Title: To George Washington from Manufacturers of Snuff and Refined Sugar, December 1795
From: Manufacturers of Snuff and Refined Sugar
To: Washington, George

            sir
            [December 1795]

          The Manufacturers of Snuff, & refin’d Sugar, having prepar’d a Pamphlet; stating the general inconvenience of an Excise system and the particular grievances which they suffer from the Excise impos’d upon their Manufactures present with great deference a copy of the work for your information and consideration.

            Thomas LeiperGavin HamiltonJacob Morgan


Title: To George Washington from Pierre-Auguste Adet, 1 January 1796
From: Adet, Pierre-Auguste
To: Washington, George

            Mr President
            [1 Jan. 1796]

          I come to acquit myself of a duty very dear to my heart, I come to deposit in your hands and in the midst of a people justly

renowned for their courage and their love of liberty, the symbol of the triumphs and of the enfranchisement of my nation.
          When she broke her chains, when she proclaimed the imprescriptible rights of man, when in a terrible war she sealed with her blood the covenant she had made with liberty, her own happiness was not alone the object of her glorious efforts; her views extended also to all free people. She saw their interests blended with her own, and doubly rejoiced in her victories, which in assuring to her the enjoyment of her Rights, became to them new guarantees of their independence.
          These sentiments which animated the French nation from the dawn of their Revolution, have acquired new strength since the foundation of the Republic. France, at that time, by the form of its Government, assimilated to, or rather identified with, free people, saw in them only friends and brothers. Long accustomed to regard the american people as her most faithful allies, she has saught to draw closer the ties already formed in the fields of America under the auspices of victory, over the ruins of tyranny.
          The National Convention, the organ of the will of the French nation, have more than once expressed their sentiments to the American people; but above all these burst forth on that August day when the minister of the United States presented to the National Representation, the Colours of his Country. Desiring never to lose recollections as dear to Frenchmen as they must be to Americans, the Convention ordered that these colours should be placed in the Hall of their sittings. They had experienced sensations too agreeable not to cause them to be partaken of by their allies, and decreed that to them the national colours should be presented.
          Mr President
          I do not doubt their expectation will be fulfilled; and I am convinced that every citizen will receive, with a pleasing emotion, this flag, elsewhere the terror of the enemies of liberty, here the certain pledge of faithful friendship; especially when they recollect that it guides to combat men who have shared their toils, and who were prepared for liberty by aiding them to acquire their own.

            (signed) P. A. Adet


Title: From George Washington to Pierre-Auguste Adet, 1 January 1796
From: Washington, George
To: Adet, Pierre-Auguste

            United States January 1st 1796

          Born, sir, in a land of liberty; having early learned its value; having engaged in a perilous conflict to defend it; having, in a word, devoted the best years of my life to secure its permanent establishment in my own country; my anxious recollections, my sympathetic feelings, and my best wishes are irresistably excited, whensoever in any country I see an oppressed nation unfurl the banners of freedom. But above all, the events of the French Revolution have produced the deepest solicitude, as well as the highest admiration. To call your nation brave, were to pronounce but common praise. Wonderful people! Ages to come will read with astonishment the history of your brilliant exploits! I rejoice that the period of your toils and of your immense sacrifices, is approaching. I rejoice that the interesting revolutionary movements of so many years have issued in the formation of a constitution designed to give permanency to the great object for which you have contended. I rejoice that liberty, which you have so long embraced with enthusiasm, liberty, of which you have been the invincible defenders, now finds an asylum in the bosom of a regularly organised government; a government, which, being formed to secure the happiness of the French People, corresponds with the ardent wishes of my heart, while it gratifies the pride of every citizen of the United States by its resemblance to their own. On these glorious events accept, sir, my sincere congratulations.

          In delivering to you these sentiments, I express not my own feelings only, but those of my fellow citizens, in relation to the commencement; the progress, and the issue of the French Revolution: and they will cordially join with me in purest wishes to the Supreme Being, that the citizens of our sister republic, our magnanimous allies, may soon enjoy in peace, that liberty, which they have purchased at so great a price, and all the happiness which liberty can bestow.
          I receive, sir, with lively sensibility, the symbol of the triumphs and of the enfranchisement of your nation, the colours of France, which you have now presented to the United States. The transaction will be announced to congress; and the colours will be deposited with those archives of the United States, which are at once the evidences and the memorials of their freedom and independence. May these be perpetual! and may the friendship of the two republics be commensurate with their existence.

            Go. Washington


Title: From George Washington to John Jay, 1 January 1796
From: Washington, George
To: Jay, John

            My dear Sir,
            Philadelphia Jany 1st 1796

          The enclosed, under cover from Sir John Sinclair, came to my hands a few days since.
          I sincerely wish, as well for the zealous supporter, as for the cause itself, that some measure could be devised to facilitate Sir John’s views. Can you suggest any? Aid me if you can, for I am at a loss what to say in answer to his present plan; and the Extracts relative to Mr Elkington’s discoveries in the art of draining; which; I presume, were forwarded to you at the time I received them, in a letter from Sir John, bearing date the 18th of July last.
          Permit me to offer you, Mrs Jay & the family, the compliments of the season; and the return of many of them; each proving

more happy than the former. With affecte regard I am—always —Your Obedient

            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Bartholomew Dandridge, Jr., 2 January 1796
From: Dandridge, Bartholomew Jr.
To: Washington, George

            My dear Sir,
            Philada Jany 2d 1796.

          Painful as it is to me (& I assure you it is truly so) to trouble you with anything which relates to myself, knowing as I do that your time is now scarcely adequate to the discharge of the duties & avocations which are attached to your station; yet I conceive myself so forcibly impelled by several reasons (for which I beg to refer you to my letter on this subject in July last, and to which there are others which I might add) to change my situation in life, that I am brought to the necessity of submitting to you my desire & intention of giving up an employment which I can no longer execute in a manner which I myself can approve, as soon as you can be provided with some person to take charge of that part of your business which is in my hands at present. This, I presume, may be accomplished in the course of two or three months—or at any rate by the termination of the present session of Congress: though the sooner it happens with convenience to yourself the better would it accord with my views. In coming to this resolution My Dr Sir, I hope you will do me the justice to believe that nothing which relates to you personally has had the smallest weight in causing its adoption. I feel most sensibly all the indulgance which you have shewn me since my residence in your family, and the consideration of your goodness never fails to excite in my breast the most lively gratitude.
          I will now, Sir, intrude so far as to state you my future prospects, and to beg your advice and assistance towards their attainment in such degrees as you shall think proper to afford them.
          The ultimatum of my wishes & exertions is to obtain if possible a small farm in the upper Country and in a healthy part of Virginia. The neighbourhood of Staunton strikes me as of this description, and to this Country my inclination has always leaned. In order to enable me to obtain this end of my wishes I

propose (if I can accomplish it) to make an establishment in the mercantile line at Staunton—or at a small (but thriving as I am told) town called Lexington about 35 miles above Staunton, on the head waters of James river. The navigation is now passable from the latter place to Richmond, and will no doubt in a short time be rendered perfectly good. An early establishment of this sort at Lexington would, I think, command much of the produce of that rich Country, & become an increasing & profitable trade. There, Sir, are my objects in the attainment of which I beg your patronage.
          Nothing but a strong desire to make in some small degree a return from your kindness to me, induced me to prolong my residence in this City after making known to you my wish to leave it last summer. It is my firm belief that my remaining here will not enable me to do this; but on the contrary will impede it. You were so good, Sir, as to mention (if I mistake not) your intention of conferring on me some public office which I might be thought capable of filling, when you left your present station. This particular instance of your kindness demands & receives my sincere acknowledgments: but I declare to you, Sir, that there is not one office (even supposing me ever so capable of filling it) in the gift of the Government which I would accept upon the condition of residing longer in this City.
          I have adopted a letter as the most respectful and explicit mode of placing this matter before you, and if there is any impropriety contained in it, I trust you will be assured it is not intentional. In any event I am my dear Sir, with true respect & affectionate attachment, Your obliged servt

            Bw Dandridge


Title: Pardon for Joseph Hood, 2 January 1796
From: Washington, George
To:

            [Philadelphia, 2 Jan. 1796]

          To all persons to whom these presents shall come—Greeting.
          whereas, Joseph Hood late of the Massachusetts district mariner, at a Circuit Court of the United States, lately holden in and for the said Massachusetts district was lately convicted of the

crime of Manslaughter committed on the high seas and within the jurisdiction of the same Court and by the Judgment the said Joseph Hood was sentenced and adjudged to suffer eighteen months imprisonment, to pay to the use of the United States the sum of five hundred dollars and to stand committed until the said Judgement of the Court was complied with, and whereas the said Joseph Hood hath by his petition to me set forth that he has already sustained an imprisonment of many months before his trial and hath an aged mother to maintain, and the character and conduct of the said Joseph Hood is certified to be otherwise fair and honest, and the said Joseph Hood by his said petition hath besought a remission of so much of the said Judgment of the Court as subjects him to further imprisonment. Therefore I George Washington President of the United States, in consideration of the premises herein before set forth have thought proper and by these presents do grant unto the said Joseph Hood a full, free and entire pardon of the said offence whereof he so stands convicted so far as the same relates to the further term of imprisonment part of the Judgment of the said Court and not otherwise hereby willing and requiring that when and as soon as the said Joseph Hood shall have satisfied the Judgment of the said Court as far as the same relates to the fine and costs of prosecution on him imposed to be forthwith discharged from Custody.
          In Testimony whereof, I have caused the Seall of the United States of America to be affixed to these presents, and signed the same with my hand. Done at the City of Philadelphia the second day of January, 1796 and of the Independence of the United States of America the twentieth.

            Go. Washington,By the President, Timothy Pickering


Title: To George Washington from William Rowley, 2 January 1796
From: Rowley, William
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Saville row St James [London] January 2. 1796

          I have the honor to acknowledge Your Excellency’s letter of polite thanks for the writings I transmitted. Your Excellency directed the letter to Oxford, of which university, I am a member, but it is long since, I resided there. I hope the doctrines, I have endeavored to promulgate will prove beneficial to society, expecially in the prevention or curing those infectious putrid diseases, that have made such havock amongst the human species, in some measure, owing to medical prejudices, which are nearly as difficult to remove as mountains. I beg leave to subscribe myself, with the greatest esteem for your amiable virtues your Exellency’s most obedient humble servant

            Wm Rowley M.D.


Title: To George Washington from Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 2 January 1796
From: Wolcott, Oliver Jr.
To: Washington, George

            Treasury Department January 2d 1796.

          The Secretary of the Treasury respectfully transmits to The President of the United States a paper received from the Commissioner of the Revenue, containing certain propositions of the proprietors of Montack-point on Long Island in the State of New York, relative to a tract of Land intended to be granted to the United States for the use of the Lighthouse now erecting on said Montack-point.
          It is the opinion of the Secretary, that it is for the Interest of the United States to accept a grant of the land in question upon the terms proposed by the proprietors (viz.) that the United States shall pay to the said proprietors the sum of two hundred & fifty dollars upon their executing a good and sufficient deed for the said land: that the United States shall not erect, permit or suffer to be erected on the Land so granted any huts, houses or buildings whatsoever, excepting only such dwelling houses & out houses as may be necessary for the habitation of the person appointed to tend the said Lighthouse, or which may be necessary for the particular use and benefit of the said Lighthouse. That if at any time hereafter a partition-fence shall be made between the tract of Land so to be granted and the Land of the proprietors; the same shall be made at the expense of the United States, & forever after upheld & maintained by them. All which is respectfully submitted

            Oliv: Wolcott JrSecry of the Treasury


Title: From George Washington to Bryan Fairfax, 3 January 1796
From: Washington, George
To: Fairfax, Bryan

            Dear Sir,
            Philadelphia 3d Jany 1796

          Your favor of the 16th Ulto came safe, but not in the time which might have been expected from the date of it.
          Mr Davie’s letter is herewith returned. I do not know that more could have been done, than you have attempted to do; but it is exceedingly to be regretted, that villainy—chicanery—and every species of delay, should bring justice in such jeopardy, if it is not, intirely defeated by them. I shall hope however, that as long as there remains a tolerable chance of coming at it, that the suit will be prosecuted: and that Colo. Simms and whoever else is employed therein, will exert themselves to the utmost.
          I am of opinion that good policy dictates the propriety of assuring them a handsome fee, or rather a certain percentage if they succeed; nothing if they do not. Trifling fees are thrown away upon Lawyers of any eminence for they excite no exertion and it cannot be expected that in a case which is in a manner desperate and without any appropriate funds, that large fees can be paid from our private purses. My advances to Mrs Savage in her life, during the days of her distress, was pretty considerable, and the Clerks and Sheriffs fees are continually adding to it—Yours I am persuaded are equal thereto, and together, shew the expediency of a vigorous effort; which I see no others means of making than the one I have suggested.
          My respects, and the compliments of the season, in which Mrs Washington joins me, are offered to Mrs Fairfax and yourself—And with sincere esteem and regard I am—Dear Sir Your Most Obedt & Affe Serv.

            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Robert Gamble, 3 January 1796
From: Gamble, Robert
To: Washington, George

            Respected Sir
            Richmond Jany 3. 1796

          Understanding that a number of applications have been made in consequence of a recent act or Resolution of the Virginia assembly; to induce you to name some place, of the many, in the upper part of this state, which is, & will no doubt be mentioned to you a suitable place for the Education of Youth—on which to bestow your munificence, by Endowing a seminary, with the Shares in the James River Canal Company you have appropriated to that purpose—It is with great reluctance that I intrude on your time; so taken up with the weighty affairs which press on you, in Consequence of the Station you fill; at a time too, when faction is so active to embitter & pall those enjoyments & Consolations which unparralled services to your Country give you a right to experience.
          But you will pardon the solicitude which induces me to bring to your recollection—Staunton in Augusta County as A fit place for the Education of Youth.
          This place is Situated near the Junction or rather interlocking of the Potowmack & James’s River waters: in the fertile Vale between the Blue Ridge & North Mountain’s—about the Center from the Potowmack to the North carolina line—and 160 Miles in a direct Course from Williamsburgh to the western parts of this state. which is a happy distance to prevent any interferrence with the William & Mary College—The four great leading post roads from N. to S. & E. to W. center at Staunton—it is a place of great resort in the summer season on account of the salubrity of the Climate, the thoroughfare to the Numerous Medicinal Springs in that part of the Country—Next to Winchester it is the largest inland Town in Virginia, & rapidly growing—has a well Supplied Market three times a Week & amongst the Cheapest places in the interior for boarding—A Grammer School for some years has been Taught there—which bid fair to arive at the wished for perfection & emimence—But all at once the presbyterian clergyman around the Neighborhood set up Gramer Schools at their own houses—which drew to those places most of the Scholars as the Local Situation Suited the residence of the people Concerned—This Whim has now Subsided—And Trustees (of which I am one)—are incorporated by Act of Assembly—a

large Square Logged House with two apartments by Subscription is errected as a temporary begining—and Globes with requisite apparatus is to be procured by me; for this purpose Collections by subscription are making—(Stone buildings are erected cheap in that part of the Country[)]—The Court House & Jail of that district, it is agreed Surpass all similar buildings in any district of the State.
          Hitherto prejudices have been powerful in favor of Schools at Clergymens houses, & which may Still for Some reasons be continued usefully as a begining—But You Contemplate no doubt to endow some place where the Young men of the upper parts of the State—& those whose parents may Judge it essential that their Children improve by salubrity of Climate their Constitutions Whilst they are acquiring their education—And at the same time a Situation which will give youth the oportunity of knowing the occurrances of the world—from day to day—And to my mind Staunton has this advantage, added to all others enumerated—over any part of Virginia except Richmond for political information.
          In Rockbridge County about 30 miles Above Staunton a building has been lately erected which admits of many Conveniences —& has a number of pupils under the superintendance of a Revd Wm Graham—who has taught in that part of the Country with success—having at the begining of the Revolution obtained Contributions which procured a small Library—This place is within half a Mile of a small Town & Court house named Lexington—And would be still a usefull place for the youth of that Neighborhood to prepare them for a College—The Local situation of the Teacher aided by the prejudices which some time ago operated against a Town as a place of Education—& persevering exertion to draw the attention of people from Staunton—has given, in that forced manner the pre eminence to this last mentioned seminary And accorded with the Local int⟨ent⟩ of the Teacher—But, A plantation in the Neighborhood of Staunton formerly the Glebe of the parish is now Vested in the Trustees—And the public spirit & Zeal of the Trustees & other Gentlemen in that part of the State leave not a doubt in my Mind—That suitable buildings will be immediately errected at private Expense—Should you on matur⟨e⟩ reflection taking into account as you surely will the Central and other advantages requisite by

nature, to influence your Mind, in fixing the important Spot—And Staunton meet your approbation—Then will all Local & other prejudices be done away—Then will the attention of the interior & back Country be drawn to that honored place—And when it is considered at this time of prosperity & success—How easily buildings &c. can be erected & will be erected The most proper place, will influence your decision without regards to the ⟨illegible⟩ present advantage of a House in Rockbridge &c. being considered an object of moment, A Road is now opening from Kentuckey & is opened to the forks of Sandy & from thence intended next summer to New River or Kenawha above the mouth of Green Brier by the Sweet Springs, a good waggon road then leads to Staunton, And from the Acct given by a Committee of Merchants I met last September in Staunton from Kentuckey who were appointed to Confer with those of Staunton for that purpose—This will bring that fertile Region 150 miles nearer than the usual routes now travelled to the waters of Potowmack.
          Having an establshment in that place, and where I formerly resided—and to which I take my family once a year, I will not dissemble that I feel a solicitude for its growing Consequence—But I trust the opinion I have given is supported by fact without partiality—and I confide in your wisdom Guided by that unerring providence which Visibly influences all your decisions—That wherever you may allot—time will evince the propriety thereof—and that you may live to see happy progress in this aditional proof of your paternal care for the rising generation of your Country.
          Mrs Gamble begs her respects be made to Mrs Washington (we had the happiness of seeing you & her last May in Philadelphia)—And with Veneration & sincere esteem I am Sir your obedt & mo. Hume servt

            Ro. Gamble


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Johnson, 3 January 1796
From: Johnson, Thomas
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Frederick [Md.] 3d January 1796.

          A pretty general Opinion prevails amongst us that Congress will this Session open a Land Office for the Northwestern Territory and the published proceedings in a degree confirm it. Colo. John Lynn, who has heretofore enjoyed your favorable Opinion in another Line, is desirous on the Event taking place that you should extend your Confidence to him in this new Department: I believe him competent to fill any Rank in it and on a long Acquaintance with him he has proved himself a man of probity and Honor—I have had the pleasure to remark that he is exact in the discharge of public Duties, far from being greedy and has patience with the ignorant to whom he seems disinterestedly inclined to point out the Way. I am sir Your most obedt humble Servant

            Th. Johnson


Title: To George Washington from Henry Lee, 3 January 1796
From: Lee, Henry
To: Washington, George

            My dear President
            Richmond 3d Jany 9[6]

          In my last I told you that I had contrived to get an unsuspected private friend to hire an express to carry a le[tte]r from me to Mr. H. as I found waiting for private conveyances too tedious.
          I have this moment reced his reply, after expressing himself very anxious indeed, to evidence (especially at the present crisis) by some public act his attachment to you & after declaring his sense of my friendship in mentioning him to you for a late vacancy, as well as for the proof exhibited in my letr then before him of my constant attention to his welfare, he goes on to say thus “I am however constrained to decline every thought of public life—the appointment you consider me proper for is both honorable & profitable—to detail all my motives for withdrawing from the public is too tedious—It is enough to tell you that my remaining stock of mental & corporeal energy is insufficient for a station so eminently demanding a large share of both—the constant change of climate often from hot to hotter & from cold to colder is too much at my time of life.”
          I very much lament Mr Hs. conclusion for public & private considerations.
          It is really a subject of much mortification to me that proper men will not enter into official trusts.
          On your shoulders difficultys are thereby accumulated.
          This is additional ground of distress to me—But still I am sure all will go well.
          Rs book has appeared (some few copys only) so far as I can hear it works very dully & will produce a different effect from the Authors expectation. Accept my best wishes & beleive me to be ever with the highest respect & purest attachment Your most ob: St

            Henry Lee


Title: To George Washington from James Monroe, 3 January 1796
From: Monroe, James
To: Washington, George

            Dear Sir
            Paris Jany 3 179[6].

          Your favor of the 5. of June did not reach me till a few days past or it shod have been sooner answered. I am happy now to answer it because I am able to give you details of the Lady in question which will be very agreeable to you. I had advanc’d her near 2000. dolrs when I was advised here by Jacob Van Staphorst that you had placd in the hands of his brother for Madame La Fayette the sum of two thousand three hundred & ten guilders & which had never been recd. At this time she was solicitting permission to leave France with a view of visiting & partaking with her husband the fortune to which he was exposed. I had given her a certificate that her husband had lands in America & that the Congress had appropriated to his use upwards of 20.000 dolrs the amt wh. was due for his services in our revolution, & upon which basis her application was founded & granted. I made known to her the fund you had appropriated for her use & which she readily & with pleasure accepted, & which served to defray the expence of her journey. She pursued her rout by Dunkurque & Hamburg to which places I gave & procured her letters of recommendation, & at the former of which she was recd in the house & entertained by our consul Mr Coffyn. I assured her when she left France there was no service within my power to render her & her husband & family that I wod not with pleasure render them. To count upon my utmost efforts & command them in their favor. That it was your wish & the wish of America that I shod do so. To consult her husband as to the mode & means & apprize me of his opinion thereon. She departed grateful to you & our country & since which I have not heard from her. She had thoughts of visitting in person the Emperor & endeavoring to obtain the release of her husband; but whether she did or not I can not tell. It was reported sometime since, he was released, & afterwards that she was admitted with her family into the same state of confinement with him: the

latter of which I believe to be true. Before she left this I became responsible in her favor for 9000 l[ivres] t[ournois] upon a months notice (in specie) the object of wh. was to free a considerable estate from some incumbrance & which was effected upon my surety. As yet I have not been called on to pay it. As soon therefore as I recd the draft on Holland for six thousand dolrs in her behalf, I wrote her by two different routs to assure her that I had funds for hers & her husbands support & upon which she might for the present draw to the amt of £250. strg, & afterwards as occasion might require, & to which I have recd no ansr.
          What may be the ultimate disposition of France towards Mr La Fayette it is impossible now to say. His integrity as far as I can find remains unimpeached, & when that is the case the errors of the head are pardoned, as the passions subside. It is more than probable I may be able to serve him with those by whom he is confined, & that I may do this without injury to the U. States here; acting with candour and avowing the motive, since it is impossible that motive can be otherwise than approved, especially if the step be taken when their affrs are in great prosperity. For this however I shall be happy to have yr approbation, since if I do any thing with the Emperor it must be done in yr name, if not explicitly yet in a manner to make known to him the interest you take in the welfare of Mr La Fayette. Young La Fayette is I presume now under yr auspices.
          Within a few days past a truce or armistice was concluded between Pichegru & Jourdan on the one side & Clairfait & Wurmser on the other as it is said for three months: this was of course subject to the approbation or rejection of the govts on each side & I hear that it was rejected on the side of France: orders being sent by the Directoire to pursue the war without cessation. Both armies are in the neighbourhood of Mayence where the country is almost entirely devastated. In Italy the austrians are completely routed & their whole army nearly demolished. Tis said that 8000. prisoners are brought to one of the French villages. Mrs Monroe desires her best respects to be presented to yourself & Mrs Washington who we hope enjoy good health. If there is any thing in which I can be servicable to you here, any article of curiosity or taste you wish to possess & which can be procurd I beg of you to make it known to me that I may procure it for you.

With great & sincere respect and esteem I am Dear Sir your most obt & very humble Servant

            Jas Monroe

            P.S. There are many articles of tapestry the most beautiful that can be conceived, & wh. are intended for the walls of rooms, for chair bottoms &ca, some of which perhaps wod be acceptable to the comrs of the fœderal town, & which if permitted by you or them I wod immediately procure & forward.


Title: From George Washington to William Pearce, 3 January 1796
From: Washington, George
To: Pearce, William

            Mr Pearce
            Philadelphia 3d Jan. 1796.

          Your letter of the 27th with the reports came to hand yesterday—and I am glad to find you have met with a supply of twine in Alexandria, as there is no prospect that has yet opened, of getting it from hence in time and I have no doubt that under all chances fishing yourself will be more profitable than hiring out the landing for Sixty pounds.
          I am not disposed to take any thing less for my flour than it sells at here (allowing for freight and Insurance) for if it is well manufactured, it will pass Inspection in this Market, and of course command the price of other flour, without the credit which is required in Alexandria and would be for my interest to bring it hither, rather than sell at an under rate. In any case, however, I request that Davenport may hasten the grinding as much as possible, that you may be enabled to take the advantage of a Vessels wanting a quantity to disp⟨a⟩tch her, and the badness of the roads, which may prevent its coming from the upper country by land; which must be the case now, from the openess of the winter, hitherto; and will be the case in the spring when it is breaking up which circumstances are favorable for a good sale if you keep a good lookout.
          My letter to you, must have been opened after it went from me, for I think it never could have left my hands without a Seal. But letters for sometime past have been opened, to come at Bank & Post notes; and some persons are now under trial for this practice. I am Your friend &ca

            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from William Pearce, 3 January 1796 [letter not found]
From: Pearce, William
To: Washington, George

          Letter not found: from William Pearce, 3 Jan. 1796. On 17 Jan., GW wrote Pearce: “Your letters of the 3d & 10th instt are both before me.”


Title: From George Washington to the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives, 4 January 1796
From: Washington, George
To: Senate,House of Representatives

            United States January 4th 1796.
            Gentlemen of the Senate, & House of Representatives,

          A letter from the minister Plenipotentiary of the French Republic received on the 22d of the last month, covered an address, dated the 21st of October 1794, from the Committee of Public Safety to the Representatives of the United States in Congress; and also informed me that he was instructed by the Committee to present to the United States the Colours of France. I thereupon proposed to receive them, last Friday, the first day of the New Year, a day of general Joy and Congratulation. On that day the minister of the French Republic delivered the Colours, with an address, to which I returned an answer. By the latter the Senate will see that I have informed the minister, that the Colours will be deposited with the Archives of the United States. But it seemed to me proper previously to exhibit to the two Houses of Congress these evidences of the continued Friendship of the French Republic, together with the sentiments expressed by me on the occasion in behalf of the United States. They are herewith communicated.

            Go. Washington


Title: To George Washington from Gouverneur Morris, 5 January 1796
From: Morris, Gouverneur
To: Washington, George

            My dear Sir
            London 5 Jany 1796

          I did myself the Honor of writing to you on the 19th of last month, of which Letter I now transmit a Copy. I exprest an Idea in the Close of it which may perhaps require an explanatory Observation. Suppose it should be admitted, in general, that the neutral who, by Virtue of special Permission granted during the War, exercises a Commerce with the belligerent Power’s Dominion, from which he was excluded during the Peace, should be considered as taking Part (so far) with such Power, and liable (in Consequence) to Seizure and Confiscation; are there not Circumstances which must generally qualify that general Position? In the particular application of it to the Commerce with Colonies in the West Indias, are there not Circumstances which require particular Exceptions, in Regard to the United States: I opine in both Cases for the affirmative, and I consider it as highly important that the Law of Nations, on these Points, should receive a clear Exposition by that Species of Tribunal which our late

Treaty with this Country has established. It is also my Opinion, and ever has been, that the Maxim free Ship makes free Goods, is in Principle unfounded, will in Practice be disregarded, and in it’s Application to us cannot but prove injurious. As to the Principle I will say Nothing; because the Stipulations made, to that Effect, between contracting Powers shew it to be their Opinion that the Law is otherwise. For these Stipulations are not in the Nature of a Declaration as to what the Law is, but of an Exception to it. As to the Practise, it will be sufficient to remark on the Conduct which France has pursued towards us, during the present War. But as to the Application of this Principle towards the United States in any War which we may sustain against one of the commercial Powers, it may be proper to view it well, before we submit to it. Whenever, and in so far, as we shall have agreed to it we cannot, as others do, shake off the Shackles of our plighted Faith. Our Enemy, altho bound up to the same Principle will, if it prove inconvenient, find Pretexts to elude, or else wholly disavow it. We are then reduc’d to the Necessity of pursuing his Steps to the Violation of our Faith, and of our Constitution, the greatest (in my Opinion) of all possible Evils; or else we must see the Commerce of our Enemy secur’d by a neutral Flag, and our own expos’d to Capture. Let it, however, be admitted that our Enemy will respect the Principle which his Treaties (like ours) have established with a neutral Power, shall we then stand on an equal Footing with him? Certainly not. I know not any Part of our Commerce which neutrals may not carry on, upon their own Account, both in Peace and in War. Our Country, therefore, could suffer no Suspension of her Trade by being engag’d in Hostilities. But the Case of our Enemy would be widely different. The Powers of Europe, from the Defect of liberal Policy and the operation of mutual Jealousies, have attach’d themselves (more or less) to barbarous Systems of Monopoly and Exclusion. Hence it happens that, in Time of War, neutral Subjects cannot take up those Branches of Commerce which, in the Hands of those who are expos’d to the Effects of Capture, become extremely precarious, without exposing themselves to great Risque and Damage; should the opposed Power go to the full Exercise of his Rights. And this is most particularly the Case in Regard to all those Commodities producd by the Southern Part of our Hemisphere. These, taken in the Mass, form the most valuable Commerce which the

Nations of Europe possess; and, by the immutable Laws of Nations they must be transported (as it were) by our Doors. Can it then be wise to preclude ourselves from the Right, we now possess, of taking them when at War with the Owners? Let us suppose we were at Variance with Spain, and then ask whether it would be consistent to see a Ship of Hamburg take in Dollars at la Vera Cruz and transport them to the North of Europe, there to purchase naval Stores and salted Provisions for the Purpose of carrying on Hostilities against us. Or if the Principle of free Ship free Goods be establish’d, let it then be explain’d how such Acts could be prevented; especially if it should be also admitted that a neutral Subject may, by special Permission granted during the War, carry on a Trade from which he had been previously excluded. To look forward to the End, is a common Maxim of Prudence, and I know not any Person who has conform’d to it more exactly than you have. I know also that false Principles of a pretended philanthropic Philosophy have greatly deluded many bookish Statesmen, who make (for themselves) a World of their own in their Closets, and govern it as Maids do their Children and Bachelors their Wives. It may truly be said of them, that “their Kingdom is not of this World” and they are too apt to brand with harsh Epithets those “Children of this World” who in some Respects at least “are wiser in their Generation than the Children of Light.” In Effect, Mankind have within the last twenty years, receiv’d so much of this Sort of Illumination that being dazzled, by the Excess, they can scarcely see; and I am sorely affraid that, in the Business I have just mention’d, we shall, for the Sake of a fine Philosophical Theory, sacrifice a great national Interest. I am my dear Sir ever & truly yours

            Gouvr Morris


Title: From George Washington to Elizabeth Parke Custis, 6 January 1796
From: Washington, George
To: Custis, Elizabeth Parke

            My dear Betsey.
            Philadelphia 6th Jan. 1796

          While you confide in, and do those things which you have reason to believe are pleasing and grateful to me, you may be

assured of an affectionate return. Whenever there is a derilection of them on your part, it will, no doubt, produce a correspondent effect on my part.
          Having fixed these data as the basis of a correspondence which you have solicited, I promise, while you adhere to them, in principle and practice, to answer all your letters in as prompt a manner, as my leisure will permit; and do assure you moreover, that the same candid advice will be given to you as if you were my own daughter.
          In your letter, you say, you shall always be thankful to me for my advice: On what occasions? Am I to wait your explanation, or am I to guess at your meaning? If the former, propound your subjects, and do it with frankness. If the latter, I may wander in the field of conjecture; but with a girl of nineteen, it may not be so difficult to conceive; because Love and its concomitants, are supposed to be always in the foreground.
          Taking love then for the theme, let me ask if you have already drank of this cup; or do you wish to know my description of a person who would be proper to administer it to you? If the first, advice will come too late; for your answer, I am persuaded would be similar to that of a lady of my acquaintance, who asking the opinion of her friend on the propriety of yielding to the addresses of her lover, added, she hoped it would meet her approbation; but concluded “she was resolved to marry him”—If the latter, my description of a suitable character may receive some attention—& upon that ground I proceed, to offer the following sentiments.
          Neither shun by too much coyness, the addresses of a suitable character whom you may esteem; nor encourage them by any advances on your part, however predisposed toward them your inclination may be. The first may discourage, the other may disgust, the man of sensibility.
          Connect yourself with a person of congenial age: for youth and old age, no more than winter & Summer, can be assimilated—the frigidity of the latter, cannot be kept in unison with the warmth of the former: and besides the habits of the two, are widely dissimilar.
          In chusing a partner for life, prefer one of your own countrymen (by this I mean an American) of visible property; whose family is known, & whose circumstances (not depending upon adventitious or fortuitous matters) may not, like a foreigner’s

reduce you to the heart rending alternative of parting with him, or bidding an adieu to your Country, family, and friends for ever.
          In forming a connection of this durability, let the understanding, as well as the passions be consulted; without the approbation of the first, the indulgence of the latter may be compared to the Rose, which will bloom, glow for a while, then fade and die; leaving nothing but thorns behind them.
          There are other considerations, which, tho’ secondary, are, nevertheless, important. Among these, congeniality of temper, is essential; without which, discord will ensue; and that walk must be unpleasant & toilsome, when two persons linked together, cannot move in it without jostling each other. And alas! how often is this found to be the case.
          Next in order to love, you may have placed friendship. On this then I will touch; and it might be sufficient perhaps simply to say of it, as Lord Chatham did on another occasion “that it is” (or ought to be) “a plant of slow growth” otherwise, like the more powerful passion of love, that kindles in a moment and burns furiously, it will consume with its own heat, or evaporate in smoke. Friendship is highly to be prised when it is sincere; but much circumspection is necessary in the choice of a friend before our confidence is given. To enumerate all the requisite qualifications to justify this confidence, would run me into prolixity; and therefore I rather chuse to mention some which ought to be avoided. Talkativeness—Satirests—and intermeddlers in the concerns of others, are of this description. The itch which those of the first class have to be talking, always carry them beyond the limit of prudence. A satirical person, ridicules & exposes the foibles—the persons—& dress of every one—and those who are prying into the concerns of others, & disclosing them under the injunction of secresy, spares no body. No safe friendship can be formed where truth, honor, good sense & prudence are wanting: the discovery of wch is not the work of a moment.
          You have asked my opinion of a certain lady—I answer—that my acquaintance with her is too limited to have formed any—Eulogiums therefore is not be expected; & the contrary might be unjust—But as I have arrived at the end of my paper if not to the finish of my remarks on the foregoing subjects, I will close my letter with the best wishes & affectionate regards of yr friend

            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Tobias Lear, 6 January 1796
From: Lear, Tobias
To: Washington, George

            My dear Sir,
            Washington [D.C.] January 6th 1796

          Captn Myers, who arrived here last week, put into my hands your highly respected favor of the 25 ultimo; and I have now the pleasure to inform you that Captn Myers has been engaged by the Directors of the Potomac Company for one year, as Engineer & Superintendent of their works.
          The Directors being unacquainted with Captn Myers’ fitness for the business he has undertaken, further than his Certificates &c. go, (which are respectable) and he not knowing what may be the expenses of supporting a family, and himself seperate from them, as he must be in his attendance on his duties, it was thot best to put it on a footing of paying him a sum quarterly adequate to his support &c.—and at the expiration of the year make such addition to it as, in the opinion of the board, his services &c. may merit. with this he is perfectly satisfied. The sum allowed is four hundred dollars per quarter.
          He enters immediately on his duty and will send for his family to come on here to him. He has, for the present, taken a small House in the City near the Bridge. His appearance his manner & conversation make favorable impressions—and I have the best hope that he will prove a valuable acquisition to this part of the Country as well as to the Potomac Company.
          The State of Virginia has taken 20 Shares in the additional Stock, which must be relinquished by those who subscribed under the condition of giving up in such an event; but there appears now to be a demand for shares & I have no doubt of their being considered superior to any other Stock as soon as it is seen that system & activity are pursued in the work.

          Fanny, who writes to her Aunt at this time unites with me in compliments of the season, and in most sincere wishes for the health & happiness of yourself, your good Mrs Washington and the family. I am, my dear Sir, very truly, Your grateful & most affecte friend

            Tobias Lear


Title: To George Washington from George Hancock, 7 January 1796
From: Hancock, George
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            7th Jany 1796

          Having understood that you have it in contemplation to appropriate the Shares which you own in the James River company to the endowing an Academy in the upper part of Virginia, and presuming that you would have no Objection to recieve every information which would tend to a knowledge of the most proper place, I have taken the liberty of requesting that I may be permited to have an interview, whenever you may have leisure for

that purpose And that Colo. Breckenridge whose knowledge of the Upper Country of Virginia is very extensive may also be present. I am with the greatest respect, Your most Obedient servant

            Geo: Hancock


Title: From George Washington to the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives, 8 January 1796
From: Washington, George
To: Senate,House of Representatives

            United States, January the 8th 1796

          Gentlemen of the Senate, and House of Representatives
          I transmit to you a Memorial of the Commissioners appointed by virtue of an Act intitled, “an act for establishing the temporary

and permanent seat of the Government of the United States,” on the subject of the public buildings under their direction.
          Since locating a District for the permanent seat of the Government of the United States, as heretofore announced to both Houses of Congress; I have accepted the grants of money and of Land, stated in the Memorial of the Commissioners. I have directed the buildings therein mentioned, to be commenced on plans which I deemed consistent with the liberality of the Grants, and proper for the purposes intended.
          I have not been inattentive to this important business, intrusted by the Legislature to my care. I have viewed the resources placed in my hands, and observed the manner in which they have been applied: the progress is pretty fully detailed in the Memorial from the Commissioners; and one of them attends to give further information if required. In a case new and arduous like the present, difficulties might naturally be expected: some have occurred; but they are in a great degree surmounted; and I have no doubt, if the remaining resources are properly cherished, so as to prevent the loss of property by hasty and numerous sales, that all the buildings required for the accommodation of the Government of the United States, may be completed in season, without aid from the Federal Treasury. The subject is therefore recommended to the consideration of Congress, and the result will determine the measures which I shall cause to be pursued with respect to the property remaining unsold.

            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 8 January 1796
From: Wolcott, Oliver Jr.
To: Washington, George

            Treasury Department January the 8. 1796.

          The Secretary of the Treasury respectfully transmits to The President of the United States a letter from the Collector of

Washington to the Commissioner of the Revenue, dated the 22d of Decemr 1795, on the subject of a Contract made by the said Collector with John Gray Blount, for the stakage of Albemarle sound and its channels, Croetan shoals & the marshes; during the year 1796, for one hundred and sixty Dollars.
          The Secretary of the Treasury begs leave to observe, that this Contract is in lieu of one which with other matters of a similar nature was submitted to The President, in his letter of the 27th of August last, and then suspended for the reasons therein mentioned, and that it will be adviseable to authorize a Contract on the terms now proposed, being the best that can be obtained.
          The Secretary has also the honor to represent to The President, that the office of Superintendant of the Stakage for the District of Washington, having become vacant by the death of Nathan Keais the late Collector, it would be expedient in his opinion, to commit the management of that business to William Keais the present Collector. All which is respectfully submitted.

            Olivr Wolcott, JrSecry of the Treasury


Title: To George Washington from William Bingham, 9 January 1796
From: Bingham, William
To: Washington, George

            Sir,
            Philada Jany 9th 1796

          I have the honor to enclose you herewith, a Letter from a very respectable Character, recommendatory of Mr Mathieu, as a fit Person to discharge the Duties of Consul of the United States at the Port of Naples—His opinions are confirmed by the concurring Testimony of several Gentlemen, who were personally acquainted with Mr Mathieu during his Residence at St Domingo, & who are well worthy of Credit. I am respectfully sir Your obedt hble servt

            Wm Bingham


Title: To George Washington from Robert Brooke, 9 January 1796
From: Brooke, Robert
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Richmond January 9th 1796

          Agreeably to your request I submitted to the consideration of the General Assembly of Virginia your letter respecting the appropriation of the shares in the Potowmack and James river Companies which had been by them subjected to your disposal; and I have now the honor to enclose you their resolutions thereupon and have the honor to be, with the most perfect respect, your obedt Servant

            Rt Brooke


Title: To George Washington from James Montgomery, 10 January 1796
From: Montgomery, James
To: Washington, George

            Philadelphia January 10th 1796

          Your Petitioner understanding that a Vacancy is like to take Place in the Office of Surveyor of the District of Pensylvania by the Resignation of General Stewart Your Petitioner Humbly offers Himself as a Candidate for that Office and altho former Services in the Revolution of our Country are no Recommendation in the Estimation of many yet I flatter myself your Petitioner has some Claim on your Excellency’s Memory for past Services it is needless to acquaint your Excellency I have experienced a reverse of Fortune and that I have a very large Family but no Situation in Life however distressing could make me swerve from my Duty nor could any Advantage to Myself tempt me to deviate from the strictest Rules of Probity.
          Should this Petition meet with your Excellency’s Approbation I shall ever Remember it with the Warmest Gratitude and am with the Highest Sentiments of Respect Your Excellency’s most Devoted and Obedient Humble Servant

            James Montgomery


Title: From George Washington to Henry Lee, 11 January 1796
From: Washington, George
To: Lee, Henry

            My dear Sir,
            Philadelphia 11th Jan. 179[6]

          Your letter of the 26th Ulo has been received, & nothing from you since; which is embarrassing to me in the extreme; for not only the nomination of Ch——f J——but an As——te J——dge and Se——y of W—— are depending upon the answer I expected. And what renders the want of it more unfortunate, if any thing can add to my present perplexity on the occasion is, that the first Monday in next month which happens on the first day of it is the time appointed by Law for the meeting of the Supreme Court of the U.S. in this City at which for particular reasons the Bench ought to be full. I will add no more at present than that I am always Yr Affecte

            G.W.


Title: To George Washington from Gouverneur Morris, 11 January 1796
From: Morris, Gouverneur
To: Washington, George

            Dear Sir
            London 11 Jany 1796

          When I wrote to you on the fifth Instant; of which Letter a Copy is enclos’d, I had not Time to notice a Subject about which different Ideas are entertain’d here. I mean the late Measures

taken in France to establish their Finances. These may perhaps be announced in America not only as the Perfection of human Wisdom, but also as inevitably productive of the best Effects: in which Respect they would differ from those Perfections of Wisdom heretofore exhibited on that Theatre. Our Experience, in America, would have proved (had Proof been necessary) that the natural Effect of Paper Money is to consume all the personal Property of a Country. Not intending to write a Treatise on that Subject, I will not here go into the Reasons why, from the Nature of Money be the Form or Substance what it may, the circulating Medium is represented only by the moveable Property of a Country: excepting always the Case of actual Sales of Land; which Land does for that single Moment represent the precise Sum received. It follows however that in Proportion to the Encrease of that Medium, or the Decrease of Commodities which it represents, including in these the Debts for which it is a Tender, the Prices will rise or the Money loose of it’s Value. This is clear, supposing that Value to depend only in a small Degree on Opinion, but if it depend greatly or entirely on Opinion, Depreciation (inasmuch as it affects Opinion) becomes the Cause of ulterior Depreciation. The Assignats were going on in this natural Progression when, after the Revolution of the tenth of August, Measures of encreasing Cruelty were successively adopted to force Property out of the Hands of it’s owners; or at least to render the Possession of it highly dangerous. At the same Time the Total Suspension of foreign Commerce shut up all remaining Commodities within the Country; and the Permission to export was only granted in Exchange for Articles wanted by the Government. Thus the Value of the Paper was forced up by a Kind of qualified Robbery, on the Part of the Government, which gave it’s Paper for those Things which it oblig’d the Owner to sell, and which all but it’s Agents were prohibited from buying, by the very same Means which compelled the Sale. Mankind were pretty generally the Dupes of these Appearances, & altho they were going on to encrease the nominal Amount of their Paper to more than the Fee-simple of the whole Country was worth, People whose Habits and Profession should have taught them better, persisted in the absurd Idea that all that Mass of Paper would be paid according to it’s specified Value. When I left France, that System of Terror being for awhile suspended,

I did not hesitate to declare that the Paper would rapidly fall: and, being prest by one of it’s Advocates to say how far and in what Period, gave it as my Opinion that it might in a Year be at a hundred for one. Strange as this Opinion then appeard, Experience has more than justified it.
          This is a tedious Preface to what I meant to say, but it seem’d proper to shew, by Example, that the Ideas (even) of professional Men may be very erroneous upon this Subject, which our Experience has (I beleive) enabled us to consider more maturely than many others. You will have seen that one of the first Plans suggested in France was to issue, under a different Name, new Paper for the old. As this was not adopted, the Absurdity need not be detail’d. Another Plan, which does not appear to have been made public, was to call on Individuals of Property to give to the Government their negotiable Bonds; and then to obtain Supplies on the Credit of those Bonds: the Cash to be supplied (in the first Instance) at a great Discount by Societies of monied Men in Paris, and these to reimburse themselves, with Advantage, by Sale of Shares in such Operations to wealthy Foreigners. This Plan was impracticable, not meerly from the Doubt whether Foreigners would embark their Funds in such Speculations, but also from the Want of Capitalists in France to set the Machine in Motion. These had been destroyed pecuniarily by the Assignats & physically by the Guillotine. I come now to the Plan which was actually adopted.
          This consists theoretically of three Parts. 1st to issue only 30.000.000.000 livres in Assignats. 2ly to fix their Relation to Specie at 100 which would reduce the Mass to 300,000.000. 3ly to exact by Force, and under the Name of a Loan, the Contribution of 600.000.000 (over & above all other Taxes) of which one half to be paid in Paper at 100 and the other Half in Specie. The Reasoning on this fine System is conclusive. The Paper Moiety of the Loan pays off all the Assignats. The Specie Moiety pays the Expences of the ensuing Campaign, which cannot but prove glorious to the Republic. And then she opens the year 1797 with a trivial Remnant of her antient Debt, much of which was prudently discharged by the Guillotine, and with a prodigious landed Property on which to issue new Assignats, and run again round the Circle which she will have (then) just compleated. This reminds me of a Sophism which some one attempted to palm on me when I was yet a Child. That if a Tortoise had the

Start of a Fox, the Fox would never overtake him; because it was impossible, tho the Fox should go ten times faster than the Tortoise, but that this must go some Distance viz. a tenth of what the other should move over, and then while he was going that tenth the other would have advanced an hundredth and so on ad infinitum. My Answer was, let the Fox make a good Jump. Now those who have reasoned in the Manner before stated about french Finance never thought of the good Jump. Admitting, for Argument’s Sake, that it be possible to levy that enormous Assessmt; and it is utterly impossible, but by such Depreciation of the Paper as must render the Payment meerly nominal, the Sum of the Argument amounts to this; that France, now exhausted beyond any Thing of which modern Times can furnish an Example, should be able not only to defray the Expences of a vigorous War, and that too with a most prodigal Administration, but also to discharge a Debt of twelve Millions Sterling. This is at the first Blush, an Absurdity. As to paying the Debt, it is indeed very easy: for by nominally encreasing the Amount, it will (by the Force of Depreciation) discharge itself. The Assignats are already at about 200 and if extended to 40.000.000[.]000. they will be under 400 in which Case the Amount will be only 100 Millions, or four Millions Sterling: that is one third of what the System Makers calculated. But as to the Expences of the Campaign, that is a different Affair. Should they retire within their own Limits, and openly profess the Determination to make Peace, provided those Limits were secured to them, it is hard to say what might be the Extent of those Efforts which they might yet make. For, in this Case, we must take into Contemplation the national Pride, her characteristic Enthusiasm, and the Force of a Government the most absolute in it’s nature, and whose Members have every Thing to gain and to loose. As these Circumstances go out of the usual Course of financial Calculation, I will not dwell upon them. My Object was meerly to convey some Ground for the Opinion I entertain, that the newly adopted System of Finance is radically defective, inasmuch as it appears to my Mind self evident that no Force of Taxation can squeeze out from the People of France a Sum equal to the unavoidable Expenditures; so that, if their Enemies persist in the War, they must keep the Press agoing as long as any Thing can be done with it, and then resort to the convulsive Struggles of Despair. But I hear you say, will their Enemies persist in the War? I own to you that I am not

able to answer that Question, decisively. I will not speak of the Views which I may suppose this Court to have; but all the World, except the Members of Parliament who are in the Opposition, see that Britain is gaining more by the present War than she ever did in any equal Space of Time during her History. Austria cannot but feel that the Contest wears her down, for the Sake of recovering the low Countries which, from their remote Situation, must ever be an onerous and precarious Possession. Should France therefore cede her Conquests, I cannot see why the Emperor should not immediately quit the Game, and proceed to those Exchanges and Arrangements which will suit his Views. It is true that his Engagements with this Country and with Russia might stand in the Way; but after making certain Propositions to the former, he might hold himself excused by their NonAcceptance, and the Empress (by the bye there is a Report of her Death) would rather have the Aid of her imperial Ally to secure the Spoils of Poland against any Attempts which might be made by Prussia and Turkey, than furnish a Body of her Troops to be employed on the Rhine. Will the Desire of reestablishing the House of Bourbon in France have any material Operation? On this Subject I will write to you at my first Leizure. This is enough I fear to tire your Patience, so I bid you Adieu. I am ever & truly yours

            Gouvr Morris


Title: To George Washington from George Smith, 11 January 1796
From: Smith, George
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Galston [Scotland] Jany 11th 1796

          I did myself the Honour of writing your Excelly once & again on the Subject of Mr William Hunter’s affairs, the last Letter

about twelve months ago, and have never been favoured with any answer. A. Mr Ichabod Hunter, one of Mr W. Hunter’s Exrs was in this Country about five months ago, who assured Mr John Hunter, that one or both of my Letters had reached you, & that we might expect a reply concerning the Subject of them. I had not the pleasure of seing Mr I. Hunter, but Mr John Hunter tells me, that Mr Ichabod seemed rather shy, in answering any of his Queries regarding his Brothers affairs, & wished rather to refer him to what you might be pleased to write, at same time, He allowed, that if Mr W. Hunter’s affairs were settled, & all his Debts called in, that there would He thought be a very considerable reversion—Mr W. Hunters Store, his House, his Wharf, and Large property in Land, are valuable articles, & if these have been regularly applyed to the payment of his Debts; it is well, but it is extremely hard that His Brother John, at whose desire I have wrote this & the former Letters, never till this moment has received any regular account of his affairs—It is said that your Excy did not decline some little management in Mr Hunter’s affairs, at least, that you would give information by writing on the Subject. May I therefore sollicit, as I do again most earnestly & sincerely, that you will be kind enough to write me upon this Business, that John Hunter may have some Idea, how matters are, regarding his Brothers Debit & Credit, & if there is a certain prospect of any considerable reversion, He will immediately come out to America himself, or be advised by you whom to employ in the management of his affairs. There is a report, here too, that a Mr Ross one of Mr W. Hunter’s greatest Creditors, is in prison some where in Am[eric]a, & that it was exp⟨ected⟩ that He should administer upon Mr Hunter’s Estate, which it seems he has never done, tho’ it is said, that his wife is living away, & to all appearance, in very affluent circumstances—I mentioned before, the Desire which Mr John Hunter & the other Relations in this Country have to get possession of the watch, Trinkets, Silver plate, & other valuable articles of the Deceased, and it will be Satisfactory, highly so, to them, to know, if they cannot now be recovered, that they have gone to the payment of Mr W. Hunter’s Debts. It is needless for me to enlarge. you had a friendship & regard for Mr Hunter yourself, & this alongst with the justice of the Cause, emboldens me still to hope that you will not refuse to answer this Letter, & may I hope that you will be good enough to

do it as soon as possible. I have the Honour to be with all Esteem & Regard Sir Your Excellencie’s most obt ⟨& mo⟩st Hble Servt

            George Smith

            P.S. My address is G. S. min[iste]r at Galston, by Kilmk.
            N.B.
            P.S. I have open’d the Letter after 1st closing to ⟨cause⟩ John Hunter sign his name to the within. G.S.
            N.B. This & the two former Letters was wrote at my Desire and I am extremly anxious to be inform’d fully as to my Brothers affairs.

              John HunterBrother to William Hunter junr


Title: To George Washington from Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 12 January 1796
From: Wolcott, Oliver Jr.
To: Washington, George

            Treasury Department January 12th 1796.

          The Secretary of the Treasury has the honor to transmit to The President of the United States triplicates of a statement of Expenditures upon the funds heretofore appropriated for defraying the Contingent Charges of Government up to the 31st of December last.


Title: From George Washington to the U.S. Senate, 13 January 1796
From: Washington, George
To: Senate

            Gentlemen of the Senate,
            United States, January 13th 1796.

          I nominate William Jackson, of Philadelphia, to be Surveyor for the port of Philadelphia, and Inspector of the Revenue for the same; vice Walter Stewart resigned:

          Simons Maxwell, to be Collector for the District of Hardwick, in Georgia, and Inspector of the Revenue for the Port of Hardwick; vice Thomas Collier, resigned.
          and
          Stephen Bingham to be Surveyor for the port of West-point in the District of York, Virginia, and Inspector of the Revenue for the same; vice Alexander Moore resigned.

            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives, 13 January 1796
From: Washington, George
To: Senate,House of Representatives

            United States Jany 13th 1796

          Gentlemen of the Senate, and House of Representatives.
          I lay before you an official Statement of the Expenditure to the end of the year 1795, from the sums heretofore granted to defray the Contingent charges of the Government.

            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from George Fitzhugh, 14 January 1796
From: Fitzhugh, George
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Virga King Geo. Cy 14 Jany 1796

          A few days ago I was in Gloucester County; whilst there, I rode through a tract of Land a Gentleman in Company informed me belong to you; he said you offered it for sale a few years ago, but coud not tell me the terms. If Sir, you are still inclinable to dispose of it, and your terms are such as I can purchase under, dont doubt but we may bargain. Will thank you for a line on the subject, when I will take a full view of the Lands and give an answer. With real esteem and respect I am Sir Your Obt Hble Sert

            George Fitzhugh


Title: To George Washington from Robert Randall, 14 January 1796
From: Randall, Robert
To: Washington, George

            Prison 14th Jany 1796.
            The Memorial of Robert Randall Humbly Sheweth

          That Your Memorialist has been committed to close confinement in the Goal of the City of Philadelphia as well upon an Arrest agreable to an Order of the House of Representatives in Congress as upon an Arrest of the Marshall of the United States in consequence of a prosecution against Your Memorialist at suit of the said United States, & both Arrests grounded on a charge of a breach of Priviledge and contempt of the House of Representatives.
          That Your Memorialist has by a resolution of the House of Representatives in Congress adopted Yesterday been discharged from the Custody of the Sargeant at Arms Upon the payment of fees And is now under confinement under the said prosecution only.
          That Your Memorialist with due deference submits it to the opinion of your Excellency whether the proceedings against him in Congress do not in their operation supersede the

prosecution instituted against him in the Courts of the United States, and whether the said prosecution can therefore be supported. Your Memorialist would with the same deference farther submit whether the offence charged—which in its greatest extent only implicates an attempt to corrupt—& Not an Actual corruption—is cognizable by the Courts of the United States & therefore the punishment already suffered is not the only one that by the Laws of the Country can be inflicted.
          Your Memorialist would farther state that he has received the reprimand of the Honourable house of representatives in Congress, and in Virtue of their Order has suffered an imprisonment which Congress by the passage of the above mentioned resolution must have conceived an adequate punishment for the offence which in their opinion he had committed.
          Your Memorialist therefore prays Your Excellency that Your E[x]cellency will in Your clemency Authorise and direct the Attorney General of the United States to enter a Noli Prosequi in the said prosecution that Your Memorialist may thereby be released intirely from his present confinement, & the linient views of the House of Representatives of the United States be compleatly and fully carried into effect. And Your Memorialist will ever pray &c.

            Robert Randall


Title: To George Washington from George Gilpin, 16 January 1796
From: Gilpin, George
To: Washington, George

            Dear Sir,
            Alexandria [Va.] January 16th 1796

          I believe I have committed a trespass on your Excellencys property but I can assure you not wilfully and further I am willing to pay what ever damage you may Say I have done. the fact is as follows, in the month of October I spoke to Capt. William H. Terrett for Six trees three small, and three larger to dig up for knees for a wood flat, he informd me that I might have them when I went out to have them cut a man which I understood was his overseer went with me and Shewd where he under Stood Terretts land lay when my people had Cut down the three Small trees for beams and hawlled them away and Grubbd up three large trees for knees and hawlled one away Mr George Minor Informed me that the Cutting was on your land the timber then left is still on the land and I shall Chearfully pay wha[t]ever damage you say I have done or if you Choose let Mr Minor or any Other Gentleman Say the damage I will pay directly. I am sorry

it so happened but it was not my fault I did all that I thought was nec[e]ssary to keep Clear of harm I Should have wrote you sooner but I expected to have seen you in fairfax an[d] spoke to you on the Subject. I am sir your most Obedient Humble Servt,

            George Gilpin


Title: To George Washington from William Gordon, 16 January 1796
From: Gordon, William
To: Washington, George

            My dear Sir
            St Neots Hunts [England] Jany 16. 1796.

          This will be presented to You, as I hope, by the nephew of Mrs Gordon, Mr Oliver Field; who from right principles emigrates from Great Britain, that he may become a citizen of the United States, & secure to himself, & family & posterity, those sacred & civil rights, that he cannot enjoy in his native country. He prefers the American Constitution to all others: & from conviction of its being calculated to preserve the privileges of all under a good government will necessarily support it by practice & influence, & discourage all that anarchy which is baneful to the well being of society.
          With pleasure I markt the contents of your late speech to the Congress; & observed, that you had passed over, without noticing, the irregular & intemperate proceedings of town & city meetings, regarding matters of State, in which they had no right to interfere. The publications of Curtius & Camillus I have perused in Fenno’s Gazettes with satisfaction, & promise myself they have answered the valuable ends proposed by the writers. Was astonished that Judge Rutledge should express such violence: & could not but approve of the manner you had silenced him, by heaping coals of kindness upon his head.
          My nephew settled at Worcester, where he was in business for many years, till the present removal; & maintained an

irreproachable character, & was much respected. He has not determined where to settle; but sails with his wife & two children immediately for Philada, from whence he thinks of making excursions to New York & other places.
          We have had hitherto the most open & mild & blowing winter, with the wind chiefly at west & southwest, that ever was known in the memory of man. The body of the nation are now panting heartily for peace; & from the cessation of hostilities between the French & Austrians in Germany, many are willing to hope, that it is at no great distance. In my opinion the British ministry & Sovereign will make no peace, till they have tried their utmost in the East & West Indies, against the French & Dutch settlements; & that their demands will be such at present that the French Directory will not agree to. Nor am I sanguine in my expectations of peace between the French & Austrians, unless the latter, through fear of losing all their Italian dominions, should be willing to agree to French stipulations regarding the Netherlands & the Rhine. The slaughter & devastations occasioned by the present war have been horridly excessive. May a kind & gracious God overrule them for the good of mankind at large—the liberating them more & more from under sacred & civil tyranny! O’ highly favored & blessed United States of America, that have enjoyed the calm & enriching prosperity of peace, while a great part of the world has been convulsed, impoverished, & destroyed! May America ever understand the things that make for her peace & happiness!
          I hope your Excellency, & your Lady have enjoyed a comfortable share of ease & health. Mrs Gordon joins me in wishing you both every blessing through the decline of life; & future blessedness through the merits of our Lord Jesus, when the present mode of existence is terminated. I remain Your Excellency’s sincere & affectionate Friend & humble Servant

            William Gordon


Title: From George Washington to William Pearce, 17 January 1796
From: Washington, George
To: Pearce, William

            Mr Pearce
            Philadelphia 17th Jan. 1796

          Your letters of the 3d & 10th instt are both before me; the last came yesterday, & the first on tuesday.
          I should be sorry if Davenports disorder should prove fatal to him; it would be a heavy stroke upon his family at any time, and unlucky for me at the present.
          I am under no concern for the fall which has taken place in the price of flour—that it will be up again, and higher than ever in the spring there is but little doubt—indeed some well informed Merchants declare they should not be surprized to find it at twenty dollars pr Barrel at that season.
          There can be no question, in my mind that herrings will be at 10/. pr Thousand & Shads at three dollars at least pr hundred for which reason, my advice to you is, not to take less from Mr Smith, or any other who may offer to contract, beforehand.
          You may manage the fields at Union farm in whatever manner you think best—my great object (more than making crops) is to preserve the land and the mode you have suggested for the ensuing crop, may answer that purpose.
          I have no objection to your disposing of all the fallen timber to Waggoners that you see no prospect of getting up yourself upon the best terms you can obtain—taking care to prevent, as far as possible, impositions and inconveniences from admitting them within your outer fences. To keep which up, is an object of great importance, and I wish it to be done as far as it is in your power without neglecting things of greater moment. It was

always my intention, and is my earnest wish, to get a hedge of the honey locust, or some plant of quick & stubborn growth upon the outer ditch as soon as possible.
          How does your winter grain stand this open weather? It has been fine for grubbing, and I hope that business has, & is going on well. Have you a prospect of getting all grubbed within the line I laid off the morning I left home? and is it likely you can do any thing towards the New road from the White gates this winter or Spring?
          As Allison knew that it never was contemplated to bring, or have a married man about the Mansion house as an Overseer, he would be rightly served to be turned of[f]; but as it might be difficult to supply his place at this season I can give no direction about it, but leave the matter to yourself to act as circumstances dictate.
          It is hardly possible it can be three years since I subscribed to the Salary of Mr Davis—how then can there be two years due when one has been paid? Surely it was not the terms of the Subscription to pay ten pounds at the beginning, and ten pounds at the end of the first year: But you can ascertain this matter by having recourse to the paper—or, Mr Herbert, who was the gentleman that obtained my name to it.
          It is not want of water, but the great quantity of it that is wasted, that makes the scarcity at the Mill, and this will continue to be the case until the New race is done and all the rotten & weak parts below it are thoroughly repaired—after which, except in very dry summers I do not conceive there will be much cause for complaint. I remain your friend and well wisher

            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from William Pearce, 17 January 1796
From: Pearce, William
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Mount vernon Jany 17th 1796

          I Receved your Letter of the 10th Inst. wharein you Say you have not Receved any Letter or the Reports as Usual.
          I cannot Account for thare not Giting To you, If the post Got In—for I Sent them To the post office In Time by peter and he sais he Delivered them thare.
          Mr Devenport Is dead he died this Morning. he was taken Sick on the friday week Before. but on the Monday he Seemd to Git better and appeared to be mending till wednesday Night and then he was struck with a Voiling pain In his breast—which Could not be removd. It is an unluckey Circomstance as it hapened at a time whin we had a good head of water and was Giting on with Grinding our wheat but I have put My son In the mill with Ben and have kept her going as well as I Could and Mr Smith the Flour Inspecter has been so kind as to Come down and See that th[e] mill was In good order and assisted In dessing & hanging the stone—and he has Sent Down one of the Deputy Inspectors who he sais Is good millar and Undestands the Business well—and he will remain for some time Till I Can have an oppertunity of Giting a millar. If any should be to be had here I shall only Ingage them for a short Time Till I Can heare from you—I think you will have a better oppertunity of Giting one that will answear your purpose than I Can have here—I had Given Mr Devenport 600 wt of pork at Killing Time—he was to have had some Beef—but that was not deliverd to him—Is Mrs Devenport to keep the pork or what Is to be done with her? Mr Devenport had Receved all his wages and somethi⟨ng⟩ more—his wife and Children will be In a most Destressed Situation and what will done with them I know not.
          The price of Flour Is not more than 10 Dollars and I am Told not much sold at that. I am with The Greatest Respect Sir your Humble Servt

            William Pearce


Title: To George Washington from Howson Clark, 18 January 1796
From: Clark, Howson
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Halifax, Virginia, January 18th 1796

          This is the second Letter I have done myself the honor of addressing your Excellency—the distance we are at and the uncertainty of the conveyance of a Letter at so great a distance leads me to fear that the first and perhaps this may miscarry ere it reachs you, this consideration induces me to dispense with part of that elegance and prolixity which in other circumstances I should lay down as a necessary rule; thus much I conceive’d necessary, explanatory of the appearance of this letter.
          I am extremely sorry my situation is such as to render this mode of solicitation necessary, my other and perhaps indispensible avocation puting it out of my power forming or cultivating connections thro whose influence my interest might be advanced, I assure your Excellency the prospect on my side was gloomy untill the idea originated dictating an immediate correspondence with you whence I confess (and gladly too) that some glimmering of hope and expectation now exists, altho very obscure and faint that hope, contemplating the disadvantages attending my suite; agreable to the common concuring course of human events.
          but reflecting on your uniform conduct, permit me to observe I hope and flatter myself that you will not dispense on this occasion with that rule of conduct whichever has met the approbation of your fellow citizens, to my injury only.
          I conceive it quite unnecessary to dilate on this subject, Suffer me to add that should my solicitation meet your approbation, will you Sir be pleased to direct for me to have information thereof particularizing the department which your Excellency allots, as well as all other contingencies relative thereto.
          With heartfelt emotions do I inform you of the united and undivided applauses, which your Speech to both houses of Congress, obtains, throughout every class of Citizens, the anarchist only excepted, a party very incon[si]derable with us. I hope you will excuse this digression—permit me the honor of Subscribing myself Yo. Mo. Obd. Hbb. Servt

            Howson Clark


Title: To George Washington from Charles Lee, 18 January 1796
From: Lee, Charles
To: Washington, George

            [Philadelphia] 18th Jany 1796

          Upon the Petition of Robert Randall the Attorney General reports most respectfully to the President of the United States
          That to attempt to corrupt the intergrity of a member of the legislature in his legislative functions, by offering to him a bribe in money, land or other valuable commodity is an offence

indictable at common law and most properly cognisable in a court of justice. It is a misdemeanour, bailable, and punishable by fine or imprisonment or both. The interference of the house of representatives upon the ground that their privileges had been invaded, ought not to induce a suspension of legal proceedings because not only it is out of the power of one house of congress to withdraw from the ordinary tribunal of justice, any case pending there and subject to its jurisdiction but in this very instance the lenity of the punishment inflicted by the house of representatives seems to have been produced in a degree from the consideration that Robert Randall was then under prosecution for the same offence before a court of Justice.
          Although Robert Randall committed the offence wherewith he was charged before the house of representatives yet it was not a breach of their privileges, all of which are enumerated in the constitution, or rest upon the principle of necessity for preserving to either branch of the legislature the power of performing its functions. His behaviour did not violate the former, nor take away the power of legislation, which remained in the house of representatives, to be exercised, notwithstanding his endeavours to swerve them from the line of rectidude. and if he has been improperly or illegally treated by the house of representatives, he ought not for that reason only to be liberated from legal trial and punishment.
          A Nolle Prosequi may be directed by the President if he shall in his discretion think it meet, but the contrary is advised. All which is humbly submitted.

            Charles LeeAtty Genl


Title: To George Washington from Alexander Hamilton, 19 January 1796
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            [New York] Jany 19. 1796

          The Bearer of this letter is Doctor Bolman whom you have heared of as having made an attempt for the relief of the Marquis la Fayette which very nearly succeeded—The circumstances of this affair, as stated by Doctor Bolman & Mr Huger, son of B. Huger of S[out]h Carolina deceased, who assisted, do real credit to the prudence management and enterprise of the Doctor and shew that he is a man of sense and energy.
          He appears to have been induced to think that he attempted a service which would strongly recommend him to the favour of this Country; in which idea I have reason to believe that Mr Pinckney among others encouraged him—and as a consequence of it he hopes for some civil employment under our Government—His expectations of what he may begin with are not high—it being principally his object to obtain some present provision in a way which may lead him, if he discovers talents to something

better—He appears to be a man of education—speaks several languages converses sensibly is of polite manners & I dare say has the materials of future advancement.
          I have not left him unapprised of the difficulties in his way, but he concludes to go to Philadelphia to ascertain what is or is not possible, relying at least on a kind reception from you.
          He brought me letters from Mr & Mrs Church which speak handsomely of him—I believe they had a chief agency in promoting his undertaking.
          At his request I give him this letter to you. With respectful & affecte Attachment I have the honor to be Sir Your very obed. ser.

            A. Hamilton

            P.S. The Doctor is a German.


Title: From George Washington to James McHenry, 20 January 1796
From: Washington, George
To: McHenry, James

            Private
            My dear Sir,
            Philadelphia 20th Jany 1796

          Let this letter be received with the same friendship and frankness, with which it is written, nothing would add more to the satisfaction this would give me, than your acceptance of the offer I am going to make you.
          Without further preface then, will you suffer me to nominate you to the office of Secretary of War? That I may give evidence of the candour I have professed above, I shall inform you, that

for particular reasons (more fit for an oral than a written communication) this office has been offered to Genl Pinckney of So. Carolina—Colo. Carrington of Virginia—and Govr Howard of Maryland—and that it would now give me sincere pleasure if you would fill it.
          After making this declaration I can press you no farther—but I press for an immediate answer, as the public service is suffering much for want of a head to the department of War.
          If you consent to this nomination, prepare to come on as soon as it is made (for the reason just mentioned) altho’ at this season—and in the present state of the Roads—you should not find it convenient to bring Mrs McHenry & your family along with you.
          Sound, I pray you, and let me know without delay, if Mr Saml Chase would accept a seat on the Supreme Judicial bench of the U. States, made vacant by the resignation of Mr Blair. If his decision is in the affirmative, he will at once perceive the necessity of being here by the first monday (if possible) in next month, at which time that Court is to sit in this city. Altho’ these subjects are, both, of an interesting nature, I will add no more on them at present; but assure you of the sincere friendship, & Affecte regard of

            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from William Sheed, 20 January 1796
From: Sheed, William
To: Washington, George

            Charleston. State of South CarolinaJanuary 20th 1796
            Respected Sir

          Altho the address of an Individual, to the first Character on the Continent of America—and that Individual altogether a Stranger to your Excellency—would by many be deemed presumeing, yet as it is to the feelings of General Washington Only that the following is directed, & for his perusal alone—I venture; and hope for his indulgence Trusting, that the subject of its contents, will plead as my Apology for the liberty I take, should your Excellency deem one Necessary.
          Long and Painfull has been my conflict before I could reconcile myself to intrude upon your time—Nor should I now—Unless pressed hard by dire Necessity—On your Goodness,

lanthropy and Humanity, I rest my cause—Sensible from full conviction, that the Unfortunate cannot Approach you without meeting the Ear of Attention—and even relief if not Undeserving.
          It is by no means pleasing to attempt recommending ones self—but as reduced Gentlemen, seldom can procure former friends to do it for them—I trust to your Benevolence of Heart to forgive; and Venture.
          Behold Revere’d Sir a Native of the soil on Which he Writes—reduced from Affluence to Indigence—by Misfortune, Disease, and Infirmaties: his Age Fifty three, a Large family to provide for consisting of a Wife and four Children—his profession respectable—tho unable to Attend to it Generaly from Infirmaty—(having been regularly brought up under Doctor Thos Bond Senr late of Philadelphia) & who during the Contest between Brittain and America was one of the first that met with Apointment and speedy Promotion from regimental to Hospital Surgion and for years faithfully discharged the duties of his Station.
          Such is the man who now Addresses the Saviour of his Country—I was when in the army Independant, the Brittish Invasion distroyed my all. Promises were made me—and I hope for some provisions being made but Alass I hope in vain—When Congress passed an Act to fortify our Seaport towns, I instantly Applied by Letter to our Delegates from this State—Soliciting their Interest for the Apointment of Physician and Surgion to one of the Garrisons, and pointed out to them how much more conducive to the Health of a Garrison to have a Man fully acquainted with the Diseases incident to the Climate—than to have a stranger—and at same time Endeavoured to press upon their Memory the Services of my Father.
          If either my Letters ever reached them I dare not affirm—but no reply was Ever made Except from the Honorable Wm Smith—who on his return here assured me by Letter—that mine had never reached him and who Generously at same time relieved the Wants of my then suffering Children—It is rather Unfortunate that I cannot convey to you the Commissions and Certificates that I received from diferent Officers at the diferent Appointments—My Papers of every discription were burnt—when Sunsbury was distroyed—and those who could renew the Certificates—are Either dead or Absent. Coll Sumpter—under

whome I served as a Regimental Surgion—and Doctor Oliphant the then Director General—under whome I acted as Hospital Surgion, are both Absent from the State—the Inclosed therefore is the only one I am at present able to convey to you, which I procured from Genl Huger a few days since.
          Having Wrote in vain to others—And being advised to apply to the fountain Head—I venture to Address your Excellency—feeling a ray of hope, that He who Saved his Whole Country—will not refuse to assist in proping up one small branch of it.
          Frigates are building for the Protection of our Commerce—and altho the Life does not altogether meet my approbation—as it would draw me off from the Educating my Children—Yet would I rather Accept a birth (Professionally) on board one of them than witness as I too frequently do, the wants of my family I have also two Sons (George and Wm) both old enough to be rated as midshipmen—and both desirous of being brought up to the Sea—With Esteem and Veneration I remain—Respected Sir Your Most Obdt Tho Unfortunate Hbl. Servt

            Wm Sheed

            P.S. should your Excellency favor me with an Answer be pleased to direct to the Care of The Honorable David Ramsay who will safely convey it to me.


Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 21 January 1796
From: McHenry, James
To: Washington, George

            Dear Sir
            Near Baltimore 21 Jany 1796. 9 O’clock P.M.

          I have this moment received your favour of the 20th, and am truely sensible of the sincerity of your wishes that I should accept of the war office department. On my part I beg you to believe that nothing could give me more pleasure than to be near you for a few years independent of public motives or considerations. I must however pray you to allow me till monday to reflect on the offer and determine whether I can with propriety and as it respects my family venture upon a change of position which by bringing me into public life must necessarily bring with it much care trouble and uneasiness. My inclination is to accept, but I shall be definitive by next post. In the mean while I shall obtain Mr Chases sentiments which shall accompany my letter. With real affection I am D. Sir Your ob. & hble st

            James McHenry


Title: From George Washington to James Madison, 22 January 1796
From: Washington, George
To: Madison, James

            dear Sir,
            Phila. 22d Jany 179[6]

          The enclosed letters, with the additional explanation that follows, will bring the case of young Fayette fully to your view.
          From the receipt of Mr Cabots letter until the latter end of Octr, I had not heard from, or of the young Gentleman. Then, a letter from Colo. Hamilton, to whom as you will see by Mr Cabots letter he had been introduced, informed me that he and his Tutor were in a retired place 20 or 30 miles from the city of New York anxiously hoping that they would soon receive a call from me. In answer to this letter, I expressed to Colo. Hamilton sentiments similar to those which had been communicated to Mr Cabot; but requested him, not only to view the case in its different relations himself but to discover if he could, what might be the opinion of others thereon, and let me know the result. Which amounted to this—that his own opinion, tho’ he hesitated in giving it, inclined to my sending the young Gentn the invitation that was wished—but that this was not the sentiment of those (names not mentioned) with whom he had conversed.
          Upon the receipt of that letter I wrote to Mr La Fayette on the 22d of Novr and enclosed it to Colo. Hamilton the next day. To the last of which I received the reply of November 26th. From thence I heard nothing further on the subject until the letters of Mr de la Fayette & his tutor, of the 25th of Decr were received. Since which nothing has been said or done in the matter—and I wish to know what you think (considering my public character) I had best do to fulfil the obligations of friendship & my own wishes without involving consequences. Sincerely & Affectionately I remain—Yours

            Go: Washington


Title: Timothy Pickering to Bartholomew Dandridge, Jr., 22 January 1796
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Dandridge, Bartholomew Jr.

            Dear Sir,
            Jany 22. 96. 3 o’clock

          I have this moment recd from Mr Wolcott the inclosed letter to Mr Adet, which this morning I left at Mr Wolcott’s office for his perusal and remarks. He approves of it entirely. I called at Mr Lee’s in the morning for the like purpose, but he was not at home. However, his letter to me (also inclosed) which I received yesterday, shows a concurrence of his opinion in every principle advanced by me. Should the President have leisure to peruse them before evening, and think no alteration necessary, I could send the letter to Mr Adet: otherwise it may be done to-morrow morning.
          I also inclose a letter from Govr Blount recd this day. Very sincerely yours

            T. Pickering