Title: From George Washington to Samuel Purviance, Jr., 10 March 1786
From: Washington, George
To: Purviance, Samuel Jr.

Sir,
Mount Vernon March 10th 1786

Your letter of the 6th instt is this moment put into my hands. was it in my power, I would, chearfully, answer your quæries respecting the Settlements on the Kanhawa—the nature of the water—and quality of the Soil. But of the first, I only know from information, that Colonl Lewis is settled there—from his own mouth I learnt that it was his intention to do so; and to establish a town in the Fork of the two Rivers where he proposed to fix families in the vicinity on his own Lands—Of the 2d I never could obtain any distinct acct of the Navigation. It has been variously represented; favourably by some; extremely difficult by others in its passage through the Gauley Mountain (which I presume is the Laurel hill), but the uncertainty of this matter will

now soon be at an end, as there are Commissioners appointed by this State to explore the navigation of that river, & the communication between it and James River with a view to a Passage—This, equally with the extention of the Potomack navigation, was part of my original plan; and equally urged, by me, to our Assembly. for my object was to communicate the Western and Eastern (or Atlantic States) together by strong commercial ties. I am a friend therefore on this principle to every channel that can be opened and wish the people to have a choice of them—The Kanhawa and James river, if the obstacles in the former are not great, are certainly the shortest and best for the Settlers thereon—for those on the Ohio below—above, perhaps as high as the little Kanhawa, and for the Country immediately West of it. The Monongalia & Yohiogania with the Potomack, are most convenient for all the Settlers from the little Kanhawa inclusively, to Fort Pitt, and upwards; & West as far as the Lakes. Susquehanna, and the Aligany above Fort Pitt some distance, will accomodate a third district of Country; & may, for ought I know, be equally convenient to the trade of the Lakes. all of them therefore have my best wishes; for as I have observed already my object, and my great aim are political. If we cannot bind those people to us by interest and it is no otherwise to be effected but by a commercial knot, we shall be no more to them, after a while than G. Britain or Spain are; and thus may be as closely linked with one or other of those powers as we wish them to be with us; and in that event they may be a severe thorn in our sides. With respect to the nature of the Soil on the Kanhawa—the bottoms are fine, but the lands adjoining are broken. in some places the hills are very rich, in others piney, & extremely poor—but the principal reason, as I conceive, why the settlement has not progressed more, is, that the greater part, if not all the good land on the main rivers is in hands who do not incline to reside there themselves and possibly hold them too high for others; as there is a surrounding Country open to them—this I take to be my own case. and might be an inducement to concur in any well concerted measures to further a settlement that might, ultimately (not at too remote a distance) subserve my interest in that quarter. The Great Kanhawa is a long river, with very little interruption for a considerable distance. No very large Waters empty into it, I believe; Elk River,

Coal river, & a Creek called Pokitellico, below the Falls—and Green Brier above them are the most considerable—I am glad to hear that the Susquehanna Canal is so well advanced. I thank you for the offer of Mr Neilsons Services in the Western Country. and am with very great esteem and regard Dr Sir Yr Most Obedt Hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Bancroft Woodcock, 11 March 1786
From: Woodcock, Bancroft
To: Washington, George

Respected FriendGeorge Washington
Wilmington Delaware State11—3 Mo. 1786

As I understand thou art a Lover of Regularity & Order, I take the Freedom to sugjest to thee, (hopeing it will not offend) that from what a person from Allexandra told me, (on seeing his & another Street-Commissioner, laying out the Fronts of Lots, to prevent the Masons from Incroaching on the Streets or on their neighbours) I understand that they are not Building that Town with that Accuracy that we are, & which we have found by Experience to be Absolutely Necessary to prevent Contention & even Lawsuits.
Our Mode is approved & admited by Rittenhous & Lukins, in Preferrence to theirs of Philadelphia. In the year 84 we were Appointed to Run our Streets over again, which with an Instrument I Constructed & an Accromattic glass, we adjusted & Corrected the Irregularities into which the former Commissioners had Inevitablity run, for want of such Machine, we have now placed Stones from one to Four Hundred weight with a Hole in them in the Center of the Intersections of the Streets, from which all Frunts of Houses, Party Walls & Partition Fences within the Corporation are to be Adjusted & Govern’d according to an Act of Assembly. This Mode I would have Allexandra Addopt, & the sooner the better to prevent Irregularities & Disputes.
If my Assistance will be acceptable, I will bring my Instrument & assist the Street Commissioners of Allexandra, for Tenn Shillings pr Day & my Accomodations.

And my Esteem’d Friend, suffer me to Request of thee, What I have often Pourd out my Tears & put up my Supplycations to the God of my Life for thee as for my self, when I have had to Remember thee, that as the curtain of our Evening Closes, & (metaphorically) our shadows Lengthens, thou & I may Dayly Experience more or less ⟨mutilated⟩ a Well grounded Hope, that when the auful Period arrives, wh⟨en⟩ we must forever be Seperated from all Mundine enjoyments, we may be Admited to Join the Heavenly Hoste, in the full Fruition of that Joy, the foretaste of which was so Delightful to the Soul, whilst in these Houses of Clay. That this may be Favourably received is the Desire of thy Friend

Bancroft Woodcock


Title: To George Washington from David Hoar, 12 March 1786
From: Hoar, David
To: Washington, George

May it Please your Excellency,
[Concord, Mass., 12 March 1786]State of Massachusetts. March 12, Independence ten.

Your established character as a warrior, entitles you to all the respect that can be due to the occupation relative to material defence and resistance. This exercise was a very necessary and agreeable Study in ancient times; but mankind has nearly outgrown these childish plays. We are now come to years of discretion, and may quarrel in a manner much more entertaining and less toilsome.
The Gospel acquaints us with a method of overcoming our fellow-creatures, by the Subtilty of mental operations, without exposing ourselves to fatigue or the conquered to injury. We have only to reverse the mistaken ideas of personal right and the medium of Social concord; our Subjects are then forever happy, and their Governors counted honourable So far as we extend our dominion.
We are contemplating in profound Solemnity, these simple questions. What is it in the human constitution, that gives the unmolested possession of property? And what that insures Social unity of Sentiment? We consult nature, reason and revelation, which all agree in one: they plainly discover, that men have not been learned enough in any former aera or dispensation, to answer the important enquiry. The present Situation of our understanding, and the peculiar condition of America, ordain this to be the time, and place, wherein So divine a Science must be opened.
We ought not to be So impolite, as to declare our result in too blunt a tone, but are ready to communicate this inestimable Secret, to any person, State or Kingdom, who can wisely concede to the annexed preliminaries. The proposed primary immunities, must be exhibited in an incontestible theory, clearly intelligible, conclusive and practicable; that no member of the respective community, may ever be exposed to loss, trouble or danger.
preliminary first. Human being is Sufficient to solve these momentous concerns.

preliminary Second. The person and society in whom the solution originates, owe no allegiance to any inferior jurisdiction.
Sir, With unfeigned respect I am yours,

David Hoar

president of the Independent Society in Concord for the culture, and propagation of learning and good manners.


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Newton, 13 March 1786 [letter not found]
From: Newton, Thomas
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Thomas Newton, 13 Mar. 1786. On 9 April GW wrote Newton: “I have been favored with your letters of. . . 13th of March—the last of which speaks of a letter written by you to me of the same date—this letter has never got to hand.”


Title: To George Washington from Wakelin Welch, 13 March 1786 [letter not found]
From: Welch, Wakelin
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Wakelin Welch, 13 Mar. 1786. GW wrote Welch, July 1786, about receiving his letter of “13th of March.”


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Lincoln, 15 March 1786
From: Lincoln, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

My dear General
Boston March 15h 1786

Immediately on the receipt of your Excellencys favor of the 6th Ulto I wrote to Mr Lear, who lives at Portsmouth New Hampshire, on the subject of joyning your family and requested to know the terms, ⅌ Year, he would perform the several duties pointed out The following is an extract from his letter in answer to mine “Two hundred dollars ⅌ annum will be satisfactory on my [part] for the services which I shall render his Excellency in the capacity of a preceptor to the Children and private secretary to him. The advantages which I think must accrue to me from a connexion with that exalted Character and the company which resorts to the House will have a greater weight than any pecuniary considerations. My leisure hours I shall devote to the study of the law: And one or more I think, by method, I can call my own every day without neglecting the duties I am to perform, unless, when some pressing circumstances require particular dispatch” Mr Lear writes a good hand & has obtained a pretty good knowledge of the most exact method of book-keeping—It is now said little may be expected from, the supposed invention,

of extracting fresh from salt water. With sentiments of the highest esteem I have the honor of being your Excellency’s most Obedient servt

B. Lincoln


Title: To George Washington from Clement Biddle, 16 March 1786 [letter not found]
From: Biddle, Clement
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Clement Biddle, 16 Mar. 1786. On 18 May GW wrote Biddle: “Your favors of. . . 16th & 19th March, are before me.”


Title: From George Washington to George Savage, 17 March 1786
From: Washington, George
To: Savage, George

Sir
Mount Vernon March 17th 1786

I have received your letter of the 18th ulto, & one thousand bushels of Indian corn, and six bushels of peas, which your Schooner Molly and Betsey took in, on my acct at a Plantn of the deceased Mr Custis on Pamunky.
I have paid Mr Whitney, the skipper, twenty five pounds three shillings for freight of the same and taken his receipt therefor. I am Sir ⟨Your⟩ Most Obed. Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Cheiza D’Artaignan, 18 March 1786
From: Cheiza d’Artaignan, comte de
To: Washington, George

My General
Alexa[ndria] 18 March 86

The Count De Cheiza D’artaignan, has the Honour to Inform you of his being arriv’d at Alexa. for these Four Days; having Come from Cape François St Dominicque, He Proposes to Pay his very Humble Rispects & duty which he Owes to your Rank & Illustrious merite, He hopes that His General will Grant him the Permission to Pay his Court (or to Pay his Respects) & the Honour of his Protection (or Patronage[)]. He has the Honour to be with very High respect My Genl Yours &c.

Cheiza Darteignan
Officer of the French Guards


Title: To George Washington from Clement Biddle, 19 March 1786 [letter not found]
From: Biddle, Clement
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Clement Biddle, 19 Mar. 1786. GW wrote Biddle on 18 May: “Your favors of. . . 16th & 19th March, are before me.”


Title: To George Washington from Tench Tilghman, 19 March 1786
From: Tilghman, Tench
To: Washington, George

Dear sir
Balt[imore], 19th March 1786

Inclosed is an account of the seeds which I have procured for you & which shall be forwarded by next Wednesdays Stage to Alexanda to the Care of Colo. Fitzgerald. They should have been sent to morrow, had there been Time sufficient to get them ready before the setting out of the Stage—There was no turnip Cabbage, nor Carrot seed. All the Clover, except a little of the White, which is 2/6 ⅌ lb., had been disposed of, as also were the Peas Beans & Vetches. There is every reason to believe that these Seeds are fresh & good, as they were brought from England by a Gentleman for his own use, & were parted, with by him, because it would not have been in his Power to have sown them at a proper season.
I have been confined upwards of a Fortnight in great measure, to my bed, by the return of a Complaint in my side with

which I was troubled some time ago. I recover but very slowly, but I hope that as soon as I am able to enjoy the favorable Season which is approaching I shall soon get recruited. I remain Dear Sir Yr affe hble Servt

Tench Tilghman


Title: To George Washington from Battaile Muse, 24 March 1786
From: Muse, Battaile
To: Washington, George

Honourable Sir,
March 24th 1786

Your Favour date the 8th of this Month I have received I shall attend Perticularly To your Instructions with the Tenants and the renting of your Lands, and it gives me Pleasure To Find their is one Man in this Country that will have Obligations Complied

with and attended To; their is but Very Few that has Complyed with their Leases but the Greater part Seem To be much allarmed at my Stricktness and Promises To do Every thing as Quick as Possable to Fullfill their Lease.
I have not rerented the Vacant Lots in Fauquier I was on the Lands the first of this month Two days but Could not Procure Such Tenants as I wished for I go down again Next week To See what Can ⟨be⟩ done. I have seen Mr R. Rutherford He sayes He Cannot Pay untill next Fall—I Shall Call on Genl Morgan on my way To Fauquier To Enquire Inconsequence of Cap. Kennadyes Debt—the badness of the roads has prevented the Tenants From raiseing Money To Pay up So Fully as was Expected—I have Pushed the whole of them, and have reasoned the necessity of their Paying as well for their benifitt as yours.
I expect the roads wil soon Get better and that they will Pay up as Far as Possable the Fauquier Tenants are Too Poore To Pay up Fully this year. My wheat shall be sent down as Fast as the weather & roads will permitt & I expect To Collect as much money as will Pay for it. I am with every Sentiment of Obedience you Very Humble Servant

Battaile Muse

P.S. I do not Expect you will hear from me untill I appear at Mountvernon the Last of april.


Title: From George Washington to William Drayton, 25 March 1786
From: Washington, George
To: Drayton, William

Sir,
Mt Vernon 25th Mar: 1786.

The Letter which you did me the honor to write to me on the 23d of November last, came safely; tho’ not at so early a period as might have been expected from the date of it—I remark this by way of apology for my silence ’till now.
I feel very sensibly, the honor conferred on me by the South Carolina Society for promoting & improving agriculture & other rural concerns, by unanimously electing me the first honorary member of that Body; & I pray you Sir, as Chairman, to offer my best acknowledgements & thanks for this mark of its

attention. To you, for the flattering terms in which the desires of the Society have been communicated, my thanks are particularly due.
It is much to be wished that every State in the Union would establish a Society similar to this; & that these Societies would correspond with, & fully & regularly impart to each other, the result of the experiments actually made in husbandry, together with such other useful discoveries as have stood, or are likely to stand the test of investigation. Nothing in my opinion would contribute more to the welfare of these States, than the proper management of our Lands; and nothing, in this State particularly, seems to be less understood. The present mode of cropping practised among us, is destructive to landed property; & must, if persisted in much longer, ultimately ruin the holders of it. I have the honor to be &c.

G: Washington


Title: To George Washington from William Hartshorne, 25 March 1786
From: Hartshorne, William
To: Washington, George

Sir
Alexandria March 25. 1786

Your favor of the 21st inst. came while I was from home—having no other information respecting Capt. Pearce’s account than what I before mentioned to you, I have only to say, that I am willing to recive the Same Sum from you for the Freight of the Jack & his Keeper from Spain that Mr Cushing paid for the other, as I see no reason why they should not be both at the same Freight, but for my justification I must request you will please send me a Copy of the account sent you by Mr Cushing—this I wish to come soon, that I may Credit Capt. Pearce for the Amot as I intend to draw on him for the Ballance of his accot—as to the Cash it may be sent at your Convenience.
I have again enquired of Mr Thompson about the Seed who informs me, that no Waggons have come yet from his Fathers, since he wrote about it at my request, but as the roads are getting better I expect it will come next week—when it arrives, I will inform you as soon as possible. I am very Respectfully Yours

Wm Hartshorne


Title: To George Washington from Nicolas Pike, 25 March 1786
From: Pike, Nicolas
To: Washington, George

Highly respected Sir.
Newbury Port. State of Massachusetts.March 25. 1786

To address a Person of your exalted Rank upon a Subject for my own emolument, only, wou’d require something more than an Apology; but, when your Excellency is informed that the interests of the Public are jointly connected with the Request I have to make, my knowledge of the readiness you have ever exhibited to cherish even the smallest Effort towards the Prosperity of these Infant-States, emboldens me to expect a Pardon.
With much Labor, I have, at the request of my Friends, composed what I conceive to be a complete System of Arithmetic. The frequent complaints of the insufficiency of those now in use, joined to the sollicitations of my friends, induced me, tho’ with diffidence, to undertake what I have found to be an arduous Task, and which cannot be brought forth to View, the work being so large, & costing me double to common printing, unless Subscribers, to the number of twenty three or twenty four hundred can be obtained.
The Approbation of the Gentlemen to whom my Performance has been submitted, which I enclose, cannot but be pleasing to me, more especially as they rank among the first in the New England States for Mathematical Learning, and I think will induce your Excellency to grant me the honor I wish.
My Request to your Excellency is, that I may be permitted to dedicate my first Performance to the Gentleman, who, under Providence, has been the Saviour of his Country and so great & liberal an Encourager & Promoter of the Arts & Sciences in general & to hope every Attempt to promote and diffuse knowledge under your Patronage may be as successful as your Exertions in the late Contest have been glorious. Shou’d the proposal I have suggested to your Excellency fall in with your Idea of propriety,

I will thank you to forward a Line to Mr Samuel Purvyance at Baltimore, which will be received by Mr Mccall, who, if any one, will print my Book & whom I send to the Southward for the express purpose of obtaining Subscriptions, & who will probably be there in the latter part of May.
I have only to add my Wishes that the Evening of your Days may receive every Pleasure which can flow from the Reflexion of a Life spent in such laudable persuits, which have so honorably terminated, and that the Infant, yet unborn, may lisp your Name, not only as po⟨mutilated⟩ and victorious in War; but; as the ⟨prot⟩ector, & cherisher of all useful Arts & Sciences in Peace. With Sentiments of the highest Esteem & Respect, I beg Leave to subscribe myself, your Excellency’s most obliged, affectionate & grateful hble Servt

Nicolas Pike

P.S. Shou’d Gentlemen in Virginia be disposed to encourage this Work, the Book shall be sent (if published) to any Gentleman in Baltimore, whom they will point out to me.
Shou’d the Publication succeed & be approved of, I will, at any time, after the Books are out, supply the Virginia Booksellers, to be left with whom they shall direct in Baltimore at one dollar ⅌ Book in sheets by the quantity, or one dollar & a third by the quantity neatly bound & lettered, so that they may have a handsome Profit. Three Bookbinders in Boston have taken 600 in Sheets at one Dollar. I am your Excellency’s hble Servt ut supra.


Title: From George Washington to John Augustine Washington, 27 March 1786
From: Washington, George
To: Washington, John Augustine

Dear Brother:
Mount Vernon, March 27, 1786

Your letter of the 17th did not reach me till yesterday afternoon. Whence your overseers apprehensions proceed, I know not; for if I recollect right, I gave him, myself, assurances of the plan when I was in Berkeley in the fall of 1784; and since, have informed Mr. Muse that he was to receive a confirmation of the lease. It is true that, being a nonresident on the Lott he would have been excluded, had it not been for the communication of your wishes, that he might have it, antecedant to the above period; because, for reasons which will readily occur to you, I had established it as a maxim to accept no Tenants that did not mean to reside on the Land; or who had land of their own adjoining to it, not expecting, in either case, much improvement on, or much justice to mine under these circumstances.
At the time I sent you the flour that was manufactured at my Mill, I requested to be informed if you could tell me where corn was to be had in your parts, or within your knowledge; but having received no answer to that letter, nor any one from you since, till the one above acknowledged; I sent to York River for 200 Barr., which I have just landed. I do not therefore stand in need of that at the little Falls Quarter.
Herewith you will receive an Alexandria Gazette containing a demd. upon the subscribers to the Potomack Navigation for two other dividends for carrying on the work, which the directors mean to do with spirit; and they hope to good effect this summer. It also contains an address from Mr. Stoddart to Messrs. Washington & Co. the first of whom I hope has, ’ere this, seen the impropriety of hazarding a valuable estate upon so precarious a tenure as trade and either has, already, or soon will withdraw himself from it. I beg when you see him, that you will give my love and thanks to him, for the fruit trees he sent me, which came safe, and were a very valuable present.
All here join most cordially, in every good wish for you, my sister and family, and with every sentiment of regard and affection I am ever yrs.


Title: From George Washington to Jean Le Mayeur, 28 March 1786 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Le Mayeur, Jean-Pierre

Letter not found: to Jean Le Mayeur, 28 Mar. 1786. On 10 April Le Mayeur wrote GW of having “the honour of your Excellency’s favour of the 28th march.”


Title: To George Washington from Robert Rutherford, 28 March 1786
From: Rutherford, Robert
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Berkeley County March 28th 1786

I am hond by your excellency’s letter of the 8th instant, and am very unhappy in not Complying with your utmost wish, & at the Same time to have acted up to the warm & grateful dictates of my own heart on the occasion. The very great & unequal loss of at least £10,000 Specie Value Sustained by the Continental money not to mention the entire neglect of every domestic Concern, the whole time of the late important Contest, by which the remnant of my fortune (to use a forced term) became a perfect wreck at the Close of the war has embarrassed me much, but as I am determined (however painful the Idea) to Sell 1000 Acres of my paternal Estate, I hope to pay off each Pressing demand in the Course of the year. Please to be assured that I Consider it as a very pleasing Circumstance in my life to have had your patronage, and must Still put myself upon that Condescension & goodness of heart often evinced in my favour, and intreat a recall of the note into the hand which obliged me, and into which I am anxious to return it. indeed it would distress me beyond expression to be hardly pressed for what I Consider myself bound by every tie of honor & gratitude. Most Sincerely do I wish that it may ever be in my power to render any return of good offices, and I pray you Command me freely, if Such occasion require. May you with amiable Lady, long injoy every ternporal

blessing. I beg pardon for being thus prolix, and have the honour to be, with every sentiment of grateful affection My Dear Genl your Most obt And Very Hble Sert

R. Rutherford


Title: To George Washington from James Rumsey, 29 March 1786
From: Rumsey, James
To: Washington, George

Dr General.
Great falls March 29th 1786

This will be handed to you by Mr Brindley, we have had the pleasure of his, and Mr Harris’s Company Since yesterday, and they Boath approve of what is Done and proposed Here.
On Sunday Evening the 26th of this Inst. I Receivd your fovor of the 20th Respecting The Conduct of the people working here, It Distress me that you had Accation to Write on Such a Subject. what follows is as near what has hapened Since I Came Down as I am Able to Relate.
On my way Down I heared great Complaints Against the people of the falls, But as Such Complaints has been freequent when no outrages Has bee Cammited, I thought But Little of them, I was But a Short time at the falls before I Set Out for alexandria, and Mr Stuart with me for Baltimore During which time they Behaved themselves Very well, On my Return from alexandria to This place the Complaints that was made to me was Shocking, that no person Could Come on their Lawfull Buisness But what got Abused, and that Officers of Justice durst not go on the ground to Execute their Office—In Consequence of these Complaints I Immediately Set up adertisments Leting the Neighbours know that they Should be treated well when they Came to the place, and the Officers that they Should be protected In the Execution of their office, for which I pledged myself to them[.] notwithstanding these advertisements, The

Officer that had Mr Jacksons warrants Summined fifty men to Come here on monday Last to aid and assist him, This Expedetion was Intended private which was the Reason your Letter was not Handed to me Sooner, But I was Luckey enough to Meet with Mr Stanhope at Mr Wheelers on Sunday and he Informed me of it and where they ware To meet I Sett out on monday and met them, all Armed, within a mile of the falls. I beged them to Stop, Expostulated withem for Sum time, and gave them Every ashorance in my power that if they would Stop I would take the officer alone and Bring any men they would name they at first agreed to it But Soon Changed their minds and the most of them moved on again I Beged them to Listen to me and more Expressed my Desire to Convince them that the men was Under good Diciplin, and at Lenth By the Exertions of Mr Stanhope & Mr Gunnel I Carryed my point So far that they the Justises and the officer was to go with me to the works while the Rest was To go to the Buildings where I was to perade the Hole of the men, I had preveous to my Seting out Let the men know that an officer was to Be with them that Day to take a number of them, and I Charged them to Behave well—when we Came on the works, they accordingly Did, I ordered them all To the House and made them form in a Line untill the officer Called out what he wanted, all this was Done without a murmer, the number taken was About Sixteen they ware then Caryed off and put upon tryal which I attended and Mr Stuart Returned Before it was Over, The Hole of Mr Jacksons afair amounted to this, that his Son was In Company with a number of them at a Mr Conns that they threatened Sumbodey Very hard that he beleived It to be him, that he Borrowed a horse and rode home for his gun and Returned Shortly with it and presented it and Swore that he would kill The first man that afended him, on which they ⟨to⟩ok after him, and Doged him Sum time, and finaly ⟨th⟩at he made his Excape, the men was Sentenced to have Sum Lashes, that Mr Stanhope, Coleman, and Gunnel, prevailed with mr Jackson after the Judgment was passed to Remit the Hole punishement which he Did with a great Deal of Reluctance There was tow Servants got five Lashes apeace for Sum offence to a woman that Lives at Mrs Bauguses, I Shall Endeavor, and I make no Doubt But the men Can Be kept in good order

I am Sir With Sincere Regard your most Obt and Very Hbl. Servt

James Rumsey


Title: From George Washington to Edward Newenham, 30 March 1786
From: Washington, George
To: Newenham, Edward

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon Mar. 30th 1786

Having had cause, lately, to apprehend a miscarriage of the letter of which the inclosed is a duplicate, I do myself the honor of forwarding this copy, as the best apology I can make for a silence that might, otherwise, be ascribed to motives of inattention; wch would give me pain; as I have pleasure in your corrispondence, and would wish to keep up a friendly intercourse with you by letter.
As your last letters gave me hopes of seeing you in Virginia this Spring, & nothing since has contradicted it, I think I may shortly look for that pleasure, and therefore shall add nothing more in this letter than my best wishes for the pleasantness of your voyage, and assurances of the happiness I shall derive from saluting you under my own roof; being with every sentiment of esteem & regard Dear Sir Yr most Obedt and Very Hble servant

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to John Fitzgerald and George Gilpin, 31 March–2 April 1786
From: Washington, George
To: Fitzgerald, John,Gilpin, George

Gentn
Mount Vernon Mar. 31st[–2 April] 1786

Yesterday Mr Brindley, in company with a Mr Harris (Manager for the James River company, and sent by the Directors thereof for the former) left this on their way to Richmond: from whence Mr Brindley expected to be returned as far as Alexandria, by the 4th of next Month.

I have engaged him to call upon Colo. Gilpin on his rout back.
Mr Brindley and Mr Harris took the Great Falls in their way down, and both approve of the present line for our Canal. The first very much, conceiving that 9/10th of the expence which must have been incurred in the one first proposed, will be saved in the second—the work be altogether as secure—and the discharge into the river below, by no means unfavourable. He thinks however, that a good deal of attention and judgment is requisite to fix the Locks there; the height of which, he observes, must be adapted to the ground, there being no precise rule for their construction; Locks running, frequently, from 4 to 18 feet—& sometimes as high as 24—The nature, & declension of the ground, according to him, is alone to be consulted, and where these will admit of it, he thinks the larger the locks are, the better, because more convenient.
With respect to this part of the business, I feel, and always have professed, an incompetency of judgment; nor do I think that theoretical knowledge alone, is adequate to the undertaking. Locks upon the best digested plan will certainly be expensive—& if not properly constructed, & judiciously placed, may be altogether useless. It is for these reasons I have frequently suggested, though no decision has been had, the propriety of employing a professional man. Whether the expence of importing one has been deemed altogether unnecessary; or, that the advantages resulting therefrom are considered as unequal to the cost, I know not; but, as it is said no person in this Country has more practical knowledge than Mr Brindley, I submit it for consideration, whether it is not advisable to engage him to take the Falls on his way home—examine—level—& digest a plan for locks at that place. If it shall appear a good one, and his reasons in support of the spots for, and sizes of the locks are conclusive, they will justify the adoption of it—if on the other hand, they are palpably erroneous, we are under no obligation to follow him. and the expence, in that case, is the only evil that can result from it. this, for the chance of a probable benefit, I am not only willing, but desirous of encountering; and if Colo. Gilpin has not already made the trip to that place which he proposed at our last visit, & disappointment there, it would give me great pleasure if it could be so timed as for him to accompany

Mr Brindley. This would not only give countenance to the latter, but afford him aid also; and might be a mean of preventing the little jealousies which, otherwise might arise in the minds of our own Managers. Taking Mr Brindley to the works now, may, ultimately, save expence; at the sametime, having a plan before us, it would enable us at all convenient times, to be providing materials for its execution. I am Gentn—Yr Most Obedt Servt

Go: Washington

If my proposition is acceded to, it might be well to fix, at once, what shall be given to Mr Brindley—I will readily subscribe to what you two Gentlemen may agree to give him on this occasion.

G. W——n

April 2d
This letter I intended to have sent up by a Gentleman, now here, on friday last, but his remaining & the bad weather yesterday have detained it till now.


Title: To George Washington from Noah Webster, 31 March 1786
From: Webster, Noah
To: Washington, George

Sir.
New York March 31st 1786

I am happy in the opportunity, which Mr Lee’s politeness has offered, of presenting Your Excellency a copy of Mr Dwights Poem. Whatever faults may be found in this performance, its merit cannot fail to recommend it to every friend of America & of virtue.
I flatter myself that in three or four weeks I shall be able to furnish you with an Instructor, as several Gentlemen will assist me in procuring a man of worth.
Reading Lectures in several towns has detained me longer than I expected; but I am encouraged, by the prospect of rendering my country some service, to proceed in my design of refining the language & improving our general system of education. Dr Franklin has extended my views to a very simple plan of reducing the language to perfect regularity: Should I ever attempt it, I have no doubt that I should be patronized by many

distinguished characters. Please to present my respects & Compliments to Mrs Washington—to the Major & his Lady ⟨&⟩ to Mr Shaw, if in your family—& believe me with perfect respect Your Excellencys most obliged & most obedient Servant

Noah Webster jun.


Title: To George Washington from John Wilton, 31 March 1786
From: Wilton, John
To: Washington, George

Sir
Common Farm Somerset [England] March the 31 1786

peruseing the Bath peaper of this week I saw A Letter of your Exelencesees Adress to Mrs Mackauley Where you seemes to Desier to heave A Engelish farmer Ingeaged, to Come to America, Wich has been long my Desier, Not only to Come to America but to bee A Real subject of that Cunterye, I am A young man twenty Six years of Age Never was from my father, who was all his life a farmer, and Rents five hundred pr Anum, pastuer & Arable I understands Everry branch of husbuntery in the Engelish Stile, but to Comepleate our bussenniss I think would Bee to Engeage two Engelish Rusticks, wich Can bee Done Very Reasenable, I dont Understand Aney thing of the law Nothing Better than A scool Education wich I supose not Capable to Undertake A Stuerdship But thear is pleanty of that Class heare, If I Come I shall Expect my pleace to bee worth one hundered pr Annum my pasige and all Other Expences paid beefore I leaves Engeland. I am Your Execlls Most Devoted Huml. Servant

Jno. Wilton

N.B. Should Bee Glad to heave a ansser as soon as posable as I Shall Not Engeage In Anny thing till I heave.
P.S. please to Direct Jno Wilton Common farm to Bee Left at the three Cups Bath Somerset Old England.


Title: From George Washington to Leonard Henley, 2 April 1786 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Henley, Leonard

 Letter not found: to Leonard Henley, 2 April 1786. On 14 April Henley acknowledges to GW the receipt of “Your letter of the 2d of Apl.”


Title: To George Washington from Daniel Morgan, 3 April 1786
From: Morgan, Daniel
To: Washington, George

Dear sir
Frederick county 3d april 1786

Before I recd your accompt against Colo. Kennedy I had paid him all that I was to give him for the house lotts &c. that I bought of him and chiefly in orders accepted—I was desirous to get the money for you It being the first time I ever had it in my power to serve you in a domestick line—his circumstances (I knew) did enable him to pay without a suite of them by the time the suite was determin’d—I therefore thought it most advisable to try to get so much in my hand and detain it—for which reason I did not show him the acompg nor let him or any other person know I had it—but a bad woman which he kept for a house keeper made such a Deep stroke at him that frustrated all my designs & left the old man poor indeed, he has an estate in Scotland worth about £500 Sterling which he has been offering for sail which was my reason for not returning you the accompt as thinking the accompt could be of no service to you without the money—I recd a line from Mr Muse the other day respecting the Matter and shall give him the accompt and order at our court—but will still keep a look out, and if I can see a chance of securing the money I will give Mr Muse Notice as I understand he dose your business in this quarter—I am happy to understand that an easy passage is discovered for the water to [be] taken round the G. fall of patomack, I wish you great success in that Interprize, Never the less I had great faith in you judgment I do candidly tell you, I was fearfull of its not being effected Never the less if my expences in building had Not exceeded my Resources I would have taken two or three shares I wish you success in every undertaking and shall ⟨be⟩ allways happy to serve you in every thing in my power. I have the Honor to be your most obedt Hble servt

Danl Morgan


Title: From George Washington to Henry Lee, Jr., 5 April 1786
From: Washington, George
To: Lee, Henry Jr.

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon April 5th 1786.

Ascribe my silence to any cause rather than the want of friendship, or to a disinclination to keep up a friendly intercourse with you by letter. Absences from home, hurry of business, company, &ca, however justly they might be offered, are too stale & commonplace, to be admitted. I therefore discard them. Throwing myself upon your lenity, and depending more upon your goodness than on any apology I could make, as an excuse for not having acknowledged the receipt of your favors of the 16th of Feb. and 2d of march, before this time.
The first came to hand just after I had made one trip to our Works at the great Falls of this River, and when I was upon the eve of a second to the same place; where the board of Directors met, by appointment, the 1st day of last month. I can therefore, from my own observation, inform you, that this business is progressing in a manner that exceeds our most sanguine expectations. Difficulties vanish as we proceed. The time & expence which it was supposed we shd have to encounter at this place, will both, be considerably reduced. After a thorough investigation of the ground there, we have departed from Ballendines rout for the Canal—marked a fresh one—(which in our judgments will save ⅘ths of the labour, time, & expence; and in the opinion of Mr Brindley, who has just been to view them 9/10 ths)—and be equally good when effected. To sum up the whole in one word—if there are any doubts remaining of the success of this undertaking, they must be confined to three classes of people—1 those who have not opportunities of investigation—2, those who, having it in their power will not be at the trouble of doing it—and 3, those whose interests being opposed,

do not wish to be convinced. The great Falls, is the only place where, under our present view of the river, we conceive it necessary to establish Locks. The ground favors them. and there can be no doubt (this being the case) of their succeeding as well in this, as in other Countries, as the materials for erecting them are abundant & cheap. What difficulties may hereafter be found, where none was apprehended, I will not take upon me to determine; but where they were thought wholly to lie, we are free from apprehension.
My sentiments with respect to the Fœderal government are very well known—publickly, & privately, have they been communicated without reserve, but my opinion is, that there is more wickedness than ignorance in the conduct of the States, or in other words, in the conduct of those who have too much influence in the fabrication of our Laws; and that, till the curtain is withdrawn, and the private views, & selfish principles upon which these men act, are exposed to public notice & resentment, I have little hopes of amendment; without another convulsion. The picture of our affairs as drawn by the Committee, approved by Congress, and handed to the public, did not at all surprize me. before that report appeared, though I could not go into the minutiæ of matters, I was more certain of the agregate of our distresses than I am now of the remedy which will be applied. And without the latter, I do not see upon what ground your Agent at the Court of Morocco, and the other at Algeirs are to treat, unless—having to do with new hands—they mean to touch the old string again, and make them dance a while, to the tune of promises.
I thank you for the Pamphlet which contains the corrispondence between Mr Jay & Mr Littlepage; and shall be obliged to you for a Gazette containing the publication of the latter, which appears to have given rise to it. With sentiments of great esteem & regard I am—Dear Sir Yr Obedt & Affec. Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Samuel Powel, 5 April 1786
From: Washington, George
To: Powel, Samuel

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon Aprl 5th 1786.

The Revd Mr Griffith, who will present this letter to you, is possessed of much property in the Town of Alexandria, the value of which he is desirous of encreasing by buildings. To enable him to do this, he wishes to borrow, on interest, about Two thousand five hundred pounds. As security for such a loan, he is willing to mortgage his interest in the above place; and proposes as a further security, to offer other means. The nature of all, he will explain to you. They are, in my opinion, amply sufficient, such as I should not hesitate to take, if I had the money to lend; but you will be able to judge more fully of the matter when they are laid before you. From a long & intimate acquaintance with Mr Griffith, I have a high opinion of his worth, and entire dependence on his representations, which (as he may, in some degree, be a stranger to you) I have thought it a piece of justice to mention. With great estm I am—Dear Sir Yr most Obedt Hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to David Ramsay, 5 April 1786
From: Washington, George
To: Ramsay, David

Sir,
Mount Vernon 5th April 1786.

I pray you to accept my best acknowledgments of your letter of the 22d of Feby, & thanks for the history of the revolution of South Carolina, with which you have been so good as to present me. From what I have heard of its merits, I anticipate much pleasure in the perusal of the work.
It is to be regretted that your local situation did not allow you, with convenience, to take a more comprehensive view of the war.

My gratitude for the favourable sentiments you have been pleased to express for me is due, and with esteem & respect I have the honor to be &c.

G: Washington


Title: To George Washington from William Moultrie, 7 April 1786
From: Moultrie, William
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir,
Charleston South Carolina 7th April 1786

I have been highly honoured and particularly obliged by you, in introducing the Count De Castiglioni to me; I have found him a most agreeable & accomplished Gentleman; & as such, he has received every mark of polite attention from our Citizens; he expresses great satisfaction on his Visit to this State. The Count left this City a few days ago for Georgia & intends to take his rout through the interior Country, down to Mount Vernon, by which he will be able to add greatly to the information he is desirous of obtaining respecting the different States.
Convinced of your wish & desire to promote every public benefit that may possibly present itself to you, in which any part of the United States may be concerned: I presume to take the liberty of addressing you in a matter relative to this State, & without further apology for the freedom I now use, shall proceed to the point.
A number of Gentlemen of this State have entered into an association which is sanctioned by the legislature to open an Inland Navigation, by a communication from the Santee to the Cooper River, the distance across being about twenty miles; we intend it to be done by Locks & Canals, & will be a means of shortening the present Navigation at least 150 Miles.
Many of the Gentlemen who compose the Board of Directors for carrying the plan into execution, having the honor of being personally acquainted with you were induced to recommend that, endeavour be made to obtain Mr Brinley to superintend it, if in your Opinion, you judged him capable of the undertaking—it is said Mr Brinley was constantly with his Brother, while carrying on the Duke of Bridgewater’s Works, & possessed great knowledge and abilities—To begin right, is all in all with us—

the practicability of bringing it to perfection cannot admit of a doubt.
However, the engagements that Mr Brinley may now have of the same kind, may possibly prevent him entering into a New One, yet if he could be spared only to inspect into the situation, & to give his opinion and directions how to proceed, it may at least prevent us from begining wrong, & we may be going on untill he or some other as equal can be procured; the Board of Directors will chearfully pay every expence that Mr Brinley may be at, by coming here, exclusive of a compensation.
Mrs Moultrie request her best respects to be tendered to Mrs Washington & yourself—and I most sincerely wish you both health & happiness. I am with perfect Esteem, Dear Sir Your most Obedient Humble Servant

Willm Moultrie


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Cresap, 8 April 1786 [letter not found]
From: Cresap, Thomas
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Thomas Cresap, 8 April 1786. GW wrote Cresap on 8 May: “Your letter of the 8th of last month came to my hands.”


Title: To George Washington from William Gordon, 9 April 1786
From: Gordon, William
To: Washington, George

My Dear Sir
Boston Apr. 9. 1786

This will probably be the last letter, you will receive from me till I have crossed the Atlantic. Should I get safe to London, through the kind orderings of Providence, shall take the first opportunity of writing to you. Expect to sail next Wednesday wind & weather permitting. Shall take your present with me, to remind me of your friendship. The honour your Excellency has done me in confiding in my prudence not to abuse the information

received from your papers, binds me to yourself & will oblige me to answer your expectations. The abuse with which I have been loaded by the public prints shall only make me the more cautious in answering the character of a faithful Historian. If I can, will contrive that you may have the Chronicle as usual. Mrs Gordon joins in most affectionate regards to Your Excellency, Your Lady, & the rest of your worthy family. Your Excellencys sincere friend & humble servant

William Gordon


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Newton, Jr., 9 April 1786
From: Washington, George
To: Newton, Thomas Jr.

Sir,
Mount Vernon 9th April 1786.

I have been favored with your letters of the 20th of Jany—24th of Feby & 13th of March—the last of which speaks of a letter written by you to me of the same date—this letter has never got to hand: but I have received in Alexandria the £60—which Messrs Pennock & Skipwith promised to remit me on your accot—as also the Wine from Captn Earle, in very good order.
My situation, since my retreat from public life, has been such as to put it out of my power to go into an examination & settlement of Accots with that precision which is requisite; & among others, the transactions between the deceased Colo. Lewis & myself stand open. I do not know (from any thing my memory affords) on what account he could draw an order in favor of Henry Mitchell, as I recollect no dealings with that Gentn—but presume it must be right. Nevertheless, if there is an accot annexed to the order, or if the order is expressive of the purpose for which it was drawn, you would do me a favor in transmitting a copy of it.
I have made several ineffectual applications for my Accot with Mr Hill; but as Dr Stuart is again going into that part of the country in which he lives, I will make one effort more to obtain it—’till this happens I can say nothing with respect to his credits, but will advise you as soon as it is in my power.
In one of your former letters you intimated that my superfine Flour would sell well in Norfolk, & it was my intention to have consigned you some ’ere this; but as the quantity I make is small, the demand for it in Alexandria has generally kept pace with my manufactory. However I believe it would now be in my power to send you from 50 to 100 barrels, if you thought the present prices in your Town would answer; and that you may be enabled to judge I shall inform you that I have not sold one barrel this year which has not netted at my Mill 38/—cash paid on delivery; & some at 40/—Would it nett the former at Norfolk, free of freight commission & storage? Your answer would determine my conduct, & I shall be glad to receive it by the return of the Post. I am Sir &c.

Geo: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Alexander Doyle, 10 April 1786
From: Doyle, Alexander
To: Washington, George

Sir
George Town [Md.] April 10th 1786

From a Sense of your Excellency’s Universal Benevolence and Willingness to Countenance and Incourage any design of Public Utility, I have taken the Liberty to entreat your Excellency to give the Paper you will Receive herewith the Sanctions of your Name. In Conjunction with Several well disposed persons of this Town, who Consider Religion and Virtue as the best Basis of the Happiness, Security and Permanency of States, I have purchased a Lot of Ground and Materials for building a Chapel. we have with concern observed some vices and disorders Introduced by an Influx of Foreigners of the Lowest Class who are Settling here May in a great measure be Attributed to a want of Attention to Religious Duties. Men are generally Strongly attached to that Religion in which they are Educated, and as this Town the Populous and daily encreasing has but one place of Worship, we have determined to Build another as our motive whether viewed in a Religous or Political Light (we hope) is good, we beg Leave to solicit your Excellency’s concurence, Satisfied your Example will Influence the gentry of the Neighbouring parts of Virginia and Maryland. I am with the greatest respect your Excellency’s most Obt Servt

Alexr Doyle


Title: From George Washington to Leonard Henley, 10 April 1786 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Henley, Leonard

Letter not found: to Leonard Henley, 10 April 1786. On 14 April Henley acknowledged receipt of GW’s letter “of the 10th.”


Title: To George Washington from Jean Le Mayeur, 10 April 1786
From: Le Mayeur, Jean-Pierre
To: Washington, George

Sir
Richmond 10th april 1786

i have this day only—had the honour of your Excellency’s favour of the 28th march owing i supose to the neglect of the Post office in not forwarding it to me before now i can not sufficiently Express the high sence i have of your Excellencys polite and frindly attention to the care of my Cavallry i am at a loss for words to Express my Gratitude for the new offer of the services of yr horse magnolio. i think him and Elegant horse and would prefer my mares Going to him rather than any one i have seen in America but the choice is more agreable to me being recommended by yr Excellancy to whose favour i am not ashamed to be further indebted.
this come by my servant who will relive you from the trouble of my Black horse and about the second week in may i hope the honour of paying my respects in person to mrs Washington and your Excellancy at mount vernon. i have the honour to be with Every sentiment of regard and veneration your Excellancy’s most most Respectfull and very humble servant

j. Le Mayeur


Title: From George Washington to Jonathan Trumbull, Jr., 10 April 1786
From: Washington, George
To: Trumbull, Jonathan Jr.

My dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 10th Apl 1786

Your favor of the 20th of Feby came safely, tho’ tedeously; as it is not more than a few days since I received it, and the inclosure, for which I thank you. The author at the sametime that he pays a just tribute to the deceased does no discredit to his own talents.
I hope nothing will intervene to prevent the tour you have in contemplation to the Southward; and I persuade myself you will believe me very sincere, when I assure you of the pleasure I shall feel at seeing you under my roof; in wch every inhabitant of the mansion (acquainted with you) will participate. Your acquaintance G.A. Washington has taken unto himself a wife (Fanny Bassett the Niece of Mrs Washington) both of whom live with us.
The inclosed for Mr Dwight, I take the liberty of committing to your care, because the letter which I received from him (and of which this is an acknowledgment) having neither date nor

place to it, I am at a loss where to direct it. If my address is wrong (for your Parsons sometimes turn Lawyers) I pray you to correct it.
Mrs Washington & George, join me in every good wish for your self, Mrs Trumbull & family, and with sentiments of sincere esteem and perfect friendship I am, Dear Sir Yr Affecte & Obt Hble Ser⟨vt⟩

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to William Washington, 10 April 1786
From: Washington, George
To: Washington, William

Dr Sir,
Mt Vernon 10th April 1786.

Three days ago only, I had the pleasure to receive your favor of the 18th of December, under cover of one from Mr Hammond of Baltimore. This gentleman writes me that the boxes which you had the goodness to send me, were then shipped on board the Baltimore packet for Alexandria. I every moment look for them, & feel myself much indebted for your kind attention to my request in this instance. I shall plant the acorns, & nurture the young trees, when they arrive, with great care: those brought last year by my Nephew (chiefly of the Laurel) stood the passage, the summer, & the winter, with very little covering, very well. I am now transplanting them from the box in which they were brought.
At the proper season if you could make it convenient, I should be obliged to you for saving for me some seed of the Palmetto, & of any other trees or shrubs that are curious, in Carolina, & not natives of this Country.
Mrs Washington, & my Nephew Geo: A. Washington who has taken unto himself a wife, join me in every good wish for your Lady & Self, & with sincere esteem & regard, I am Dr Sir, &c. &c.

G: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Brereton, 12 April 1786
From: Brereton, Thomas
To: Washington, George

Baltimo[re] 12th April 1786

I had the Honor to Address your Excelency the 30th of July last on an affair you were formerly concernd with Brian Fairfax Esqr. as a Trustee and lateraly with him and others as a Legatee in the Will of the late Mrs Margrt Savage who Died in Dublin in the year 1781 Wife of Doctor Willm Savage of Dumfrise & Pce William County Virginia. I then acquainted your Excelcy that said Will regularly proved and Probrt of Administation granted to Richard and Ann Ennis Executors and residuary Legatees with their Letter of Attorney to Francis & Hannah Moore to Act, had just come to my hands Fras & Hanh being dead the Power ceased. as it recited a great part of the Will I then inclosd for your Excelcys further information, but have never receivd a line in return.
This day I receivd letters from Dublin. Mrs Ennis Surviving Exctr is very desirous of hearing from Us to know how to Act or be advisd she supposes the property Mrs Savage bequeathd rests in your Execlys and Bryan Fairfaxs hands as Trustees, Prior to the Mariage with Savage he with Mr Thompson Mason passd a joint Bond for £5000. about 1st Janry 1767 Penalty conditiond to pay into your hands £100 Annualy for the use of Mrs Green

afterward Savage during her life. said Savage with his Wife some time after saild for Ireland where he left her destitute and returnd to Virginia to Enjoy her fortune the good woman distress’d in Ireland was there for years supportd by the Charitable donations of a few acquaintances she had made amongst whom was this Mr & Mrs Ennis and a Mrs Bumford to whom she bequeathd £200., should you[r] Excelcy incline to write Mrs Ennis may direct to Mr Jas Templeton No. 56 Henry street Dublin. I am with respect Your Excelcys most Obedt Hhble Servt

Tho. Brereton


Title: From George Washington to Robert Morris, 12 April 1786
From: Washington, George
To: Morris, Robert

Dr Sir,
Mt Vernon 12th April 1786

I give you the trouble of this letter at the instance of Mr Dalby of Alexandria; who is called to Philadelphia to attend what he conceives to be a vexatious law-suit respecting a slave of his, which a Society of Quakers in the City (formed for such purposes) have attempted to liberate. The merits of this case will no doubt appear upon trial; but from Mr Dalby’s state of the matter, it should seem that this Society is not only acting repugnant to justice so far as its conduct concerns strangers, but, in my opinion extremely impolitickly with respect to the State—the City in particular; & without being able (but by Acts of tyranny & oppression) to accomplish their own ends. He says the conduct of this society is not sanctioned by Law: had the case been otherwise, whatever my opinion of the Law might have been, my respect for the policy of the State would on this occasion have appeared in my silence; because against the penalties of

promulgated Laws one may guard; but there is no avoiding the snares of individuals, or of private societies—and if the practice of this Society of which Mr Dalby speaks, is not discountenanced, none of those whose misfortune it is to have slaves as attendants will visit the City if they can possibly avoid it; because by so doing they hazard their property—or they must be at the expence (& this will not always succeed) of providing servants of another description for the trip.
I hope it will not be conceived from these observations, that it is my wish to hold the unhappy people who are the subject of this letter, in slavery. I can only say that there is not a man living who wishes more sincerely than I do, to see a plan adopted for the abolition of it—but there is only one proper and effectual mode by which it can be accomplished, & that is by Legislative authority: and this, as far as my suffrage will go, shall never be wanting.
But when slaves who are happy & content to remain with their present masters, are tampered with & seduced to leave them; when masters are taken at unawar[e]s by these practices; when a conduct of this sort begets discontent on one side and resentment on the other, & when it happens to fall on a man whose purse will not measure with that of the Society, & he looses his property for want of means to defend it—it is oppression in the latter case, & not humanity in any; because it introduces more evils than it can cure.
I will make no apology for writing to you on this subject; for if Mr Dalby has not misconceived the matter, an evil exists which requires a remedy; if he has, my intentions have been good though I may have been too precipitate in this address. Mrs Washington joins me in every good & kind wish for Mrs Morris & your family, and I am &c.

G: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Bushrod Washington, 13 April 1786
From: Washington, George
To: Washington, Bushrod

Dear Bushrod,
Mount Vernon April 13th 1786

If royal gift will administer, he shall be at the Service of your Mares, but at present he seems too full of royalty, to have any thing to do with a plebean race. perhaps his stomach may come to him—if not, I shall wish he had never come from his most Catholic Majesty’s Stables.
Your Papa has not been here, yet. I am just come in from a ride—the Dinner bell rings—and your Man says he must go oflf after it—so offer me affectionately to all—and believe me to be sincerly Yrs

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from John Rumney, Jr., 16 April 1786
From: Rumney, John Jr.
To: Washington, George

Sir
W[hi]tehaven [England] 16th April 1786

I have to acknowledge rect of your much esteem’d Favor of the 18th Novr last inclosing your Dft on Wakelyn Welsh Esqr. for £50 which is honor’d & rather overpays your Acct for the Flags sent, which Bailce our Store in Alexandria will pay you. The Person who procured those Flags would not prepare another Parcell at the same rate, having been a loosing Bargain to him, indeed no other Person would have undertaken them without 1½[d.] per Flag more. I hope they will fully answer your Purpose, which wd give me great Pleasure to hear. I hope to have the Pleasure of seeing you in Virginia this Summer, as Mr Sanderson is coming Home. I have the Honor to be with the Greatest respect, Sir Yr mo. obdt & hble Servt

John Rumney


Title: From George Washington to John Armistead, 17 April 1786
From: Washington, George
To: Armistead, John

Sir,
Mount Vernon 17th April 1786.

It has been my hope since my return, that it would be unnecessary for me to remind you of the debt due to me from the Estate of your deceased Father; the speedy payment of which, at different times I have received assurances of from your self. Besides standing much in need of the money (which alone will, I persuade myself, be a stimulus to the discharge of my claim) it may be well for you to consider the nature of it, and with what rapidity a protested Bill encreases the original sum. This is no

inducement however for me to let it lie; for, as I have just hinted, I can with truth declare to you that my want of the money is more essential to me, than the interest arising therefrom. I am Sir &c.

G: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Noah Webster, 17 April 1786
From: Washington, George
To: Webster, Noah

Sir,
Mount Vernon Aprl 17th 1786

Mr Lee, yesterday evening, gave me the pleasure of receiving your letter of the 31st Ulto, and the book with wch it was accompanied—for both, I pray you to accept my thanks. The author, some time ago, had the goodness to send me two copies of the poem.
I am equally obliged to you, Sir, for your kind assurance of looking out for an Instructor for the little folks of this family;

but believe I have no occasion to trouble you in this business, now. Sometime in the course of last summer, when Gen. Lincoln was here, I made particular enquiry of him on this head; and though he could not, at that time, point out a character which he thought would answer my purposes in all respects, yet he has lately named a Gentlemn of whom he speaks in high terms; and has given the conditions on which he wd come; which being acceded to on my part, and a letter written to that effect, I conceive the matter is closed. If it should be otherwise, I will again give you the trouble of hearing from me on this subject.
My best wishes will attend you in your lectures, and in the prosecution of your design of refining the language and improving the system of education, so as to reduce it to perfect regularity. I am, Sir Yr Most Obedt Hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to William Hartshorne, 19 April 1786
From: Washington, George
To: Hartshorne, William

Sir,
Mount Vernon 19th April 1786.

I am sorry that I have been so troublesome & teasing to you on accot of the seeds you were so obliging as to endeavour to procure for me; but as my Boat is sent to Town, I am induced to ask if they are arrived, that they may in that case embrace the present conveyance. If they are not already at hand, I shall be obliged to you for countermanding the order for the Buck wheat, as it is now totally useless for the experimental purposes for which I wanted it. This is nearly the case with respect to the Flax seed; but I will try late sowing, rather than let the season pass over altogether—consequently will wait a few days longer for this, in which time if it does not arrive, I pray it may be countermanded also. I am &c.

G: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Brereton, 20 April 1786
From: Washington, George
To: Brereton, Thomas

Sir,
Mt Vernon 20th Apl 1786

Within these few days I have received your letter of the 12th, & some time ago, I recollect to have been favored with another letter from you, which in the hurry of business got overlooked.
It is now more than two years, since indirectly I obtained a sight of the deceas’d Mrs Savage’s will—I then thought, & still do think it strange that the Executors of this will, should never have made any official communication thereof to the Trustees of that Lady in this country; nor have made any direct enquiry concerning the situation of her affairs here. These may be summed up in a few words; & will be found to be as follows.
When matters came to extremity between Doctr Savage & his wife—& Mr Fairfax & myself were obliged to put the trust Bond in suit to recover her annuity; the Doctor made use of all the chicanery of Law & Lawyers, to procrastinate the Suit; which the tardiness of our Courts (& during one period of the revolution the suspension of justice) but too well enabled him to effect. It was therefore long before a judgment at common Law could be obtained; & this was no sooner done, than he threw the matter into Chancery, where I am told, for I have had no share in the management of this business for the last ten years, (that is since I took the command of the American forces) it has lain ever since. I believe Mr Fairfax has done every thing in his power to bring the matter to issue; & I have heard, I think from himself, that there is now a probability of its happening soon. With great truth I can assure you that not one farthing of Mrs Savage’s annuity was ever paid to the Trustees; whilst we have been obliged to advance money out of our own pockets to carry on the prosecution—& whilst, moreover, from a representation of the distress that Lady was involved in, I gave her a Bill to the amot of £53—on Jas Gildart Esqr. of Liverpool—which is still due to me.
This is the best Accot I am able to give you of the Trust, & you are at liberty to communicate the purport of it to Mrs Innis. I am &c.

G: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Joseph Eckley, 20 April 1786
From: Eckley, Joseph
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Boston 20 April 1786

It was the desire of the Revd Dr Gordon who, a few days ago, embarked for Europe, that according to his own practice I would weekly send to you the Independent Chronicle printed in this Town. I have the honor of enclosing one of the Papers for your Excellency at this time; requesting you to permit me to assure you that it will afford me very great satisfaction to continue so to do in a regular manner, agreably to the Doctors wish, & my promise to him. With great Respect I am Your Excellency’s Most Obedient & Obliged Humble Servant

Joseph Eckley


Title: From George Washington to William Gordon, 20 April 1786
From: Washington, George
To: Gordon, William

Dr Sir,
M[ount] Vernon 20th Aprl 1786.

Mr Lund Washington having expressed a wish to quit business & live in retirement & ease, I could not oppose his inclination; & his having carried these desires into effect, that kind of business which he usually transacted for me, is now thrown on my shoulders in addition to what they bore before, & has left me less time than ever for my numerous correspondences & other avocations. I mention this by way of apology for not having acknowledged the receipt of your several late favors, at an earlier date.
As soon as your subscription papers came to my hands, I offered

one in Alexandria & sent another to Fredericksburgh: from the first, a specific return has been made of the subscribers & is now enclosed; from the other, eleven pounds have been sent me without the paper; the Gentleman (the Hon[orabl]e James Mercer Esqr. one of the Judges of our General Court) having informed me that he would take it with him to Richmond, and endeavor to encrease the number of subscribers there. This sum of eleven pounds added to the amount of the paper inclosed, makes £42 with which I have bought a Bill on Rhode Island. I endeavoured to get one on Boston, but could not without waiting; which I thought might be more inconvenient, than the negotiation at the former place.
Your Cypher came safely to hand—I have not had leisure to examine it, but presuming no difficulty will arise in the use, I have laid it by ’till occasion may call it forth. From the purport of your letters, you must be on the eve of your departure for Europe. My best wishes, in wch Mrs Washington & the family join me, are offered for a prosperous voyage, & the accomplishment of your plans. I am Dr Sir &c.

G: Washington

Note—the Bill referred to in the above is drawn by Josiah Watson & Co., on Messrs Cromel & Caleb Child, Merchants, Warren, Rhode Island for £42 at three days sight with or without advice; & is dated the 19th April 1786.


Title: From George Washington to Benjamin Lincoln, 20 April 1786
From: Washington, George
To: Lincoln, Benjamin

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon Aprl 20th 1786

As Doctr Gordons departure for England is an event that was to have taken place about this time & may have happened I take the liberty, in that case, of requesting the favor of you to do what shall appear right with the inclosed Subscription Paper & Bill.

I will make no apology for the trouble this request may give you as I persuade myself your inclination to serve the Doctr will keep pace with mine, and neither can have any other motive in the business than to serve & oblige him. With every sentiment of esteem & regard, I am—Dear Sir Yr most Obedt & Affecte Sert

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Henry Lee, Jr., 21 April 1786
From: Lee, Henry Jr.
To: Washington, George

My dear Genl
New York 21st April 86

Your very polite reply to my two letters reached me a few days past.
It is impossible for my mind so thoroughly impressed with testimonials of your friendship, when that friendship operated both to my honor and happiness to ascribe any act of yours in which I am interested to disregard or neglect. My cheif object in my correspondence with you, was to manifest the unabated respect which continues to govern my feelings, when change of situation and circumstances, forbid the derivati[o]n of my attachment from any principles, but those bottomed on the purest and warmest respect. Then my dear Sir, let me hope that you will not consider it as due or expected that you should be regular in your replys, but rather be governed by inclination and leisure, otherwise I shall be forced from the same feelings which induced me to commence a correspondence so truely agreable, to decline the continuance of it. Your communications with respect to the process of our internal navigation has given to me and our countrymen here, the highest satisfaction, for certainly no event comprehends more fully the strength and future consequence of our particular country than the cementing to the interest of Virginia by the strong ties of commerce the western world. This I beleive will take place effectually if the potomac & James river companys succeed in their exertions before the navigation of the Missisippi becomes free to the western emigrants. I have my doubts whether good policy does not dictate forcibly every measure which tends to delay to distant time the free use

of that river—It is very certain that the Spanish court are in no temper for admitting it at present, in any degree, nor will they ever consent to it as long as they retain in subjection their American colonys—I have taken the liberty to shew in some private circles your observations with respect to the present prospect of our fœderal affairs, and I flatter myself the justice and decision of your remarks will aid the friends to the Union in this city in their exertions to incline the Assembly of this state to adopt the revenue system asked for by Congress, and at this period essential to the existence of the Union.
The lower house have passed the impost fettered with conditions which render it inadmissible by Congress. I hope the senate will amend it, and that at length we shall be possessed of some permanent and adequate fund for the discharge of our foreign debt.
We have no accounts by the packet of the progress of our negotiators with the barbary powers, nor have we much reason to hope for a tolerable termination of their mission—The british cabinent evidence whenever they can their zeal to destroy our commerce, and they certainly will succeed in their favorite plan, unless the states give adequate powers to Congress to counteract by commercial regulations the injurys imposed on our trade.
I enclose the late gazzettes a letr from England for you, and the papers you require.
Please to present me to your Lady and accept my best wishes for your health and happiness. With the most respectful attachment I am dear General, your ob. sert

Henry Lee Junr

I enclose a plan for the government of militia, which does great honor to its author.


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Ringgold Tilghman, 22 April 1786
From: Tilghman, Thomas Ringgold
To: Washington, George

Sir
Baltimore 22d April. 1786

I have the most melancholy Task to perform, that was ever yet imposed upon me; that of making you acquainted with the Death of my poor Brother Tench. Painful however as it is, I thought a duty not to be dispensed with towards one for whom he had so high a Reverence & so warm an Attachment as for yourself. Not above three days before his death every symptom bade fair for a speedy Recovery, when an unexpected Change took place, which in a short time destroyed every hope. He retained his senses perfectly till within a few hours of the time that he expired, which was in the Evening of the 18th, when he went off without the least pain & even without a struggle: As it is our Wish to settle his Affairs as speedily as possible, I enclose your account, the Bale of which £54.10.4 you will be pleased to pay into the hands of Messrs Josiah Watson & Co. of Alexanda which mode of settling it, is agreable to his Intentions. I am, Sir with the highest Respect Yr most obt servt

Thos R. Tilghman


Title: To George Washington from Francis Asbury, 24 April 1786
From: Asbury, Francis
To: Washington, George

Honoured Sir
Alexandria April 24th 1786

Give me leave to prensent you, with one of our Prayer Books, and another to your Lady. Please to accept the Sermons also to your candid perusal. Receive them as a small token of my great respect and veneration for your Person who am your most obedient friend & Servant

Francis Asbury


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Grymes, 24 April 1786
From: Grymes, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

Dr Sr
Eagles Nest Apl 24th &Ca

I received your favour a few days past, and have now the pleasure of sending you the two Does from this place, and a third which I received to day from Chatham, I have pd the Man 18/ for their passage, and think it proper to mention it for he might otherwise charge you for taking of them up. I am very sorry it is not in my power to spare you any peaze. I believe I can get you a few bushels at Pt royal if I can, I will send them to you by the middle of May if not sooner—Our best respects to you and yr Lady I am with the greatt respt yr Most Ob. H. St

B. Grymes


Title: To George Washington from Robert Morris, 26 April 1786
From: Morris, Robert
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Philad[elphi]a April 26th 1786

I am happy to confirm what Mr Dalby will have informed you off, the Successfull Issue of his Suit respecting his Slave, could any interference on my part have been usefull, your letter would have commanded it, indeed I had done him before what little service I could when his Petition was before the Assembly from a perfect Conviction both of the Injustice and impolicy of the treatment he had met with. The Society which attacked him tread on popular ground, and as their Views are disinterested as to themselves, and sometimes very laudable as to the objects

of their Compassion, it is not a very pleasant thing to Attack them & this consideration deters Mr Dalby from seeking redress at Law for the Expense & trouble they have occasioned, altho I think he would meet a just determination in our Courts of Law. We are happy to hear that Mrs Washington & you are well, Mrs Morris is at present occupied in carefull attention to our youngest Son in the Small pox which is now out, & very fircely. She joins me in praying Mrs Washington & you to accept our best wishes for the long Continuance of your Health & happiness. Poor Tilghman, you my Dear Sir have lost in him a most faithfull and Valuable Friend, He was to me the same I esteemed him, very, very, much, and I lament the loss of him exceedingly. I am with sincere attachment Dear Sir Your most Obedient humble Servant

Robt Morris


Title: To George Washington from Alexander White, 29 April 1786
From: White, Alexander
To: Washington, George

Sir
Woodville 29th April 1786

I have at length so far settled the affairs of General Lees Estate as to be enabled to pay his American debts. it will give me pleasure to discharge the account due to your Excellency—I am sorry you did not take a Bond to secure the interest, but do not think myself authorised to supply the defect. With Sentiments of the highest respect I am Your Excellencys most Obt Servt

Alexr White


Title: To George Washington from John Hopkins, 1 May 1786
From: Hopkins, John
To: Washington, George

Sir
Richmond May 1st 1786.

Enclosd I have the honor to transmit you the Treasurer’s receipt for the sum of fifteen pounds lodged by you with me, for the purpose of making the first payment on your five shares in the James River Company. I have spoken to Mr Brown respating the expences of recording your deed &c.—but the business not yet being done, he cannot ascertain the amount—As soon, as the Account can be procured, the Money shall be paid, and his rect transmitted to you. With the most perfect respect I am Sir Your most obt & very Humble Servant

Jno. Hopkins


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Lincoln, 3 May 1786
From: Lincoln, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

My dear General
Boston [May] 3d 1786

I was yesterday honored with the receipt of your Excellencys favor of the 16th Ulto.
It is probable that Mr Lear will be with you by the first of June I expect him from Portsmouth New Hampshire in about six days he will soon after commence his journey for Virginia I hope & trust your Excellency will find him a Gentleman of an amiable character. With real esteem & affection I have the honor of being Your Excellencys most Obedient Servant

B: Lincoln


Title: From George Washington to Battaile Muse, 6 May 1786 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Muse, Battaile

   Letter not found: to Battaile Muse, 6 May 1786. On 4 June Muse wrote GW: “Your Favour dated the 6th may Came To hand.”


Title: To George Washington from Battaile Muse, 6 May 1786
From: Muse, Battaile
To: Washington, George

Honourable Sir,
Belvoir May 6th 1786

The waggons that stored my wheat on the roads Last winter I did not Expect would have brought the wheat To your Mill as they had neglected their duty so Long. at Last they have delivered it—which makes more than the Quantity Engaged—I shall be oblige to you To buy it at 5/6 ⅌ Bushel or to let it be ground for me I have sold Wheat to Colo Griffin at that price. I am Sir your Very Hble Servant

Battaile Muse


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Freeman, 8 May 1786
From: Washington, George
To: Freeman, Thomas

Sir,
Mo[un]t Vernon 8th May 1786

Being informed that Mrs Crawford is on the point of having her negroes sold to discharge a Debt due from her late husband, Colo. Crawford, to Mr James Cleveland, for whom you are Agent; I will, rather than such an event shall take place, agree to apply any money of mine, which may be in your hands, towards the discharge of the execution; and desire, in that case, you will receive such security as Mrs Crawford can give for reimbursing me. I am Sir &c.

G: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Smith, 8 May 1786
From: Washington, George
To: Smith, Thomas

Sir;
Mount Vernon 8th May 1786.

Vale Crawford died indebted to me—say One hundred pounds Virginia Curry—more or less. Previously thereto, he wrote me the letter dated Jacobs Creek, May 8th 1774 and accompanied it with the Bill of Sale herewith transmitted dated May 8th 1774.

Quære, Is this Bill now valid?
Will it secure my debt? This is all I want.
And can it be recovered without hazarding a defeat which may add cost without benefit.
If these points should be determined in the affirmative, I would wish you to prosecute my claim so far as to secure my debt, but not otherwise. In haste, but with much esteem—I am—Sir Yr Most Obedt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Joseph Eckley, 10 May 1786
From: Washington, George
To: Eckley, Joseph

Sir,
Mount Vernon 10th May 1786.

I have had the honor to receive your favor of the 20th ulto and its enclosure. I was indebted to Doctr Gordon before he left the Country, for the Boston Independant Chronicle; and am so since to your goodness for offering to continue them. The Doctr sent these papers unasked, after having read them himself (being a subscriber)—but as their continuation must be attended with expence & trouble, you would oblige me by withholding them. To be candid, my avocations are so numerous that I very rarely find time to look into Gazettes after they come to me. I feel myself, however not less indebted to your politeness, & obliging offer, by the non-acceptance of it. With respect I am Sir Your Most Obt and obliged Servant

G: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Adrienne, Marquise de Lafayette, 10 May 1786
From: Washington, George
To: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de

Madam,
Mount Vernon 10th May 1786.

Of all the correspondencies with which I am honored, none has given me more pleasure than yours; none which I am more desireous of continuing, or more ambitious to deserve. What then my Dr Madam, must have been my mortification when, instead of receiving the letter you did me the honor to write to me on the 15th of April last year, in due time, it was not ’till sometime in the course of last month, that I received it at all, & the parcels with which you were pleased to accompany it. By mistake these parcels lay at Bordeaux a considerable time after they had arrived there, before it was discovered for whom they were intended, & then were sent by a Vessel which took a very circuitous voyage to the Country. I trouble you with this detail of matters by way of apology for what otherwise might appear a want of sensibility in me for your distinguished and valuable favors, than which nothing is, or can be more flattering & pleasing to my vanity.
The tokens of regard with which Miss de la Fayette & my name-sake have honored the young folks of this family, will cement

the friendship which seems to be rising in their tender breasts; & will encrease those flames of it which they have imbibed from their parents, to which nothing can add strength, but the endearments which flow from personal interviews, & the unreserved exchange of liberal sentiments. Will you not then Madam, afford them this opportunity? May we hope for it soon? If the assurances of the sincerest esteem & affection: if the varieties of uncultivated nature; the novelty of exchanging the gay & delightful scenes of Paris with which you are surrounded, for the rural amusements of a country in its infancy; if the warbling notes of the feathered songsters on our Lawns & Meads, can for a moment make you forget the melody of the Opera, & the pleasures of the Court—these, all invite you to give us this honour, & the opportunity of expressing to you personally, those sentiments of attachment & love with which you have inspired us.
The noon-tide of life is now passed with Mrs Washington & myself, and all we have to do is to spend the evening of our days in tranquillity, & glide gently down a stream which no human effort can ascend. We must therefore, however reluctantly it is done, forego the pleasures of such a visit as you kindly invite us to make. But the case with you, is far otherwise—Your days are in their me[r]idian brightness. In the natural order of things you have many years to come, in which you may endulge yourself in all the amusements which variety can afford, and different countries produce; & in receiving those testimonies of respect, which every one in the United States would wish to render you.
My Mother will receive the compliments you honor her with, as a flattering mark of your attention; & I shall have great pleasure in delivering them myself. My best wishes & vows are offered for you, & for the fruits of your love, & with every sentiment of respect & attachment I have the honor to be Madam, &c. &c.

G: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Lafayette, 10 May 1786
From: Washington, George
To: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de

My Dear Marquis,
Mount Vernon 10th May 1786.

The Letter which you did me the favor to write to me by Mr Barratt dated the 6th of Feby, together with the parcel & packages which accompanied it, came safely to hand; & for which I pray you to accept my grateful acknowledgments.
The account given of your tour thro’ Prussia & other States of Germany, to Vienna & back; & of the Troops which you saw reviewed, in the pay of those Monarchs, at different places, is not less pleasing than it is interesting; & must have been as instructive as entertaining to yourself. Your reception at the Courts of Berlin, Vienna, & elsewhere must have been pleasing to you: to have been received by the King of Prussia, & Prince Henry his brother, (who as soldiers & politicians can yield the palm to none) with such marks of attention & distinction, was as indicative of their discernment, as it is of your merit, & will encrease my opinion of them. It is to be lamented however that great characters are seldom without a blot. That one man should tyranise over millions, will always be a shade in that of the former; whilst it is pleasing to hear that a due regard to the rights of mankind, is characteristic of the latter: I shall revere & love him for this trait of his character. To have viewed the several fields of Battle over which you passed, could not, among other sensations, have failed to excite this thought—here have fallen thousands of gallant spirits to satisfy the ambition of, or to support their sovereigns perhaps in acts of oppression or injustice!—melancholy reflection! For what wise purposes does Providence permit this? Is it as a scourge for mankind, or is it to prevent them from becoming too populous? If the latter, would not the fertile plains of the Western world receive the redundancy of the old.
For the several articles of intelligence with which you have been so good as to furnish me, & for your sentimts on European politics, I feel myself very much obliged—on these I can depend. Newspaper Accounts are too sterile, vague & contradictory, on which to form any opinion, or to claim even the smallest attention. The account of, & observations which you have made on the policy & practice of Great Britain at the other Courts of Europe, respecting those States; I was but too well informed &

convinced of before. Unhappily for us, tho’ their Accounts are greatly exagerated, yet our conduct has laid the foundation for them. It is one of the evils of democratical governments that the people, not always seeing & frequently mislead, must often feel before they can act right—but then evils of this nature seldom fail to work their own cure. It is to be lamented nevertheless that the remedies are so slow, & that those who may wish to apply them seasonably are not attended to before they suffer in person, in interest & in reputation. I am not without hopes that matters will soon take a favourable turn in the fœderal constitution—the discerning part of the community have long since seen the necessity of giving adequate powers to Congress for national purposes; & the ignorant & designing must yield to it ’ere long. Several late Acts of the different Legislatures have a tendency thereto; among these, the Impost which is now acceded to by every State in the Union, (tho’ cloggd a little by that of New York) will enable Congress to support the national credit in pecuniary matters better than it has been; whilst a measure, in which this state has taken the lead at its last session, will it is to be hoped give efficient powers to that Body for all commercial purposes. This is a nomination of some of its first characters to meet other Commissioners from the several States in order to consider of & decide upon such powers as shall be necessary for the sovereign Power of them to act under; which are to be reported to the respective Legislatures at their autumnal sessions for, it is to be hoped, final adoption: thereby avoiding those tedious & futile deliberations which result from recommendations & partial concurrences; at the same time that it places it at once in the power of Congress to meet European Nations upon decisive & equal ground. All the Legislatures which I have heard from have come into the proposition, & have made very judicious appointments. much good is expected from this measure, and it is regretted by many that more objects were not embraced by the Meeting. A General Convention is talked of by many for the purpose of revising & correcting the defects of the fœderal Government, but whilst this is the wish of some, it is the dread of others from an opinion that matters are not yet sufficiently ripe for such an event.
The British still occupy our Posts to the Westward, & will, I am

persuaded, continue to do so under one pretence or another, no matter how shallow, as long as they can: of this, from some circumstances which had occurred, I have been convinced since August 1783 & gave it as my opinion at that time, if not officially to Congress as the sovereign, at least to a number of its members that they might act accordingly. It is indeed evident to me, that they had it in contemplation to do this at the time of the Treaty; the expression of the Article which respects the evacuation of them, as well as the tenor of their conduct since relative to this business, is strongly masked with deception. I have not the smallest doubt but that every secret engine in their power is continually at work to inflame the Indian mind, with a view to keep it at variance with these States for the purpose of retarding our settlements to the Westward, & depriving us of the fur & peltry trade of that Country.
Your assurances my dear Marquis, respecting the male & female asses, are highly pleasing to me; I shall look for them with much expectation & great satisfaction, as a valuable acquisition, & important service. The Jack which I have already received from Spain, in appearance is fine; but his late royal master, tho’ past his grand climacteric, cannot be less moved by female allurements than he is, or when prompted, can proceed with more deliberation & majestic solemnity to the work of procreation. The other Jack perished at Sea.
Mr Littlepage in his dispute with Mr Jay seems to have forgot his former situation. It is a pity, for he appears to be a young man of abilities—At the next meeting of the Potomac Company (which I believe will not be ’till August) I will communicate to them your sentiments respecting the terms on which a good Ingénieur des ponts & chaussées may be had & take their opinion thereon.
The benevolence of your heart my Dr Marqs is so conspicuous upon all occasions, that I never wonder at any fresh proofs of it; but your late purchase of an Estate in the Colony of Cayenne with a view of emancipating the slaves on it, is a generous and noble proof of your humanity. Would to God a like spirit would diffuse itself generally into the minds of the people of this country, but I despair of seeing it—some petitions were presented to the Assembly at its last Session, for the abolition of slavery, but

they could scarcely obtain a reading. To set them afloat at once would, I really believe, be productive of much inconvenience & mischief; but by degrees it certainly might, & assuredly ought to be effected & that too by Legislative authority.
I give you the trouble of a letter to the Marqs de St Simon, in which I have requested to be presented to Mr de Menonville. The favourable terms in which you speak of Mr Jefferson gives me great pleasure: he is a man of whom I early imbibed the highest opinion—I am as much pleased therefore to meet confirmations of my discernment in these matters, as I am mortified when I find myself mistaken.
I send herewith the copies of your private Letters to me, promised in my last, & which have been since copied by your old aid. As Mrs Washington & myself have both done ourselves the honor of writing to Madame de la Fayette, I shall not give you the trouble at this time of presenting my respects to her; but pray you to accept every good wish which this family can render for your health & every blessing this life can afford you. I cannot conclude without expressing to you the earnest enquiries & ardent wishes of your friends (among whom I claim to stand first) to see you in America, & of giving you repeated assurances of the sincerity of my friendship, & of the Affectionate regard with which I am &c. &c.

G: W——n

P.S. I had like to have forgotten a promise which I made in consequence of the enclos’d application from Colo. Carter—It was, that I would write to you for the wolf hound if to be had conveniently. The inducements, & the services you would render by this Act, will be more evident from the expression of the letter than from any thing I can say.
The vocabulary for her imperial Majesty, I will use my best endeavours to have compleated—but she must have a little patience—the Indian tribes on the Ohio are numerous, dispersed & distant from those who are most likely to do the business properly.

G: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Powel, 10 May 1786
From: Powel, Samuel
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Philadelphia 10 May 1786

You will readily acquit me of any Neglect in performing the Promise made in my last, of sending you the Essay on the Farm Yard which obtained the Praemium from the Society for promoting Agriculture, tho’ I confess that Appearances do not seem in my Favor from the long Delay, when I tell you that it was not returned to the Society till the second of this Month. Some particulars in the Essay, as it was at first presented to the Society, appeared to want Elucidation. To give the Author an opportunity of rendering it as perfect as he was able, induced the returning of it to him, to clear up the obscurer parts, & make the whole plainer to the Capacit⟨mutilated⟩ Instruction it was principally ⟨mutilated⟩ These alterations & Corrections necessarily took up some Time.
Col. Morgan, of Princetown, I understand, conducts his Farm, in general, on the Principles which he has here laid down: at least he does so as far as his Circumstances will admit; & he is thought to be one of the best Farmers in America.
The Society have thought it expedient to continue their Præmium on this Subject; as they esteem the Object of it, namely the Perfection of the Barn-Yard, to be the Basis of all good Husbandry, & they are desirous to receive every Information that further Experiment, or the probable Theories of ingenious Persons, can suggest. To Col. Morgan they have adjudged their first Praemium, as an Evidence of the Sense they entertain of the Merit of his Essay, but are unwilling to preclude further Improvement, either by discontinuing their Praemium, or by pretending to offer the present Plan to their Countrymen as a perfect one.
I ⟨mutilated⟩ me Pleasure to be of use to you, as far as lies in my Power. Mrs Powel requests to join her most sincere good

Wishes for Mrs Washington & yourself, to those of Dear Sir your most obedt humble Servt

Samuel Powel


Title: From George Washington to Saint Simon-Montbléru, 10 May 1786
From: Washington, George
To: Saint-Simon-Montbléru, Claude-Anne de Rouvroy, marquis de

Sir,
Mt Vernon 10th May 1786.

I received with great pleasure (a few days ago in a letter from the Marquis de la Fayette) the news of your being in good health. The recollection of your gallant services & the happy moments I have had the honor to spend with you in this country, will always be dear to me.
It appears by the Marquis’s letter that the answer to a letter which you did me the honor to write to me (now more than two years) respecting the order of the Cincinnati, had never come to your hands. I cannot tell how to accot for it, as all the papers are in the hands of the Secretary General. I well remember however, that at the general meeting which was held at Philadelphia in May 1784, that I laid all the letters with which I had been favored on that subject, before the members which constituted it; and that the Secretary was ordered to communicate the determinations which that Meeting had come to, to the gentlemen who had written to the President—one of which was, that the members of the Society in France were to constitute a Meeting of themselves in order, among other things, to investigate the claims of those who conceived they were entitled to the order, & to decide on them accordingly; in as much as the general Meeting in this Country was not intended to be held oftener than triennially; & could not well at those times enter into the detail of a business which with more propriety would be taken up by the several State meetings, & the one it had just authorised to be held in France.
If Mr de Menonville should happen to be with you, I pray

you to offer him my compliments, & to be assured yourself of the sentiments of esteem & respect with which, I have the honor to be &c.

G: Washington