Title: From George Washington to David Humphreys, 8 March 1787
From: Washington, George
To: Humphreys, David

My Dear Humphreys,
Mount Vernon March 8th 1787

Colo. Wadsworth, as I informed you in my last, presented me your obliging favor of the 30th of January and the Post since has handed me the subsequent one of the 11th Ulto.
My sentiments, respecting the inexpediency of my attending the proposed Convention of the States in Philadelphia remain the same as when I wrote you last, tho’ Congress I am informed are about to remove one of the objections by their recommendation of this Convention[.] I am still indirectly, and delicately pressed by many to attend this meeting; and a thought has run thro’ my mind of late attended with more embarrassment than any former one. It is whether my not doing it will not be considered

as an implied derelection to Republicansm. nay more, whether (however injurious the imputation) it may not be ascribed to other motives. my wish is I confess to see this convention tried; after which if the present form is not made efficient, conviction of the propriety of a change will pervade all ranks and many be effected by peace. till then, however necessary it may appear to the more descerning part of the community, my opinion is, that it cannot be accomplished without great Contention and much confusion for reasons too obvious to ennumarate. It is one of evils perhaps not the smallest, of democratical Governments that the People must feel before they will see or act under this view of matters. and not doubting but you have heard the sentiments of many respectable charractors since the date of your letter of the 20th of Jany on this subject & perhaps since the business has been moved in Congress of the propriety or impropriety of my attendance let me pray you my dear Sir, to give me Confidentially the public opinion & expectation as fair as it has come to your knowledge of what it is supposed. I will or ought to do on this occasion. you will readily see the necessity of my receiving it soon, if it is to have an operation contrary to the former because my communications to the Executive of this State are not considered as definitive I must make these so shortly.
I congratulate you on the favourable Issue to the exertions of the Government of Massachusetts to quell the insurrection which at one period assumed an appearance of being formidable. you have the best wishes of everyone in this family; possess the sincere regard and Friendship of Dr Sir, yr affect. Hble Servant

G. Washington.


Title: To George Washington from Battaile Muse, 8 March 1787
From: Muse, Battaile
To: Washington, George

Honourable Sir,
Berkeley Cty March 8th 1787

Your Favour By Major George Washington I received and shall attend To it—I set out this day To the Tenaments in Fauquier they are so Very Poor in General that I Fear but Little is To be Expected From them—I am obliged To attend that Court To obtain Justice From some of them—I Fear not more than one or Two of their Horses will answer your Purpose—if I Find it necessary To Take a Horse or Two, I shall Endeavour To get them down before the 20th of april—about that Time I shall be down my Self and will raise all the money I can by that Time—Suppose £100 but that Cannot be Ensured as I have none in hand—I am happy To hear by Mr Wales that He Paid the £100. I receive all money—but half Dollars by weight—Gunies Pass at 5 Penney weight Five Grains—half Dollars not weighed—the Money I sent I was Very Carefull in weighing all but the half Dollars in which money I suppose Lost the 10/6 I shall be Very

Carefull To attend To your directions. Your acct at this Time Stands Indebted To me about £25. I have the Promises from the People of about £180 if I receive £100 it will be as much as I can Expect From Promises in these days. I am Sir with Every Sentiment of Respect—your Obedient Humble Servant

Battaile Muse


Title: To George Washington from William Deakins, Jr., 9 March 1787
From: Deakins, William Jr.
To: Washington, George

Sir.
George Town [Md.] March 9th 1787.

I have sent by your Boat 200 Bushels Oats, tho the price is higher than I could have Wished but at this season they Generally Advance in price, I think you will find them Very good, & I am sorry I could not supply the full Quantity you want. I am with the highest Respect Your Excellency’s Obt hble Servt

Will. Deakins Junr


Title: To George Washington from John Page, 9 March 1787
From: Page, John
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Rosewell March the 9th 1787

The little Time Mr Griffith has to spend with me, & my present State of Mind must be my Apology for this short Scrawl.
The Directors of the Dismal Co. I am certain will be perfectly satisfied with any Plan which you would adopt. The one you hint at in your Letter, is I think the only one which suits the Finances & Disposition of the Company. The Members are too Lukewarm to advance Money if they had it, & too indolent to attend to the Execution of any Plan which requires any Attention on their Part. I have no Hopes of deriving any Advantage

from any other Scheme than that which you have suggested. I therefore wish you to encourage Col. Lutterlohs Plan as far as you may think proper—& I am of Opinion that we had better give ⅓d. or even ½ for reclaiming the whole than keep it upon the Terms we now hold it—I think the Col. might dispose of 100 Tradesmen & Farmers besides the Labourers which the Compy would take, immediately & on good Terms. I am dear Sir with the highest Respect & Esteem your most obedient Servant

John Page


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Cushing, 10 March 1787
From: Washington, George
To: Cushing, Thomas

Sir
Mount Vernon March 10th 1787

By your letter & Acct of the 22d of Feby 1786, there appears a balance in my favor of fifteen pounds thirteen shillings Lawful Money, which I take the liberty to draw a bill for in favor of Mr Thomas Porter of Alexandria, payable ten days after sight.
I am happy to find by the last Accounts from the Northward that the disturbances in your State were almost totally suppressed, & I hope before this that peace & good order are again restored. Mrs Washington joins me in my best wishes for Mrs Cushing & yourself. I am Sir, With esteem & regard Yr most Obedt Hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Samuel Haven, 10 March 1787
From: Washington, George
To: Haven, Samuel

Revd Sir
Mount Vernon Mar. 10th 1787

Although I gave the greatest credence to your acct of the talents & good behaviour of Mr Lear, yet before I subscribed to them, I was desirous of a little time to form my own judgment

of both. To this, and this only, you will be pleased to attribute my not acknowledging the receipt of your favor of the 6th of May, at an earlier period.
It is with pleasure I now inform you, that the deportment of this young Gentleman since he has been a member of my family, has been so perfectly proper and pleasing, as to render him highly esteemed. Sensible that saying this to a gentleman who has discovered an interest in his welfare, could not be unpleasing, is the cause of my giving you the trouble of this letter, at the same time that it affords me an opportunity of thanking you for the polite and affectionate wishes with which your letter is replete, & to assure you of the respect with which I am—Revd Sir Yr Most Obedt Hble Ser⟨vt⟩

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from James Mercer, 10 March 1787 [letter not found]
From: Mercer, James
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from James Mercer, 10 Mar. 1787. On 15 Mar. GW wrote Mercer: “Your favor of the 10th came duely to hand.”


Title: From George Washington to Edward Newenham, 10 March 1787
From: Washington, George
To: Newenham, Edward

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon March 10th 1787

I shall not wonder if you should be surprized at my not acknowledging the receipt of your esteemed favor of the 12th of last August at an earlier period. Immediately after it came to my hands—not knowing what you had written to Doct. Franklin or to Mr Jay, or what steps might have been taken on the subject matter thereof by either or both of those Gentlemen I wrote to the former for information; giving assurances of my disposition to carry your wishes into full effect if there were not impediments in the way which coud not, consistently, be surmounted. I waited from that period (early in November) till February in daily expectation of an answer; but receiving none, I addressed

(supposing my first letter must have miscarried) a duplicate to the Doctrs and receiving the answer which is enclosed.
Though I had heard of the resolution alluded to in Mr Jay’s Letter to the Doctors preveous to my writing to him yet I was willing to know the truth, and to see how far Congress would think it right to adhere to the policy of their resolution.
I beg leave to make a tender of my best wishes to Lady Newenham, in which Mrs Washington Joins, and assurances of the respect and esteem with which I have the honor to be Dr Sir Yr most Obed. and very Humble Servant

G. Washington


Title: To George Washington from John Rawlins, 10 March 1787
From: Rawlins, John
To: Washington, George

Honored Sir
Baltimore March 10th 1787

I have sent you, pr Capn Man’s Packet the freizes for doors and windows, which I hope will please you, Mr Tharp informed me he ad Agreed with you for the Composition work, in your Salloon room, at £43.12s.od. Virginia currency the lowest I can afford to do it for is £45.os.od. Maryland currency which I hope your Excellency will not think too much, if its Conveinient should be Glad, you could send the money by the Bearer Capn Man or A Draft on any Gentleman in this Town, would answer the same, your Compliance with the above request will at this time greatly serve and Oblige Yr Most Obdt Hble Svt &c.

John Rawlins


Title: From George Washington to Lord Dunmore, 11 March 1787
From: Washington, George
To: Dunmore, John Murray, fourth earl of

Sir,
Mount Vernon in Virginia March 11th 1787.

With your Excellency’s permission—though I have not the honor of being known to you—I will take the liberty introducing the bearer Mr Fendall, his Lady & Miss Lee, to your civilities.
They are much esteemed and deservedly respected in this Country. Ill health of Mrs Fendall, has induced her Physicians to recommend the Air of the Sea to her; and the Bahama Islands seem to be the object of their Voyage.
I am persuaded these worthy people will do Justice to my recommendation. That a philanthropic attention to them will be as pleasing to your Excellency as to them—and that the interest I take in their welfare is the best apology I can offer for this freedom—I have the honr to be—Sir Yr Most Obedt Hble Ser.

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Edmund Randolph, 11 March 1787
From: Randolph, Edmund
To: Washington, George

Dear sir
Richmond March 11. 1787

I must call upon your friendship to excuse me for again mentioning the convention at Philadelphia. Your determination having been fixed on a thorough review of your situation, I feel, like an intruder, when I again hint a wish, that you would join the delegation. But every day brings forth some new crisis, and the confederation is, I fear, the last anchor of our hope. Congress have taken up the subject, and appointed the second Monday in May next, as the day of meeting. Indeed from my private correspondence I doubt, whether the existence of that body even thro’ this year may not be questionable under our present

circumstances. Believe me to be my dear sir yr affectionate friend & servant

Edm: Randolph


Title: From George Washington to William Goddard, 12 March 1787 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Goddard, William

Letter not found: to William Goddard, 12 Mar. 1787. In item E 667, the Collector of June 1944 cites this quotation from a letter that GW wrote to Goddard: “You will please to insert the enclosed Advertisement in your paper and continue it three weeks.”


Title: From George Washington to Charles Willson Peale, 13 March 1787
From: Washington, George
To: Peale, Charles Willson

Sir,
Mount Vernon March 13th 1787.

I have received your letter of the 27th Ulto acknowleding the reception of the body of the Golden Pheasant. I have sent by the Dolphin Captn Steward the body of a French hen Pheasant which died this day. I chose this mode of conveying it rather than by the Stage, as the Packet calls here to receive some things for Philadelphia; & I think, all circumstances considered, that it will meet with as quick & safe a conveyance as if it went by land.
I wish you great success in the Mezzotinto Prints which you have undertaken, & have no doubt but your abilities in works of Genius will ensure it. I am Sir Yr most Obedt Hbe Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Clement Biddle, 14 March 1787
From: Washington, George
To: Biddle, Clement

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon March 14th 1787

Your letters of the 20th and 27th Ulto are both before me. The Barley & other things by the Dolphin are arrived—and by the return of this Vessel I consign you, as per bill enclosed, 45

Barrls of Herrings, which you will be pleased to dispose of to the best advantage, and place the proceeds to my credit. It is hardly necessary to add that, the sooner these fish are disposed of the higher the sale of them probably will be, as the season for the new is near at hand. They are very good, I am told, having been lately examined.
As I beleive the half yearly interest of my Certificate is nearly due, and a small balance was in my favor previous to the purchasing the Articles by the Dolphin, I will wait for the Sale of the Fish to know how the Accts between us will then be. In the interim, please to send me one dozn of the best corn Scythes of a proper length, and strength at the heel, and in the backs, and the same number of the best Grass Scythes—two strong bramble Scythes, & two flax spinning wheels. The Dolphin returns to this Port in the course of next month, and will afford a good Conveyance. What does the best Hyson Tea, and dble refined Sugar sell at with you? And how are linnens now?—particularly those of the finer sort. With great esteem I am Dear Sir Yr very Hble Servt

Go: Washington

P.S. How does White & red Lead, ground in Oil sell? Are not these things often bought cheap at the public Vendues?

G. W——n.


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Fitzhugh Grymes, 14 March 1787
From: Grymes, Benjamin Fitzhugh
To: Washington, George

Dear Genl
Eagles Nest March 14th [17]87

It affords me the highest satisfaction to have it in my power to oblige you by sending of you five bushels of Jerusalem Artichokes, and had it not been for an [un]luckey experiment I shd have been able to have spared you a large quantity, but I have sent you the better half. In order to increase my crop, I cut off the tops three different times breast high, and by that means, made not a bushel from near 500 hills in my garden, the few I have I collected from a few hills not more than twenty in number, where the hogs could not get to them, they are very fond of

them, and from experience, I find that there is nothing we can raise so cheap and that hogs are fonder of: 500 bushels at least may be made from an acre of good Tobo g[roun]d which are at least equal to 100 bis of Corn. Col. S[t]ith will deliver you this, with a dish of the best fish I have by me.1 have lately met with some of the Guinea grass seed, some of which I intended to have sent you but my Uncle tells me you have tried it and do not like it I will thank you for your sentiments on that, and the Magoty bay Pea, so much extolled of late. I have by me some Irish potatoe Seed, and expect to have some Cotton in the Seed, shd you be in want of either please to inform me, and I shall be happy in obliging of you. I am sir with the greatest respect to you & yrs yr Mt ob. fd & Sert

B. Grymes


Title: From George Washington to James Mercer, 15 March 1787
From: Washington, George
To: Mercer, James

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 15th March 1787

Your favor of the 10th came duely to hand, and with very sincere concern I read the acct of your ill health; but if your other complaints have left you, the Asthma, though troublesome & distressing, is not a dangerous one; I will hope therefore that the agreeable Season which is fast approaching, will perfectly restore you good health.
Under cover with this, you will receive the original Deed for the Lands on four miles run; which you will please to return when your purposes are answered by the reference to it, for drawing the deed of confirmation: for your justice in offering which, and kindness in drawing it, I pray you to accept my warmest acknowledgments.
The mode suggested by you to obtain the bond which I passed to Messrs McCoull & Blair, is, in my judgment, the only proper

one; so far as it respects you, or the Representatives of your father (if the credit is to be applied to their acct) it is precisely the same whether you acct with me, or them, for the principal & interest of the sum which was to have been paid for the Land under the circumstances of your claim; because if the right is determined to be in you, so much will have been discounted from my demand on the Estate—If in them, it is only paying to them, as Attorneys of Lindo & Cozenove what otherwise would have been demanded of me. The case with me would be widely different, for if I allow this sum with the Interest in a final settlement and my bond remains unretired, I am open to a prosecution thereon; and may be greatly distressed by the actual payment after having allowed it in a discount before I can have any redress, which would very illy accord with the present state of my finances. Should Mr McCoull refuse to accede to your proposal, it would imply strongly, his intention of resorting to me for payment.
However desirous I am, & always shall be, to comply with any commands of my Country, I do not conceive that I can, with consistent conduct, attend the proposed Convention to be holden in Philadelphia in May next. For besides the declaration which I made in a very solemn manner when I was about to retire, of bidding adieu to all public employment; I had just before the appointment of delegates to this Convention written and dispatched circular letters to the several State Societies of the Cincinnati informing them of my intention not to attend the General Meeting which was to take place about the same time and in the same City—and assigned reasons which apply as forcibly in the one case as the other. Under these circumstances, to attend the Convention might be considered disrespectful to a worthy set of men for whose attachment and support on many trying occasions, I shall ever feel the highest gratitude & affection.
It is unnecessary I hope to assure you of the pleasure I shall always receive at seeing you here, whenever business or your health will permit. The latter, possibly, might be benefitted by the change of Air. With sincere esteem & Regd I am Dear Sir Yr Most Obt Ser.

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from John Lawson, 17 March 1787
From: Lawson, John
To: Washington, George

Sir
Dumfries March 17th 1787

I am sorry it has not been in my power to comply with my promise to you by sending up the Negro Fellow we talked about at Mr Fendall’s before this time.
I gave directions to the Overseer with whom he now lives to send him up about ten days ago & having been from home since expected he had been sent accordingly; but on my return I find that he had the misfortune, the very day before he was to have set off, to cut his leg so badly that he has not been able to walk since & I am affraid will not soon—As soon as he recovers I shall send him to you unless I have your directions otherwise, & if he suits you upon examination you may have him on the same terms I purchased. I am very respectfully Sir Your mo: obt Servt

Jno. Lawson


Title: To George Washington from James Madison, 18 March 1787
From: Madison, James
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir,
New York March 18th 1787

Recollecting to have heard you mention a plan formed by the Empress of Russia for a comparative view of the aborigines of the New Continent, and of the N.E. parts of the old, through the medium of their respective tongues, and that her wishes had been conveyed to you for your aid in obtaining the American vocabularies, I have availed myself of an opportunity offered by the Kindness of Mr Hawkins, of taking a copy of such a sample of the Cherokee & Chactaw dialects as his late commission to treat with them enabled him to obtain, and do myself the honor now of inclosing it. I do not know how far the list of words made use of by Mr Hawkins may correspond with the standard of the Empress, nor how far nations so remote as the Cherokees & Chactaws from the N.W. shores of America, may fall within her scheme of comparison. I presume however that a great proportion at least of the words will answer, and that the laudable curiosity which suggests investigations of this sort will be pleased with every enlargement of the field for indulging it. Not finding it convenient to retain a copy of the inclosed as I wished to do for myself, I musk ask the favor of your amanuensis to perform that task for me.
The appointments for the Convention go on very successfully. Since the date of my last, Georgia, S. Carolina, N. York, Massts & N. Hamshire have come into the measure. Georgia & N. Hampshire have constituted their Delegates in Congs their representatives in the Convention. S. Carolina has appointed Mr J. Rutledge, Genl Pinkney, Mr Laurens, Major Butler, and Mr Chs Pinkney late a member of Congs. The deputies of Massts are Mr Dana, Mr King, Mr Ghoram, Mr Gerry, Mr Strong. I am told that a Resolution of the Legislature of this State which originated with their Senate lays its deputies under the fetter of not departing from the 5th of the present articles of Confederation. As this Resolution passed before the Recommendatory act of

Congress was known, it is conjectured that it may be rescinded; but its having passed at all denotes a much greater prevalence of political jealousy in that quarter than had been imagined. The deputation of N. York consists of Col. Hamilton, Judge Yates and a Mr Lansing. The two last are said to be pretty much linked to the antifederal party here, and are likely of course to be a clog on their colleague. It is not doubted now that Connecticut & R. Island will avoid the singularity of being unrepresented in the Convention.
The thinness of Congs has been an obstacle to all the important business before them. At present there are nine States on the ground but this number, though adequate to every object when unanimous, makes a very slow progress in business that requires seven States only. And I see little prospect of the number being increased.
By our latest and most authentic information from Massts it would seem that a calm has been restored by the expedition of Genl Lincoln. The precautions taking by the State however betray a great distrust of its continuance. Besides their act disqualifying the malcontents from voting in the election of members for the Legislature &c. another has been passed for raising a corps of 1000 or 15,000 men, and appropriating the choicest revenues of the Country, to its support. It is said that at least half of the insurgents decline accepting the terms annexed to the amnesty, and that this defiance of the law agst Treason, is countenanced not only by the impunity with which they shew themselves on public occasions, even with insolent badges of their character, but by marks of popular favor conferred on them in various instances in the election to local offices.
A proposition has been introduced & discussed in the Legislature of this State, for relinquishing its claim to Vermont, and urging the admission of it into the Confederacy. As far as I can learn difficulties will arise only in settling the form, the substance of the measures being not disliked by any of the parties. It is wished by those who are not interested in claims to lands within that district to guard agst any responsibility in the State for compensation. On the other side it will at least be insisted that they shall not be barred of the privilege of carrying their claims before a federal Court, in case Vermont shall become a party to the Union. I think it probable if she should not decline

becoming such altogether, that she will make two conditions if not more. 1. that neither her boundaries, nor the rights of her citizens shall be impeachable under the 9th art. of Confederation. 2[.] that no share of the public debt already contracted shall be allotted to her.
I have a letter from Col. Jno. Campbel dated at Pittsburg, from wch I gather that the people of that quarter are thrown into great agitation by the reported intention of Congs Concerning the Mississippi, and that measures are on foot, for uniting the minds of all the different settlements which have a common interest at stake. Should this policy take effect I think there is much ground to apprehend that the ambition of individuals will quickly mix itself with the first impulses of resentment and interest, that by degrees the people may be led to set up for themselves, that they will slide like Vermont insensibly into a communication and latent connection with their British Neighbours, and in pursuance of the same example, make such a disposition of the Western territory as will entice into it most effectually emigrants from all parts of the Union. If these apprehensions be not imaginary they suggest many observations extremely interesting to Spain as well as to the United States.
I hear from Richmond with much concern that Mr Henry has positively declined his mission to Philada. Besides the loss of his services on that theatre, there is danger I fear that this step has proceeded from a wish to leave his conduct unfettered on another theatre where the result of the Convention will receive its destiny from his omnipotence. With every sentiment of esteem & affection I remain Dear Sir Your Obedt and very hble servt

Js Madison Jr


Title: To George Washington from John Hopkins, 20 March 1787
From: Hopkins, John
To: Washington, George

Sir.
Richmond March 20 1787.

   Mr Buchanan applied to me some time since for a further payment on your subscription to the James River Company, and as there were several pressing demands on it, and you at a distance I have taken the liberty of paying to the Treasurer the sum of Fifty pounds, on your account, for which I herewith transmit you a Receipt. This sum you will be pleased to pay into the hands of Mr Charles Lee of Alexandria, who will take the trouble of bringing it to me in April next. I have the honor to be with very Great Respect Sir Your Most Obedient humble servant

Jno. Hopkins


Title: To George Washington from Louis de Pontière, 20 March 1787
From: Pontière, Louis de
To: Washington, George

My General,
St Etienne [France] 20th March 1787.

Permit me to offer myself to your remembrance, and to lay open to you my embarrassed situation since I quitted the service of the United States; You may recollect that I recd, at my departure in 1784, what was due to me for my services in Notes, amounting, in French Money to 27000 livres, of which I was to receive the interest annually until the principal shd be discharged. This was the only resource wh. I had to reimburse my friends for the monies wh. they had advanced me during the war. I returned to France in full confidence of receiving my interest

annually, notwithstanding which more than two years have elapsed and I have not recd anything, which has deprived me of the means of support.
I beseech your Excellency to take my case under your consideration, and lend me your good offices towards obtaining the payment of the principal, or at least of the interest wh. is due, and to point out to me what steps are necessary to be taken in this matter, for I find myself in a most deplorable situation.
I sollicited, and obtained in the year 1785, an employment in the legion of the Count de Mailleboies in the service of Holland, but you know what arrangments took place in the following year, since which I have been out of employ; there is not a day passes in which I do not think of the time which I spent in America, & shd think myself exceeding happy if I could yet be employed under your Orders, and have an opportunity of shewing new zeal for your service & that of the United States. I am, with sentiments of the most profound respect, my General, Your very Hbe & Obedt Servt

Depontiereformerly A.D.C. to the Baron Stuben

P.S. If you do me the favor to honor me with an answer I beg you to address your letter as follows
Monsr Depontiere at Monsr Delatuillerie at the Royal Manufactory of Arms St Etienne in Forest.


Title: To George Washington from Buckner Stith, 22 March 1787
From: Stith, Buckner
To: Washington, George

Sir
March 22d 1787

I have seriously had thoughts of troubling you with an Epistle these four Years, but my Mind has all the way fallen under the task; ’till just know, after smoking three full Pipes, which you know inebriates a good deal if the Tobacco be strong, and a little Man here informing me he lived within three miles of your

House, zounds said I, I will this minute write to the General. I will tell him, that I am the same Man who marched with him and old Laurence from Chotanck to Fredericksburg, how Laurence and him laughed at me for holding the wine glass in the full hand, but as I was five Years older than either of them, I thought I might hold the wine glass as I pleased; that we lost a Horse or two in the Trip, and were obliged to walk honestly in turn clear to Chotank again; and moreover I will tell him, that although Laurence and I might notice him on the Road when in turn to walk, a sound looking, modest, large boned young Man, still I would not defend the matter for a round sum, that were Laurence and I put to the oath, that we thought at the same time, we had each of us an equal chance at least with him, for a Generalship.
Now as the giving you an account of the many good things said of you in this part of the World, might be disagreeable to you, shall be totally silent; knowing (if I be but a piece of a Connisieur, and Satan tells me at times, I am the hundredth pard of one) that the good Mind wants not adulation. To speak in my own way it would be thus, I had rather see you in sound health bending over bushes and mire in full Chace with twenty four Hounds, than to hear the most difficult point discussed of the most difficult RETREAT ever made, between your Honour and the old King of Prussia’s ghost.
The force of the three full pipes being for some moments evaporated into open air, and my Mind reduced into its primitive littleness again, must sincerely proceed to ask pardon for the trouble (sure enough) I have given you in reading the above stuff, and ask also to subscribe myself Your most obedient humble Servt

Buckner Stith Senr


Title: From George Washington to Benjamin Lincoln, 23 March 1787
From: Washington, George
To: Lincoln, Benjamin

My dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 23d Mar: 1787

Ever since the disorders in your State began to grow serious I have been particularly anxious to hear from that quarter; Genl Knox has, from time to time transmitted to me the state of affairs as they came to his hands; but nothing has given such full & satisfactory information as the particular detail of events which you have been so good as to favor me with, and for which you will please to accept my warmest and most grateful acknowledgments.
Permit me also, my dear Sir, to offer you my sincerest congratulations upon your success. The suppression of those tumults & insurrections with so little blood shed, is an event as happy as it was unexpected; it must have been peculiarly agreeable to you, being placed in so delicate & critical a situation.
I am extremely happy to find that your sentiments upon the disfranchising act are such as they are; Upon my first seeing it I formed an opinion perfectly coincident with yours—viz.—that measures more generally lenient might have produced equally as good an effect without entirely alienating the affections of the people from the government. As it now stands, it affects a large body of men, some of them, perhaps, it deprives of the means of gaining a livelihood. The friends and connections of those people will feel themselves wounded in a degree, and I think it will rob the State of a number of its inhabitants if it produces nothing worse.
It gives me great pleasure to hear that your Eastern settlement succeeds so well. The sincere regard which I have for you will always make your prosperity a part of my happiness. I am—

My dear Sir, with sentiments of the Most perfect esteem & regard Yr Most Obedient and Affecte Hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to John Parke, 23 March 1787
From: Washington, George
To: Parke, John

Sir,
Mount Vernon March 23d 1787

I have receeved the 2 Vol. of your poetical works which you were so polite as to send me and for which I beg you to accept of my best thanks⟨.⟩ The Honor which you have done me in dedicating your book to me merits my grateful acknowledgements; altho’ I have refused many applications which have been made to dedicate litterary performances to me—yet I always wish to give every possible encouragement to those works of Genius which are the production of an American. Had I know[n] of your intention to publish your work I would with pleasure have become a subscriber. I am Sir Yr Most Obed. Hble Servt

G. Washington


Title: To George Washington from David Humphreys, 24 March 1787
From: Humphreys, David
To: Washington, George

My dear General
New Haven [Conn.] March 24th 1787

I have but just had the pleasure to receive your two favours of the 18th of Feby and 8th instant—Nor will I delay a moment giving my sentiments on the subject of the latter, for the sake of

throwing them into a more elegant dress or methodical arrangement. I need hardly preface my observations by saying, that I feel myself superlatively happy in your confidential communications, and in opportunities of proving that I do not write for the purpose of acquiring a reputation for fine composition, but for the sake of justifying the favourable opinion you have been pleased to form of my attachment & sincerity.
I may then with justice assert that so far from having seen any reason to change my opinion respecting the inexpediency of your attending the Convention in May next, additional arguments have occurred to confirm me in the sentiment. The probability, which existed when I wrote before, that nothing general or effectual would be done by the Convention, amounts now almost to a certainty. For the Assembly of Rhode Island (as I am lately given to understand) have decided against sending any Representation. Connecticut is under the influence of a few such miserable, narrow-minded & I may say wicked Politicians, that I question very much whether the Legislature will chuse Members to appear in the Convention; and if they do, my apprehension is still greater that they will be sent on purpose to impede any salutary measures that might be proposed. This, there is little doubt, is actually the case with N. York, as it is asserted, two out of their three Delegates are directly antifœderal. What chance is there, then, that entire unanimity will prevail? Should this be the fact, however, would not the several Members, as it were, pledge themselves for the execution of their system? And would not this inevitably launch you again on a sea of Politics? As you justly observe matters must probably grow worse before they will be better.
Since I had the honour of addressing you last on this subject, I have been in the way of hearing the speculations of many different Characters on the proposed Convention, and their conjectures on the part you would act in consequence of your appointment to it. I have heard few express any sanguine expectations concerning the successful issue of the Meeting, & I think not one has judged it elegible for you to attend.
In this part of the Union, your not attending will not be considered either by the fœderal, or antifœderal party, as a dereliction of Republicanism. The former believe it unimportant, or perhaps, injurious, to the national Interests for you to come forward

at present—the latter look upon the Convention as rather intended to subvert than support Republicanism: and will readily excuse your non-attendance.
Notwithstanding your circular letter to the Cincinnati, I think it probable the General Meeting will re-elect you President—I hope they will—for matters, I am confident, will in some way or another work right before all is over.
Congress appear to be in a state of mortal stupefaction or lethargy. It seems probable the Troops will be disbanded. I shall go to N. York next week but shall return in a few days, & your letters addressed to me at Hartford will still continue to be regularly received.
I wish all my friends at Mount Vernon to be persuaded that something more heartfelt than common Complts is offered them on my part; while, you my dear General, should do me the justice to believe, that there is no one, in your numerous circle of acquaintance, more sincerely attached to you than your affectionate friend

D. Humphreys


Title: From George Washington to John Hopkins, 25 March 1787
From: Washington, George
To: Hopkins, John

Sir,
Mount Vernon Mar. 25th 1787

The last post brought me your favor of the 20th.
At the same time that I pray you to accept my thanks for the advance you were so obliging as to make, on my Acct to Mr Buchanan (as treasurer for the James river Company) I cannot help expressing my surprise at the application to you. Sure I am that nothing ever dropped from me that could induce him to make it; & I now beg that if it should ever be made on any similar occasion, that you would be pleased to refer him to me; for I should feel very unhappy if it should so happen that I might not have it in my power to answer a similer call. Your letter, with Mr Buchanons rect, is the first intimation I have had of the Company’s call on the Members for a dividend of their subscription.

In the present instance I happen to be provided, and send the money with my sincere acknowledgments to you for the advance of it, by Mr Ch. Lee. begging you to receive the assurances of my esteem & regard I am Sir Yr Most Obedt Servt

Go: Washington

P.S. Your favor did not get to my hands till last Night, and I was about dispatching this letter to day to Mr Lee when a Gent. from Alexandria coming in, informs me that he was to set off this morning for Richmond—I nevertheless send the money up to take the first safe conveyance down to that place. As this renders the matter more precarious I would thank you for acknowledging the receipt of this letter and the money by the Post. Yrs &ca G.W.


Title: From George Washington to George Weedon, 25 March 1787
From: Washington, George
To: Weedon, George

Mount Vernon, March 25, 1787.

I have received your favor of the 19th. and thank you for the trouble you have taken to procure for me the Jerusalem Artichoke, but as Captn. Grymes has been so obliging as to send me five Bushels of them which I expect are enough to plant an acre of ground (which will be sufficient to make the experiment I had in contemplation) as there is no way of getting them but by the Stage or sending on purpose for them and as it might have been inconvenient to Mr. Page to have spared what he furnished you with for my use, I pray you to return them to him with my thanks for the kind intention.
I shall follow the directions contained in your letter unless upon further inquiry of him or others a better can be suggested, but I shall be glad to know whether in hills, or in drills, is the usual mode of planting, and at what distance. I am, etc.


Title: To George Washington from James Gibbon, 26 March 1787
From: Gibbon, James
To: Washington, George

Dr sir
Petersburgh Virga March 26th 1787

I am very sorry at this late period of time to trouble you particularly as all your officiall business has ceas’d so long; Your opinion will nevertheless avail sufficiently. A Demand, I long since made to the commissioner of accts

for the army, for what I consider’d my due (the commutation) has remaind undetermind till now, owing chiefly to my business confining me at this place so as to prevent a personall application at N. York—The nature of my demand is briefly this, which I submitt to yr justice & altho you can now, be furnish’d with no other than my own assertions as testimony I flatter myself, as they are founded in propriety, they will have some weight[.] at the time of the revolt of the Penna line I was on furlough in Phila. labouring under the appearances of a consumption so much as to render my doing duty impracticable. The design of my furlough was, to seek an oppt. of Going to the W. Indies which I was advis’d to by Dr Rush to whom I had apply’d and whose certificate, descriptive of my situation, Genl Knox or Mr Pierce are now posses’d of—Previous to my effecting my purpose, the revolt took place—I imediatly joind the troops at Prince Town where I remaind till turn’d out by order of theeir board of Sergeants and then join’d my brother officers at Penny town partaking in the kind of Duty there perform’d for our mutual saf’ty in which time my disorder increas’d so as to oblige my returning to Phila. tho ⟨there⟩, with a piece of duty assign’d me by the late Govr Reeid which was perform’d: my disorder still increasing an immediate change of climate was advis’d as absolutly indispensable and an oppt. offering of going to martinique I embrac’d it, having abt the time of my departure sent the resignation of a regimentall commission, as I then held it and a brevett tho acting solely under the latter—my holding the former I consider’d as of little avail as a rearangment was abt to & did take place by which I shou’d have been put on the Supernumery list—The act of Congress accompanying the brevett is in the opinion of Mr Pierce to whom Congress referr’d the claim competent to the admission of it—he, however as a public officer wishing to eir on the Safe side has recommended my obtaining yr opinion on the Subject—this sir, as I consider my claim strictly just, I flatter myself you will take the trouble to give me by letter—I’m far from wishing to take advantage of the publick nor is my claim founded upon precedents which have pass’d, of less propriety. Im sir with great respect & esteem Yr Most Obt

J. Gibbon

⟨It⟩ is hardly necessary to observe sir, that exte⟨nded⟩ furloughs were seldon denied at Head Quarters under circumstances of this kind and that the trouble I put you to wou’d not have been necessary had it been in my power, previous to departure, for the W. Indies, to have made the application.


Title: To George Washington from Henry Knox, 26 March 1787
From: Knox, Henry
To: Washington, George

New-York 26th March 1787

I have attended my dear Sir to your request respecting the Chevalier D’anterroches, and the following sketch is the result.
He is the son of a general officer in the french service old and infirm; His uncle is the bishop of Condon, rich, and miserly; besides which he is a relation of the Marquis de la Fayette—In the early part of his Life his father designed him for the church, and forced him to enter on studies necessary for the profession—As this business was his horror, he fled to England and enlisted as a soldier, but afterwards became an officer, by what means does, not appear, but he came out to Canada with Genl

Burgoyne in the year 1776 or 1777, and was taken prisoner at Saratoga. On information that France had decidedly espoused the Cause of America he left the Service of England—whether he refused to be exchanged, resigned, or the precise means of leaving the british Service I cannot ascertain.
Some four or five years ago, he was at Chatham, Morris County, in the house of a Mr Pool, where he fell sick—Mr Pool is a shoemaker, his daughter was extremely attentive to the sick chevalier, who testified his gratitude on his recovery by marrying her—Two or three children are the fruits of the Marriage. He lives on a small farm near Elizabeth Town, and is in great distress but is in constant expectation of being releived by his relations. His character is unexceptionable, and he is spoken of as a deserving man.
My own opinion is that nothing would more effectually please him than placing him in the french service—But his Wife and children seems to be an insuperable bar to that idea—perhaps were you to write to the Marquis de la Fayette a letter calculated for him to show to the persons of influence, the poor chevalier might obtain some office in the customs, in the islands, or vice consul of some of these states by which he might maintain his family—I know of nothing in the gift of the United States at present which would releive him—were it practicable for him to enter the service in a military line, the payments are so defective that his family would starve.
The Courts of justice are sitting in Massachusetts for the trial of the rebels—Commissioners are appointed to accompany the Courts to pardon any they may think proper, probably before trial. I am my dear Sir Your respectfully affectionate friend and very humble Servt

H. Knox


Title: To George Washington from Mauduit du Plessis, 26 March 1787
From: Mauduit du Plessis, Thomas-Antoine, chevalier de
To: Washington, George

My General,
Charleston [S.C.] 26th March. 1787

My health, and the air of Georgia have determined me to give up all to Mr McQueen, & return to France, if my disorder will permit me ever to see it again. I hope in a few days to embark on board an English Vessel. I cannot express to you the joy which I feel, at the idea of having it in my power, in about 2 months, to embrace my wife, children, relations & friends.
I shall never forget the attention & kindness which Your Excell[e]ncy & Madam Washington shewed me. I shall do myself the pleasure of letting you hear from me in France; & shall be always happy to receive your commands there.
I beg your Excellency to receive the assurances of my most sincere attachment & perfect Respect,

Duplessis


Title: Benjamin Fitzhugh Grymes to GW, 27 March 1787 [letter not found]
From: Grymes, Benjamin Fitzhugh
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: Benjamin Fitzhugh Grymes to GW, 27 Mar. 1787. GW wrote Grymes on 10 April: “Your favor of the 27th ult. was put into my hands the 7th instt.”


Title: From George Washington to Edmund Randolph, 28 March 1787
From: Washington, George
To: Randolph, Edmund

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 28th Mar. 1787

Your favor of the 11th did not come to my hand till the 24th; and since then, till now, I have been too much indisposed to acknowledge the receipt of it. To what cause to ascribe the detention of the [letter] I know not, as I never omit sending once, and oftener twice a week to the Post Office—In Alexandria.
It was the decided intention of the letter I had the honor of writing to your Excellency the 21st of December last, to inform you, that it would not be convenient for me to attend the Convention proposed to be holden in Philadelphia in May next; and I had entertained hopes that another had been, or soon would be, appointed in my place; inasmuch as it is not only inconvenient for me to leave home, but because there will be, I apprehend, too much cause to charge my conduct with inconsistency,

in again appearing on a public theatre after a public declaration to the contrary; and because it will, I fear, have a tendency to sweep me back into the tide of public affairs, when retirement and ease is so essentially necessary for, and is so much desired by me.
However, as my friends, with a degree of sollicitude which is unusual, seem to wish my attendance on this occasion, I have come to a resolution to go if my health will permit, provided, from the lapse of time between the date of your Excellencys letter and this reply, the Executive may not—the reverse of which wd be highly pleasing to me—have turned its thoughts to some other character—for independantly of all other considerations, I have, of late, been so much afflicted with a rheumatic complaint in my shoulder that at times I am hardly able to raise my hand to my head, or turn myself in bed. This, consequently, might prevent my attendance, and eventually a representation of the State; which wd afflict me more sensibly than the disorder which occasioned it.
If after the expression of these sentiments, the Executive should consider me as one of the Delegates, I would thank your Excellency for the earliest advice of it; because if I am able, and should go to Philadelpa, I shall have some previous arrangements to make, and would set of for that place the first, or second day of May, that I may be there in time to account, personally, for my conduct to the General Meeting of the Cincinnati which is to convene on the first Monday of that month—My feelings would be much hurt if that body should otherwise, ascribe my attendance on the one, and not on the other occasion, to a disrespectful inattention to the Society; when the fact is, that I shall ever retain the most lively and affectionate regard for the members of which it is composed, on acct of their attachment to, and uniform support of me, upon many trying occasions; as well as on acct of their public virtues, patriotism, and sufferings.
I hope your Excellency will be found among the attending delegates. I should be glad to be informed who the others are—and cannot conclude without once more, and in emphatical terms, praying that if there is not a decided representation in prospect, without me, that another, for the reason I have assigned, may be chosen in my room without ceremony and without delay; for

it would be unfortunate indeed if the State which was the mover of this Convention, should be unrepresented in it. With great respect I have the honor to be Yr Excellys Most Obedt Ser.

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to James Madison, 31 March 1787
From: Washington, George
To: Madison, James

My dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 31st Mar. 1787

At the sametime that I acknowledge the receipt of your obliging favor of the 21st Ult. from New York, I promise to avail myself of your indulgence of writing only when it is convenient to me. If this should not occasion a relaxation on your part, I shall become very much your debtor—and possibly like others in similar circumstances (when the debt is burthensome) may feel a disposition to apply the spunge—or, what is nearly a-kin to it—pay you off in depreciated paper, which being a legal tender, or what is tantamount, being that or nothing, you cannot refuse. You will receive the nominal value, & that you know quiets the conscience, and makes all things easy—with the debt⟨ors⟩.
I am glad to find that Congress have recommended to the States to appear in the Convention proposed to be holden in Philadelphia in May. I think the reasons in favor, have the preponderancy of those against the measure. It is idle in my opinion to suppose that the Sovereign can be insensible of the inadequacy of the powers under which it acts—and that seeing, it should not recommend a revision of the Fœderal system, when it is considered by many as the only Constitutional mode by which the defects can be remedied. Had Congress proceeded to a delineation of the Powers, it might have sounded an Alarm; but as the case is, I do not conceive that it will have that effect.
From the acknowledged abilities of the Secretary for Foreign Affairs, I could have had no doubt of his having ably investigated the infractions of the Treaty on both sides—Much is it to be regretted however, that there should have been any on ours. We seem to have forgotten, or never to have learnt, the policy of placing ones enemy in the wrong. Had we observed good faith on our part, we might have told our tale to the world with

a good grace; but compl[ain]ts illy become those who are found to be the first agressors.
I am fully of opinion that those who lean to a Monarchical governmt have either not consulted the public mind, or that they live in a region where the levelling principles in which they were bred, being entirely irradicated, is much more productive of Monarchical ideas than are to be found in the Southern States, where from the habitual distinctions which have always existed among the people, one would have expected the first generation, and the most rapid growth of them. I also am clear, that even admitting the utility; nay necessity of the form—yet that the period is not arrived for adopting the change without shaking the Peace of this Country to its foundation.
That a thorough reform of the present system is indispensable, none who have capacities to judge will deny—and with hand and heart I hope the business will be essayed in a full Convention—After which, if more powers, and more decision is not found in the existing form—If it still wants energy and that secresy and dispatch (either from the non-attendance, or the local views of its members) which is characteristick of good Government—And if it shall be found (the contrary of which however I have always been more affrd of, than of the abuse of them) that Congress will upon all proper occasions exercise the powers with a firm and steady hand, instead of frittering them back to the Individual States where the members in place of viewing themselves in their national character, are too apt to be looking. I say after this essay is made if the system proves inefficient, conviction of the necessity of a change will be dissiminated among all classes of the People—Then, and not till then, in my opinion can it be attempted without involving all the evils of civil discord.
I confess however that my opinion of public virtue is so far changed that I have my doubts whether any system without the means of coercion in the Sovereign, will enforce obedience to the Ordinances of a Genl Government; without which, every thing else fails. Laws or Ordinances unobserved, or partially attended to, had better never have been made; because the first is a mere nihil—and the 2d is productive of much jealousy & discontent. But the kind of coercion you may ask?—This indeed will require thought; though the non-compliance of the States with the late requisition, is an evidence of the necessity.

It is somewhat singular that a State (New York) which used to be foremost in all federal measures, should now turn her face against them in almost every instance.
I fear the State of Massachusetts have exceeded the bounds of good policy in its disfranchisement⟨s⟩—punishment is certainly due to the disturbers of a government, but the operations of this act is too extensive. It embraces too much—& probably may give birth to new, instead of destroying the old leven.
Some Acts passed at the last Session of our Assembly respecting the trade of this Country, has given great, and general discontent to the Merchants of it. An application from the whole body of those at Norfolk has been made, I am told, to conven⟨e⟩ the Assembly.
I had written thus far, and was on the point of telling you how much I am your obliged Servant, when your favor of the 18th calls upon me for additional acknowledgments.
I thank you for the Indian Vocabalary which I dare say will be very acceptable in a general comparison. Having taken a copy, I return you the original with thanks.
It gives me pleasure to hear that there is a probability of a full Representation of the States in Convention; but if the delegates come to it under fetters, the salutary ends proposed will in my opinion be greatly embarrassed & retarded, if not altogether defeated. I am anxious to know how this matter really is, as my wish is, that the Convention may adopt no temporising expedient, but probe the defects of the Constitution to the bottom, and provide radical cures, whether they are agreed to or not—a conduct like this, will stamp wisdom and dignity on the proceedings, and be looked to as a luminary, which sooner or later will shed its influence.
I should feel pleasure, I confess in hearing that Vermont is received into the Union upon terms agreeable to all parties—I took the liberty years ago to tell some of the first characters in the State of New York, that sooner or later it would come to that. That the longer it was delayed the terms on their part, would, probably be more difficult—and that the general interest was suffering by the suspence in which the business was held; as the asylem wch it afforded, was a constant drain from the Army in place of an aid which it offered to afford, and lastly, considering

the proximity of it to Canada if they were not with us, they might become a sore thorn in our sides, wch I verily believe would have been the case if the War had continued. The Western Settlements without good & wise management of them, may be equally troublesome. With sentimts of the sincerest friendship I am—Dear Sir Yr Affecte Servt

Go: Washington

Be so good as to forward the enclosed Mrs Washington intended to have sent it by Colo. Carrington, but he did not call here.


Title: To George Washington from Charles Willson Peale, 31 March 1787
From: Peale, Charles Willson
To: Washington, George

Dr Sir
Phila[delphi]a March 31. 1787

Your obliging favor of the 13th I received on the 28th[.] The Pepper I beleive preserved the body from being thrown over board. My Anticeptic Powders I hope will preserve the remains, yet not so perfect as I could wish as many of the feathers fall off.
I believe the conveyance by the stage waggon with a particular direction will be the most certain.
If you wish to possess any bird, or Annimals, which you may at any time send to preserve the form, please to inform me, and I will most chearfully do my best to serve you. I am with much regard your obliged Hble Servant.

C. W. Peale


Title: From George Washington to John Francis Mercer, 1 April 1787
From: Washington, George
To: Mercer, John Francis

Sir,
Mount Vernon April 1st 1787

Enclosed I return the letter which you forwarded to me the 10th of Feby. For particular reasons and purposes, whatever money you may incline to pay me consequent of your promises would come very opportunely before 25 of this month. To this period, sufficient time is allowed to obtain the Certificates you have at Richmond—after which I shall hold myself discharged from any obligation to receive them.
The detention has already deprived me of every advantage I could have made of them in the payment of Taxes whilst I am sustaining the loss by their depreciation in the hands of others. My Compliments if you please to Mrs Mercer. I am Sir yr most obedient Humble Servant

G. Washington


Title: From George Washington to Richard Sprigg, 1 April 1787
From: Washington, George
To: Sprigg, Richard

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon Aprl 1st 1787

It is, I believe, beyond a doubt that your Jenny is with foal by my Spaniard. As I have two imported female Asses (very fine) which will be put to my Jacks this Season, & from which I may expect the pure breed; you are very welcome to the produce of your own, & the sooner you send for her the better, and less risk will be run in removing her. At present she is in very fine order having been well fed & attended through the Winter—With compliments to Mrs Sprig I am—Dear Sir Yr Obedt Hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from John Lawson, 2 April 1787
From: Lawson, John
To: Washington, George

Sir
Dumfries April 2d 1787

I am this day favor’d with yours of the 26th Ulto & I am inform’d by the Overseer with whom my Negro Fellow lives that his leg is now nearly well—I have therefore directed him to send Neptune (who will deliver this) to Mount Vernon the moment he thinks him able to travel without injuring himself.
I shall esteem it a favor if you will let me be inform’d when he arrives, & should you keep him your acknowledgement for the value will be sufficient as I have settled with Mr Hunter for the amount. I am Sir Your very hble Servt

J. Lawson


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Franklin, 3 April 1787
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir,
Philad[elphi]a April 3. 1787

I have often thought that the Number of People, who by Curiosity and the Admiration of your Character are drawn to call at Mt Vernon, must be very troublesome to you, and have therefore generally declin’d giving any introductory Letters. But my Nephew Mr Jonathan Williams, who was a faithful and active Agent of the United States during the whole War, in shipping Stores, Arms, Ammunition &c. for the Army, being on his Way to Richmond, and desirous of paying his Respects to you, I hope you will excuse my giving this Line of Information concerning him, which at the same time may express my best Wishes for your Health and Happiness, and Hopes of seeing you here at the Convention, being persuaded that your Presence will be of the greatest Importance to the Success of the Measure. With sincere Esteem and Respect, I am, Dear Sir, Your most obedt & most hum. Servt

B. Franklin


Title: To George Washington from David Stuart, 30 April 1787 [letter not found]
From: Stuart, David
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from David Stuart, 30 April 1787. On 5 May GW wrote “I have received your favor of the 30th.”


Title: To George Washington from Edward Moyston, 4 April 1787
From: Moyston, Edward
To: Washington, George

Sir
Philadelphia 4th April 1787

As the Convention of the States is expected to meet in this City in the next Month, I make bold to request your influence with such Gentlemen of your acquaintance as may want Accommodations. I have fitted up Chambers in the most convenient manner, and am certain that they will find it more agreeable than any private Lodging House in Town, as they will always have more Attendants, should their own be out of the way, than are commonly to be found in private Houses, and as I have altered the House they may be as private as in any other. On my arrival in Philadelphia, I found the Cheese which I promised to send, entirely spoiled with the Heat. I sent two by the Sloop Dolphin Captain Steward, of the best quality I could find. Mr Drayton’s Negro having given himself to me, I have transmitted him home to his Master, he says he left some Cloaths at Mount Vernon, and if they are worth the Trouble, you will please to order some of your Servants to forward them to me, I shall send them home by the next Packet. Should you please to make use of any Tavern to Lodge at, I hope for the preference, and could I know that you would, before your Arrival, every thing in my power should be particularly fitted to suit your convenience. In the Philadelphia Paper of this Date is an Advertisement of mine, which I should be glad to have inserted in the Alexandria News Paper for three or four Months and hope you will take the trouble to order some of your People to acquaint the printer of it. Should you have any Commands that I can execute you will please at any time to send your orders to me and they shall be paid the strictest attention to. I am Sir With the greatest Respect Your most Obedient Servant

Edward Moyston


Title: To George Washington from James Brindley, 5 April 1787
From: Brindley, James
To: Washington, George

Sir
Havre de Grace [Md.] April 5th 1787

   I was detained in Charleston untill the 17th of March and returned for expedition, by the Philadelphia Packet—therefore had not time to return by Land. If You have any occasion for me on Potomac Please let me know and I will attend. have some expectation of Visiting James River Canal, but not Yet certain. I recd a Letter and a small Packet for You from Coll Washington which comes with this. He and Family was well when I left Charleston. I am Sir, Your very Humbe Servt

Jas Brindley


Title: To George Washington from George Turner, 5 April 1787
From: Turner, George
To: Washington, George

Sir,
New York, April 5th 1787

At the Request of the Cincinnati of South-Carolina, I have the honour to forward herewith, for the Favour of your Excellency’s Signature, an Hundred and two Diplomas. The Box containing them, encloses, also, a Return of the Members for whom they are intended: The additional Diplomas are meant for those who may chuse to have Duplicates; excepting one, which is designed for Lieutenant-Colonel Langborn, now abroad.
As the Society of that State have expressed an anxious Desire to be honoured with your Name, Sir, as their President, I feel equally anxious to lay these Diplomas before your Excellency in due Time to obtain it.
May I request to have them returned to me here by some safe Conveyance, addressed to George Turner in New-York (and, least I may be absent) To the Care of the honorable William Grayson in Congress.

With the greatest Respect, Sir, I have the honour to be Your Excellency’s most obedient humble Servant

G. Turner

P.S. The Box goes to the Care of Doctor Craig at Alexandria.


Title: From George Washington to John Rumney, Jr., 6 April 1787
From: Washington, George
To: Rumney, John Jr.

Sir,
Mount Vernon April 6th 1787

However desirous I may be of accomodating the wishes of so deserving a Lady as you represent Mrs Wilson to be, yet Mrs Washington concurs in sentiment with me that my family already is, and soon will be too large to admit of an increase.
I can say little more at this time, respecting the Estate of the deceased Colo. Thos Colvill than what is contained in my account of it to Major Swan (resited in one of the letters which you put into my hands) except that I have used every means in my power lately to Collect materials (and very defective indeed they are) for a final settlement of the Administration.
What the surplus of the [e]state will be, when the debts and Legacies are all paid, is more than I can inform you—the Testator himself, as will appear by his will, had a doubt of their being any—and what will be done with it, if there should, must be a matter for future determination, when the Administration is closed, which it is my sincere wish to do so as fast as the nature of the case will admit; I shall for my own Justification, and security, take Council with respect to the application of the

surplus, if any, under the existing Laws of this Country. The auther of the letters of Instruction to you is mistaken I conceive when he says the claim of one Clawson was admitted—unless by admission he m⟨e⟩ans that it was received. If this was not his idea, it will give him no pleasure to be informed that near twenty others, I believe, have been admitted in the same way under the indefinite, and I might add, indegested clause of the will which has stirred up so many pretenders as to render it a matter of difficult investigation to determine rightly in the case. With great esteem & regard I am Sir yr most Obed. Servant

G. Washington.


Title: To George Washington from Israel Shreve, 7 April 1787
From: Shreve, Israel
To: Washington, George

Dear General
Burlington CountyState New Jersey 7th Apl 1787

I wrote two Letters to you Dated Last month But the Conveyance is So uncertain, I once more Trouble you with this which I Expect will be handed to you by my Brother William, who is going to Alexander.
The Subject of all my Letters wrote to you this Spring Is respecting a Tract of Land of about 1600 Acres Laying in Pennsylvania Near Redstone Called Washingtons Bottoms, which I have freequantly been Informed You Incline to Sell, which If True, I shod be Exceeding glad to Purchace, If Such pay as I can make will Answer your Purpose, Real Cash I cannot Command, But have Final Settlement Notes, which I am told Answers in Virginia As well as Money at Interest—I am No Speculator, only hold my own Original Notes for my Services and Some Supplies

that I furnished &c., of this Property I Should be wil⟨lg⟩ to Give a generous Price, So that the Interest would Exceed the rent of Said Lands—I have not Seen the Land but am pretty well informed of the Situation Quality and Improvements thereon, I want Land to Settle upon my Self, being bred a farmer Prefer that Calling to any other, and Wish to Leave Jersey and Settle where I can Purchace Good Land, I Suppose the Neighbourhood where this Tract Lies for want of a Market at Present is not very good to make Money or raise it from Sale of Produce, But I think a Comfortable Liveing may be had there, My Brother the Bearer of this Letter has Lived Near Devores ferry in the forks of Youghagania within 10 or 12 miles of Your Land, Near Two years Past, he is what may be Called in Jersey A Neat Farmer and a Good Judge of Lands and every thing respecting a farm, I have requested him to Waite on you And Inquire whether, this Tract as before mentned is for Sale or Not, If it is, to know the Terms paid Down in the aforesaid Notes, If I can Presuade you to oblige me So much as to receive Such Property for Pay. There has been No facilities Drawn on Said Notes for Back Interest, I have receivd two years Interest on about one third part, the others No Interest hath been paid on, I Shall Authorise My Brother to bargan for me, and If favourable I will come and pay the Notes. I am Dear General your Most Obedt Servt

Israel Shreve


Title: From George Washington to Henry Emanuel Lutterloh, 8 April 1787
From: Washington, George
To: Lutterloh, Henry Emanuel

Sir,
Mount Vernon April 8th 1787

I have received your letter of the 3d of Jany containing a proposition of the delivery of several hundred German families to settle some of those large tracts of unimproved Land in this State.
I cannot, as an individual, do any thing, at present, towards promoting your d[e]sign, having no occasion for people of the decription mentioned in your letter except a few Mechanics, which I should be glad to procure; upon advantageous terms but as a member of a Company owning a tract of land known by the name of the Great Dismal Swamp, I can inform you thus I know it is their wish & desire to have it settled. It lies in the Neighbourhood of Norfolk, contains of that which is patented besides Entires about 40,000 Acres, & is capable of being made as valuable a tract of Land as any in the Country, as well on account of its vicinity to Norfolk Pourtsmouth and Suffolk and the State of North Carolina as its lying in such a situation as to have the Canal, which it is in contemplation to open between Albemarle sound & Elizabeth R: run directly through it and which will greatly facilitate the draning of it. But the Company are so dispersed and, in a manner, inattentive to the business, that I am pretty certain they would not be brought to advance any money or incur any expence in settling it further than to give such a proportion of the Land as shall be to the mutual satisfaction of the parties—what this proportion would be I am not able to say, tho I have no reason to doubt but that it would be highly advantageous to the Settlers. I should think however, if you incline to enter upon this business, it would be best for you to veiw the land, that you might form an opinion of the proportion which it would be proper to give, and make your proposals accordingly—I would in that case use every endeaver to convince the Company that an agreement might be entered into. I conceive a proper introduction of those industrious

people would be highly beneficial to this Country, & shall be happy to give you any assistance in my power towards the effecting of your plan—With very great esteem and regard I am Sir yr most Obed. Servant

G. Washington


Title: To George Washington from David Humphreys, 9 April 1787
From: Humphreys, David
To: Washington, George

(Private)
My dear General.Fairfield [Conn.] April 9th 1787
Since I did myself the honor to address you on the 24th Ulto I have been in New York, & find such a variety of opinions prevailing with respect to the Convention, that I think it expedient to write to you again on the subject.
General Knox has shewn to me, in confidence, his last letter to you. tho’ I cannot concur in sentiments altogether, yet, I think with him, should you decide to be present at the Convention, it will be indispensable to arrive in Philadelphia the preceding week, in order to attend the Genl Meeting of the Cincinnati. This may palliate, perhaps, obviate one of my former objections.
I mentioned in my last that I had not conversed with a single character of consideration, who judged it proper for you to attend the Convention, I have now seen several who think it highly interesting that you should be there. Gouverneur Morris & some others have wished me to use whatever influence I might have to induce you to come. I could not have promised this without counteracting my own judgment. I will not, however, hesitate to say, that I do not conceive your attendance can hazzard such personal ill consequences as were to be apprehended, before the proposed Meeting had been legitimated by the sanction of Congress.
If the difference of opinions amongst the Members of this national Assembly should be as great as the variety of sentiments concerning the result; the progress of business before it, will be attended with infinite perplexity & embarrassment. Besides the two primary objects of discussion, viz. 1st whether the old Constitution can be supported, or 2nd whether a new one must be

established: I expect a serious proposal will be made for dividing the Continent into two or three seperate Governments. Local politics & diversity of interests will undoubtedly find their way into the Convention. Nor need it be a matter of surprize to find there, as subjects of disagreement the whole western Country, as well as the navigation of the Mississipi.
Should you think proper to attend, you will indisputably be elected President. This would give the measures a degree of national consequence in Europe & with Posterity. But how far (under some supposable case) your personal influence, unattended with other authority, may compose the jarring interests of a great number of discordant Individuals, & controul events, I will not take upon me to determine. We cannot augur any thing very favorable, if we are to judge of future dispositions by those exhibited since the War. The United States at large, with a sovereign contempt, (as if it was the only mark of Sovereignty they could boast) have neglected your most earnest recommendations for doing justice to the Army. Congress continues to sport with your feelings, by refusing, for a course of years, a compliance with their explicit promises respecting the confidentential Persons, who were recommended in your farewell address to their notice. The declaration on that occasion was void of ambiguity, nor could circumstance or language add to its solemnity. But hear oh Heavens! & be astonished oh Earth! Congress, as an acknowledgment of your influence, a proof of their gratitude, and a reward for your services, have (not to say pertinaciously) but with a series of consistencies not always discoverable in their proceedings, denied to accord the last & only favor you ever asked at their hands. It is true, Heaven was mocked by their engagements—your friends Cobb & Trumbull can testify the infraction of them. I only mention this as one instance of national infamy to prove how much lighter than the least of all conceivable triffles are the faith & honour of the United States: & to shew how little credit their future promises ought to obtain. Should a candid History survive the turbulence & rascality of the times on which we are fallen, Posterity will doubtless stand amazed, while they appreciate the conduct of the age!
I imagine there will be no representation from this State at the Genl Meeting of the Cincinnati unless I attend myself. Should I

be disengaged from military affairs in season, I shall probably come on, & may pass the summer at Mt Vernon But every thing depends upon contingencies.
I am sick of public men & public measures—Tranquility & elegant speculations would accord best with my dispositions. It begins to be time for me to think of domestic life if ever I intend it. Indeed, could I find an amiable Lady, with a property which would put one at his ease, & who could like a man circumstanced as I am, I would marry tomorrow.
My best & most respectful Complts attend Mrs Washington & every Soul at Mount Vernon. With sentiments of the sincerest friendship & esteem I have the honor to be my dear General Yours affectionately

D. Humphreys


Title: To George Washington from Henry Knox, 9 April 1787
From: Knox, Henry
To: Washington, George

My dear Sir
New York 9 April 1787

I thank you for your kind favor of the second instant which I received by the last post.
Since my last to you, the legislature of Rhode-Island who seem to be unworthy of the rank of freemen, have rejected the proposition of the convention. But this may not be conclusive—The people themselves in that State may take the matter up, of which there is some probability, and send delegates—Connecticut will most probably come into the measure, their legislature being called with that intention—Maryland have resolved to send delegates.

I cannot learn that the delegates of any of the states are fettered with instructions excepting the state of Massachusetts, and the delegates do not I am persuaded consider their instructions of any moment. The present appearances are favorable to a general attendance—and that the delegates will have ample powers to point out radical cures for the present political evils.
It is the general wish that you should attend. It is conceived to be highly important to the success of the propositions of the convention.
The Mass of the people feel the inconveniences of the present government, and ardently wish for such alterations as would remedy them. The alterations must be effected by wisdom and agreement, or by force—this convention appears the only mean to effect the alterations peaceably—If that should be unattended by a proper weight of wisdom and character, so as to carry into execution its propositions, we are to look to events, and force, for arms, were you not then to attend the convention slander and malice might suggest that force would be the most agreable mode of reform to you—When civil commotion rages, no purity of character nor services however exalted, can entirely sheild from the shafts of calumny.
On the other hand the unbounded confidence the people have of Your tried patriotism, and wisdom, would exceedingly facilitate the adoption of any important alterations that might be proposed by a convention of which you were a member, (& as I before hinted) and president.
Your ideas respecting the proceedings of some of the state societies of the Cincinnati are but too just—I will most chearfully meet You in Philadelphia, at any time previous to the meeting that you may think proper, in order to discuss and fully consider this subject.
The french packet has just arrived, by which I have a letter from the Marquis de la Fayette of the 7th of Februa⟨ry⟩.
The Count de Vergennes is dead, and will probably be succeeded by the Duke de Vauguyon.
The Marquis looks forward to military employment in this Country for the reduction of the Western posts, and Canada[,] But one might venture to predict that no such operations will be undertaken, untill the government shall be radically

amended. At present we are all imbecillity. I am my dear Sir with the most perfect respect Yr affectionate

H. Knox


Title: From George Washington to Edmund Randolph, 9 April 1787
From: Washington, George
To: Randolph, Edmund

My dear Sir,
Mount Vernon April 9th 1787

In reply to your favor of the 2d I have to request that you will not be at the trouble of forwarding any money to me from the treasury.
If I should attend the Service, it will suit me as well to receive it from you in Philadelphia as at this place. If I should not, I have no business with it at all.
It gives me pleasure to find by your letter that there will be so full a representation from this State. If the case had been otherwise I would in emphatical terms have urged again that, rather then depend upon my going, another might be chosen in my place; for as a friend, and in confidence, I declare to you that my assent is given contrary to my judgment; because the act will, I apprehend, be considered as inconsistent with my public declaration dilivered in a solemn manner at an interesting Æra if my life, never more to intermeddle in public matters. This declaration not only stands on the files of Congress, but is I believe registered in almost all the Gazettes and magazines that are published—and what adds to the embarrassment is, I had previous to my appointment, informed by circular letter the several State Societies of the Cincinnati of my intention to decline the Presidency of that order & excused myself from attending the next General meeting at Philadelphia on the first Monday in May—assigning reasons for so doing which apply as well in the one case as the other. Add to these, I very much fear that all the States will not appear in Convention, and that some of them will come fettered so as to impede rather than accelerate the great ends of their calling which, under the peculiar circumstances

of my case, would place me in a disagreeable Situation which no other member present would stand in. As I have yielded however to what appeared to be the earnest wishes of my friends, I will hope for the best; and can assure you of the sincere and Affect. regard with which I am Dr Sir yr Obed. Servant

G. Washington


Title: From George Washington to William Gordon, 10 April 1787
From: Washington, George
To: Gordon, William

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon April 10th 1787

I have received your favor of the 13th of July and 28th of Septr.
I am pleased to hear of your safe arrival in London and of the happy meeting with your friends. I wish you success in the publication of your work and that your future establishment (which you say was not then fixed) may be agreeable to your wishes.
The bill which was sent to Rhode Island had the good fortune to come back protested—Mr Watson the drawer immediately gave me another (including interest) upon a Gentlemen in Salem for £43.3.8 ⟨this⟩ Currency, which was forwarded to your friend Mr Mason of Boston and paid.
It is not in my power to give you such accurate information of our Settlements in the Western Country as might answer the purposes of a publication—my own knowlege of it being more general than particular—and information you know is not always to be relied upon—The idea however, of it being made up of [“]the scum and refuse of the Continent, that the people are opposed to Congress—and attached to the British government” is of a piece with other doctrines and consequent publications which have recoiled upon the authors, and which one would think was enough to discourage such unfounded and short sighted reports.
Mrs Washington having of late been much less troubled with the billious cholick than formerly has made no use of the precription you were so obliging as to transmit but is not less thankful on that account for your kind attention to her in this instance

and joins me, as does the rest of the family in every good wish for yourself and Mrs Gordon. With great esteem & respect I am Revd Sir yr most Obedt Hble Servt

G. Washington


Title: From George Washington to John Lawson, 10 April 1787
From: Washington, George
To: Lawson, John

Sir,
Mount Vernon April 10th 1787

On the 8th Instant Neptune delivered me your letter of the 2d Instant. Although he does not profess to be a workman, yet as he has some little knowledge of Bricklaying—seems willing to learn—and is with a man who understands the business, I will keep him—and this shall be my obligation to pay you the sum for which he sold, at the time and agreeably to the terms of Mr Hunters Sale. I am Sir yr most Obed. Servant

G. Washington.

P.S. Since writing the above, and informing Neptune of my determination to buy him he seems a good deal disconcerted on acct of a wife which he says he has at Mrs Garrards from whom he is unwilling to be so far removed this also embarrasses me as I am unwilling to hurt the feelings of any one—I shall therefore if agreeable to you keep him a while to see if I can reconcile him to the seperation (seeing her now and then) in which case I will purchase him—if not I will send him back, and pay what hire you shall think fit and is reasonable to charge for the time he is here. G.W.


Title: To George Washington from Gilliss Polk, 14 April 1787
From: Polk, Gilliss
To: Washington, George

Sir
Somerset County [Md.] Apl 14th 1787

George Digges Esqr. of Prince George’s County, Applyed to me to procure for you, one thousand feet of flooring plank, to be precisely 24 feet long when dressed, and to be clear of Knots and Sap, A hard Saying this, however I undertook it, and with difficulty have procured it, nearly Answering the description, (after Sawing about twice that quantity) it is Not Perfectly clear of Knots, but believe Your Carpenter may find one Side of Each plank to answer Very well, the thickness was not mentioned to me, I have thought proper to have it Sawed Inch and half, apprehending that to be Sufficiently thick.
Mr Digges and I did not agree on any price, as I was Unacquainted with the difficulty of Geting Such Stuff, but can Now Say I had Rather get four times the quantity of common plank, the price of common plank of that thickness and quartered is 8/9 clear of freight, the freight is in proportion with Inch plank at 2/⅌Ct. The price may appear extravagant as common plank is at this time Remarcably low, but as I Shou’d be sorry to be thought Mercenary, Shall be perfectly Satisfyed with Your Setting the price, at What you think Reasonable; the Money you’ll please pay to Capt. Nutter. I am Sir With Singular Esteem yours to Command.

Gilliss Polk


Title: To George Washington from James Madison, 16 April 1787
From: Madison, James
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
New York April 16 1787

I have been honoured with your letter of the 31 of March, and find with much pleasure that your views of the reform which ought to be pursued by the Convention, give a sanction to those which I have entertained. Temporising applications will dishonor the Councils which propose them, and may foment the internal malignity of the disease, at the same time that they produce an ostensible palliation of it. Radical attempts, although unsuccessful, will at least justify the authors of them.

Having been lately led to revolve the subject which is to undergo the discussion of the Convention, and formed in my mind some outlines of a new system, I take the liberty of submitting them without apology, to your eye.
Conceiving that an individual independence of the States is utterly irreconcileable with their aggregate sovereignty: and that a consolidation of the whole into one simple republic would be as inexpedient as it is unattainable, I have sought for some middle ground, which may at once support a due supremacy of the national authority, and not exclude the local authorities wherever they can be subordinately useful.
I would propose as the ground-work that a change be made in the principle of representation. According to the present form of the Union in which the intervention of the States is in all great cases necessary to effectuate the measures of Congress, an equality of suffrage, does not destroy the inequality of importance, in the several members. No one will deny that Virginia and Massts have more weight and influence both within & without Congress than Delaware or Rho. Island. Under a system which would operate in many essential points without the intervention of the State Legislatures, the case would be materially altered. A vote in the national Councils from Delaware, would then have the same effect and value as one from the largest State in the Union. I am ready to believe that such a change will not be attended with much difficulty. A majority of the States, and those of greatest influence, will regard it as favorable to them. To the Northern States it will be recommended by their present populousness; to the Southern by their expected advantage in this respect. The lesser States must in every event yield to the predominant will. But the consideration which particularly urges a change in the representation is that it will obviate the principal objections of the larger States to the necessary concessions of power.
I would propose next that in addition to the present federal powers, the national Government should be armed with positive and compleat authority in all cases which require uniformity; such as the regulation of trade, including the right of taxing both exports & imports, the fixing the terms and forms of naturalization &c. &c.
Over and above this positive power, a negative in all cases,

whatsoever on the legislative acts of the States, as heretofore exercised by the Kingly prerogative, appears to me to be absolutely necessary, and to be the least possible encroachment on the State jurisdictions. Without this defensive power, every positive power that can be given on paper will be evaded & defeated. The States will continue to invade the national jurisdiction, to violate treaties and the law of nations & to harrass each other with rival and spiteful measures dictated by mistaken views of interest. Another happy effect of this prerogative would be its controul on the internal vicisitudes of State policy; and the aggressions of interested majorities on the rights of minorities and of individuals. The great desideratum which has not yet been found for Republican Governments, seems to be some disinterested & dispassionate umpire in disputes between different passions & interests in the State. The majority who alone have the right of decision, have frequently an interest real or supposed in abusing it. In Monarchies the sovereign is more neutral to the interests and views of different parties; but unfortunately he too often forms interests of his own repugnant to those of the whole. Might not the national prerogative here suggested be found sufficiently disinterested for the decision of local questions of policy, whilst it would itself be sufficiently restrained from the pursuit of interests adverse to those of the whole Society? There has not been any moment since the peace at which the representatives of the Union would have given an assent to paper money or any other measure of a kindred nature.
The national supremacy ought also to be extended as I conceive to the Judiciary departments. If those who are to expound & apply the laws, are connected by their interests & their oaths with the particular States wholly, and not with the Union, the participation of the Union in the making of the laws may be possibly rendered unavailing. It seems at least necessary that the oaths of the Judges should include a fidelity to the general as well as local constitution, and that an appeal should lie to some national tribunals in all cases to which foreigners or inhabitants of other States may be parties. The admiralty jurisdiction seems to fall entirely within the purview of the national Government.
The national supremacy in the Executive departments is liable to some difficulty, unless the officers administering them

could be made appointable by the supreme Government. The Militia ought certainly to be placed in some form or other under the authority which is intrusted with the general protection and defence.
A Government composed of such extensive powers should be well organized and balanced. The Legislative department might be divided into two branches; one of them chosen every  years by the people at large, or by the legislatures; the other to consist of fewer members, to hold their places for a longer term, and to go out in such a rotation as always to leave in office a large majority of old members. Perhaps the negative on the laws might be most conveniently exercised by this branch. As a further check, a council of revision including the great ministerial officers might be superadded.
A national Executive must also be provided. I have scarcely ventured as yet to form my own opinion either of the manner in which it ought to be constituted or of the authorities with which it ought to be cloathed.
An article should be inserted expressly guarantying the tranquility of the States against internal as well as external dangers.
In like manner the right of coercion should be expressly declared. With the resources of Commerce in hand, the national administration might always find means of exerting it either by sea or land; But the difficulty & awkwardness of operating by force on the collective will of a State, render it particularly desireable that the necessity of it might be precluded. Perhaps the negative on the laws might create such a mutuality of dependence between the general and particular authorities, as to answer this purpose. Or perhaps some defined objects of taxation might be submitted along with commerce, to the general authority.
To give a new System its proper validity and energy, a ratification must be obtained from the people, and not merely from the ordinary authority of the Legislatures. This will be the more essential as inroads on the existing Constitutions of the States will be unavoidable.
The inclosed address to the States on the subject of the Treaty of peace has been agreed to by Congress, & forwarded to the several Executives. We foresee the irritation which it will excite in many of our Countrymen; but could not withold our approbation

of the measure. Both, the resolutions and the address, passed without a dissenting voice.
Congress continue to be thin, and of course to do little business of importance. The settlement of the public accounts—the disposition of the public lands, and arrangements with Spain, are subjects which claim their particular attention. As a step towards the first, the treasury board are charged with the task of reporting a plan by which the final decision on the claims of the States will be handed over from Congress, to a select sett of men bound by the oaths, and cloathed with the powers, of Chancellors. As to the Second article, Congress have it themselves under consideration. Between 6 & 700 thousand acres have been surveyed and are ready for sale. The mode of sale however will probably be a source of different opinions; as will the mode of disposing of the unsurveyed residue. The Eastern gentlemen remain attached to the scheme of townships. Many others are equally strenuous for indiscriminate locations. The States which have lands of their own for sale, are suspected of not being hearty in bringing the federal lands to market—The business with Spain is becoming extremely delicate, and the information from the Western settlements truly alarming.
A motion was made some days ago for an adjornment of Congress for a short period, and an appointment of Philada for their reassembling. The excentricity of this place as well with regard to E. and West as to N. & South has I find been for a considerable time a thorn in the minds of many of the Southern members. Suspicion too has charged some important votes on the weight thrown by the present position of Congress into the Eastern Scale, and predicts that the Eastern members will never concur in any substantial provision or movement for a proper permanent seat for the national Government whilst they remain so much gratified in its temporary residence. These seem to have been the operative motives with those on one side who were not locally interested in the removal. On the other side the motives are obvious. Those of real weight were drawn from the apparent caprice with which Congress might be reproached, and particularly from the peculiarity of the existing moment. I own that I think so much regard due to these considerations, that notwithstanding the powerful ones on the other side, I should have assented

with great repugnance to the motion, and would even have voted against it if any probability had existed that by waiting for a proper time, a proper measure might not be lost for a very long time. The plan which I shd have judged most eligible would have been to fix on the removal whenever a vote could be obtained but so as that it should not take effect until the commencement of the ensuing federal year. And if an immediate removal had been resolved on, I had intended to propose such a change in the plan. No final question was taken in the case. Some preliminary questions shewed that six States were in favor of the motion. Rho. Island the 7th was at first on the same side, and Mr Varnum one of her delegates continues so. His colleague was overcome by the solicitations of his Eastern brethren. As neither Maryland nor South Carolina were on the floor, it seems pretty evident that N. York has a very precarious tenure of the advantages derived from the abode of Congress.
We understand that the discontents in Massts which lately produced an appeal to the sword, are now producing a trial of strength in the field of electioneering. The Governor will be displaced. The Senate is said to be already of a popular complexion, and it is expected the other branch will be still more so. Paper money it is surmized will be the engine to be played off agst creditors both public and private. As the event of the Elections however is not yet decided, this information must be too much blended with conjecture to be regarded as matter of certainty.
I do not learn that the proposed act relating to Vermont has yet gone through all the stages of legislation here; nor can I say whether it will finally pass or not. In truth, it having not been a subject of conversation for some time, I am unable to say what has been done or is likely to be done with it. With the sincerest affection & the highest esteem I have the honor to be Dear Sir Your devoted Servt

Js Madison Jr


Title: To George Washington from John Lawson, 18 April 1787
From: Lawson, John
To: Washington, George

Sir
Dumfries April 18th 1787

By yesterdays post I received your favor of the 10th inst., and observe the contents.
Neptune came to me before he set off & made the same objections you mention, which I thought I had fully obviated by informing him that if I sold him to you (which was then uncertain) I had no doubt of your permitting him to visit his Wife at proper times, & that he would with you be employed in work which was much more agreeable to him than the labor I should be obliged to put him to if he remained with me—He then seemed to be perfectly satisfied—Indeed if I were to keep him I might probably be under a necessity of sending him much farther from his Wife than where he now is—I am therefore in hopes he will reconcile himself to his situation & that he will prove useful to you. I am with much Esteem Sir Your most obedient Servt

Jno. Lawson