Title: From George Washington to Francis Hopkinson, 16 May 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Hopkinson, Francis

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon May 16th 1785

In for a penny, in for a pound, is an old adage. I am so hackneyed to the touches of the Painters pencil, that I am now altogether at their beck, and sit like patience on a Monument whilst they are delineating the lines of my face.

It is a proof among many others, of what habit & custom can effect. At first I was as impatient at the request, and as restive under the operation, as a Colt is of the Saddle—The next time, I submitted very reluctantly, but with less flouncing. Now, no dray moves more readily to the Thill, than I do to the Painters Chair. It may easily be conceived therefore that I yielded a ready obedience to your request, and to the views of Mr Pine.
Letters from England, recommendatory of this Gentleman, came to my hand previous to his arrival in America—not only as an Artist of acknowledged eminence, but as one who had discovered a friendly disposition towards this Country—for which, it seems, he had been marked.
It gave me pleasure to hear from you—I shall always feel an interest in your happiness—and with Mrs Washingtons compliments, & best wishes joined to my own, for Mrs Hopkinson & yourself, I am—Dr Sir, Yr Most Obedt & Affecte Hble Servant

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Richard Sprigg, 18 May 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Sprigg, Richard

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 18th May 1785.

I received the Grass-seeds which you sent me sometime since, & thank you for them.
This Letter will be handed to you by Mr Pine, an Artist of acknowledged eminence; who, whilst it is yet possible is endeavouring to secure faithful representations of some of the interesting events of this War—As he proposes to take Annapolis on

his way to Philadelphia I pray you to allow me the liberty of introducing him to your civilities  at the sametime that I assure you of the esteem & regard with which I am Dr Sir—Yr Most Obedt Hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Nathanael Greene, 20 May 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Greene, Nathanael

My Dr Sir,
Mount Vernon 20th May 1785.

After a long & boisterous passage, my Nephew G.A. Washington returned to this place a few days since, & delivered me your letter of the 25th of April.
Under the state of the case between you & Capt: Gun, I give it as my decided opinion that your honor & reputation will not only stand perfectly acquited for the non-acceptance of his challenge, but that your prudence & judgment would have been condemnable for accepting of it, in the eyes of the world: because if a commanding officer is amenable to private calls for the discharge of public duty, he has a dagger always at his breast, & can turn neither to the right nor to the left without meeting its point; in a word, he is no longer a free Agent in office, as there are few military decisions which are not offensive to one party or the other.
However just Capt: Guns claim upon the public might have been, the mode adopted by him (according to your accot) to obtain it, was to the last degree dangerous. A precedent of the sort once established in the army, would no doubt have been followed; & in that case would unquestionably have produced a revolution; but of a very different kind from that which, happily for America, has prevailed.
It gives me real concern to find by your letter, that you are still embarrassed with the affairs of Banks: I should be glad to hear, that the evil is likely to be temporary only—ultimately, that you will not suffer. From my Nephews account, this man has participated of the qualities of Pandora’s box, & has spread as

many mischiefs. How came so many to be taken in by him? If I recollect right, when I had the pleasure to see you last, you said an offer had been made you of backlands, as security or payment in part for your demand—I then advised you to accept it—I now repeat it. you cannot suffer by doing this, altho’ the lands may be high rated. If they are good I would almost pledge myself that you will gain more in ten years by the rise in the price, than you could by accumulation of interest.
The Marqs de la Fayette is safe arrived in France, & found his Lady & family well. From his letters, those of the Chevr de la Luzerne, Count de Rochambeau & others to me, dated between the middle & last of Feby, I think there will be no war in Europe this year, but some of the most intelligent of these writers are of opinion that the Emperial Court & Russia, will not suffer matters to remain tranquil much longer. The desire of the first to annex the Dutchy of Bavaria to its dominions in exchange for the Austrian possessions in the Netherlands, is very displeasing, it seems, to the military powers, which added to other matters may kindle the flames of a general war.
Few matters of domestic nature are worth the relation; otherwise I might inform you, that the plan for improving & extending the navigation of this river has met a favourable beginning. Tuesday last was the day appointed by Law for the subscribers to meet—250 shares were required by law to constitute and incorporate the company: but, upon comparing the Books, it was found that between four & five hundred shares were subscribed. What has been done respecting the navigation of James river I know not—I fear little.
This State did a handsome thing, & in a handsome manner for me; in each of these navigations they gave me, & my heirs forever, fifty shares: but as it is incompatible with my principles, & contrary to my declarations, I do not mean to accept of them. But how to refuse them, without incurring the charge of disrespect to the Country on the one hand, and an ostentatious display of disinterestedness on my part on the other, I am a little at a loss: time & the good advice of my friends must aid me, as the Assembly will not meet ’till Octor, & made this gratuitous offer among, if not the last act of the last Session, as if they were determined I should not resolve what to do from the first impulse. Mrs Washington joins me in every good wish for you, &

with sentiments of attachment & regard, I am my Dr Sir Yr affte friend &c.

G: Washington


Title: To George Washington from John Harvie, 20 May 1785
From: Harvie, John
To: Washington, George

Sir
Land office [Richmond] May 20th 1785

When I last Wrote to you I did not Recollect of any Survey being in the Land office for the Round Bottom, except the One upon which your Grant Issued  but upon looking over the Caveat Book, I find a Survey for this Tract of Land return’d by the Heirs of Michael Cresup decd—and claim’d under a Certificate for Settlement made in the year 1771—Van Swearingen enter’d a Caveat against their Survey, which Caveat was dismiss’d during the Sessions of the last General Court, wherefore a Grant will shortly issue to the Heirs of Cresup—as you have already a title to this Land I should Suppose a Subsequent Grant cannot Effect your Right—yet perhaps it may be well for you to enter a Caveat against a Grant issueing to them upon this Survey—as it may hereafter prevent a tedious discussion of your Title in a Court of Chancery—if you choose to take this Step, you will be pleas’d to Transmit me your Instructions by the next post setting forth your Causes for Caveat—and the Law makes it necessary that you should make Oath before some Magistrate that you enter the Caveat with design to recover the Land for yourself and not in Trust for the Heirs of the sd Cresup—the General Intention of this Oath is to prevent friendly Caveats from being enter’d in the Land Office. I have the Honour to be Sir yr most Obt & Very H. Servt

John Harvie


Title: From George Washington to William Fitzhugh, 21 May 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Fitzhugh, William

Dr Sir,
Mt Vernon 21st May 1785.

Mr Boulton delivered me your letter of the 13th, last evening; I thank you for sending him to me. I have agreed with him to finish my large room, & to do some other work; & have no doubt from the character given of him by you, that he will answer my purposes, as he has no one now to lead him into temptation, and will be far removed from improper associates, unless he is at much pains to hunt them: it may therefore be expected that he will avoid the rock he has split upon lately.
I thank you sincerely my good Sir, for the offer of such of your imported articles as you have not an immediate call for; and will take any proportion which will be most convenient for you to share, of the Spirit of Turpentine—oil & paints of all sorts—Lead—Sash line & pullies—of the different sorts & sizes of nails, as also the two plate brass Locks, if Mr Boulton upon examination, shall think they will answer my room—& of the Glass 8 by 10. The large kind of glass does not suit my sashes (which are all made)—& a marble slab (indeed two) I am already provided with.
I have promised to send my waggon (a cover’d one with lock & key) to Colo. Plater’s, or some landing above, for Mr Boulton’s tools: all, or such part of the articles as I have enumerated & you can spare, & the waggon can bring in addition to the Tools, may accompany them; & the cost & charges of them shall be paid to your order. Mrs Washington & the family join me in offering respectful compliments to, & best wishes for you & your Lady, & with very great esteem & regard, I am Dr Sir &c.

G: Washington

P.S. ’Ere this, I was in hopes of having had it in my power to have offered the service of a Jack, or two, of the first race in Spain, to some of your mares, if you should be inclined to breed

mules—but they are not yet arrived—another year, & I shall be happy to do this. G. W——n


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Johnson, 21 May 1785
From: Johnson, Thomas
To: Washington, George

Sir.
Fred[eric]k [Md.] 21 May 1785.

I shall forward your Letter of the 18 Inst. to Mr Lee I have no Opportunity of consulting him as to the place or Hour of Meeting: as it can make very little Difference to him or me and Alexandria will be most convenient to you and the other Gent. I propose to meet there at 10 OClock and shall write Mr Lee accordingly—I much wished to have been at the Meeting the 17th if I could have attended I should have endeavoured to excuse myself being under promise to attend at Williamsburgh next Month in the Fœderal Court and having a private Interest to adjust with the Company at the Great Falls I now agree to act as a Directer imagining that the Great Falls will not be an immediate Object but if I am mistaken in that or my Attend[an]ce at Williamsburgh will in any degree delay the Execution of the Work I shall chearfully make Room for some Body else who can attend and act with propriety. I am sir with great Truth & Respect Your most obedt Servant

Ths Johnson


Title: From George Washington to Jaquelin Ambler, 22 May 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Ambler, Jaquelin (Jacquelin)

Sir,
Mount Vernon 22d May 1785.

I had the honor to receive your favor of the 12th in time for the meeting; and in consequence of the power given me by you, represented the State on the 17th inst.
I have the pleasure to inform you that the subscriptions (including those in behalf of the two States) amounted to upwards of four hundred shares; consequently the company became legally constituted & incorporated—a president & Directors were chosen—& the business, we persuade ourselves, will be advanced as fast as the nature of it will admit. I have the honor to be &c.

Go. Washington


Title: From George Washington to Burwell Bassett, 23 May 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Bassett, Burwell

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 23d May 1785

It would have given me much pleasure to have seen you at Richmond; and it was part of my original plan to have spent a few days with you at Eltham whilst I was in the lower parts of the Country; but an intervention of circumstances not only put it out of my power to do the latter, but would have stopped my journey to Richmond altogether had not the meeting, the time, and the place been of my own appointing. I left company at home when I went away who proposed to wait my return—among whom a Mr Pine, an Artist of eminence, came all the way from Philadelphia on purpose for some materials for an historical painting which he is about, and for which he was obliged to stay till I got back; which I did, after an absence of eight days only.
My Nephew Geo. Auge Washington is just returned from his peregrination—apparently much amended in his health, but not quite free from the disorder in his Side. I have understood that his addresses to Fanny were made with your consent—& I now learn that he is desirous, and she is willing, to fulfil the

engagement they have entered into; and that they are applying to you for permission to do so.
It has ever been a maxim with me, through life, neither to promote, nor to prevent a matrimonial connection, unless there should be something, indispensably requiring interference in the latter. I have always considered Marriage as the most interesting event of ones life. The foundation of happiness or misery. To be instrumental therefore in bringing two people together who are indifferent to each other, & may soon become objects of disgust, or to prevent a union which is prompted by the affections of the mind, is what I never could reconcile with reason, & therefore neither directly, nor indirectly have I ever said a syllable to Fanny, or George, upon the Subject of their intended connection: but as their attachment to each other seems of early growth, warm, & lasting, it bids fair for happiness. If therefore you have no objec⟨tion,⟩ I think, the sooner it is consummated the better.
I have just now informed them both (the former through Mrs Washington) that it is my wish they should live at Mount Vernon.
It is unnecessary I hope to say how happy we should be to see you, her Brothers, & any of her friends—who can make it convenient, and are disposed—at this place, on this occasion. All here join in best wishes for you, and with very sincere esteem and regard I am—Dear Sir Yr Affecte friend and Obedt Hble Servant

Go: Washington


Title: Memorandum of Agreement with Joseph Davenport, 23 May 1785
From: Washington, George,Davenport, Joseph,Robert Lewis & Sons
To:

[Philadelphia, 23 May 1785]

Memorandum of an Agreement made & enter’d into by Robert Lewis & Sons of Philadelphia, for & in behalf of his Excellency George Washington Esquire of Mount Vernon in the State of Virginia of the one part, and Joseph Davenport of the County of Burlington in the State of New-Jersey of the other part, Witnesseth, that the said Davenport shall immediately proceed with his Family to a Mill near Mount Vernon the property of General Washington, where & by whom he is to be employ’d as a Miller & Cooper for the space of two whole Years, to commence the first day of June next, in the terms & conditions herein after specified—to wit, He is directly on his arrival at said Mill to take upon him, & perform the business of a Miller in all the branches of Manufacturing Wheat into Suprfine, or common Flour in a Workman-like manner, as well as attending to the Country or Grist-Work, at all times & Seasons as the said General Washington may require & direct; at the same time carefully Superintending & directing such Workmen, either white-men or Negroes, as may be employ’d under him; to keep fair & honest Accounts of all Monies reciev’d & paid by him, as well as of all Grain & other Articles which may be brought in, or deliver’d out of said Mill, rendering those Accounts to his employer as frequent as may be required: He is also to attend to the running Gears, & every part of the said Mill, securing Gudgeons, putting in Coggs & Rounds, & such other Jobs as are usual & customary for Millers to do in Pennsylvania, & New-Jersey, but does not engage to execute the Work of a MillWright: He likewise promises to Superintend the Business of a Cooper’s Shop, situate near the said Mill, to urge the Coopers who are, or may be employ’d therein to perform their Work in the best manner, & prevent as much as possible the waste of Staves, Heading, & Hoop-Poles: And he further engages to do the duty of a Master-Cooper in said Shop at all times, when Water may be scant, or Business slack, or when his constant attendance is not absolutely necessary in the said Mill; and so alternately, to do & perform the duty of both Miller & Cooper in the best manner for the Interest &

advantage of his employer, according to the custom of Pennsylvania, New Jersey, or Virginia.
And in consideration of those Services, the said Robert Lewis & Sons, engage on the part of his Excellency General Washington, to furnish the said Joseph Davenport with the following privileges, & payment of Money—vizt—a comfortable Dwelling House & Garden near the said Mill, plentifull keeping for one Cow, a sufficient quantity of Fire Wood, deliver’d in due Season at the door, during the said term of two Years, six hundred weight of good Pork, or equivalent in Beef & Pork, as the said Davenport may prefer, deliver’d to him in Killing time each Year, (or this present Season when he may want it)—to raise Poultry for his own Family use, feeding them on Screenings, & other Offal of said Mill, free of cost, but under no pretence whatever to sell any; & besides those privileges, the said Davenport is to receive the sum of two hundred Dollars in Silver or Gold, in quarterly payments or sooner if demanded. He is to be supply’d with as much Flour, Midlings, Corn &ca—out of the said Mill, as will support his Family from time to time as occasion requires, charging himself for the same at such rates & prices as those Articles may be sold to others for Cash. And it is further agreed by & between the said parties, that in case either of them should think proper to discontinue or dissolve this Agreement, he shall be at Liberty to do it, at the expiration of one Year, giving the other three months previous Notice in Writing: For the true & faithfull performance of every part of this Agreement, each party hereby binds himself to the other under the penalty of one thousand Dollars to be paid by the party not complying, to the party complying—Witness our Hands & Seals in Philadelphia this 23rd day of May 1785.

                  Sealed & deliver’d
                  Joseph Davenport

                  in the presence of
                  Robt Lewis & Sons

                  Edward Lane

                  Daniel Smith


Title: From George Washington to John Swan, 23 May 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Swan, John

Sir,
Mt Vernon 23d May 1785.

The little share I had in the administration of Colo. Colville’s Estate, & the time which has elapsed since I had any concern at all with the Affairs of it, render me very incompetent to give the information you require.
Mr John West deceased was the principal acting Executor of the will of Colo. Colvill, & the revd Mr West of Baltimore is the executor of John, & has I am told taken much pains to adjust the papers of his brother & the business of that Estate: from him therefore you may probably obtain more precise information of the assets, & of the Claimants therefor under the wild devisses of the will, than is in my power at this time to give you.
All I recollect of the matter is, that the devises to certain persons in England, relations of the Testator, were so indefinite, & stirred up such a multitude of claims, that it was adjudged necessary for the safty of the Executor when the surplus Estate (if any) should be ascertained, to deposit the same in the hands of the Chancellor to be disposed of to the rightful owners upon due proof of their identity before him. What may have been the surplus, if the accots have been finally settled; what has been done with it, or under what predicament it may have been placed by the Laws of this Government, I have it not in my power, without a good deal of research, to inform you; not having been able to look into this business any more than into that which more immediately concerns my own, since my return to private life: for eight years previous to it, it is well known I could not. I am Sir &c.

G: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Tench Tilghman, 23 May 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Tilghman, Tench

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 23d May 1785

The last Post brought me your letter of the 14th, inclosing one of the 30th of April from Mr Hollyday. As soon as it is in my power to refresh my memory by having recurrance to my Papers, I will write you, or Mr Hollyday, more fully on the subject of the legacy in Colo. Colvils Will to Miss Anderson; or person under whom she claims; for, strange as it may seem, it is nevertheless true, that I have not been able since my retirement, to arrange my Papers, or to attend, in the smallest degree, to my private concerns. The former, from the hurry with which they have been removed from Book cases into Trunks, & sent off to escape the ravages of the enemy, when their Vessels have appeared, are in great disorder. I allotted the last Winter for the adjustment of all these matters; but never could command as much time as even to enter upon the business; and every matter and thing which respects the latter, are in the situation I left them ten years ago.
The numberless applications from Officers of the several lines of the Army for Certificates of Service—recommendations—Copies of Orders—references of old matters, with which I ought not to be troubled—in addition to other corrispondencies in which my situation has involved me, confine me more to my writing Desk than I ever was at any period of my life; and deprives me of necessary exercise. These, with other causes, have produced the effect I have mentioned; which I feel more sensibly, as the business of others, with which I have been concerned, is involved; and is now undergoing the same suspension, as my own.
For sometime past I have been (unsuccessfully) endeavouring to get a single man of good character, and decent appearance (for he will be at my Table & with my Company) to ease me of this burthen; and if you could recommend one of this description, who would not expect high wages (for these I cannot afford) I should be obliged to you for so doing. To suit me, he must be a person of liberal education—a Master of composition—& have a competent knowledge of Accts; for I have those often years standing, and the intermediate transactions, to overhaul & adjust.

Will you ever come to see me? You may be assured that there are few persons in the World, whose visits would give more sincere pleasure at Mount Vernon than yours. Nothing could encrease the satisfaction of it more, than bringing Mrs Tilghman with you; to whom, and to yourself, Mrs Washington joins in every good wish with Dr Sir, Your Most Affecte Frd and Obedt Hble Servt

Go: Washington

P.S. Upon second thoughts, it occurs, that the Revd Mr West of Baltimore, can do all that is necessary for Miss Anderson, without any Agency of mine; at least may determine with precision what ought to be done. He is the Executor of his Brother, Mr John West—who was the principal acting Executor of Colo. Thos Colvil—and has been, I am informed, assiduously employed, lately, in adjusting the concerns of that Estate.
As I shall not write to Mr Hollyday until I can do it more to the purpose than at present, I will rely upon your communicating what is herementioned, to him.
I am in want of two inch pine Plank—the Man who is engaged to work for me, & who came lately from Baltimore, says he saw a good deal at that place, of the Eastern white Pine, which appeared to him to be seasoned and fit for my uses. If any Vessel should becoming round to Alexandria, and you could send me from two to 500 feet of it, you would oblige me. Yrs G. W——n


Title: To George Washington from William Minor, 24 May 1785
From: Minor, William
To: Washington, George

Sir
Alexandria 24th May 1785

The proposition that your Excellency was pleased to make of Leaving to Some Gentlemen the Matter I laid before you on Saturday the 21st Instant in Regard to my Claim against you on Account of Lawrence Posey—is perfectly agreeable to me. I wish I had had presence of mind to have asked your Excellency to have Appointed Some Gentlemen to do the Business when I was at your Place—but I did not know that I Cou’d Stay So Long as I have done—If your Excellency will be pleased to nominate any two Gentlemen in Alexandria, and let me name a third, I will be Satisfied with their Determination—I am not Acquainted with any Gentlemen in this County, but Mr George Minor & Captn Moss, at whose House I shall Stay a day or two Longer—Or if the Hble Gentleman who will deliver you this will do the Business for us, his Determination Shall be perfectly agreeable to Sir your Excellency’s Most Obedt and Most hble Servt &Ca

Wm Minor


Title: From George Washington to Robert Lewis & Sons, 25 May 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Robert Lewis & Sons

Gentn
Mount Vernon 25th May 1785.

In consequence of your letter of the 5th of last month, I discharged Wm Roberts from my Mill. It now is, & has been for some time past without a Miller; & as Mr Davenport from your Accot would be ready to take charge of it in about three weeks (now seven), & not yet come, nor any reason given why he has not; I am apprehensive of some disappointment.
If this is the case I should be glad to know it as soon as possible. One Baker, who referred to you for a character, & was employ’d by Colo. Biddle at his Mill at George town, has applied to me; but considering myself under engagement, I gave him no encouragement. A person who writes the enclosed letter has also offered, but I have given him no answer. Some others have likewise made application, but as I depended upon Devenport I asked for no character nor enquired into their qualifications. If Devenport should have disappointed me, would Baker answer my purpose? Would reynolds do better? Or have you any other in view which you think preferable to both? I am sorry to give you so much trouble with my affairs but hope you will excuse it. I am Gentn Yrs &c.

G: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Edward Newenham, 25 May 1785 [letter not found]
From: Newenham, Edward
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Edward Newenham, 25 May. On 25 Nov. GW wrote Newenham: “I have been favored with your letters of the 3d of March, 25th of May.”


Title: From George Washington to William Minor, 27 May 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Minor, William

sir,
Mt Vernon 27th May 1785

My objection to paying your account when here—was, now is, &, whether it is done or not, will be—that it comes neither under the letter nor spirit of my letter to Mr Baker. My object was to give Lawce Posey a years schooling, to fit him for some of the better occupations of life: to do this, I agreed to pay his board also, both of which together, I was inform’d would amount at the free school, to £17—Md Curry. What followed? Why he neither went to the School, nor boarded with the person under whose care he was intended to be put—this by your own confession. Is it just, is it reasonable then that I should look back to expences which had been incurred previous to the date of my letter; or even forward to what might be incurred, if the end which I had in view was not to be answered by it? If the Child did not go to the school nor derive the benefits which were intended him from it, could it be supposed I meant to pay for his

board without; when his fathers House & eye were more proper than any other? Might he not as well have been at home with his father, as at any other place idle? Upon these grounds it was & under this state I repeat it, that if there is a disinterested man upon Earth, who will say I ought to comply with your request, I will do it: & you may have the chusing of him or them; for it does not suit me to go from home on this business. I am &c.

G. Washington


Title: To George Washington from Christopher Richmond, 27 May 1785
From: Richmond, Christopher
To: Washington, George

Sir
Annapolis 27th May 1785

I had the honor of receiving your Letter of the 19th this day. Since I transmitted the List John Allen Thomas has subscribed for two Shares. I will take the first opportunity of informing him of what is further to be done by him, in order to the having his subscription established. I have the Honor to be your Excellencys obedient humble servt

Chrisr Richmond


Title: To George Washington from Robert Turnbull, 27 May 1785
From: Turnbull, Robert
To: Washington, George

Honourable Sir
[Sprouston near Kelso, Scotland]May 27th 1785.

The greatness and dignity of your character for the virtues of a Patriot will command the Veneration of future ages; and those graces that adorn, and render aimiable your private life encourage and embolden me to address you in an affair, in which I am much interested. Tho I trust I have a mind above the Love of money, yet as old age is approaching; for I have been above forty two years a Minister of the Gospel, the just debt due to me by my deceased brother when recovered would be most convenient; just as I hope you will be convinced, by the perusal of my deceased brothers letter to me, which I have transcribed and inserted in this. The only favour Good Sir I have to request of you, is to recommend to me some man of business in Virginia, to recover by the Law of that country, this Lawful and just debt. How happy for mankind were there a free and open intercourse among the nations and all men were treated as brethern. I have wrote two letters to my nephew Robert Turnbull in Virginia who has succeeded to the whole of my Brothers estate, on what foundation I am quite uncertain (but it can never exclude the payment of a just debt) for he has not had the civility to answer my letters, neither had he the Humanity to notify to me the death of my brother. I had rather be poor with that virtue, than be possessed of the greatest riches. My residence is at Sprouston near Kelso North Britain. I am with the highest esteem your most humble Servant

Robert Turnbull


Title: To George Washington from Richard Henry Lee, 29 May 1785 [letter not found]
From: Lee, Richard Henry
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Richard Henry Lee, 29 May 1785. On 22 June GW wrote Lee: “I stand indebted to you for your favors of the . . . 29th of last month.”


Title: To George Washington from William Goddard, 30 May 1785
From: Goddard, William
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Baltimore, May 30th 1785.

As the Manuscript Papers of General Lee, after his decease, came into my hands, I have been induced from several motives to arrange & prepare them for publication. The General in his Life time requested it from me, & my Profession as a Printer & Bookseller made it an object of interest worthy my attention. But as I cannot be ignorant of some unhappy differences which subsisted between Your Excellency & General Lee, I have thought proper to acquaint your Excellency with my conduct in this Business.
Influenced by no party consideration, & altogether devoid of any sinister Intention of exalting one Character at the Expence of another, I have taken care to suppress many passages that might be offensive, in the General’s Pieces & Correspondence—while it was my duty to preserve what was useful in military & political knowledge, I took the liberty to suppress such Expressions as appeared to be the Ebullitions of a disappointed & irritated mind; so that, I flatter myself, your Excellency will be convinced of the Candor of my Intention in the Execution of the work. Inclosed I have sent a Copy of the Title Page, & the Proposals are now preparing for the Press; in a few

Weeks I purpose to send them to your Excellency; and in the mean time, should esteem it a favour to hear, as soon as convenient, from your Excellency, whether this has come safe to your hands, & whether Your Excellency has any particular request, respecting the said Work. I am with the greatest Deference, & Esteem, Your Excellencys Most obedient & humble Servant

Wm Goddard


Title: To George Washington from Tench Tilghman, 30 May 1785
From: Tilghman, Tench
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Baltimore 30th May 1785.

I have had the honor of receiving your letter of the 23d I shall communicate so much of the Contents, as respect Colonel Colvils Legacy to Miss Anderson, to her Uncle Mr Hollyday. I have applied to the Revd Mr West on this Business. I find him intirely unacquainted with such parts of his Brothers affairs as relate to his Executorship to Colo. Colvils Estate. Matters must therefore remain as they are, untill you can find leisure to look into these things yourself.
It gives me pleasure to think I have met with a young Man, who will probably answer your purposes. He came over to take charge of a seminary in your State, in the County of Prince William. The plan fell through, and Mr Falconer, the Gentleman in question, is left to seek a livelyhood in this Country. He had actually embarked for Charleston when your letter came to my hands—I heard of him, and have prevailed upon him to suspend his purpose, untill I could make you acquainted with his Talents and Expectations—His person is pleasing—His manners and address diffident, but by no means awkward—His Age not more than 25—In the dead Languages—Natural Pholosophy-—and the practical Branches of Mathematics he is said to be highly accomplished—of course he must be sufficiently master of Figures to answer your purpose as an Accomptant. He tells me he understands French eno’ to translate a letter. His hand writing, of which I inclose you a specimen, is not of the best, but it may be mended with a little care and attention. Those with whom he has been acquainted since his short residence here, speak of him in such a manner, that they have really prepossessed me in his favor. The terms on which he came over to this Country were £100 S[terlin]g ⅌ ann: and every thing found him except Cloathing. He is, however, so fully sensible of the advantages that would result to him from living with you a year or two, and being so happy as to gain your confidence and Esteem, that I am certain he would abate considerably if you could not

make it convenient to allow him so much. I think he might be engaged for £100 Currency.
I send this letter under Cover to Colo. Fitzgerald, with a desire that he will dispatch it by a Messenger on Thursday. If you can return an answer by the same Messenger, it may reach me by Saturdays Stage. I take the liberty of hurrying you, because Mr Falconer wishes to prosecute his Charleston plan if he should not go to you.
How much you flatter me, my dear General (for by that name I must ever be allowd to call you) by your kind invitation to visit you. My circumstances require a close attention to Business, and I am, on that account, cheifly confined to the limits of this Town. I often wish for a good pretence to go as far as Alexandria or George Town. Once there I should not fail to pay my Respects at Mount Vernon. If I ever find time to make a jaunt of pleasure—Mrs Tilghman will assuredly be of the party. She joins in sincerest Compliments to Mrs Washington and yourself with Dear Sir Yr most affect: humble Servt

Tench Tilghman

I shall send your white Pine plank by the first oppertunity.


Title: From George Washington to John Harvie, 31 May 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Harvie, John

Sir,
Mount Vernon 31st May 1785.

I am informed that a patent (in consequence of a Certificate from Commrs appointed to enquire into, & decide upon Claims for settlement of the Western Lands) is about to issue to the heirs of Michl Cresap, from the Land Office of this Commonwealth, for a tract of land on the river Ohio formerly in Augusta County, now commonly called & distinguished by the round bottom: against granting which to the heirs of the said Cresap, I enter a Caveat for the following reasons; First, because this Land was discovered by me in the month of Octor 1770, & then marked; which was before, as I have great reason to believe, the said Cresap, or any person in his behalf had ever seen, or had the least knowledge of the tract. Secondly, because I did at that time, whilst I was on the Land, direct Captn (afterwds Colo.) Willm Crawford to survey the same for my use, as a halfway place on stage between Fort Pitt & the 200,000 acres of land which he was ordered to survey for the first Virginia regiment agreeably to Govr Dinwiddie’s Proclamation of 1754. Thirdly, because consequent of this order he made the survey in the month of  the year following for 587 acres, & returned it to me accordingly: and equally certain I am that it was made before Ml Cresap or any person in his behalf had ever stretch’d a chain thereon, knew of, or, as I have already observed, had taken a single step to obtain the land. Fourthly, because subsequent of this survey; but previous to any claim of Cresaps, a certain Dr Brisco possessed himself of the Land, & relinquished it, after I had written him a letter in the words contained in the inclosure No. 1. Fifthly, because upon the first information I received of Cresaps pretentions, I wrote him a letter, of which No. 2 is a copy. Sixthly, because it was the practice of Cresap, according to the information given me, to notch a few trees, & fell as many bottoms on the river above the Little Kanhawa as he could obtain purchasers, to the disquiet & injury of numbers. Seventhly, Because the Commrs who gave the certificate under which his heirs now claim, could have had no knowledge of my title thereto, being no person in that District properly authorised, during my absence, to support my claim. Eighthly, Because the

survey, which was made by Colo. Crawford, who was legally appointed by the Masters of Wm & Mary College for the purpose of surveying the aforesaid 200,000 acres, is expressly recognized & deemed valid by the first section of the Act, entitled an Act—see the Act—as the same was afterwards returned by the surveyor of the county in which the Land lay. Ninthly & lastly, Because I have a Patent for the said Land, under the seal of the said Commonwealth signed by the Goverr in due form on the 30th day of Octor 1784; consequent of a legal Survey made the 14th of July 1773 as just mentioned, & now of record in the Land Office.
For these reasons I protest against a Patent’s issueing for the Land for which the Commissioners have given a Certificate to the Heirs of Mr Cresap so far as the same shall interfere with mine: the legal & equitable right thereto being in me.
If I am defective in form in entering this Caveat, I hope to be excused, & to have my mistakes rectified. I am unaccustomed to litigations; & never disputed with any man, until the ungenerous advantages which have been taken of the peculiarity of my situation, & an absence of eight years from my country, has driven me into Courts of Law to obtain common justice. I have the honor to be &c.

G: Washington


Title: To George Washington from William Augustine Washington, 1 June 1785
From: Washington, William Augustine
To: Washington, George

Dr Sir
Blenheim [Westmoreland County] June 1st 1785

Your Esteem’d favr by Mr Blane, I recd and was particularly attentive in collecting of the Holly Berrys, agreeable to your request, wch I trust has got safe to hand—I have been industrious in inquiring for some Wild Goose & Swans for you, at length I have procured these Geese, which I now send you, the one with a tame Goose for a Mate is a present from Mr McCarty to you, who desired me to inform you that the Wild Goose has been

much attatch’d to his Mate for these three Years past, for wch reasin he sends you the tame Goose, least the Wild one should leave you, as he can fly perfectly well—I shall indeavour to procure you some Swans this Winter—By the Bearer you will receive a Gross of ⟨Hues⟩ Crabb Cyder, wch you will much oblige me by accepting ’tho not so good as I could wish, from the management of my Cyder last fall being left intirely to the Negroes, from the Loss of both my Overseers.
This fall I shall direct a Hogshead to be put up in the best manner for you—Mrs Washington joins me in our Loves to you & Mrs Washington—and believe me to be Dr Sir Your Sincerely Affectionate

Wm Augt. Washington


Title: To George Washington from Michael Jenifer Stone, 3 June 1785
From: Stone, Michael Jenifer
To: Washington, George

Sir
Charles County Maryland. June 3d 1785

I hereby authorise and request you as president of the Potomac Company to Subscribe for me two Shares to the before mentioned Copartnery; Or to consider me (if consistent with the regulations of the Company) as an Adventurer to the amount of two Shares.
I take the liberty to observe, that I have long agoe earnestly desired the exhibition of the present Scheme—and would have Subscribed forth with, but that the Company’s Books were kept at a considerable distance from my home—and I was not informed ’till lately that I could become a Partner by Letter Signifying my consent. I hope I am not too late. And if I am considered as a partner I hereby oblige Myself my Heirs Executors and Administrators to pay to the President and directors of the Potomac Company or to Such person as they shall authorise to receive the amount of two Shares in the Said Company in Such manner as the President and directors shall require. I am your most obedient

M. J. Stone


Title: To George Washington from Richard Boulton, 4 June 1785
From: Boulton, Richard
To: Washington, George

Sir
St Marys County St Inegoes [Md.], June 4th 1785

I am sorry to inform your Excellency that my Affairs in St Marys are in such a situation that it is at this time Intierly out of

my power to serve your Excellency or comply with my Agreement, for Reasons I will hearafter mention.
On my return from your Excellencies to St Marys, I ware under the Disagreeable nicessity of Offering a number of my Tules for Sail to Discharge a number of considerable Debts due from me to my Creditors. But Money being Scarce & the Tules not salible in our County which I offerd, Rendered my sail of no Use towards Satisfying my Creditors. In consiquence of which & thier hearing of my Agreement with your Excellency, and my intention of muving out of the State to Serve you, have sot them all on me, I have heard of several Rits being out against me, which I expect dailey to be served, the consiquence of which will be that I must Inavoidable goe to Joal.
Having wayed every Sircumstance minutely find it intierly out of my power to Serve your Excellency, Therefore intierly Relying on your Excellencyes linety & Goodness hoping youl Excuse my non complyance with my Agreement with you, as numbers of Others have s[o] universally expearencd.
As I apprehend Collo. Wm Fitzhugh recommended me to you as an Able Workman, I thought proper to right him a state of my Affairs and let him no it is out of my power to comply with my Agreement with you. From your Excellencies most Obt Hble Sert

Richd Boulton


Title: To George Washington from Holtzendorf, 4 June 1785
From: Holtzendorff, Louis-Casimir, baron de
To: Washington, George

Sir
Nymegen [Holland] June the 4th 1785.

This Letter will come to your hands by favour of Colonel Senf, who is returning to america very soon. I thought it incumbent to me to take that opportunity in order to renew to you, Sir, my most grateful thanks for all the marks of Benevolence you shewed to me during my Stay under your Commands in th’ American Army, the satisfaction about my military Character, as well as the Regrets about my Leaving the said service, you was

pleased to manifest even by your laest Letter, I was honoured with in answer of that by wich I informed you of my returning to France, make me hope you will be glad to learn, that I Stay as yet in the Service of the united States of Holland, having been granted by the General Count de Maillebois with a Place of Lieutenant Colonel in the Legion which he is raising for this Service.
I’ll allways regret sincerely, that circumstances did not allow my terminating with you, Sir, a war by yourself so gloriously ended; for, the French Regiment, I was from, though destinated in the year 1780 to go to america with the corps of army of the G[ener]al Rochembeau, which became one of them of his 2nd Division, that could not be carried over for want of vessels, I was obliged to see myself disappointed of that hope. I’m the more sorry as I believe I would have been granted with the admission to your association of Cinsinnatus, which favour would have flatterd me particularly, as I would have considered it not only as a recompense of my zeal I shewed, you Know sir, whilst I Served your own country, but of the real hopes, Even the unjustice, I proved by the particular Illwill of Mr Lovel, whose influence prevented their good intensions to me, as well as the fulfilling of one of their Resolveds, which I Keep in original, and according to which I should be indemnified.
Will you, Sir, give me leave to beg your influence about both them Subjects? If you think it possible, I should be very happy to be honoured with the admission to your association of Cinsinnatus. for the rest, it would be indeed an act of justice and Even of honour to congress to fulfill a resolved they gave in favour of myn in the beginning of 1778.
this new mark of your Benevolence, Sir, shall increase the gratitude consecrated to you for ever, with which I have the honour to remain very respectfully Sir your most obedient humble servant

Lewis Casimir Baron de holtzendorff
Lt Coll of the Legan of mailleboisin garrison at Nymegen


Title: To George Washington from John Jebb, 4 June 1785
From: Jebb, John
To: Washington, George

Sir
Parliament Street [London] 4 Jun. 1785.

The Bearer, a Gentleman of whose abilities in his profession, as well as of whose attachment to the Cause of freedom I have a very favourable opinion, mentioning to me his intention of revisiting Virginia, his native Country, I felt a strong inclination to testify that high regard & veneration, in which I have ever held your exertions in support of the rights of your Countrymen & of Human nature—Thank Heaven! the glorious Struggle has been crownd with full success—and later posterity will with gratitude acknowledge the share which under providence you have had in establishing the liberties of Mankind.

Our Europe groans under the lash of Tyranny Civil & Religious, & as yet scarcely feels the wish for freedom. I feel for the present inattention of my Countrymen to the noblest objects—but I trust that our English spirit will revive ere long, & emulate the great example of their Transatlantic Brethren, reforming our government & assuming a character the reverse of that we have too long sustained.
Notwithstanding the representations of the interested, I own I look to Ireland with prophetic expectation.
That in the full perception of every blessing which approving Heaven can bestow you may long enjoy the fruits of your many labours in the Cause of Public Virtue is the fervent wish of y[o]ur obedt Servt

John Jebb


Title: To George Washington from Edmund Randolph, 4 June 1785
From: Randolph, Edmund
To: Washington, George

Dear sir
Richmond June 4. 1785.

I entered upon the execution of my promise to Major Washington without delay; but the paper being lengthy cannot be compleated for this post. You will be so good as not to expect it, until the next week. I shall fortify it with as many authentications, as the situation of our public records will permit. I am Dear sir yr obliged and affectionate friend & servant

Edm: Randolph


Title: To George Washington from Tench Tilghman, 4 June 1785
From: Tilghman, Tench
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Baltimore 4th June 1785

Your favor of the 2d reached me this day—which was as soon as I expected your answer—Had your terms been agreeable to Mr Falconer, I do not think he would have suited all the purposes for which you wanted him—He is more a Man of letters than a Man of Business—and altho’ he might have managed your Correspondencies, I do not apprehend he would have made much hand of your Business abroad. The tutorage of the Children was a matter which he would not have wished to have undertaken—Having had no personal acquaintance with this Gentleman myself, I could not have answered for his temper or political principles.
I should imagine young Men of as good Education as this Country generally affords, and of respectable families also, might be found, who would be ambitious of the post you want filled. Their time would be profitably and agreeably passed, and I may add, without flattery, they could not carry with them into the World a better recommendation than that of General Washington. I shall still be upon the lookout for you, and shall occasionally mention those Characters that fall in my way, untill I find you are supplied.
I sent you a few days past by the Alexandria packet, addressed to Colo. Fitzgerald, 357 feet of 2 Inch white pine plank—@

                  22/6 ⅌Ct
                  £4.3.9

                  Carriage on Board
                  3

                  Maryland Currency—
                  £4.6.9

You cannot make me happier than by giving me oppertunities of convincing you how sincerely I am Dear Sir Your most affect: & very humble Servt

Tench Tilghman


Title: From George Washington to James Rumsey, 5 June 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Rumsey, James

Sir,
Mt Vernon 5th June 1785.

Your letter of the 10th of March came safe, but not in a short time after the date of it. The reason which you have assigned for giving me an order on Mr Ryan, is perfectly satisfactory. I wish that that or any other expedient would have extracted from him what he owes you. From the accot given of his circumstances & conduct, I fear you have incurred a bad debt with the manager of the Theatre.
As the Car[ria]ge house you was to build for me, was in such forwardness at the date of the above letter, & as you expected to have had it raised by the first of May last; I am very well satisfied with the advance it has made, & that it should continue, provided you can make it convenient to wait a while for your money; but I should be wanting in candor were I to give you assurances of speedy payment. The Kitchen & stable I would gladly have finished as soon as possible & what ever the cost of them amounts to, I will settle for without delay.
It gives me much pleasure to find by your letter that you are not less sanguine in your Boat project, than when I saw you last; and that you have made such further discoveries as will render them of greater utility than was at first expected: you have my best wishes for the success of your plan.
Inclosed are the proceedings of the Directors of the Potomac navigation—I pray you to have them set up at some public place. If the manager advertised for, can come well recommended, liberal wages will be given him. It were to be wished that the following qualities could be readily combined in the same person—integrity—Abilities—indefatigable industry—& if he has not experimental knowledge of this particular kind of work, at least that he may be possessed of a genius which may soon fit him for it.

Mr Ryan’s Note is enclosed, & I am with great esteem, Sir, &c.

G: Washington


Title: From George Washington to David Stuart, 5 June 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Stuart, David

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 5th June 85.

The celebrated Mrs Macauly Graham, & Mr Graham her Husband, are here on a Visit. As I wish to shew them all the respect I can, I should be glad if you, Mrs Stuart & your Sister, would come to morrow or next day, and dine with us. I am—Dr Sir Yr Obedt & Affecte Hble Ser⟨vt⟩

Go: Washington

P.S. Come tomorrow if convenient.


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Freeman, 9 June 1785
From: Freeman, Thomas
To: Washington, George

May it Please your Excellency,
Redstone [Pa.]June 9th 1785

I had the favour of yours dated the 11th May on the 28 of the same and shall Endeavour to comply with the Contents, I should have wrote before but expect you out this spring, in regard to the Lands on the Ohio & Kanhawa I Advertised Imediately as you left this last fall as Extensively as oppertunity offered, but had but few Applicants and not one of them would Agree to Settle on any of the Lands agreeable to my Instructions nor do I think that any of the Lands will Rent on the Terms at Present, there being so extensive a Country to Settle, the Applicants in general gave this as their reason and also the Rents too High they alow that for little more than Two Years Rent they can Patent the same Quantity of Land, there is but one thing that at present seems to favour the Settling the Kanhawa Lands and that in my opinion is Mr Lewis Building a Town at the Mouth thereof, I thought surely to have had a Tenant on the Great Meadows but am disappointed Mr Johnson who was about taking it when you was out here was the Person whom I

cheifly depended on Indeed I ventured to make him an Offer of one Year more than what you thought was Sufficient for making repairs & Buildings but it would not do, so that in short I have not one Place Occupyed more than when you was out last fall.
I have also taken what care and Industry I could to get the Mill Rented on some Terms but cannot, I have had Thomas Maire in her on the share but she scarcely goes at all and keeps falling down, I am forced as the last expedient to Advertise for Undertakers and shall have the meeting the first of next Month, tho’ from Circumstances am of Opinion I shall not get any to undertake it; I have made what Enquiry amongst workmen I conveniently could what the rebuilding & Repairs would amount to, and they are various being from 250£ to 600£ if when I meet there should be none Offer for less than Six five four or three Hundred I shall do nothing in it untill I hear further from you as I am Convinced that the Money will never be made by the Mill before new repairs will be wanting again.
The Tract of Land Lying in this County is Settled as when you left it save that William Tyler moved away this Spring and I have got in his place one John Craig I have demanded the Rents as I thought due from the different Tenants but they deny there is any due on Account of your making a new Contract, that they agreed with you in taking the late Leases on this footing that all arrears whatever was done away before they agreed to take their Leases on the Present time & Rent, I should have tryed the matter with them but Expected you out here yourself, some of them have already advised With a Lawyer, however I intend to try it with them Imediately, I expect to see Mr Smith in Beeson Town next Term, (and I hope by that time to give him some Information relating the Lands in Washington County,) as far as I can understand by others the Tenants in general on this Land will remove of this fall or next spring.
I understand by Mr Simpson that he cannot stay on the present Rent the Seasons being difficult and the Rent so high, however he says if he should remove he will give timely notice that any Person may have time to Seed down this fall all his Corn Ground and other Grounds that may be desired for Seeding by the Person coming on the Place, he likewise request you will be kind Enough to write how the Public accounts stand that you

look for him & John John[son] and wether they will be good against their Bonds.
The above is as near the State of your Affairs in this quarter as Possible, The Hay is all unsold but about 1200 lb. the Corn all on hand but 4 Bushells, the wheat likewise, the Rye I took myself I thought I could by getting it distilled sell it, but there is no Market this Season at all, however I shall make out Pay for the Rye at any rate, what Corn was made by the Mill I Sold, the greater part, which does not amount to thirty Bushells, this is a disagreeable but true Return.
If your Interest & Inclination should lead you to this Country any time this Season I should be happy in seeing you, if not I beg your Assistance in a Line or two if you should wish any thing done Contrary to my Present Proceedings.
I heartily Congratulate you on your safe Return from this Quarter last fall had you Proceeded on your Tour down the River I believe it would have been attended with the most dreadfull Consequences the Indians by what means I can’t say had Intelligence of your Journey and Laid wait for you, Genl Wilkinson fell in their Hands and was taken for you and with much difficulty of Persuasion & Gifts got away this is the Common Report, & I believe the Truth.
I Received a Letter from Mr Richd J. ⟨Waters⟩ falls of Ohio dated 18th April 1785 which says the Southern Indians are more troublesome than ever and Commit daily the most horrid barbarities on the defenceless outsettlers from Garrissons I doubt this will turn out a dreadfull summer of Carnage and destruction, People are so careless & hardy, that the Savage is tempted to do what his natural Ferocity would not prompt him to. &ca.
Several small Companys have this spring gone down the River to make Improvements on the Indians Side and have met with a Repulse, one small Party of five went up Hohockin four of which Returned two of them much wounded & the one Missing they are assured is killed, another Company of Eight went up the Scioto four of which Returned, only, and it is said Several other small Companys have shared the same fate. I have the Honour to be with the Greatest Respect your Excellency’s most Obedient Humble Servt

Thomas Freeman


Title: From George Washington to William Carmichael, 10 June 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Carmichael, William

Sir,
Mt Vernon 10th June 1785.

It is with grateful pleasure I sit down to acknowledge the receipt of your favour of the 25th of March covering a triplicate of your letter of the 3d of December (which is the first that has been received), & a copy of the Count of Florida Blanca’s note to you.
I feel myself under singular obligation to you sir, as the mean of procuring two Jacks of the first race, to be sent me; but my gratitude for so condescending a mark of esteem from one of the first crowned heads in Europe, calls for a better expression than I have, to make suitable acknowledgements to His Catholic Majesty; especially too as his Majesty’s very valuable present was accompanied by a sentiment of approbation which cannot fail of making a lasting impression on my mind, & of becoming very dear to my remembrance.
It is to you Sir, I must stand further indebted for the manner of making known in terms most acceptable, the high sense I entertain of the Kings goodness. The Jacks are not yet arrived, but I hope they soon will, & the accot which you mean to transmit, of the mode of treating them for the propagation of mules, will be equally necessary & acceptable, for my management of them.
Mr Gardoqui is safely arrived at Philada—I have not had the honor of paying my compliments to him; but, as well for the respect I owe his sovereign, & his own great merit, as on acct of your recommendation of him, I shall be happy in every opportunity which shall offer of shewing him all the attention in my power.
Great Britain, viewing with eyes of chagrin & jealousy the situation of this Country, will not, for some time yet if ever, pursue a liberal policy towards it; but unfortunately for her the conduct of her ministers defeat their own ends: their restriction of our trade with them, will facilitate the enlargement of Congressional

powers in commercial matters, more than half a century wou’d otherwise have effected. The mercantile interests of this Country are uniting as one man, to vest the fœderal Government with ample powers to regulate trade & to counteract the selfish views of other nations: this may be considered as another proof that this Country will ever unite in opposition to unjust or ungenerous measures, whensoever or from whomsoever they are offered. I have the honor to be &c.

G: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Willing, Morris, & Swanwick, 10 June 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Willing, Morris, & Swanwick

Gentn,
Mt Vernon 10th June 1785.

No such person as Mr Lang being in my employ, & having no knowledge of such a character myself, I detained the letter to him until I could make some enquiries of others: these proving fruitless, you will receive under cover, the letter which was committed to my care. with esteem I am, Gentn Yrs &c.

G: Washington


Title: From George Washington to William Goddard, 11 June 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Goddard, William

sir,
Mt Vernon 11th June 1785.

On the 8th inst: I received the favor of your letter of the 30th of May: In answer to it I can only say, that your own good judgement must direct you in the publication of the manuscript papers of Genl Lee—I can have no request to make concerning the work.
I never had a difference with that Gentleman but on public ground, & my conduct towards him upon this occasion, was such only, as I conceived myself indispensably bound to adopt in discharge of the public trust reposed in me. If this produced in him unfavourable sentiments of me, I yet can never consider the conduct I pursued, with respect to him, either wrong or improper; however I may regret that it may have been differently viewed by him, & that it excited his censure and animadversions. Should there appear in Genl Lee’s writings anything injurious or unfriendly to me, the impartial & dispassionate world, must decide how far I deserved it from the general tenor of my conduct.
I am gliding down the stream of life, & wish as is natural, that my remaining Days may be undisturbed and tranquil; & conscious of my integrity, I would willingly hope that nothing would occur tending to give me anxiety; but should anything present itself in this or in any other publication, I shall never undertake the painful task of recrimination—nor do I know that I shall even enter upon my justification.
I consider the communication you have made as a mark of great attention, & the whole of your letter as a proof of your esteeem. I am &c.

G: Washington


Title: To George Washington from George Walton, 11 June 1785
From: Walton, George
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Savannah, 11 June, 1785.

I recollect, that, in the autumn of 1776, when the armies which contended for the Empire of the new Hemisphere viewed each other on the peninsula of Haarlem, you spoke to me particularly of Capt. McKay, who, in a former war for the same object, had shared the dangers and glory of some critical situations with your Excellency. This worthy and respectable old gentleman, now makes a tour to the Northward; and I think principally to pay his respects to the man whom he has such just and honorable cause to remember.
It gives me, too, the oppertunity of congratulating you, tho late, upon the happy, perfect and splendid close of the war which the fates imposed upon you to conduct thro’ Superior difficulties. And, as it will be always, no doubt, a high gratification to your feelings, to See the effects of the Revolution prosperous and in order, it also gives me the occasion to assure you, that, whatever may have happened, or later calumnies taken place, this State is in the most flourishing condition, and its government, in all its departments, in system, harmony and efficiency. In viewing its advantages the mind opens into expansity.
I beg, Sir, my particular respects to Mrs Washington. With regard to yourself, we were flattered, some time ago, with seeing you this way: whenever that shall take place, none will be more happy than, Sir, Your most obedient, and very humble Servt

Geo. Walton


Title: To George Washington from François Barbé de Marbois, 12 June 1785
From: Barbé de Marbois, François
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Newyork June 12th 1785.

I beg leave to trouble your Excellency about the request of Msr de Corny a gentleman who in the character of a commissary general preceeded the French army in the year 1780. the ⟨5⟩th of June of the Same year congress resolved that a brevet commission of lieutenant of Cavalry be granted to Msr Louis Ethis de Corny. Msr de Corny has been Since employed in the service of both armies either here or in france to procure & forward their Supplies: he now is commissary general of the Suiss infantry in france. he informs me that he is desirous to be a member of the cincinnati Society in the State where your Excellency reside, & he has Send to me his quota of the Subscription according to his rank: I take the liberty to Send to you his bill—due Mr Wadsworth for the amount, you’ll excuse me, sir for troubling you about this affair: I would not have done it if I had had the honour to be acquainted with the officers of the Society in Virginia.
According to very late intelligence from Europe the Emperor—impressed with the danger of staying alone of his party, seems desirous to compromise the matter. there is little doubt but we Should Support the Dutch in case they were attacked.
Mr Gardochi is not yet arrived. Congress are uncertain what reception to make to him—as his character of a Chargé des affaires plenipotentiaire is a novelty in the diplomatic Style. There is no doubt, however that he will be made an Envoy as soon as the States Shall have resolved to Send one to Spain.
The governor of georgia informed the delegates of the States that there has been an encounter between the Spaniards at fort natchez & the inhabitants there, & that persons have been Killed on both Sides.
No determination about the 2d Treaty with the indians. Congress cannot come to a resolution as to the funds: there are eight States & two half States who are for providing all necessary expences; but it is Said Some individuals are opposed to this measure from private motives. With great respect, I have the honour to be sir your Excellency’s Very humble obedient servant

De Marbois

I have been told that Msr de Corny on advice of Some of the members of the society in france has taken the insignia of the

order, as they Saw no doubt of his being a member in consequence of his commission.


Title: To George Washington from William Minor, 14 June 1785
From: Minor, William
To: Washington, George

Sir
Alexandria. 14th June 1785

Your Letter of the 27th May was Duly recd am perfectly Satisfied with your Generous offer of Leaving this Affair to any Disinterested person whom I may Choose. I have Laid my Papers before Several But Cannot get any Gentl[ema]n to give an Opinion in Writing about the Matter. they Say ware your Excellency to ask it of them they wou’d Gladly do what they thought wright but not Otherwise. but it Seems to be the General Oppinion of all that I have Spoke to that in Justice & Humanity I ought to Receive Something. at Least the difference between Six pounds Nineteen shillings & Sixpence[,] the Sum you pay Baker[,] and Seventeen pounds. as I was Brought into this Expence intirely in Consequence of your Letter—I cannot think your Excellency bound to pay Any thing More but am Satisfied the Articles of Cloathing was furnish’d at my Own Risque. but at the Same time for a Motive as I then thought to Oblige you. I shall be Satisfied with this Sum. Or if your Excellency will be Pleased to Say who you wou’d be willing to Leave the Matter too & Signify the Same to him or them. I will Lay my Papers & your Letters before them. & get a Decided Opinion in Writing, which I will deliver or Cause to be deliver’d to your Excellency, which Shall Put a

final end to this Bussiness. Your Condecending to give me an immediate Answer will Conferr a great Obligation on sir, your Excellencys mo. Obedt & mo. hble servt

Wm Minor


Title: From George Washington to Châteaufort, 15 June 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Châteaufort, chevalier d’Aristay

Sir,
Mount Vernon 15th June 1785.

By the Post I had the honor to receive the letter which you did me the favor to write to me on the 19th of last month, together with those of the Chevr De la Luzerne & the Baron de Viominel. I pray you to be assured Sir, that I shall have great pleasure in seeing you at this Seat on your way to Charleston. Your own merit is sufficient alone to entitle you to every attention from me; but the letters above mentioned, bring with them the force of Law. I have the honor to be &c.

G: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Robert Howe, 15 June 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Howe, Robert

Dr Sir,
Mount Vernon 15th June 1785.

A few days ago Mr Sitgreaves gave me the pleasure of receiving your letter of the 4th of May. It is the only one I recollect to have had from you since my return to private life.
It gives me pleasure to hear that Congress have dealt honorably by you, & mean to do more; it is devoutly to be wished that they could do the same by all the Officers whose meritorious services & sufferings have a just claim upon their gratitude, & call loudly for their exertions.
As you are at the source of intelligence, any thing I could say respecting foreign matters, would only be a reverberation of intelligence; & few things occur of a domestic nature worthy of recital. Mrs Washington is in tolerable good health & joins me in Compliments & best wishes for you, Mr Lots family, & others of our old acquaintance. I am Dr Sir &c.

G: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Battaile Muse, 15 June 1785
From: Muse, Battaile
To: Washington, George

Honourable Sir
June 15th 1785

I was so unfortunate Some time ago as to Loose Mr Whiting Replevey Bonds due you—since which I have obtained a replevey Bond for £199.8.0 with Interest there on from the Twenty fifth day of December Last[.] Mr Whiting has Promised to Confess a Judgement in Berkeley Court next Tuesday on my staying Execution untill September[.] the sheriff of Berkeley Mr James Crane has Promised to Pay the Money in September Next—you may be assured that I will recover the Money for you as soon as Possable. I am sir your Most Obedient Humble servant

Battaile Muse


Title: From George Washington to Samuel Powel, 15 June 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Powel, Samuel

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 15th June 1785.

I have been honoured with your favour of the 25th of April, but have not yet had the pleasure to see Doctr Moyes—On the 22d Instt I shall look for him—I pray you to be assured that, it is unnecessary for you to apologize to me for the introduction of any Gentleman of whom you entertain a favourable opinion; for, such as you may conceive to be worthy of my civilities, will always meet a ready reception at Mount Vernon.
I shall now, my good Sir, give you a little trouble.
A Gentleman whose person, whose name, and whose character are equally unknown to me, has written me the inclosed letter; to which, as yet, I have made no reply. The work, if well executed, would unquestionably be valuable; & ought to be encouraged: but the abilities of the Author I am a stranger to; and it has been too often found, that similar attempts by persons whose reputations are not established in the literary world, are either founded in ignorance—or end in imposition. to encourage the first, or give sanction to the latter, would be alike disagreeable to me. I would beg therefore, if it is not likely to be attended with much trouble, that you would be so obliging as to give me your own, and the Sentiments of others on the Author, & his performance; that I may be enabled to decide properly with respect to his request.
My respectful Compliments & best wishes, in which Mrs Washington join, are presented to Mrs Powel, and yourself. I am—Dear Sir Yr Most Obedt Hble Servt

G: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Edmund Richards, 15 June 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Richards, Edmund

Sir,
Mt Vernon June 15th 1785.

Your letter of the 1st of Feby from Plymouth Dock, came safe. In explicit terms I assure you, that the information which I suppose you must have received respecting a Will, & the Plantations of a Mr Richd Richards, is without the smallest foundation. I never heard of the man, his Will, or the Estate which you say was left in my hands, until your letter reached me: equally unacquainted am I with Lawyer Haines or Lawr Briton, consequently can give you no satisfaction in any of the matters requested of me.
If any such event as you speak of ever did happen with any of my name, it is unknown to me—it is not in my power therefore to give you any clue by which you may pursue your enquiries, or I would do it with pleasure. I am &c.

G: Washington


Title: From George Washington to William Minor, 16 June 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Minor, William

Sir,
Mt Vernon 16th June 1785.

Your letter of the 14th is this moment delivered to me. Moral obligations, or the obligations of humanity are equally binding on all men: if motives of humanity therefore induced me to bestow a years schooling on Lawce Posey, & to effect it I was willing to incur the expence of a years board also; the same motives might have induced you, without making a charge of it against me, to have acted a similar part in other respects by the boy; for sure I am, my connexion with him was not stronger, nor legal nor honorary obligation greater on me than on any other mans to excite them. Schooling, I reiterate in this letter, as I urged in my former, was my object; consequently, if he did not go to the Free school in Queen Anne, (the place designed) as you yourself acknowledged to me, nor to any other School—for what purpose let me ask was I to pay £17? Was not his Fathers house, if time was to be misspent, the best place for him to waste it in? Can it be supposed I ever had it in contemplation to board him out for the purpose of idleness? If then the conditions of my letter to Mr Baker were never complied with, as you candidly confessed to me they were not when here, where is the justice of requiring £17—or an iota of it from me, when the compensation was expressly stipulated? But I will be done. I am too much engaged in company & in business to go further into the detail of this matter.
If Genl Robardeau (whom you mentioned to me yourself in a former letter) will be so obliging as to undertake to determine the point, I shall be perfectly satisfied with his decision. I shall expect however that both this letter, & my former to you which was directed to his care, and such papers as you exhibited to me, will be laid before him—one of which certified that Lawce Posey was not at the Free school: another, in effect that your charge was antecedent to the date of my letter to Mr Baker—& a third, from Capt. Posey to you, which will serve to proove that

he was a House-Keeper at Rovers-delight (as he call’d his place) at the time you want me to pay you for the boy’s board, & when he was not at school, nor ever derived the benefit which was the object of my benevolence. I am Sir—&c.

G: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Daniel Roberdeau, 17 June 1785
From: Roberdeau, Daniel
To: Washington, George

Alexandria June 17th 1785

The request you made of me in a letter to Wm Minor I instantly obeyed as a command, and have now the happiness to inform your Excellency, that the last Evening I convinced him of his indecency in making any demand of you, particularly in refusing your generosity in the offer of a ballance to which he had no claim, but from that principle, and for which he would consider himself obliged. I am much more obliged by this opportunity afforded of testifying my ready obedience to your commands, as an obligation conferred, which will be heightened by every intimation of your pleasure whenever and however the occasion may offer of signifying the ineffable regard I have for your Person and Character, as a pepper corn of acknowledgment of the obligations by which I am bound ever to be Your Excellencys most grateful and obedient humble Servant

Daniel Roberdeau


Title: From George Washington to Henry Knox, 18 June 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Knox, Henry

My dear Sir
Mount Vernon 18th June 85

I am quite ashamed to be so long deficient in acknowledging the receipt of your favors of the 24th & 29th of March, and 5th of May; but an intervention of circumstances (with the enumeration of which I shall not trouble you) have prevented it.
It gave me great pleasure to hear of your appointment as Secretary

at War—without a complimt, I think a better choice could not have been made—and though the Salary is low, it may, under the circumstances you mention, be considered as auxiliary.
Inclosed is a certificate of Service for Major Sergeant, of whose worth I have a high opinion; but for want of a more competent knowledge of the time of his entering the line of the Army, and of the Commissions he has borne, I could not be more particular.
At any time this Summer, the Limestone would be useful to me; but the sooner it comes the greater benefit I shall derive from it, as the Walls for which I want it, are now in hand.
The sentiment which you have dropped respecting the appropriation of the shares which were intended for me, by the Assembly of this State, in the Navigations of the Rivers Potomack & James, is very pleasing; and would give me great pleasure to see it reallized.
For want of a competent view of the designs of Congress respecting the Western Territory; and not knowing how matters stand with Great Britain, respecting the Posts of Detroit & other places at present occupied by British Garrisons, on the American side of the Line; I feel an unfitness to answer your question respecting such Posts as may be proper for the purposes mentioned; but under the ideas I hold at prest, I am inclined to think that if Garrisons are to be established within the limits & jurisdiction of any of the 13 States, that Fort Pitt, or Fort McIntosh, which ever shall be found most convenient and in best repair, would suit very well for a Post of deposits; from whence all the others should be supplied. and as it is my opinion that great part of the Fur & Peltry of the Lakes (when we shall have free access to them) will be transported by the Cayahoga and big beaver Creek, a Post at the Mouth of, or at some convenient Port on the former, must be eligable. The spot marked Miami Village & Fort in Hutchins’s Map, I have always considered as of importance, being a central point between Lake Erie, Lake Michigan, & the river Ohio; communicating with each by Water. To these the Falls of the Ohio, or some more convenient spot for the lower settlements, may be added. Whether this chain embraces territory enough, whether it goes far enough to the Southward to afford protection to the back parts of Virginia the Carolinas and Georgia—or whether these are objects which are

meant to be comprehended, are for those who are more behind the Curtain than I am, to determine. My opinion of the matter is, that I have described a sufficient extent of Country to answer all our present purposes; beyond which, neither Settlements nor Locations of Land ought to be admitted; because a larger would open a more extensive field for Land jobbers & Speculators—Weaken our Frontiers—exclude Law, good government, & taxation to a later period—and injure the union very essentially in many respects. At the conflux of the Great Kanhawa & Ohio, a Post might be established so as to answer benificial purposes. Indeed it is the opinion of many, that it is a more eligable place than Pittsburgh. In time, if the Navigation of the Kanhawa should be extended, & an easy communication opened with James River, it may be so; but in the present state of things, considering the Settlements about the latter, & the sources from whence proceed all the Supplies of that Country, it certainly is not. As a protection of the River—& the movements thereon, it is desirable.
If I am right in my principles some such distribution as the following may not be ineligable for the 700 men which are ordered to be raised.

                  Men

                  At Fort Pitt, Fort McIntosh, or the Mouth of big Beaver (being in the vicinity of a thick settlemt only—
                  }
                  100.

                  Cayahoga, from whence a Detachment might occupy the Carrying place between that water & big Beaver; being on the line, & most exposed, should have
                  }
                  200.

                  Miami Fort or Village, and Dependences—D[itt]o D[itt]o
                  }
                  200

                  At the Falls of the Ohio, or some spot more convt & healthy, on that river
                  }
                  150.

                  At the Conflux of the Great Kanhawa & Ohio for security of the River—protection of Trade, & covering emigrants
                  }
                  50

                  Total

                  700.

Mrs Macauly Graham and Mr Graham, and others, have just left this, after a stay of about 10 days. A Visit from a Lady so celebrated in the Literary world could not but be very flattering to me. Mrs Washington joins me in best wishes for yourself, Mrs Knox and family; with great truth & sincerity I am My dear Sir Yr Most Obedt & Affecte Hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Benjamin Stoddert, 20 June 1785 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Stoddert, Benjamin

Letter not found: to Benjamin Stoddert, 20 June. Stoddert on 21 June wrote GW: “I am honored with your favor of yesterday.”


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Montgomerie, 21 June 1785
From: Montgomerie, Thomas
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Dumfries 21st June 1785

It was not long after I parted with you at Mount Vernon, that I recollected a person (but a few days arrived in this Country) who I think would suit you in the character you mentioned—His name is Mr William Shaw—his Father a Clergyman, not many miles distant from the place of my nativity, well connected and very universally and deservedly respected—he has a large family and to my knowledge they have all turned out well—I was several times in Company with this Young man (who has been used in good Company) when last in Britain, and he is of pleasant conversation and manners—He had an opportunity from his fathers attention and a public education to improve himself in literature, and I believe he is sufficiently informed—He has been bred to business, and was engaged for two or three years in an active business in Canada He is now come out to this Country with a view of pursuing that line, with letters of strong recommendation to me from several of my friends—I have inquired a little into his views and advantages, and am inclined to think he would accept of proposals from you.
When you did me the honor to mention this matter to me at Mount Vernon, I confess I had no Idea that I would have named a person to you equally qualified as Mr Shaw, in fact I did not expect to have had it in my power to name one at all.
If you wish to make any inquiries, or to have any other information than what I have now given, I beg you will state them, it will give me very great pleasure in any way to serve you. If you wish to see and converse with Mr Shaw I can promise he shall wait on you—I have the honor to be with sentiments of regard Dear Sir Your most Obt Humbe Servt

Thos Montgomerie


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Stoddert, 21 June 1785
From: Stoddert, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

Sir
George Town [Md.] 21st June 1785.

I am honored with your favor of yesterday, inclosing an order on Col. Hooe for £70:8:6, for the account forwarded to Col. Charles Washington for cash & goods furnished your Nephews.
I first began to supply them upon the Death of their Guardian Mr Nourse, without any authority, merely because at that time no other person could be instructed to do it, and was far from having any view to advantage in the transaction, & indeed, neither expected, nor wished to continue supplying them longer than ’till arrangements could be made for their accomodation by the Gentleman upon whom the care of them devolved. Under such circumstances, it gives me not a little pain, that the articles in my account should appear to be overcharged, as thence may be inferred an imputation which I am very happy in knowing myself incapable of meritting.
The Young Gentlemen now board with Mr Wm Bailey of this Town, who has a Store—being continually under his Eye, he can much better Judge than I can, what will be really necessary for them—like all Boys, they are apt to want too much—I hope you will approve of my having requested him to accomodate them in future—he agrees to supply what goods they may have, at 125 ⅌Ct Maryland, on the cost, something more than 75 in Virga which is lower than I retail goods. I have the honor to be with very great esteem Yr Excellency’s most Obedt Servt

Ben Stoddert


Title: From George Washington to William Grayson, 22 June 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Grayson, William

Dr Sir,
Mount Vernon, 22d June 1785.

Since my last to you I have been favored with your letters of the 5th—27th &  of May, & beg your acceptance of my thanks for their enclosures, & for the communications you were pleased to make me therein.
I am very glad to find you have pass’d an Ordinance of Congress respecting the sale of the Western Lands: I am too well acquainted with the local politic’s of individual States, not to have foreseen the difficulties you met with in this business; these things are to be regretted, but not to be altered until liberallity of sentiment is more universal. Fixing the Seat of Empire at any spot on the Delaware, is in my humble opinion, demonstrably wrong: to incur an expence for what may be call’d the permanent seat of Congress, at this time, is I conceive evidently impolitic; for without the gift of prophecy, I will venture to predict that under any circumstance of confederation, it will not remain so far to the Eastward long; & that until the public is in better circumstances, it ought not to be built at all. Time, too powerful for sophistry, will point out the place & disarm localities of their powers: In the meanwhile let the widow, the Orphan & the suffering Soldier, who are crying to you for their dues, receive that which can very well be rendered to them.
There is nothing new in this quarter of an interesting nature, to communicate, unless you should not have been informed that the Potomac navigation proceeds under favourable auspices: At the general meeting of the subscribers in May last, it appeared that upwards of 400 of the 500 shares had been engaged—Many more have been subscribed since—a Board of Directors have been chosen—proper characters & Labourers advertized for, to commence the work in the least difficult parts of the river, ’till a skillful Engineer can be engaged to undertake those which are more so; & it is expected the work will be begun by the 10th of next month. With great esteem & regard I am &c. &c.

G: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Lamar, Hill, Bisset, & Company, 22 June 1785
From: Lamar, Hill, Bisset, & Company
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Madeira, 22d June 1785

We have had an order by us from our Henry Hill of Philadelphia ever since November 1783, to ship you a Pipe of fine old Wine for your own use, by any good Vessel bound to Alexandria in Virginia; but none having from that period to the present offered, & being likewise without expectations of any casting up, beg to know if we may send it to Norfolk, where we have a very careful friend, (Doctor James Taylor) who from that place will forward it to you in the most eligible manner. We have the honor to be—Sir Your most obedient humble Servants

Lamar Hill Bisset & Co.


Title: From George Washington to John Rumney, Jr., 22 June 1785
From: Washington, George
To: Rumney, John Jr.

Dr Sir,
Mt Vernon 22d June 1785.

I stand indebted to you for two letters, one of the 8th of September—the other of the 9th of Feby—the first should not have remained so long unacknowledged, but for the expectation I had of the second—the second led me to expect a third, upon the receipt of which I meant to give you but one trouble by replying to them all at the same time.
Permit me to thank you Sir, for your attention to my Commissions: the joiner arrived safe, & I believe will fully answer your description & expectation of him; he gives great satisfaction, & seems well satisfied himself. The expence of his passage, & your advance to him, has been paid to Mr Sanderson.
I delayed making choice of either of the samples of Flag Stone, until I had seen the Irish marble, & was made acquainted with the cost of it; but as it is not yet arrived, & I like the whitest & cheapest of the three samples wch you sent me by Capt. Atkinson, I request the favor of you to forward by the first opportunity (with some to spare in case of breakage or other accidents) as much of this kind as will floor the Gallery in front of my house, which within the margin, or border that goes round it, & is already laid with a hard stone of the Country, is 92 feet 7½ inches, by 12 feet 9¼ inches.
Having given the exact dimension of the floor or space which is to be laid with flag-stone, I shall leave it to the workman to procure them of such a size (not less than one foot square—& all of one size) as will answer best, & accord most with the taste of the times. I take it for granted that 7½d. or 8d. is the price of the white Stone in the prepared state in which it was sent, & that shipping charges & freight only, are to be added to the Cost: if a rough estimate of the latter had been mentioned, it would have been more pleasing, as I could then have prepared accordingly.
I am at a loss to determine in what manner these dressed Flags can be brought without incurring much expence, or being

liable to great damage: to put them in Cases will involve the first; & to stow them loose, the other may be sustained; unless great care is used in the stowage, which is rarely to be found among Sailors, or even Masters of Vessels. If the Flags are well dressed, a little matter will chip the edges, and break the corners; which would disfigure the work & be hurtful to the eye. I will give no direction therefore on this head—your own judgment on the spot shall dictate; at the same time I have but little doubt, if they are placed in the hold of the Ship with hay or straw to keep them from rubing, of their coming free from damage.
I will soon follow this letter with a remittance from hence, or draft upon London for a sum to enable you to discharge the undertaker. In the mean while let me pray you to hasten the execution & the Shipping of them, as my Gallery is very much in want. With great esteem & regard I am Sir, &c.

G: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Israel Shreve, 22 June 1785
From: Shreve, Israel
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Burlington State of New Jersey 22nd June 1785

I have been told you hold large tracts of Land upon the Waters of the Ohio Either upon the great Kanhawa or Licking Creek or both, since the Peace I with several others have an Inclination to become Adventureers to the back Country some where in that Quarter—have long Wated to hear the Determination of Congress respecting the Sale of the Lands in the New States, but had no Idea of such a plan as they have Fixed, the Land no Less than a Dollar ⅌ Acre, and then take it by guess and how long before this plan is carried into Execution cannot be known, I am no Speculator hold no Cirtifecates but for my own Services which I have kept with a vew of Purchaceing Land. Whether it would not be your Advantage to sell about ten Thousand

acres at a Moderate price to be paid for in final Settle Notes Includeing Interest due thereon, to be Immediately Setled with good farmers from New Jersey, which I will engage to do, If you should Incline to Oblige me with such a purchace Adjoining the Ohio River where the Land is good well Watered and one or more good Mill Scites thereon please to Send me a Draft of the Tract So that I can find it—I have the Maps of the Country and should chuse to see it and Call upon you on my return and Confirm the Bargain. I was Bred a farmer and am Determined If life and health Permits to go some where Back to settle and have thought If you could oblige me it would be an Advantage to you in Selling or Improveing your Adjoining Land, however this I Leave for you to Determine. I am Sir with Great respect your Excellencys Most Obedient Servent

Israel Shreve

P.S. My son that was in the Army with me is a good Surveyor and will go with me to settle in that Country. I. Shreve.
If you incline to Sell please to send me the price and Quantity you will part with. I.S.