heth, William
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Shillelah 14th August 1798

I am honor’d with yours of the 5th Inst. for which, I most respectfully thank you.
I greatly fear, from the manifest interest which you appear to have taken in my views, that I have very unintentionally, imposed a trouble upon you which really gives me much concern and for which, I know not well, how to apologize. Feeling myself highly flatterd by the very candid & proper manner, in which you first answerd my wishes; I was not, I do assure you, so vain, as to suppose, that I meritted a second reply. Your great politeness, and condescension in this instance, has indeed humbled me in my own opinion. And I pray you (for I am well aware, how amply your time is employ’d) not to think any more of me, until call’d upon specially by your own wishes, having me in your mind. I do not desire to stand upon other ground. To go into the army under a mere staff appointment, would not suit either my pride or my feelings. And on this Subject, we think precisely alike. The Office of pay master general, I do not therefore even think of. And I mentioned it, merely because it had been suggested to me, under an Idea that

respectable rank might, as in the British Army, be annexed to it. The appointment of A. W. White a Brigadier, will in case of a general call, keep many an old soldier out of service, who might be wanting. Carrington and every other old officer whom I have met with, as well as many others who knew this man to the southward in the late war, cannot Speak of the appointment, with common patience, or temper. His services, if they may be so calld only served to prove that he was totally unfit for command, or for any thing else, but to dress, and parade thro’ the Country. Great imbecility of mind, & frivoloty of character, were not all that he was charged with: for I have had it from good authority that Colo. Washington while serving with him in So. Carolina, charged him publickly with being a liar, and actually seperated from the regiment. I knew but little of the man myself; but fame spoke so freely of him as an Officer, as to impress me with a strong contempt for his character. Believe me, Sir, if the President can with propriety give him a hint to resign the sooner it is done, the better. F⟨or⟩ my own part, I would rather accept of a Majority, under the immediate command of Hamilton or Lee, (tho’ they both held inferior rank in the late war) knowing they possess greatly superior talents, than to take any Commission in the line, which would subject me to receive orders from Anthony Walton White. Therefore, as I have not, nor shall no⟨t⟩ become a candidate for any Military appointment, other than what I have done to you, I shall rest my pretensions, and wishes there.
I have understood there was an act of Congress, appointing the Lieut. General & Commander in Chief. If so—I have never seen it. Perhaps it was that, to which you alluded in your first letter.
I hope that peace may yet be preserved; altho’ in expressing this hope I am not sure, that it would be for the Interest of the Union. French principles have certainly taken deep root in many parts of our Country, and nothing will or can eradicate them, but war, or some such great measure, that will awaken the passions, and call into action, the energies of a brave, and virtuous (but too credulous) people. Yes, Sir, as you have strongly expressd yourself—the party, tho’ evidently diminishing—“are well organized, and are systematical in their proceedings.” Some of them, no doubt, will die hard. But Marshall’s arrival, & reception in Richmond, may really be call’d a complete triumph in that place, over Democracy. You will see some account of it (for it is not done with I understand

in Davis’s paper of this date. The last week has been a kind of Jubilee. We were determined to make the most of the advantage which this circumstance gave us⟨.⟩ The event, has postponed my Journey ⟨into⟩ the Country, until tomorrow: for, I cou⟨ld⟩ not go away, when he was expected. Our address, was purposely made long, to draw from our honest minister, explicit remarks, on the conduct of the French, and our own government &c. It had its effect: for I think his answer, will be worth cart loads of Newspapers. It will do much, towards keeping down the faction; many of its members, being still prostrate, & numbers remain stunned.
Our subscription papers for the public dinner, were headed in strong explicit language, calculated “to seperate the Sheep from the Goats.” Notwithstanding this, and notwithstanding great exertions were made to produce a counter parade on the same day, by giving a public dinner to Jesuit Clopton at another spring, and for which purpose contributions were actually levied; yet, the party, co⟨uld⟩ barely muster a number sufficient, to fill a table at a Democratic tavern, kept by one Goodall, an active self sufficient member. Some say, there were about 33: others declare, there were only 16: while our numbers, actually counted about 234. So that, reducing the contest for show, and political approbation on this day, to an arithmetical question, and to admit their greatest number—it will stand thus. As Jesuit Clopton, at the head of sinking democracy and French Principles; is to 30—so is, General Marshall, the justly beloved “man of the People, at the head of tried patriotism & genuine republicanism, supported by national honor, & the most respectable Independent characters in the Country; to 234!!! Now considering that Richmond, next to Fredericksburg, is the most democratic hole in the State; I trust that, I shall not be thought too sanguine, in calling Our entertainment of Saturday, “a great Triumph over Democracy”; or, for saying that such a victory, deserves the feu de joy we have determined to give it in the papers.
Pardon me I pray you, for taking up so much of your time. I could not forbear giving you this small sketch of an event, that I know will please you—tho’ I know also, that you will see it fully stated in the public papers—but you might have doubted, of our having been able to muster so strong. I have the honor to be Dear Sir, with the highest respect—veneration, & affection Yr Obliged Servt

Will. Heth


Title: From George Washington to Jonathan Boucher, 15 August 1798
From: Washington, George
To: Boucher, Jonathan

Revd Sir,
Mount Vernon 15th Augt 1798.

I know not how it has happened, but the fact is, that your favour of the 8th of Novr, last year, is but just received; and at a time when both public & private business pressed so hard upon me, as to afford no leisure to give the “view of the causes & consequences of the American Revolution” written by you, and which you had been pleased to send me, a perusal.
For the honor of its Dedication, and for the friendly & favourable sentimts which are therein expressed, I pray you to accept my acknowledgment & thanks.
Not having read the Book, it follows of course that I can express no opinion with respect to its Political contents; but I can venture to assert, beforehand, and with confidence, that there is no man in either country, more zealously devoted to Peace ⟨and a goo⟩d understanding between the two Nations than I am—Nor one who is more disposed to bury in oblivion all animosities which have subsisted between them, & the Individuals of each.
Peace, with all the world is my sincere wish. I am sure it is our true policy. and am persuaded it is the ardent desire of the Government. But there is a Nation whose intermedling, & restless disposition; and attempts to divide, distract & influence the measures of other Countries, that will not suffer us, I fear, to enjoy this blessing long, unless we will yield to them our Rights, & submit to greater injuries and insults than we have already sustained, to avoid the calamities resulting from War.
What will be the consequences of our Arming for self defence,

that Providence, who permits these doings in the Disturbers of Mankind; & who rules and Governs all things, alone can tell. To its all powerful decrees we must submit, whilst we hope that the justice of our Cause if War must ensue, will entitle us to its Protection. With very sincere respect—I am, Revd Sir, Your Most Obedt Servant

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Peter, 17 August 1798
From: Peter, Thomas
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
George Town 17th Augt 1798

Your Letter of the 12th was handed to me by Doctor Thornton Tuesday last, enclosing a Receipt for a Tobacco Note, Bank Note of 100$ and a Tobacco Note Nett weight Seven Hundred & Sixty three pounds—I should have acknowledged a Receipt of the Above Sooner, but was in daily expectation of getting some Transfer Tobacco to make your light Hhd heavier, & that I might return the Balance of your Money—I have not yet got the Tobacco, am promised it at what the Hhd sells at, but expect to get it on better terms, the 28th of this Month is as soon as I could have done any thing with the Note you sent me, it being a Post Note Drawn the 28th of June and payable in Sixty days, when the Credit Expires I will forward you a Statement of the Expences, Balance of the 100$ &ca.
I observe you wish to know on what principle a Land Lord is to pay for Picking Tenants Tobacco, I know of none, but it is not uncommon for my Father to pay this Charge, Debit the Tenant with the Money & Give him Credit for the Tobacco—I waited on Colonel Deakins & mentioned this subject to him, his answer was, he would Write to Mr Veitch, inclose your Receipt & direct him to charge McDavitt with Eighteen & nine pence, for Picking & Reprising, & give him Credit for a Hhd Tobacco weighing Nett 763 pounds—Mrs Law & Eliza are well, we saw them yesterday, Patty & the Children are as usual, they Join in Love to Mrs Washington, Yourself, Nelly & Washington and I am Dear sir your affectionate

Thomas Peter

P.S. Please direct your Letters to George Town, it being more convenient for me to get them from thence. T.P.


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Peter, 18 August 1798
From: Washington, George
To: Peter, Thomas

Dear Sir
Mount Vernon 18th Augt [17]98

If this letter should get to your hands, it will be presented by Mr William Booker of Richmond, who, last year, erected my Wheat Machine, and has lately made some alterations therein—by which, yesterday, in two hours and a quarter, it got out Sixty eight bushels of Oats; And it is supposed will, with ease where the Wheat is good, & tolerable well laid, get out one hundred bushels of the latter in a day. As Mr Booker will probably be with me again about the first of Oct: I mention these circumstances that if you, your father or frd may be disposed to erect these machines, you may be assured thereof. I am—Yr Affecte Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Henry Gird, Jr., 19 August 1798
From: Washington, George
To: Gird, Henry Jr.

Sir,
Mount Vernon 19th Augt 1798.

Having had time to reflect more at leisure on the application made to me yesterday by you & your brother, for a tract of land of which I am possessed on the Ohio—containing by the patent two thousand four hundred & forty eight acs. I have determined to offer it to your father on the following terms, viz.—
First—At ten dollars an acre, provided it has nothing more than its situation, & the quality of its soil to recommend it.
Second. If more than these appertain—for instance a valuable Mill Seat—Ores of any kind—&ca these shall be valued by disinterested

men chosen by the parties, and be added to the above value—or
Third. If to avoid this trouble & uncertainty Mr Gird would prefer a definite sum, I will (although it might be disadvantageous to me, and notwithstanding the price fixed thereon yesterday) take One thousand dollars in addition to the ten dollars an Acre.
Fourth. The Land shall be granted on a lease for Seven years, paying an Interest annually, & punctually, of Six percentum pr annum durg that term. the first of which to become due on the first day of January in the year Eighteen hundred—& the same sum, on the same day, in every year thereafter during the above m[entione]d term of seven yrs.
Fifth. It shall be optional in the said Gird, to be possessed of the said tract of Land in Fee simple, on condition that he shall pay the whole sum often dollars an acre, & the thousand dollars as before mentioned, within the said term of Seven years; but not in less sums than five thousand dollars at a payment.
Sixth That upon the receipt of such payment, and every of them, the next annual payment thereafter, of Interest, shall be on the Balance of the principal Sum.
Seventh. Proper Instruments of writing may be drawn by a skilful professional man, to carry the true intent & meaning of the parties into effect.
Eighth. The regular payment of interest on the principal sum, until discharged, must be so secured as to give me no trouble in the collection—I mean upon whatever Balance shall be due, if payments are made.
If Mr Gird is disposed to bargain on these terms, which I conceive are very favourable for him, the matter may be closed as soon as he pleases, & the sooner the better, as other offers are made to—Sir Your Very Hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Robert Morris, 19 August 1798
From: Washington, George
To: Morris, Robert

My dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 19th Augt 1798.

Your favour of the 8th Instt was received the 16th, and the purport of it shall be communicated to the Secretary of War by ⟨the⟩ Mail of tomorrow.
In what state the organization of the artillery & Infantry Corps are, under the late acts of Congress, I know not. Not I fear in the forwardness they ought to be, to prepare, & fit them for the active Service they may have to encounter.
It is with extreme concern I hear that Philadelphia is again visited with the malignant fever. I hope neither you, nor Mrs Morris will remain in situations exposed to the Infection of it. If it were practicable, we should be very happy if She & Miss Morris & you along with them could remove to this place. Mrs W. & Miss C: unite in every good & friendly wish for you & them, with Dr Sr Yr Affe.

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Jacob Read, 19 August 1798
From: Washington, George
To: Read, Jacob

Dear Sir
Mount Vernon 19th Augt 1798.

The Mail of yesterday brought me your favour of the 13th Instant.
For the flattering compliment you have been pleased to make me, therein, you have all my gratitude and thanks.
With respect to the supposed injury done Mr George Izard, in the Organization of the New Corps of Artillery, I can say nothing,—1. because I had no knowledge of the arrangement, and 2. because I am unacquainted with the Plan by which the President was governed in his nominations. It would be uncandid however not to add that, on a general view of the subject I am unable to discover wherein any injustice has been done.
It is not unusual—on the contrary the practice (with very few

exceptions I believe) invariably is, that New Corps are brought in complete. They do not, for obvious reasons (among others the facility of raising them) resort to old ones for the Officers, except now & then to reward long or meritorious service, one or two may be introduced; and this as often proves injurious as beneficial, as the youngest Corps are first disbanded; and they, of consequence, thrown out of Service.
But Sir, if the principle under which Mr Izard thinks his son is aggrieved, was to obtain, what would be the consequence? It must apply in all cases similarly circumstanced, or it would be deemed, & justly, a partial measure. If then the Subalterns in the Old Corps of Artillery conceive that they are entitled to Companies in the New Corps, before new Captains should be appointed, would not the Subalterns of the four Infantry Regiments now in Service do the same with respect to the twelve additional Regiments of Infantry about to be raised? The Captns claim Majorities, and the Majors to be Colonels Commandant? ⟨&ca &ca⟩ Such a principle, were it adopted, would not fail to retard; if indeed not annihilate the Recruiting Service; But you will please to observe, my good Sir, that it is the general principle, not this particular case of Mr Izard, to which my remarks apply; although I must add, it is not so easy, in Military promotions, to make discriminations out of the usual routine, as may appear at first view.
Mr Izard, it is true, during the time he was at the Military Academy at Mentz was acquiring useful knowledge in the line of his Profession; but it is as true that, while he was absent the Subalterns of the Corps to which he belonged were performing all his tours of duty, than which few things give more discontent in an army.
That Mr Izard is an amiable and deserving young Gentleman I have not the smallest doubt, and I dare say would be an acquisition as an Aid de Camp, but as I shall have no occasion for Aids until I take the field, I shall make no establishment of my Military family (unless it be a Secretary) till that event shall arrive, or a period is fixed for it; then I shall endeavour to take a comprehensive view of characters that would suit me; unembarrassed by previous engagements; in doing which, a variety of circumstances must combine, many of them of more weight than gratifying the wishes of a friend, or my own inclinations.
Mrs Washington is thankful for the kind remembrance of her by Mrs Read and yourself, & unites with me in offering her best

wishes & compliments to you both—With great esteem ⟨& respect⟩ I am—Dear Sir Your most obedt Hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Bartholomew Dandridge, Jr., 20 August 1798
From: Dandridge, Bartholomew Jr.
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir,
The Hague 20 August 1798.

The increasing feebleness of my health rendering it impossible for me to discharge the duties of Secretary to Mr Murray in a manner which I can reconcile to myself, has induced me to come to a determination to return to America. I conceived it to be my duty, Sir, to inform you of this determination to quit a situation in wch your goodness had placed me; and a fear lest Mr Murray should, from his respect & esteem for you be willing to show me more indulgence & submit to inconveniencies which he other wise would not, his own health being very bad, had considerable weight with me in taking this resolution.
In quitting a sedentary life which from experience I find to agree so illy with me, it is my intention to try a more active one & I have pitched upon the army of the U. States as affording such; in which it is my wish to obtain a subaltern commission. Mr Murray, with whom I live in perfect harmony & confidence & who is a man of great worth, is so good as to write to The President, & to the Secretary of War (the last of whom is his most intimate friend & whose Nephew will probably be my successor) on this subject for me: he will also, Sir, write to you, showing I hope his approbation of my conduct since I have been with him.
My enquiries for a Joiner for you continue to be without success—& indeed if I were to find one it wd be difficult to transport him to you—as all communication from this country is quite at a stand except thro’ Hamburgh & England. With affecte regards to my Aunt, I beg you to accept my sincere esteem & attachment

B. Dandridge


Title: From George Washington to James McHenry, 20 August 1798
From: Washington, George
To: McHenry, James

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 20th Augt 1798.

I was very glad to find by your letter of the 13th instant that you had got well enough to resume your seat in the Office. On this circumstance I sincerely congratulate you.
You must know as much of Mr Hoops as I do, and have it more in your power to obtain correct information of his character & fitness for the place that is suggested; but from respect to Mr Morris, and in justice to Mr Hoops, I could not withhold the testimonial that is adduced in the enclosed letter from the former.
The devise (though not fixed) wch you have conceived for the

Colours ordered by Mrs Washington is appropriate, and wd answer I think very well. Mr Laws Box arrived safe. I am always and Affectionately—Yours

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Bushrod Washington, 20 August 1798
From: Washington, Bushrod
To: Washington, George

My Dear Uncle
Richmond Augt 20 [17]98

Your letter of the 12th inst. I duly recieved. Colo. Heth is very highly esteemed here by all men of respectability, who are not in opposite politics with himself. I have always heard him spoken of as a man of business, and as being both sober & prudent. Tho’ I do not believe that he has been favored with a very liberal education, I consider him as possessed of a very strong mind, and of extremely good talents. He is a firm friend of the government, and very sincerely (I believe,) attached to you. What I have said of him seems to be the general opinion of his friends & acquaintances here; I am tolerably intimate with him & concur in that opinion so far as my observations respecting him have extended.
I entirely concur in sentiments with you upon the subject which relates to Mr Nicholas and shall authorize his coming forward, provided he can to a certainty fix the fact upon the fictitious Langhorne—that is, he should be able to prove either that the letter was written by him, or that he acknowledged it to be so, or something which will as certainly establish that fact. To do this it might not perhaps be amiss, that you should send the letter to him or myself—if the hand writing can be proved, it will place the thing out of all doubt. Much good may result from a successful establishment

of this nefarious plot—the reverse might be the case if it were attempted & should miscarry. Believe me my dear Uncle most sincerely yr affect. Nephew

B. Washington

Gen. Marshall is very anxious to make you a visit this month & will do so if it be possible. If I can get away for a few days I will accompany him, but this is very uncertain.


Title: To George Washington from Bryan Fairfax, 21–23 August 1798
From: Fairfax, Bryan
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
London August the 21st[–23] 1798.

I wrote to You from Hampton Road rather a long Letter giving a detail of naval Occurrencies, and put the Letter into the Hands of the Pilot who promised to have it sent to Mt Vernon, and intended on my Arrival to go on with an Account of the same kind, but the night after my arrival I became so unwell & continued in such a State of Depression for many days that I was scarce able to write to my Wife who I suppose would be anxious to hear from me, and now I have waited a little longer after being somewhat mended in order to inform you of the Letters with which You were pleased to favor me, for which I again return you my sincere & grateful Thanks.
We went at last from Hampton Road to Lynnhaven Bay on the Sunday which was a Fortnight after our Arrival, under Convoy of the Constellation Frigate, and in company with ten or twelve Vessels of which one was a Brig of Force. There we had again to wait that night, & the next day & till 12 on tuesday on Accot of fresh water which the Frigate expected from Norfolk—We sailed then thro’ the Capes with a light wind as the fine fresh Breeze we had for five days began then to die away. It was pleasant sailing in such a company. The Light breezes with a small intermission of a calm lasted about 6 days with a smooth Sea, & fair. As well as I remember

on the 4th day the Frigate fired a Gun & took Leave. We were then so scattered that we did not hear the report of the Gun—Before & after the separation several Vessels at different times came athwart us & caused us to give an anxious Look at them, especially after the Separation, but they all appeared to be Americans, one of which spoke us. When we had been out a week the Wind freshened up like one of our Northwesters, and about Noon a large Ship crossed our Course some miles ahead for we were going right before the wind—She tacked, and then we judged that she intended to stop us—But I am taken with such a depression of spirits mixed with a degree of the Cholic, that I must break off for the present—
August the 22d—I was forced in the Evening to take some Laudanum before I could get quite eased of my Pain. I feel pretty well this morning—but I did not sleep the whole night.
I must resume my account, & abridge it, and write a little smaller for the sake of postage on both sides of the water, for it is 3/4 for a double Letter from hence to N. York.
When we found that the large Ship intended to stop us, we edged away towards her, and bringing to I found quite a new scene—that of boats passing from Ship to Ship at Sea. Our Mate went on board with the papers, and waiting a great while for his Return, we were told at length to make sail for the Commodore who with a Sloop was about 5 miles to Leeward—When we came up, our Captain went on board, and it was with difficulty he saved his Ship from being carried by the Squadron to Halifax, because of her being cleared out for Rotterdam—and nothing saved him but their having found a Bag of Letters hung over the Ship’s Bow ready to be cut away, when the Lieutenant came on board—On opening some of them they became convinced that the Ship was in fact bound to London & at length we were suffered to depart. The Letters of Passengers they did not enquire for or meddle with. After our Fleet from the Capes separated there were two & sometimes three which kept company with us for some days—But we being always the headmost Ship had lost sight of them the day before we were stop’d by the English Frigate. At that time whilst we were detained an hour or two some Vessels appearing to the westward the same Frigate was sent in chace, and she soon returned with two of our Comrades—& Captn Bl[ack] met with them on board the Commodore—There was no difficulty in respect to them—they being

cleared out for english ports—One of these was the Lexington of Alexandria who sailed after us from thence & with us from the Capes—and after this junction kept company till we had a Storm two or three days afterwards—we lost sight of her in the Storm & never saw her afterwards tho’ we sailed nearly with the same Speed. I find that I shall not be able to croud in what I shall have to write—Besides as this Letter will be directed to You Sir, it may be proper that it should have a Cover—and as to the Expence I know you don’t mind especially as it comes from a Friend who wishes to communicate what may be agreeable, so I shall write on in the rambling manner which I only am capable of at present. We had the Storm mentioned and afterwards two Gales—the rest of the Voyage was very good except that I was ill most of the way & was much distressed upon the whole. The last 5 or 6 days I kept my Bed altogether, and found a vast Benefit from it, on account of being out of the way of being exposed, so that I landed so well at Dover that I was enable in the Afternoon to proceed on to Canterbury, 16 Miles, where I was taken badly again, and continued so with intervals for some time, and even to the present moment, for I am again in pain—following the Advice of Doctr Hepperden & a neighbouring Apothecary. There is one living within two Doors, of the name of Wilson, and another named Griffith almost opposite to my Lodgings. My Neighbours & others open their windows now as I did at Mt Eagle, commonly one window in a Room hoisted about a Foot or two, even in hot weather; for it was mostly the Case in my Journey up from Dover when the Driver would dismount & walk up a rising sort of Hill to ease his horses on account of the excessive heat. I found it a very pleasant Country to pass thro’—fine Roads & scarce any Hills—Trees tho common in Hedges hardly to be seen in woods. I passed one place of a few Acres that put me in mind of Mt Vernon it was a Wilderness, but the Trees were rather thicker, and it always pleased me to see any thing that put me in mind of Virginia.
The Day after my Arrival at Charing cross or the next I waited on Mr King. He was then at Margate, and was expected in about a Fortnight. On a Ge[n]tleman’s telling me who seemed to be his Secretary that If I had any Letter or message for him that he would convey it safely—after some hesitation for I hardly Ever know what to do of a sudden I gave him your Letter to send—In something more than a Fortnight I went Again to Cumberland Place—When

I went first, I had not then fixed on any Lodgings which I mentioned on being asked my place of residence, and said I only then lodged at the Inn at Charing Cross—never expecting the Honor of a visit from Mr King especially before I had seen him again. When I went the second time I found he had been in Town and at Charing cross and was returned again into the Country not being able at the Inn to get sufficient intelligence where my Lodgings where. I have since received a civil Letter from Mr Munroe who I believe lives with him and on Mr King’s desire have promised to call on him again when I return from York where I am hastening to go to get a little breathing from Expences—For the Coach & chaise Hire will ruin me in my present State when I cannot walk.
The same day on which I first visited Mr King I also called on Sr St Sinclair who was down at Edinburgh. Your kind Lr of Introduction with the other Letters I left with his Agent who undertook to send them safely. Having parted with these Letters, tho’ the conveyance of the Post is reckoned safe, I was unwilling to part with every one which were of such value to me, and kept that for Mr Strickland ’till I should see him—and also that to Lord Buchan who was also in Scotland to whom I wrote with an Information that I had such a Letter & my Reasons for so doing. And Yesterday I had a very civil Letter from him, inviting me to reside with him while I stayd in Scotland if I should be well eno. hereafter to go there. He speaks of you in the highest terms, and to pay the more regard to your Recommendation He has sent me a Letter of Recommendation to his Sister Lady Anne Agnes Erkskine to introduce me to his Brother in Town who is one of the first Counsellors in Town. I have since my Arrival taken on me the Title of Lord Fairfax, which I should have done some years sooner had I known it was becoming to assume it & that it was not contrary to the American Constitution, and have been cordially received by such of my old Friends as are alive.
Before I Received this Letter I had been to consult Mr Erskine & take his advice how to proceed in a certain Business—For it has been suggested to me to enquire after a pretty large Estate which I had long heard was entailed—All the Heirs are dead—the last about 3 or 4 years—But I reckon upon nothing as yet—I have not yet seen Mr Erskine—going to see his Sister to day & him also & afterwards going to the Exchange for the first time cost me 8/.

The other day it cost me 20 to go 14 miles to dine at Enfield & return—At this place I was asked by two Ladies how old you were and when I said about 4 years older than myself, they said you were in the prime of Life, there is such a difference between the english constitutions and our’s. There were four in company, and I was the youngest—the master of the House was 75 and seemed hearty—He is German by Birth but a long resident in London, and a rich merchant I suppose by his fine Seat & country possessions—I have dined from home three times, and each time amongst three or four I was the youngest, except once there was one younger, but three others much older.
Your Letter to Lord Buchan has been of great Service in a particular I didn’t look for—His Sister is a religious character, so that I promise myself If I return here in the winter much satisfaction in her company—I am to be with her on Sunday and go with her to the chapel in the yard & spend the day with her. Perhaps it was Lady Huntingdon’s chaple—as the House was hers—You were much spoken of today & some mention made as if you had corresponded with Lady Huntingdon—I understand that you are much esteem’d in this country—I don’t mention it as a thing you wish to hear, for it is what you don’t seek after nor ever did, blessed with that Popularity which follows a man’s actions without being sought after.
Mrs Washington’s Letter on my first arrival with two others of my Sons I put into the Hands of Mr Athawes who corresponds with her—& could forward it much sooner that I could, for I was not able to find a Post-Office or go to it.
Now at the End of the third day I bring my Letter to a close. My Lodgins are in Bedfd street Covent Garden No. 13. But if you should favor me with a Line, one Directed to Mr Joseph Beevers or his Care, Martin’s Lane Cannon Street would come to Hand, for Mr Athawes has quitted Business and chiefly resides in the Country. With my best respects to Mrs Washington & Family and loving regards to Yourself I am Dear Sir Your most obliged and obedt Servt

Fairfax

August the 23d 1798
I promised to write to Doctr Craik but having been three days about this I must postpone it. I forgot to mention that we had four

weeks passage—A fast sailing ship overtook us about 3 days before we made the Land that had been but 17 days from Salem. She seemed chacing us for some hours; and must have sailed about the time that our light Breezes became fresh—for We had a fair wind every foot of the way, even into Dover Pier, except 3 hours or so the first day.


Title: To George Washington from Alexander Addison, 22 August 1798
From: Addison, Alexander
To: Washington, George

Sir
Washington [Pa.] 22d August 1798

I had the honour of yours of 9th ulto. I am perfectly satisfied with your demand of interest because though what is called compound interest is not recoverable in a Court of Justice I have always thought it ought to be. But as the interest of others was concerned I thought it my duty to submit it to your consideration and at the same time to be guided by your decision. I annex an account that stated I have no doubt of your title to the land nor does James Reid set up his title against yours—The only question is whether Charles Morgan in his last survey has not gone beyond the original lines. If he has not all is safe. If he has we must be governed by your original lines. The difference I know will be triffling—I think it impossible that it should be ten acres. Your patent is for 2813 acres. Charles Morgan’s last survey contains 2955 acres and for that Col. Ritchie agreed to give 4 Dollars per acre which is

11820 in the whole in four yearly payments with interest paid at the date of each payment on the whole sum then unpaid. Three thousand dollars haveing been paid at the date of the first payment the other payments exclusive of interest were reduced to 2940 which sum with one years interest on that and the remaining payment was due on 1st June last. I beg you will believe there is no wish to occasion any trouble to you though I regret that the punctuality has not been such as I could wish. Though the executor, I have not the management of Col. Ritchie’s affairs generally. His brother has given me reason to believe that your money will be paid speedily. I have shown Mr Ross your letter. We will make arrangements with Charles Morgan to ascertain the lines.
I will mention to you that we had a prospect of almost certainly turning out Mr Gallatin. But Mr Brackenridge who hates Mr Woods set up against Mr Gallatin has had the address to persuade Col. Nevil (who has weakly consented) to be a candidate. The consequence is a division of the Federal interest and unless Col. Nevile decline Mr Gallatin will probably be re-elected. I have the honour to be with the greatest respect Your Most Obedt Servt

Alexr Addison


Title: To George Washington from G. W. Snyder, 22 August 1798
From: Snyder, G. W.
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Frederick-Town (Maryland) Augt 22. 1798.

You will, I hope, not think it a Presumption in a Stranger, whose Name, perhaps never reached your Ears, to address himself to you the Commanding General of a great Nation. I am a German, born and liberally educated in the City of Heydelberg in the Palatinate of the Rhine. I came to this Country in 1776, and felt soon after my Arrival a close Attachment to the Liberty for which these confederated States then struggled. The same Attachment still remains not glowing, but burning in my Breast. At the same Time that I am exulting in the Measures adopted by our Government, I feel myself elevated in the Idea of my adopted Country. I am attached both from the Bent of Education and mature Enquiry and Search to the simple Doctrines of Christianity, which I have the Honor to teach in Public; and I do heartily despise all the Cavils of Infidelity. Our present Time, pregnant with the most shocking Evils and Calamities, threatens Ruin to our Liberty and Goverment. Secret, the most secret Plans are in Agitation: Plans, calculated to ensnare the Unwary, to attract the Gay and irreligious, and to entice even the Well-disposed to combine in the general Machine for overturning all Government and all Religion.
It was some Time since that a Book fell into my Hands entituled “Proofs of a Conspiracy &c. by John Robison,” which gives a full Account of a Society of Freemasons, that distinguishes itself by the Name “of Illuminati,” whose Plan is to overturn all Government and all Religion, even natural; and who endeavour to eradicate every Idea of a Supreme Being, and distinguish Man from Beast by his Shape only. A Thought suggested itself to me, that some of the Lodges in the United States might have caught the Infection, and might cooperate with the Illuminati or the Jacobine Club in France. Fauchet is mentioned by Robison as a zealous Member: and who can doubt of Genet and Adet? Have not these their Confidants in this Country? They use the same Expressions and are generally Men of no Religion. Upon serious Reflection I was led to think that it might be within your Power to prevent the horrid Plan from corrupting the Brethren of the English Lodge over which you preside.
I send you the “Proof of a Conspiracy &c.” which, I doubt not, will give you Satisfaction and afford you Matter for a Train of

Ideas, that may operate to our national Felicity. If, however, you have already perused the Book, it will not, I trust, be disagreeable to you that I have presumed to address you with this Letter and the Book accompanying it. It proceeded from the Sincerity of my Heart and my ardent Wishes for the common Good.
May the Supreme Ruler of all Things continue You long with us in these perilous Times: may he endow you with Strength and Wisdom to save our Country in the threatening Storms and gathering Clouds of Factions and Commotions! and after you have completed his Work on this terrene Spot, may He bring you to the full Possession of the glorious Liberty of the Children of God, is the hearty and most sincere Wish of Your Excellency’s very humble and devoted Servant

G. W. Snyder


Title: To George Washington from David Stuart, 22 August 1798
From: Stuart, David
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir,
Hope-Park Aug: 22nd 1798

Inclosed I return you the two letters you sent up for my perusal —I was unexpectedly called down the last week, to visit my Father, whose life at present hangs by the merest thread—When about to set off, Washington expressed a great desire of attending me to the neighbourhood, to see his friend Needham —and obtained his Mother’s consent. This perhaps furnished me with a better opportunity of sifting his sentiments, than I should otherwise have had—In conversation with his mother respecting his seriousness, he declared, he had no cause for it, and that his mind was perfectly easy—he repeated the same to me in the course of our journey—I allowed him to spend the chief of his time with his friend, who appears to me to be a respectable young man—

Thinking he might unfold himself more fully to him, I took an opportunity of asking him, in what manner he spoke of his disappointment with Miss Jennings, and whether there was no danger of his passion being rekindled, if he should return; he assured me that he thought there was not the least chance of it, that he spoke of it to him as a happy escape, and that nothing should induce him to renew his attempts —He allso observed, that Washington had mentioned to him that he should return to Annapolis agreeably to the opinion of his friends—His Mother fearfull of his falling into the same snare again, had thought it best for him not to return. I am induced to think, the observation in his letter to you about not returning, proceeded from something of the sort which might fall from her, when she saw him at Marlborough. Upon this head, she seems now to be convinced as I confess I am, there will be no danger—But at the same time, I must acknowledge it to be my opinion, from many conversations I have had with him brought on in different ways, that it is in meer conformity to the opinion of his friends that he will go, and that it is far from being his inclination. It appeared most obviously, in the last conversation we had on the subject of his studies, and his manner of pursuing them. I was observing to him the great importance of his acquiring the French, the excellent opportunity he had of doing it, and that he should not content himself with the short time allotted for it with his tutor, but attend to it by himself in his room—He observed with much coldness, that it would be all useless, as he should forget it all immediately—Being much hurt at it, I dropped the conversation—Allowing me to be right in this opinion I know not what to recommend—A child may be forced on to things contrary to his inclinations, and I hold it proper to do it, but I doubt, whether this method be proper or likely to be attended with good effects at Washington’s age.
It was my intention to have called at Mt Vernon on my return; but hearing at the Post-office, that a letter which I supposed to be from King (as it proved) had been sent up to me I hurried home—Tho’ it is dated the 12th it does not appear he had then recieved my letter directing him to send up the corn to you—As I never remember to have had a letter to him, to miscarry, I hope to recieve an answer by the return of Joe—Tho’ for fear of it, I have written again to him—I think you may calculate certainly on recieving the quantity you wished, as it appears from his letter that he had

not recieved an answer from Norfolk, and consequently could not have made a contract for it before he would recieve my letter. I shall inform you the moment I can hear from him.
Col: Orr from Kentucky whom I saw in Alexa. informs me, that the sentiments of the people of that State are nearly entirely changed from what they were—As his appear to be so, I hope the account may be relied on. I am Dr Sir, with great respect Your Obt & affecte Servt

Dd Stuart


Title: To George Washington from Henry Knox, 26 August 1798
From: Knox, Henry
To: Washington, George

My dear sir
Boston Augt 26 1798

In your welcome and much esteemed favor of the 9th I recognise fully all the substantial friendship and kindness which I have always so invariably experienced from you.
My letter of the 29th ultimo was written under a pressure of various ideas, all sharp’ned by a strong sense of the comparison which had been publickly made between others and myself and in consequence the inferior station which appeared to have been intended to be assigned to me.
Since my former letter I think I have ascertained, satisfactorily to myself the manner or origin of the estimation of the transcendent military talents of Colonel Hamilton. The opinions formed on that head may be entirely accurate. It may be highly fortunate for our Country that such an estimate had been formed. I hope in God it will be so. For I love my Country and shall ever rejoice in its prosperity.
I have ever been upon friendly terms with General Hamilton and I have always really flattered myself with his esteem and affection.
The single point of regret which I at present feel, is that as it had been intended by some that Hamilton and Pinckney should have

had the precedence of me, that it was not so declared at the time of the nomination in the manner that the Major and Brigadiers General were designated in 1775, to wit first, second &c. This would have precluded all discussion, and a simple negative on my part, would have disincumbered the service of any claims of mine.
But the secretary of War in notifying me of the appointment says, “It may be proper to mention that the nominations to the Senate, for the General officers, of the established and provisional Army were presented on the same day, and in the order in which they appear in the annexed list. And that in registering them in the department the same order will be observed.”
I do not perceive that this decides in the least degree the point of precedence. It will require some other act of the Executive. The rules would decide in favor of former rank. And indeed if a special interference should take effect in the present case, if a power exists for that purpose so as to render dormant the laws on this subject, yet they must be again immediately revived for the adjustment of the relative situations of all the officers about to be called into service.
It would appear further that the laws permit only four Major Generals, and Genl Hamilton is not one of the four. Whether it be proper that the incidental rank attached to the Inspectorship shall be superior to the rank actually possessed with the command, is to be determined by authority.
It is certainly far from my intention to embarrass or to force myself unbidden into a station designed for another—It is neither my nature nor practice to excite dissension. I shall therefore submit to any proper authority: But if an invasion shall take place I shall deeply regret all circumstances which would insuperably bar my having an active command in the field. But if such a measure should be my destiny, I shall fervently petition, to serve as one of your aides de Camp, which with permission I shall do with all the cordial devotion, and attachment of which my soul is capable. I am my dear Sir with entire attachment and respect Your obedient Servant

H. Knox


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Peter, 27 August 1798
From: Washington, George
To: Peter, Thomas

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 27th Augt 1798.

I am much as you left me yesterday—Weak, but (I hope) gathering strength.
You have a receipt, at the foot of your A/c for the money paid me yesterday—In the one sent you some time ago to be forwarded to Mr Veatch it was mentioned that the 18/9 was to be charged to the A/c of Chas McDeavitt.
Doctr Thorntons plan is returned with thanks; our love to Patsy

& the Children; to Mrs Law also—with hopes of her perfect recovery. I am—Yr aff[ectionat]e

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Bushrod Washington, 27 August 1798
From: Washington, George
To: Washington, Bushrod

My dear Bushrod,
Mount Vernon 27th Augt 1798.

At the time your letter of the 20th instant (with others) was brought to this place, I was not in a situation to acknowledge the receipt of it: and no Post has happened since, by which I could do it. That of tomorrow, of which I shall avail myself, will be the first which offers.
On the 18th at night, I was siezed with a fever; of which I took little notice until the 21st; when I was obliged to call for the aid of Medicine; & with difficultly a remission thereof was so far effected, as to dose me all night on thursday, with Bark: wch, having stopped it, & weakness only remaining, will soon wear off; as my appetite is returning.
I learnt with much pleasure from the P.S. to your letter, of General Marshall’s intentions to make me a visit. I wish it of all things. and it is from the ardent desire I have to see him, that I have not delayed a moment to express it; lest, if he should have intended it on his way to Frederick, & hear of my Indisposition, he might change his route.
I can add with sincerity and truth, that if you can make it to comport with your business, I should be exceedingly happy to see you along with him. The Crisis is important. The temper of the People of this State in many (at least in some) places, are so violent and outrageous, that I wish to converse with Genl Marshall & yourself on the Elections which must soon come on.
The fictitious letter of John Langhorne may be had at any time. I do not send it now, because if you come up it will do then; and we will let Genl Marshall into the whole business, & advise with him

thereon. for good or evil must flow from Mr N—ch—s’ attempt, according to his establishment of facts. Present my best wishes to Genl Marshall; My love (in which your aunt unites) to Nancy; and believe me to be—always—Your Most Affecte

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Peter, 28 August 1798
From: Washington, George
To: Peter, Thomas

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 28th Augt 1798

Just as I was on the point of sending the letter which covers this note, to the Post Office, Mr Law came in; I therefore detained it, for his conveyance; & hearing of some very extravagant—indeed almost incredible prices of Tobacco shipped to London (for instance three hundred & ninety odd pounds paid for five hogsheads) I have been disposed if my Six hogsheads (when the last is made of sufft weight) are not sold, & are yet perfectly at my command, to become an adventurer in that way if there is an opportunity of doing so; of which, & whether it is still my option, you will be so good as to advise me: until which I need only add that I am—Dear Sir Yr Affecte Servant

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Tobias Lear, 30 August 1798
From: Washington, George
To: Lear, Tobias

Dear Sir,
Thursday night 30th. Augt. 1798.

I have, at length, received the President’s answer (through the Secretary of War) to my request to be allowed a Secretary, who

gives it as his opinion that I have an undoubted right to one, or all of my military family, if I find it convenient, and that their pay &c. will be allowed.
And the Secretary having thrown a mass of Papers upon me which I have not looked into (being this moment arrived) I should be glad if you would now come & take your station. Yrs. always & Affectly.


Title: To George Washington from Alexander Spotswood, 30 August 1798
From: Spotswood, Alexander
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Newpost Augt 30 1798.

Mrs Spotswood, myself and Daughter was much pleased on being inform’d last Saturday morning by Mr Herbert—that yr feever had abated—& by this we hope you begin to feel once more the Establishment of yr health.
My Sons overseer—declines entering into Bussiness—aledgeing that his health will not permit him to do Justice to his employer.
My Overseer Roger Farril Says he will Serve you—for £50 pr Annum—& the usual allowance of provission that you give yr overseers—he is a very capable Man—a good corn Maker—Sows grain Well, a good scythesman—and does bussiness Quick—his only faults are—Not paying Sufficient attention, to his pasture fence and Stocks.
and the principal reason for my not Keeping him—is owing to his having many connections—and acquaintances near him—who frequently on there return from fredericksburg Call on him—which not only draws of his attention from my bussiness—but I suppose occasions Some of my grain to be consumed by there horses—On the whole I think he may be Sd to be a good overseer.
The man I recommended for yr house overseer lives 40 Miles from this—& the Joiner 18—I will write to them immediately & give you as Speedy an answer as possible.
My family desires to be presented in the most respectful & affectionate Manner to you Mrs Washington & Miss Custis—as well as dear ⟨Sir⟩ Yr Most Obt & Affe. Hb. st

A. Spotswood


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Peter, 1 September 1798
From: Washington, George
To: Peter, Thomas

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 1st Sep. [17]98

Your letter of the 29th Ulto came duly to hand.
I had no expectation of getting such a price as I mentioned to you in my last, for the little Tobacco I possess: but rather than take 7 a 10$ pr hundred, I would (as it has been obtained without any

advance of Cash) ship it, and run the hazard of a foreign Market. But you have not informed me whether there be, at George Town, any Vessell that would receive it on Consignment—whither bound—&ca—All of which are necessary to be known before I can finally decide whether to Ship or sell. I am gathering strength—and with best regards, I remain Your Affectionate

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 1 September 1798
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Trenton [N.J.] Septr 1. 1798.

By William Craig Esqr. who left this place on the 22d ult. I remitted you fifteen hundred dollars, and left in Philadelphia two hundred dollars for Colo. C. Biddle; receipts are inclosed for both sums, being the seventeen hundred dollars paid me by Judge Addison for you. I gave the Judge my receipt for the same. I have the honor to be with great respect, sir, your most obt servt

Timothy Pickering.


Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 1 September 1798
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Washington, George

(Private)
Sir,Trenton [N.J.] Septr 1. 1798.
On the 16th of July I was honoured with your answer of the 11th to my letter of the 6th respecting the appointment of General Officers for the New American Army; and was afterwards happy in seeing in the arrangement brought by the Secretary of War from Mount Vernon, that Colo. Hamilton’s name occupied the station in which the public voice, anticipating your opinion, had placed him. Before the nominations were published as far as New-York, I received a letter from Mr Jay expressing the like solicitude (arising from the like impression in respect to the impending war) which I had previously manifested in my letter to you, that an elevated station might be assigned to Colo. Hamilton. Indeed every public man (the President excepted) whom I have heard mention the subject, has expressed the same sentiment—that no officer ought to intervene between you and Colo. Hamilton. Your observations relative to General Pinckney’s claims struck me forcibly: yet I entertained no doubt that his eminent patriotism joined with the very high and sincere respect which I know he feels towards you, would determine his hearty acquiescence in your arrangement. You were silent respecting General Knox: indeed he was never named, in my hearing, by any body (the President always excepted) as a competitor with Colo. Hamilton. I used to suppose them connected by the most intimate friendship; and imagined that this circumstance would have contributed to produce in General Knox a ready consent to serve in a grade subordinate to that of Colo. Hamilton, whose superior eminence of talents were as well known to him as to all the gentlemen of their acquaintance. To my surprize, I found General Knox extremely averse, and indeed apparently determined not to submit to this arrangement. This I first learnt from his answer to a letter I wrote him at the request of a young gentleman who wished to be one of his aids de camp. He seemed decided rather to withhold his services from his country, at such an important crisis. I am confident that this will not do him any honor in the estimation of his friends. I regret this event, for I wish General Knox to be in the service; altho’ I by no means should consider his absence, as I should Colo. Hamilton’s, an irreparable loss. This disinclination, and as it seems to me

determination, of Genl Knox rather to renounce the service than yield the higher grade to Colo. Hamilton, does not very well comport with the tender he made of his services to the President, in his letter of the 26th of June, which is lodged in the War-Office.
After some just tho’ pretty obvious remarks on the conduct of the French, and the kind of war they will wage against us; and on the high importance of the immediate organization of an army, he says—“Whoever you should please to appoint as the immediate commanding officer of the provisional* army, you will I am persuaded contemplate General Washington as the efficient Commander in Chief.”—“After saying so much, I should lose all self-respect were I not to say, that if there be any sort of service to which my humble abilities should be judged equal, that I should faithfully and ardently endeavour to execute it; believing as I do, that the occasion will demand the labours of all the friends of their country to defend its rights & liberties against the all devouring rapacity of the French Rulers.”
With such professions, a punctilious adherence to rank, as arranged in another army and another war does not very well comport. And how extensive will be its consequences? If such former rank is to be the criterion of the grades now proper and necessary to be conferred, what numbers of old officers must precede Colo. Hamilton? and how many must command Generals Pinckney & Lee? The simple fact is, that the army contemplated is a new army; that the officers appointed and to be appointed for it, were and are simple citizens; and consequently that the power which constitutionally selects them from the whole mass of citizens, may rightfully choose one and leave another, and give to the persons chosen such stations as their respective qualifications shall indicate as most beneficial to their country. Can there be any question of the right of the Executive wholly to omit General Knox or any other officer of the former army? Yes, if Genl Knox’s present pretensions are founded. And accordingly the President has expressed his opinion that Genl Knox has a “legal right” to precede Colo. Hamilton. And Genl Knox appeals to a principle adopted in the former army, That where officers were named the same day to a new grade, he who should be last in the list of nominations, if his prior rank were elder than that of the others, would of course command them all, in the new grade. And doubtless it is this principle, urged to the President by Genl Knox, that has called forth the opinion of his

“legal right,” as above mentioned. But the principle does not apply to a new army, at its original formation. For 15 years there has been a discontinuance of offices and services: & if the principle contended for by Genl Knox were valid, then, carrying it a little further, not only all officers of the revolutionary war, who shall be again called into service, must take their former relative ranks, but they must have a right to require the Executive to call them into service, and to assign them those former relative ranks. For General Knox’s claim rests on the idea of continued station in a certain rank, and of degradation if a once junior officer supercedes him: and if this idea of a continuance of grade is admitted, then, as I before remarked, all other old officers may insist on not being dropped, or discontinued without their own consent: that is, they may require being called forth again in their former relative rank.
The President can have taken but an imperfect view of the question. He has said, Let the order be, Knox, Pinckney, Hamilton: But by the rule to which Genl Knox appeals, seeing General Hand was named and appointed on the same day, and in the former war had the rank of Brigadier General, he consequently must precede Pinckney who was only a colonel, and Hamilton & Lee who were only lieutenant colonels.
The plain result is, that in forming the new army we must resort to simple and original principles. All the gentlemen in question, prior to the late nomination, were mere citizens, equal in their rights, and to be distinguished only by their talents and virtues: and talents and virtues are the only legitimate criterions by which to determine the new stations in which they can most advantageously serve their country. Of this the Candidates would act becomingly if they left others to judge. The President who has the right to decide as well as to judge, has pronounced his opinion in favour of Genl Knox: but fortunately this opinion is not to be decisive; it is submitted to your opinion; and without your consent, the President did not propose to change (however earnestly he wished it) the order in which you placed the names of Hamilton, Pinckney & Knox, and in which they were nominated and approved by the Senate. The President has expressed his opinion that the “Five New England States” would be more than disgusted were Hamilton to precede Knox: But the President is certainly mistaken. I am fully persuaded that in all New England there is not a man of information who would hesitate to give the precedency to Hamilton. Of all the Senators

and Representatives in Congress from New England whose opinions I have heard, not one ever entertained the idea that Colo. Hamilton should be second to any but you: So far from it, that if the New England Senators had anticipated the present embarrassment, I perfectly believe they would have passed upon Col. Hamilton’s nomination, and adjourned till the next day before they decided on the others.
In answering a letter to Judge Peters, this week, I mentioned the embarrassment which is the subject of this long detail. Last evening I received his answer. On this point he thus expresses himself. “You and I know our old Friend Genl Knox. I always suspected he would kick at the order of the appointments. Every body else is pleased with it. I mean every body whose opinions are unprejudiced. I have always been gratified by the order of appointment; because Colo. Hamilton is the only one fit to succeed the Commander in Chief. But altho’ I do not wish to lose the Malcontent, who has many excellent points, yet I think even this ought to be risqued, rather than alter the grades.” This last sentence of Judge Peters’s contains a handsomer compliment to Genl Knox than I ever heard expressed by a New-England man. My countrymen, it is well known, are attached to economy in the expenditure of money; and Genl Knox they think has no idea of that useful & necessary quality. For this reason, and because they know his talents admit but of a distant comparison with Colo. Hamilton’s, they would deprecate his being placed second in command.
It is uncertain whether Colo. North will accept the office of Adjutant General. If he declines, the President is “ready to appoint a better man”: whom I know not: perhaps Harry Jackson or Cobb. The latter I esteem: the former is not entitled either to respect or esteem: but they are the particular friends of General Knox, who I know is apt to make very erroneous estimates of his particular friends. He has just recommended to the Secretary of war his old aid de-camp, Captain Lilley, for a field officer—altho’ as I have for several years been credibly informed, he is sottish. Colo. William Heth of Virginia is a perfectly upright and accurate man, of good sense, and an excellent military officer. I think he would fill the office of Adjutant General with honor to himself and his country. I think him preferable to Colo. North. Mr Dayton I imagined would have executed the office with ability. The Senate were, to their honor, nearly unanimous in negativing Colo. Wm S. Smith—

he had but two votes in his favour. The President did not know that he was a bankrupt in fame as well as fortune. He has effectually concealed his swindling transactions from his father-in-law, who believes him sound in morals and a great military character the two opinions are alike incorrect.
Thus, sir, I have troubled you with a tedious detail, and have no other apology than my solicitude as a citizen of the United States, devoted to the advancement of their interest and welfare, to see that interest and welfare made sure by the appointment of the fittest characters to the most important stations in the army. I have spoken with a freedom which in any other than a confidential letter to one who feels the like solicitude for his country’s safety, might be thought indecorous in relation to the first officer in the Union: but altho’ I respect the President for many great and excellent qualities, I cannot respect his errors, his prejudices or his passions. And I have been plain and explicit, that you might be fully apprized of the mischief which your opinion & influence alone can avert. I have the honor to be, most respectfully, sir, your obedient servant,

Timothy Pickering

*The act for augmenting the army with 12 regiments &c. did not pass till July 16.


Title: From George Washington to John McDowell, 2 September 1798
From: Washington, George
To: McDowell, John

Sir,
Mount Vernon 2d Sepr 1798

Your favour of the 13th Ulto with the accounts, came duly to hand; and I thank you for the trouble you have had in paying and taking receipts therefor. The small balance of £1.3.5½ may, if you please, be given to Mr Custis.
It was my intention to have written fully to you by the return of this young Gentleman to College, but the debilitated state into which I have been thrown by a fever, with which I was siezed on the 18th & could procure no remission of until the 25th past, renders writing equally irksome & improper.
Were the case otherwise, I should, I confess, be at a loss to point out any precise course of study for Mr Custis. My views with respect to him, have already been made known to you, & therefore it is not necessary to repeat them on this occasion; but it is not merely, what the best course is, for him to pursue, that requires consideration; but such an one as he can be induced to pursue; & will contribute to his improvement, and the object in view. In directing the first, to these objects, a Gentleman of your literature, discernment & knowledge of the world, would be at no loss, without any suggestions of mine, if there was as good a disposition to receive, as there are talents to acquire knowledge: but as there seems to be in this youth an unconquerable indolance of temper; a dereliction in fact to all study, it must rest with you to lead him, in the best manner, and by the easiest modes you can devise, to the study of such useful acquirements as may be serviceable to himself, and eventually, beneficial to his Country, hereafter.
French, from having become in a manner the universal language, I wished him to be Master of; but I do not find, from enquiry, that he has made much progress in the study of it. Some of the practical branches of Mathematics, particularly Surveying—he ought, possessing a good deal of landed property, to be well acquainted with, as he may have frequent occasions for the exercise of that Art.
I have already exceeded the limits I had prescribed to myself when I began this letter, but I will trespass yet a little more, while I earnestly entreat that you will examine him, as often as you can make it convenient, yourself; and admonish him seriously of his omissions & defects; and prevent as much as it can be done without

too rigid a restraint, a devotion of his time to visitations of the families in Annapolis; which, when carried to excess—or beyond a certain point, can not fail to unhing his mind from study, & turn his thoughts to very different objects. Above all, let me request, if you should perceive any appearance of his attaching himself, by visits or otherwise, to any young lady of that place, that you would admonish him against the measure on account of his youth, and incapability of appreciating all the requisites for a connection, which in the common course of things, can terminate with the death of one of the parties only; and, if it is done without effect, to advise me thereof.
If in his reading he was to make common place notes, as is usual; copy them fair & shew them to you—two good purposes would be answered by it: 1. you would see with what judgment they were done; and 2. it might be a mean to improve his hand writing, which requires nothing but care & attention to render it good. At present, all of his writing that I have seen, is a hurried scribble, as if to get to the end speedily, was the sole object of writing. With very great esteem & regard I am Sir Your obedt Hble Servt

Go: Washington

P.S. Knowledge in Book keeping is essential to all who are under the necessity of keeping A/cts.


Title: From George Washington to Edmund Jennings Lee, 3 September 1798
From: Washington, George
To: Lee, Edmund Jennings

Monday Sept. 3d [17]98.

General Washington presents his compliments to Mr Edmund Lee, and requests the pleasure of his company to dine today with Genl Marshall and Mr Bd Washington.


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Peter, 3 September 1798
From: Peter, Thomas
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
George Town 3d Septr 1798

Your favor of the 1st came duly to hand.
I am sorry I did not put the proper construction on that part of your Letter where you required me to advise whether there be any Vessell that would take Tobacco in on Consignment, & where bound; Since your last I have made inquiry & find three Vessells Loading at this port on Consignment, their Cargo’s are all made up & not a Hhd can be got in them. But Mr Carlton of this place is Loading a Ship at Alexa. on Consignment to his Friends in London, Wilson & Potts put about two Hundred Hhds in her to them, he Ships himself nearly the same quantity—her Cargo is made up to about 50 hhds & he desires me to inform you he shall be happy of a Consignment to his House in London, the Freight & Primage is 5 Guanies Pr Hhd. She is an Armed Vessell & therefore Expects the Insuran[c]e will be much Lower on that a/c.
I am happy to hear you are geathering Strength, I hope it will not be long before your Usual Strength & Health returns—Patty & myself were to see Mrs Law Yesterday, she is still weak & has not left her Room—Our best respects to Mrs Washn, yourself, Nelly, Washn &ca & I am Dear sir your Affectionate Servt

Thomas Peter

N.B. Mr Carlton will make you an Advance of £15 Stg ⅌ hhd & have your Tobacco insured with his to Recover what you will please to pay in case of Loss, Please Let me know by the return post if you Ship with him as at present he keeps a burth open untill thursday. T.P.


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Peter, 4 September 1798
From: Washington, George
To: Peter, Thomas

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 4th Sep. 1798

Your letter of yesterdays date was received last night; & I consent to Ship the 4 Hhds of Tobacco which I have in the Warehouses at George Town, & the 2 at Nanjemoy, in Mr Carltons Ship, & to his friends in London; supposing them to be good men—for they are strangers to me.
I shall rely on him to order Insurance thereon. The freight & Primage seems high, but if it is paid by Messrs Wilson & Potts I can not expect it for less, presuming I am not charged more.
I require no advance on the Tobo, but when the proceeds are known, I may draw for it in Goods. I am always your friend and affectionate Servt

Go: Washington