Title: To George Washington from John Marsden Pintard, 24 January–5 February 1786
From: Pintard, John Marsden
To: Washington, George

Sir
Madeira 24th January[—5 February] 1786.

A few days ago I was honoured with your Excellency’s favour of the 18th November Acknoledging receipt of mine of 19th August last. The Esteem Your Excellency is Pleased of Express for my father and the very Polite Manner of Conveying your Congratulations to me on my Appointment with your Wishes for my Success are highly flattering to me. More Particularly So as Coming from So Great a Charecter ⟨as⟩ the One to whome (Under the direction of Providence) ⟨my⟩ Country is Indebted for the Blessings of her Independency.

We have been Pestered by four Moorish Corsairs off here two of which have Actualy Anchored in the road of funchall. but from the Precautions I took in having Boats off to give Intelligence of them—three Americans Vessels got In safe and Escaped these Pirates. They have however now left us, I hope never to return; If some method is not Pursued to satisfy these Pests of mankind I am affraid our Commerce will greatly suffer.
Agreeable to your excellencys request I now send the vine slips and the young fig as Pr enclosed list. The vessell they go in Toutches at the Cape de Verd, but as there are So Seldom direct opportunities and this being the Proper Season for Sending them I have taken that liberty Especialy as the Capt. has Promissed to take the Greatest care[.] Should they miscarry or any Accident befall them on your Excellency’s Informing me they shall be Imediately replaced. In mean time should any direct opportunity offer I will send So⟨me⟩ others which I have ready Put up in earth. It will Allways give me Pleeasure (exclusive of the Honour Confered on Me by it) to execute Your Excellency’s Commands and should you wish a Supply of wine from this you may depend on my Greatest Care in the choice of its quality. It gives me Pleasure to find that the House of my Relations Messrs John Searle & Co. of this Place have formerly been honoured with your orders for that Comodity. they as well as myselfe will be happy for the Continuation of that Honour and endeavour to give the greatest satisfaction I cannot but observe that I should be hurt at Seeing Your Excellency Supply’d with wine by any other House on the Island being the only American here and Surrounded by those who are far from well wishers to America. It wd be a satisfaction to me to be taken notice of by my Country men. Wishing your Excellency evry ⟨degry⟩ of health and happiness I have the Honour to Subscribe myselfe Your Excellency’s Most obedient Humble Servant

John Marsden Pintard


Title: To George Washington from George William Fairfax, 25 January 1786
From: Fairfax, George William
To: Washington, George

My Dear Sir
Bath 25th January 1786.

This will I hope be presented to you by John Anstey Esqr. in his Tour through America. He goes upon particular business with the approbation of our Ambassador Mr Adams from whom he has Letters to Congress, Doctor Franklin &c.
Mr Ansteys Father is a very worthy Gentleman of Fortune in this City, no Person more respected, and what must be allowed to be a recommendation to Us, he always Execrated the American War. It is with pleasure, I assure you that the young Gentn bears an excellent Character, and is much esteemed by all that know his worth, it is his wish to make himself agreable in America, and as his good Father assures me, his only object is ascertaining the Claims of the Refugees. I may with Propriety request that He may meet with the favorable reception. I belive he merits as a private Gentn from You, and every respectable

Person in Virginia. I am with great regard, Dear Sir Your Affect: and most Obedient Humble Servant

Go: Wm Fairfax


Title: From George Washington to Battaile Muse, 27 January 1786 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Muse, Battaile

Letter not found: to Battaile Muse, 27 Jan. 1786. Muse wrote GW on 20 Feb.: “Your Favour by Daniel McPherson dated January The 27th Last I received.”


Title: To George Washington from Robert Morris, 28 January 1786
From: Morris, Robert
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Philad[elphi]a Jany 28th 1786

I did intend to save you the trouble of sending up the ten Dollars advanced to Jno. Fairfax on your Account & for that purpose took his draft on you for that Sum & remitted it to Messrs Josiah Watson & Co. from whom I have received it back at my own request & herein transmit the same with a receipt on it.
Whatever belongs to, or is connected with you, will ever meet attention from me. Mrs Morris joins me in thanks to Mrs Washington & yourself with assurances of the Warmest reciprocal good wishes for hers & your Health & happiness. I am with sincere attachmt Dear Sir Your most obedt Servt

Robt Morris


Title: From George Washington to John Francis Mercer, 30 January 1786
From: Washington, George
To: Mercer, John Francis

Dr Sir,
Mount Vernon 30th Jany 1786

The letter which you dropped for me at Alexandria I have received. If you can make it convenient to lodge the money in the hands of any person at that place, it would oblige me. I lie quite out of the line of opportunities to Annapolis—and to send there on purpose, would cost me 2½, or perhaps 5 prCt to fetch it.
If Mr Pine, the Portrait Painter, should still be at Annapolis (which is scarcely to be expected) you would oblige me by paying him Twenty Guineas, and Sixteen dollars; and his receipt, for these sums, will be equal to that much of the £200 promised me. If he should have left Annapolis, I will remit the money to him myself.
Mrs Washington joins me in compliments to Mrs Mercer—We shall always be glad to see you both at this place on your rout to or from Annapolis. My best respects attend Mr Spriggs family I am—Dr Sir Yr Obedt Hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to James Rumsey, 31 January 1786
From: Washington, George
To: Rumsey, James

Sir,
Mount Vernon 31st Jan: 1786.

If you have no cause to change your opinion respecting your mechanical Boat, & reasons unknown to me do not exist to delay the exhibition of it, I would advise you to give it to the public as soon as it can be prepared, conveniently. The postponement creates distrust in the public mind; it gives time also for the imagination to work, and this is assisted by a little dropping from one, & something from another, to whom you have disclosed the secret: should therefore a mechanical genius hit upon your plan, or something similar to it—I need not add that it would place you in an awkward situation, & perhaps disconcert all your prospects concerning this useful discovery; for you are not, with your experience in life, now to learn that the shoulders of the public are too broad to feel the weight of the complaints of an individual—or to regard promises, if they find it convenient, & have the shadow of plausibility on their side, to retract them. I will inform you further, that many people in guessing at your plan, have come very near the mark; & that one, who had something of a similar nature to offer to the public, wanted a Certificate from me that it was different from yours. I told him, that as I was not at liberty to declare what your plan was, so I did not think it proper to say what it was not.
Whatever may be your determination after this hint, I have only to request that my sentiments on the subject may be ascribed to friendly motives, & taken in good part.
I should be glad to know the exact state in which my houses at Bath are. I have fifty pounds ready, for which you may draw on me at any time; & I will settle for the whole as soon as possible.
Herewith you will receive a Magazine containing the estimates of the expence of the Canal in Scotland. It belongs to Mr Johnson who requested me to forward it to you after I had read it—to him you will be pleased to return the book when you are done with it. With esteem & regard I am Sir &c.

G: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Rochambeau, January 1786
From: Rochambeau, Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de
To: Washington, George

My Dear Général
Paris January the

I but receive now the letter Which you honoured me With on September the 7th ultimo. I Send at once to Captain Pusignan your answer, and I hope you Will be henceforth got clear from all those troublesome askings.
I am Enchanted of the continuation of your good health, of the calm that you are enjoing in the bosom of your family, and under the Shadow of your Laurels.
The Storms Which threatened us on the account of holland are Entirely dissipated, and the france as yet played, in this occasion, the fine part of moderatrix—The troubles for the succession of Bavaria Shall yet threaten us at the death of the Elector of Bavaria, or at that of the King of Prussia of Whom the health is old and reeling—he is at the head of a formidable confederation to hinder the Exchange to Which the Emperor has not renounced When the circumstances will permit it to him.
our Neighbours the English retrieve their finances, the young Pitt gets every day a great majority, and a great confidence in his nation by a good and Wise administration and oeconomy—the against part has lost one of its chief members by the nommination of M. Eden in the Station of commissary to make a treaty of commerce With the france, and they believe that the settlement of ireland will be consolidated this Winter.
I have seen Cornwallis last summer at Calais, he Was Sent by the King of England to Wait on the Duc of york, his son, to the instructive camps of the King of prussia. I gave him a supper in little committee: he Was Very polite, but, as you may believe, I could not drink With him your health in ⟨turn.⟩ The English treat us very politely but I think in the bosome of their hearts they do not love us more than they do they americans. I have many invitations from them to go to London, but I am not hurry to profit of it, and I lake better to See them on my hearths than

to go and See them on theirs own. they pretend, by their public papers, that they Wait only for the Construction of Some new forts upon their Limits to deliver up to you those Which they have on yours. it is a pretence that you Can better than any body judge of the value.
I am very glad that the respectable and old Docteur franklin has received in his Country the honour that they owe to his Services.
I beg of you, my Dear Général, to present my respects and give my best Compliments to Mad. Washington and to all your family, and be Well persuaded of my Eternal attachment and of the respect With Which I have the honour to be My Dear Géneral Your most obedient and Very humble servent,

le comte de Rochambeau


Title: To George Washington from La Luzerne, 3 February 1786
From: La Luzerne, Anne-César, chevalier de
To: Washington, George

Sir
Paris 3rd Feby, 1786

Mr Houdon Delivered me the Letter, That Your Excy Honoured me with of the 5th Novr And I have learnd with very great Satisfaction, that you have Enjoyed very good Health, & that you Promise to your Aquaintances a long Life, that has been Glorious, & Usefull to Your Country.
I return Your Excy my Most Sincere thanks for the Accurate Account, you have given me of the Affairs of the United States, & They are of the Same Opinion at Versailles that you are ⟨as to⟩ The Powers, that the Different States, Ought to Grant to Congress, for to enable them, to Regulate Commerce in General; And that Wise, & Prudent Measure Could not assuredly, Do any detriment to their liberty, & the Americans have Spirritt, & to good a knowledge, for not to be Sensible that the Foreign Powers, who are Interested in Commerce with them, could not Possibly Treat with the Thirteen States, Separately, who also having, all different Interests, could not agree, But for the Congress to adopt the General Measures, which alone could enable them, to Conduct it, for the Good of the Republick; I hope that the first News we Receive from America, will Inform us that

the Different Assembly’s have put the finishing Stroke to this Grand affair.
We are likewise very desirous, that Something decisively could be done upon the Article of Finances. for the Payment of the Publick Debt, or at least for the Int. of that Debt, In the event of the Ground Ceded by Treaty, some of whc. was not Inhabited before the War, They Should find it Insufficient to Satisfy the Creditors; I hope that the Legislators will be of the Same mind, & that they will Seriously think of means, to Clear themselves of it; We agree here to give to the American Trade, all the Assistance, that would be Cappable of Admitting, agreeing with the Interests of Both Nations.
All the Publick News Assure us, that the Forts Situated upon the Lakes & the River St Lawrence will not be given up to the Americans, & That the English, have made it a kind of Compensation for the Pretended Infraction of the Treaty of Peace; I have too good an Opinion of Mr Pitt, for to Believe, that If he had it in his Power, to Decide that dispute, that it would not be in favor of America, But the Minister has found a Party very Powerfull in the Opposition, that he is So much affraid of, that he Cannot follow the Measures, that he Believes reasonable to Propose, Some People Believe that there will be Soon a Change of the British Ministry; The Cabinett of London is full of Dissentions; All Europe is very Tranquille, & the Change of the Barrier whc. has made Such a noise, makes War appear more Distant than ever, It is Probable that the line of Germany (whc. has been the Fruits of Jealousies, that this Bartering was the cause of it) will Produce the Repose of Europe for a long time, The Interior Dissentions of Holland which was the cause of a great Noise in Europe, has not been of very Troublesome Consequences, that State has been at its ease, Since the Treaty with the Emperor, & its alliance Deffensive with France, although the Republican Party & the Stadtholder, appeared very much incensed, it is nevertheless Probable, that they will be reconciled for the good of the Republick.
I hope that Your Excy will in these moments remember, that you have in France, a Servant very much Attached, & who desires very Sincerely to Give Some Dissinterested Proofs, Of the

Perfect Consideration, & of the Respect with which he is Your Excelly Very Hble & Obedt servt

Le Du de le Luzerne

Will Madame Washington, do him the Honour to accept of his Respects.


Title: To George Washington from George Augustine Washington, 3 February 1786
From: Washington, George Augustine
To: Washington, George

Hond Uncle
Eltham February 3d 1786

A Letter from You always meets a most joyful reception—Your favor of the 24th of Decr, tho’ it had not a speedy conveyance gave us the latest information, and the most pleasing as it acquainted us that all were well at Mount Vernon—Not having been from this place since the receipt of Your Letter have had but little opportunity of making inquiry relative to its contents—I cannot ascertain that any person in this part of the Country is possess’ed of a She-Ass, the Secretary and General Nelson, are I am informed the most probable persons if they can I doubt not will most readily furnish You, and on terms that will be agreable—should I succeed in my commission I will with pleasure take it up with me—The Box which was in the hands of Mr Bracken Mr Bassett conceived hazardous to commit to the Stage, as the direction signified that great care was necessary He theirfore brought it to this place, hoping that a safer conveyance might offer—The Box is 2½ feet by 2¼ but I hope to devise some mode of bringing it safe to You—I have not yet finished Copying the Letters, owing to my not having arrived here so soon as I expected and interuptions of Company, but shall before I set out which will be about the end of the month, the weather pe[r]mitting, for I really most anxiously wish to see Mount Vernon again, the affection I have experienced from You and Mrs Washington has render’d it by much the most desireable place to me—The friendly invitation I received from You was a most pleasing mark of Your affection and I hoped a

signification of my conduct being approved by You, which will ever be of the first consideration to me and I most ardently hope that my efforts to deserve it, may equal my wishes—my experience in business but illy qu[a]lifys me for embarking in it, but under Your direction and from Your example I flatter myself I shall derive insight, and I must hope that my attention and integrity, will in some degree make amends for my deficiencies—On my arrival at Richmond I found that an act had been past in favor of the discharge of interest Certificates, on all Loan Office Warrants issued by this State, concieving it a mater of consequence supposing that You might be posses’ed of some, wrote You immediately hoping that I should give You timely information as I put the Letter in the hands of Doctr Lamoy, who was setting out for Fredericksburgh, and who promissed to give it a speedy conveyance from that place—he also took charge of 4 pr Shoes which I hope got safe—I had no propositions made for my Lot’s on my way through Fredericksburg—one of the Letters You forwarded was asking information and proposing a mode of payment which I fear cannot be made agreeable if He should accede to my terms—I am not yet acquainted with Colo. Bassett’s intentions, and I hope my conduct will not discover a disposition to be made so it will be my study to make myself agreeable to Him—Fanny joins me in most affectionate love to You Mrs Washington and the dear Children and Compliments to all inquiring friends—Colo. Bassett and the Young Gentlemen also desire to be rememberd[.] with the most refined sentiments I am Hond Uncle Your truely affectionate Nephew

Geo: A. Washington


Title: To George Washington from William Gordon, 4 February 1786
From: Gordon, William
To: Washington, George

My Dear Sir
Jamaica Plain [Mass.] Feby 4. 1786

The last week I had the pleasure of seeing Genl Lincoln, from whom I learnt, that You had been so obliging as to send me trees by his vessel, put into a tub or tubs with earth, to preserve them, till the season admits of their being planted. Your Excellency will be pleased to receive my most hearty thanks for this fresh proof of friendship. Believe I shall make an offer of them to Genl Lincoln, as I am about returning to my native country, should an opportunity offer the ensuing April, & my affairs be so far settled as to admit of my going so soon. I should plant them about my present dwelling, did I see any prospect of a successor’s being settled with the people; the want of which is no small affliction to me. When at London I design going to the press so as to allow of the History’s being finished & received by the subscribers the next May twelvemonth at farthest, indeed by the first spring ships of 87. I shall do myself the honour of writing to you, after I am safely arrived with my family, should it please God so to favour us. As I may possibly have something at one time or other to communicate, which I would wish to conceal from every one but yourself, I propose sending you a Cypher the next week, & if you approve of it let Cornwallis be the key, which keep secret in your own breast. Mrs Gordon joins in best regards to your Excellency, your Lady, my young friend, Mr & Mrs L. Washington & others, with Dear Sir Your sincere friend & very humble servant

William Gordon

May I request your presenting my respects to my good friend Mr Roberbeau & family, & acquainting him with my intention of sailing for Europe shortly, that he may double his kindness by forwarding the subscriptions to the utmost. Mean to write to him, time enough to admit of my receiving an answer on this side the Atlantic.


Title: To George Washington from John Marsden Pintard, 5 February 1786 [letter not found]
From: Pintard, John Marsden
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from John Marsden Pintard, 5 Feb. 1786. GW wrote Pintard on 20 May: “Your favors of the 24th of January & 5th Feby are at hand.”


Title: From George Washington to David Stuart, 5 February 1786
From: Washington, George
To: Stuart, David

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon Feby 5th 1786

The Vessel which brought the inclosed, has delivered the 800 Bushels of Oats for which you contracted with Mr Savage—Besides these, I have taken 100 more; for which I am to pay Flour. L. Washington has taken anothr & the remaining 200 hundred are taken to Alexandria for you.
I have engaged this Man to bring the Corn from York River—He expects to stay no longer than Monday (to morrow) at Alexandria; if you propose therefore to send Wheat fans by him to the Plantations below you have no time to loose in getting them on board.
I hope Mrs Stuart, to whom & yourself I offer congratulations on the encrease of your family, is quite recovered—With great esteem & regard I am—Dr Sir Yr Obedt & Affecte Servt

Go: Washington

Mrs Washington presents her love to Mrs Stuart and wishes to know how she is.


Title: To George Washington from Patrick Henry, 6 February 1786
From: Henry, Patrick
To: Washington, George

Gentlemen
Council Chamber [Richmond] feby 6th 1786

There are six men in the public Goal who are pardoned for capital Crimes on Condition of laboring for Years more or less. I beg to know whether the Company over which you preside will accept of these people to labor in accomplishing the purposes of your Institution. It will be expected that their Labor shall be considered as a Compensation for all the Expences of supporting them in the Condition of Laborers & of providing the necessary Means of preventing Escapes.
I beg to hear from you on this Subject soon as possible & am Gentlemen Your most obedient Servant

P. Henry


Title: To George Washington from Lafayette, 6 February 1786
From: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de
To: Washington, George

My dear General
Paris february the 6th 1786

Your letters September the 1st and November the 8th Have Safely Come to Hand for which I offer you thanks the Warmer and More affectionate as nothing, while we are separated, Can so much Rejoice Your friend’s Heart as the unspeakable Blessing to Hear from His Beloved General—a long time Has elapsed since which my letters Have Been unfrequent, Uninstering,

and Uncertain in point of Conveyance—My summer has been devoted to princes, soldiers and post Horses—and while I Have Been Rambling through Cassel, Brunswick, Berlin, Breslaw, Vienna, prague dresden, potsdam Again and Berlin, no opportunity offered that I could trust, nor even any that I could Hear of—since I am returned Home, no Packet Has Sailed, and this day for the first time, I can Safely write By a Packet Boat, and put My Letter into Mr Barret’s Hands, a Boston Gentleman Who is On His Return to America.
Altho’ my former letters Have Given You an Account of My journey, I must repeat to you, my dear General, that at Cassel I saw our Hessian friends, old Knip Among them, I told them they were very fine Fellows—they Returned thanks and Compliments—Ancient foes ever meet with pleasure, which However, I should think must be greater on the side that fought a successfull cause—at Brunswick I got Acquainted With the duke, formerly the Renowned Hereditary Prince, who is Now Arrived at the Height of Military Knowledge, and of the Confidence of the Prussian Army, in which, altho’ a Sovereign, He acts as a General—no officer at Berlin seemed to me so worthy of Attention as General Möllendorf whose Name you no doubt Have Heard—to potsdam I went to Make my Bow to the King, and notwisdanding what I Had Heard of Him, could not Help Being struck By that dress and Appearance of an old, Broken, dirty Corporal, coverd all over with Spanish snuff, with His Head almost leaning on one shoulder, and fingers quite distorted By the Gout. But what surprised me much more is the fire and some times the softeness of the most Beautifull Eyes I ever saw, which give as charming an expression to His phisiognomy as He Can take a Rough and threatening one at the Head of His troops—I went to Silesia where He Reviewed an army of 31 Bataillons, and 75 squadrons, Making in all thirty thousand men, seven thousand five hundred of whom were on Horse Back—for eight days I made dinners of three Hours with Him, when the Conversation was pretty much Confined at first to the duke of York the King and myself, and then to two or three more—which gave me the opportunity to Hear Him throughout, and to admire the Vivacity of His wit, the endearing charms of His adress and politness, so far that I did Conceive people could forget what a tyrannic, Hard Hearted, and selfish Man He

is—lord Cornwallis being there, He took Care to invite Him at table to a seat By me, Having the British King’s son on the other side, and to Make thousand questions on American affairs—Among others I Remember He Asked the duke of York if it was trüe you intended taking an House in London. from Silesia I Hastened to Vienna where I only stayed a few days, Had a very long Conference with the Emperor, saw the Generals Laudon and Lasey, And my Uncle the Ambassador with prince Kaunitz, and after those objects were fulfilled, I posted off through prague and dresden, to potsdam, where the troops were to Make sham fights and every kind of Warlike Maneuvres—Had I stayed in prussia, I might Have gone often to the old king’s who Has Been Most peculiarly Kind to me—But the very day I arrived at potsdam, He fell sick and was Near dying—the Maneuvers went on However—and there I Had new opportunities to Know the Hereditary prince of prussia, who is a good officer, an Honest Man, a Man of plain good sense, But does not come up to the Abilities of His two Uncles—this second Uncle prince Henry I Have Kept for the last, because it is By far the Best Acquaintance I Have Made—I don’t Examine who is the Greater General His Brother or He, a Question that divides the Military World—But to Abilities of the first Rate, Both as a soldier and a politician—to a perfect litterary knowledge, and all the Endowments of the Mind—He joins an Honest Heart, philantropic feelings, and rational ideas on the Rights of Mankind—I Have spent a fortnight with Him in His Country seat and We Keep up an epistolary Correspondance—as the king Was still Confined and Could not Bear Being seen in that situation, I determined neither to ask for leave of a visit, nor to wait untill He was up, and our Adieus Having taken place By letters, I Returned Home through Magdebourg where the duke of Brunswick Commanded Maneuvers similar to those of potsdam.
it is with the Highest satisfation that I saw the Prussian Army—Nothing Can Be Compared to the Beauty of the troops, the discipline that is diffused throughout, the simplicity of their Motions, the Uniformity of their Regiments—it is a plain Regular Machine that Has Been set these forty years, and Undergoes no alteration But what Can Make it simpler and lighter—Every supposition in war, and every Motion deriving from it, Has Been from a Constant use so much inculcated into their Heads, that

it became almost a Mechanic for them—were the Ressources of France, the Alertness of Her men, the intelligence of Her officers, and National Ambition and Moral delicacy Applied to such a Constant system, we Could Be as Superior to the prussians as our Army is now inferior to theirs—and that is saying great deal—I Have also seen the Austrians—But not together—their general system of Œconomy is more to be admired than the Maneuvres of their troops—their Machine is not plain—our Regiments are Better than theirs—and what advantage they might Have in a line over us, we Can surpass with a little use—indeed, I think there is more instruction of detail in some of our Best Regiments than those of the prussians—But their line Maneuvres infinitely Better than ours—the Austrian Army is much more numerous than either, and Costs much less than the french.
On my journey I Have Examined several fields of Battle, and the whole tour Has Been very useful to my Military instruction—it Has Been also made very agreable By the good Reception, and the flattering testimonies I Have met from those Crowns, staffs, and other great personages—there was at those Camps a croud of English officers—among whom Lord Cornwallis, Clels England, Abercrombie, Musgrave—on our side were Colonel Smith, general portail, and Gouvion—and often did Smith and Myself Make this observation that, Had we Been Unfortunate in the Contest, we would Have cut there a poor figure.
Where Ever I went, my dear General, I Had the pleasure to Hear Your Name pronounced with that Respect and enthusiasm which altho’ it is a matter of course, and I am so used to it, never fails to Make My Heart glow with Unspeakable Happiness—With Your Eulogium Began Every Conversation on American Affairs—And to Be Your friend, Your disciple, and Your Adoptive son Was, as it ever Has Been, and Will Be for ever, the pride of my Heart, and the Most pleasing of my thoughts—I wish the other Sentiments I Have Had occasion to discover with Respect to America were Equally satisfactory with those that are personal to you—I need not saying that the spirit, the firmness with which the Revolution Was Carried Has Excited Universal Admiration—that Every one who Cares Any thing about the Rights of Mankind is an Enthusiast for the principles on which the

Constitutions are Built—But I Have often had the Mortification to Hear that the want of powers in Congress, of Union Between the States, of Energy in their Government should Make the Consideration very insignificant—The fact is that those people, Generally Speacking, know very little of the Advantages of democratical governements, of the Ressources to Be found in a free Nation, and the parties which are essentially deriving from the Constitution—But they Cannot Help Being more forcibly struck with all the Blemishes which we Have so often lamented together—it is Conveyed to them through Every Newspaper, and Great pains are taken By the British Ambassadors to Confirm the Reports which they themselves Have Raised—Numberless of these Notions I Have set to Right—the King of prussia, the Emperor, the Great Men in Both Countries I found either ill informed, or informed By people who Had led them the wrong path—By their Conduct in the Revolution, the Citizens of America Have commanded the Respect of the World—But it grieves me to think they will in a Measure loose it, unless they strengthen the Confederation, give Congress powers to Regulate the trade, pay off their debt or at least the interest of it, establish a well Regulated Militia, in a word Compleat all these Measures which You Have Recommended to them—I give very frankly My opinion to Congress on this subject, and will write on the Same tune to all my friends on that Side of the Atlantik.
There are, I am told, Some Better Hopes of a Commercial treaty with Great Britain—their Rancour is Boundless—But I flatter Myself their Mercantile interest will get the Better—I long for the surrender of the Posts, and wish the plenipotentiaries Had Given themselves time to Make France guarantee for the treaty—this Blunder of theirs Has occasioned Great Mischief—My Endeavours are to convince France it is their interest to obtain a Measure that gives them a large share in the indian trade—But in Case Matters were Brought to decided Measures Against Great Britain, Upon You, my dear General, I depend to Know it in time, and to indulge My Wishes to Render further Services to the United States.
Houdon is Arrived in Paris—But Has not Yet Brought Your Bust which He Expects By Water from London—I wait impatiently for it, and am very Sanguine in My Hopes of its likeness with you—On Hearing of the King of Spain’s Compliment, I

Had suspended my Negotiation for Asses—what Now Happens is to me a further proof that Kings are Good for Nothing But to Spoil the Sport, Even When they Mean Right—let your Royal Business Go on as it May, I Have Requested Admiral Suffrein to get for me a jack Ass and two females, and Before the Summer is over they will Be Rolling on the Banks of the Pottowmack, and I wish to god I May do the Same—Your letter to M. doillamson Has Been forwarded, with Your Compliments to the lady—I Have also spoken to Marquis de St Simon, But Wish You May write to Him, Because He Has His share of Vanity, and will Be glad if you pay affectionate Compliments to Him, and show a Regard for M. de Menonville His Adjudant General, disclaiming the right to make Cincinnati, and leaving it with Your Best wishes with the Society in Europe—Captain littlepage delivered to me some letters for Holland which I Have sent—His quarrell with M. jay seems to me very indecent, and I Can’t Conceive that jay, for so small a debt, Could Condescend to enter the lists with a young man.
it Has Been a Great Satisfaction to me, My dear General, to Hear of My friend George’s Matrimonial Happiness—as I write to Him on the Subject I will not trouble you with my Compliments to the Young Couple. I Give You joy on the success of Your pottowmack plans—there is no doubt But what a good Engeneer May Be found in this Country to Conduct the Work—France in this point Exceeds England—and will Have, I think, Every Advantage But that of the language which is something, altho’ it may Be Replaced By the Help of interpreters—an application from M. Jefferson and Myself to the Ministry, and More particularly an intimation that You set a value By that Measure, will insure to us the Choice of a good Engeneer—they are different from the Military ones, and are Called ingenieurs des ponts et chaussées; I think five Hundred guineas a year while the Business lasts, and an Assurance Not to loose His Rank in france will Be sufficient to provide you with the Gentleman You Want.
I Cannot finish this long letter, My dear General, without telling You a Word of European politicks—the System of france is Quite pacific—the Nation Feels a partiality for prussia—Austrian interest, Betwen us, is much supported By the Queen—Count de Vergennes is not inclined this Way, But acts with Caution—from that it Results that We Will patch up as much as We

Can—that the Ambitious views of the Emperor will not Be so decidedly opposed as we might do it—The plans of prussia will Be Cramped By us—But should matters Come to an Extremity, and the Emperor set out on a Wild Scheme Against prussia, we will then be forced to a War Against Him, as the opinion of the people, and that of the Ministry, Most of them at least, is Opposed to imperial Encroachements—With Respect to England, we are Rivalizing Each other, But pretty friendly for the present, and pay Great Regard to our Respective Nations—a treaty of Commerce is upon the Carpet, and I think our politicks on the Continent draw pretty much the Same Way, that of avoiding a War, which However England Wishes to Engage us in, provided she is dispensed with taking a part in it—our Alliance with Holland Has made them very Angry, and I think it very Advantageous to us. We are very Busy about Making a Harbour at Cherbourg which is a Wonderfull Undertaking, as it is Made with piles of stones thrown in the High Sea, and will succeed very well—our financeer and Baron de Breteuil are in a oppen dispute, and I don’t think the former will last long—But I need not teazing you with the intrigues of Versailles—I thank you most tenderly, my dear General, for the Caution You Give me, which I will improve, and find that Satisfaction in my prudence to think it is dictated By You—I Hope, Betwen us, that in the Course of Next winter the affair of the protestants Will take a Good turn—an other Secret I intrust to you, my dear General, is that I Have purchased for Hundred And twenty five thousand French livres a plantation in the Colony of Cayenne and am going to free my Negroes in order to Make that Experiment which you know is My Hobby Horse.
Great Britain is a little Embarrassed in Her irish Concerns—Some Say their affairs in india are not well—Notwisdanding these Reports, india is to them an immense, amazing source of wealth and power—it seems they are Moderating their Bitter Expressions, their injurious publications Against America, and from what M. Adams writes, I Hope they will, altho’ it is slowly, Come into More Rational Measures with Respect to the United States.
The king of prussia is about leaving the stage and Cannot last long—the last accounts from potsdam are very Bad—it will Make But little odds in politicks if His Nephew, as He will no

doubt Be obliged to do, follows the Advices of prince Henry—the first idea of the Emperor will Certainly Be to do some thing—But I don’t Believe this will produce a War, altho’ there is No Knowing it with a Man of His temper.
While on my tour, I need not Saying that I Have Said in Conversations with the Two Monarchs and Every Body all What I thought could tend to the Advantage of America—in this Country I am endeavouring to oppen as Many Channels as I Can for American trade—There are far above 25 million french livres Worth of Articles that the United States Might furnish to france—those Remittances I Want to Have encouraged By Every possible favour—Upon my applications a Committee has Been Named Which I am to attend to morrow—the last part of my Business will not Be an Easy matter—for it tends to No less than the destruction of the tobacco farm, the greatest Barrier Against American trade—But I don’t Hope my Speeches Can produce such an effect—M. Barret who takes Care of this letter, is going to Boston with a six years Contract for whale oil of four Hundred thousand french livres a year.
Words Cannot Sufficiently Express to You How much I am pleased with Mr Jefferson’s public Conduct—He Unites every Ability that Can Recommend Him With the Ministers, and at the time possesses Accomplishements of the mind and the Heart which Cannot But Give Him Many friends. Humphreys is Now in England—LangBourne is Arrived in Paris these two weecks—But the same queer fellow you know Him to Be, and you will Hardly Believe that I could not as yet prevail on Him to Come and see me.
it is with the utmost Regret, my dear General, that I Heard the losses Mrs Washington Had the Unfortunate Occasion to lament—I Hope she knows my Heart well Enough to Be Certain it Has Most Affectionately Simpathised With Hers—I Beg her to Accept the Homage of my tender Respects—Madame de Lafayette and the little family Beg to Be Respectfully Remembered to Her, as well as to You, My Beloved General—My Best Compliments Wait on all the inHabitants of Mount Vernon, on all our friends You Happen to Meet, old Harrison when You write to Him, My friend tub, and the young ladies—my Best Respects to Mrs Stuart, to the docter, to Mr Lund and Most affectionately I Beg to Be Remembered to Your own family, particularly to

Your Respected Mother. I Beg leave to Send under Cover to You a few trifles to Be presented to tub and His Sisters. Adieu, My dear General, You know How affectionately and Respectfully I Have the Honour to Be Your devoted and filial friend

Lafayette


Title: From George Washington to Benjamin Lincoln, 6 February 1786
From: Washington, George
To: Lincoln, Benjamin

My dear Sir
Mount Vernon 6th Feb: 1786

Your favour of the 4th of Jany never reached me till yesterday, or the receipt of it should have had an earlier acknowledgement.
Let me in the first place thank you for your kind attention to my enquiries. And in the next, pray you to learn, precisely from Mr Lear, upon what terms he would come to me; for I am not inclined to leave matters of this sort to after discussion, or misconception. Whatever agreement is previously made, shall be pointedly fulfilled on my part, wch will prevent every cause of complaint on his.
Mr Lear, or any other who may come into my family in the blended characters of preceptor to the Children, and as a Clerk or private Secretary to me, will sit at my Table—will live as I live—will mix with the Company which resort to the Ho.—and will be treated in every respect with civility, and proper attention. He will have his washing done in the family, and may have his linnen & Stockings mended by the Maids of it.
The duties which will be required of him are, generally, such as appertain to the Offices before-mentioned. The first will be

very trifling ’till the Children are a little more advanced—and the latter will be equally so as my corrispondencies decline (which I am endeavouring to effect); and after accts, and other old matters are brought up. To descend more minutely into his avocations I am unable, because occasional matters may require particular Services; nothing how ever derogatory will be asked, or expected.
After this explanation of my wants, I request Mr Lear would mention the annual sum he will expect for these Services; and I will give him a decided answer by the return of the Stages, which now carry the Mail & travel quick—A good hand, as well as proper diction would be a recommendation; on acct of fair entries; and for the benefit of the Children, who will have to copy after it.
The discovery of extracting fresh Water from Salt Water, by a simple process, and without the aid of fire, will be of amazing importance to the Sons of Neptune; if it is not viciated, or rendered nausious by the operation; but can be made to answer all the valuable purposes of other fresh Water, at Sea. Every Maritime power in the world, in this case, ought, in my opinion, to offer some acknowledgment to the Inventor—With sentiments of great regard & friendship I am My dear Sir Yr Affecte Hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Bryan Fairfax, 7 February 1786
From: Fairfax, Bryan
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Towlston Febry the 7th 1786.

I received the Favor of Yr Letter from the Great Falls—and was sorry that I did not hear of your being there till after your departure as I should certainly have done myself the pleasure of waiting on You, especially as I had had thoughts from time to time of taking a Ride there. I was the more concerned to hear of your setting off at Night, and was a little afraid that your delicacy in regard to giving trouble at a late hour prevented You from calling at Towlston. But Mr Stewart according to his own Account was to blame, for a man ought not to suffer his own Zeal to oppose entirely the Will of his Patron or best Friend.

With regard to the Wood cut at the Place I purpose to inform Mr Potts, that as I expect and have not doubted but that ample Satisfaction would be made me I am easy with regard to what has been cut, as well as what may be used, which may be settled at a future day. A Man has applied to me for an Acre of ground thereabouts, but I have declined it, not knowing but it might be disagreeable to the Board, and I am since glad that I did, because he might have kept a tipling house and been hurtful—and therefore shall continue to deny till at some future meeting here I may mention the Subject. I am with great Regard, Dr Sir Yr most obliged & obedt Servt

Bryan Fairfax


Title: To George Washington from John Fitzgerald, 7 February 1786
From: Fitzgerald, John
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
[Alexandria, 7 February 1786]

Upon coming home I immedeatily Conversed with Colo. Lyles on the Subject of the Importation of a She Ass for you & also with the Captain[.] Colo. Lyles is very desirous to effect it & will if it is practicable—The Captain not having any expectation of orders in that way made no enquiry respecting them he says they are plenty & he believes there is no difficulty in obtaining them[.] I think the best way will be for you to Ship 20 or 25 bbls S. fine flour, for which I understand there is room, & in case of disappointmt Colo. Lyles is willing either to be accountable here at the price or run the risque of the Market as you think best[.] the Vessell I believe will be ready to sail by Saturday or Sunday. I much want to go up to Berkeley but my Business is such at this time that I believe it will not be in my power for 8 or ten days if then, I will however take care to let you know before I sett out. I am Dear Sir with perfect respect & Esteem yr Obedt Servt

John Fitzgerald

P.S. Mr Rumsey called upon me late the other evening & the only Conclusion we could come upon was that the President & Directors were to hold themselves in readiness to meet by the first of March unless advised previously that the Meeting could be put off without injury to the 15th.


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Smith, 7 February 1786
From: Smith, Thomas
To: Washington, George

Sir
Carlisle [Pa.] 7th February 1786

Major McCormick has this moment called on me in his way through this Place, & informed me that he means to go from Philadelphia by Mount-Vernon on his way home; as his company pursue their Journey in a quarter of an hour, I cannot have the honour of writing more than just to acknowledge the receipt of your Letter of the 7th of December—one Copy of which I received the Day before I went to the Western Courts, & the other was deliverd to me on my journey. until I had the honour of being employed by General Washington, I was vain enough to believe that I had some small claim to the reputation of punctuality & accuracy in my business; but now I am convinced that I ought to blush at my want of both.
Mr McCormick can give you every information that I could add, and more—he will also take your directions—It will be necessary that some one Person near the spot should engage to secure such Supœnas as may be thought proper; because when any kind of business is trusted to many it is seldom well done. I am not yet informed when the Judges go to Washington County, nor which two of them go—as soon as I gain this knowledge, I will again have the honour of assuring you that I am, Sir, with the greatest respect your most obedient humble Servant

Thomas Smith


Title: From George Washington to George Savage, 8 February 1786
From: Washington, George
To: Savage, George

Sir,
Mount Vernon 8th Feby 1786.

Your skipper, Mr Jno. Whitney, has delivered me eight hundred bushels of oats agreeably to the contract made with Doctr Stuart in my behalf—They are good & clean, for which I thank you.
Mr Whitney informing me that he was authorized to provide

a freight for the Schooner he is in, I have engaged him positively, to bring me eight hundred bushels of Indian corn from the plantations of the deceased Mr Custis on Pamunky river. I hope it is to be had at the lowest plantation (a few miles above West point)—but of this I am not certain—I am to pay him six pence a bushel freight, delivered at my landing.
I expect no delay or disappointment will take place in this contract, as I have had the offer of two other vessels on the same terms, & have rejected them on account of this engagement. I am Sir &c.

G: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Clement Biddle, 10 February 1786
From: Washington, George
To: Biddle, Clement

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon Feb: 10th 1786

A hasty letter which I wrote to you by Colo. Grayson was accompanied with ten half Johans.—the application of which I informed you shd be directed in a subsequent letter.
Let me now request the favour of you to send me the following articles if to be had.
A pair of Boots, and two pair of Shoes, to be made by Mr Star (who has my measure) agreeably to the enclosed Memo.
Young’s Six Months tour through England (his tour thro’ Ireld I have).
The Gentleman Farmer—by Henry Home.
Tulls Husbandry. All to be neatly bound & lettered.
200 Weight of Clover Seed—to be fresh and good.

                  12 lbs. of Saint foin seed.
                  }
                  If to be had good

                  6 lbs. of the field Burnet

A Common Hunting horn of the largest and best sort.
It will readily occur to you, my good Sir, that these Seeds (as they are to be sown this spring) cannot be forwarded too soon. I ought indeed to have wrote for them at an earlier period, but they may yet arrive at a proper Season if they are quickly dispatched.

At any rate, inform me if they are to be had, & the prospect there is of forwarding them, for thereon will depend my preparation of the ground.
The Gazettes which were furnished by Mr Dunlap, for my use, during my Military appointment, ought, undoubtedly to be paid for by the public—and I had no doubt but that this had been done, regularly, by the Qr Mr General or his assistt in the State of Pensylvania—If the case is otherwise, I am ready to give my aid towards his obtaining it. My respects to Mrs Biddle. I am—Dear Sir, Yr Most Obedt Hble Servt

Go: Washington

I pray you to be pointed with respt to the goodness of the Seeds: an imposition of bad Seeds is a robbery of the worst kind; for your pocket not only suffers by it but your preparations are lost—& a season passes away unimproved.


Title: To George Washington from William Hartshorne, 10 February 1786
From: Hartshorne, William
To: Washington, George

Sir
Alexandria February 10th 1786

I have a Letter of the 3d inst. from my Freind Israel Thompson who says he is glad he has it in his power to Supply you with the Buckwheat I wrote for, for your use—The Flaxseed he was doubtfull would be Scarcely got of that which is good, but he would use his utmost endeavors—he had a⟨nother⟩ by him, which should be sent if he could no⟨t do be⟩tter—I have desired him to forward both ki⟨nds as⟩ soon as he could get such as would answer.

As I shall shortly have Occasion to send my account against Capt. David Pearce of New England, shall be glad to know how much I am to charge you for the Freight &c. of the Jack Ass brought in his Ship from Spain. Mr Shaw said he would enquire the Freight of a Horse from London which when known, I believe there will be no difficulty, as the Bill Lading seems to Settle other matters except triffles. I am respectfully Yours

Wm Hartshorne


Title: To George Washington from Pierre François Cozette, 15 February 1786
From: Cozette, Pierre François
To: Washington, George

Monsieur
a l’orient le 15 fevrier 1786.

J’ay eté chargé en 1765 de faire pour l’hotel des Bureaux de la Guerre à Versailles, le Portrait a cheval du feu Roy Louis quinze. l’Esquisse de ce tableau que j’ay fait avec beaucoup de soins m’est resté, et je suis absolument le maitre d’en disposer. je ne me permetteray aucunne reflexion sur ce que cette Esquisse qui a le meritte de la ressemblance est encore entre mes mains et ignoré, je l’y trouve deplacé, et le desir qu’il soit mieux m’a fait penser a l’offrire a quelqu’un qui peut en faire un peu de cas. Cette idée Monsieur, m’a fait naitre celle de vous supplier de me permettre de Vous en faire l’homage. Daignez l’accepter Monsieur, comme un temoignage de la Veneration, et du Respect que m’ont inspiré vos vertus.
Le Major l’Enfant, de qui je suis l’amy depuis qu’il est né poura si vous daignez vous en informer, vous instruire Monsieur de ce que je suis. il me connoit bien. mon mediocre talent ne m’a jamais donné de pretentions indiscrettes, quoy que j’aie fait d’assez bonnes choses, mais je me croiray, de domagé, des desagrements que les circonstances m’ont obligé de supporter si vous daignez Monsieur, ne pas rejetter l’offre que je prends la

liberté de Vous faire de cette Esquisse, et l’assurance du profond Respect avec le quel je suis. Monsieur, Votre tres humble et tres obeissant Serviteur.

Cozette,

Professeur de dessein des Cadets Gentils-hommes des colonies


Title: To George Washington from William Gordon, 16 February 1786
From: Gordon, William
To: Washington, George

My dear Sir
Jamaica Plain [Mass.] Feby 16. 1786

Yesterday I recd from Boston the box with the shrubs. They look as well as I could expect, & am greatly obliged to you for them. How far the severe frosts may have damaged them, must be left to the approaching spring to discover. I have some thoughts of taking a number of them with me to London. Should Providence fix me in that spot or neighbourhood, shall endeavour to furnish your garden & shrubbery, with flowers & plants, that may keep up the remembrance of an absent friend.
Since writing about the Memoir &c. have had an opportunity of satisfying myself as to several particulars. Still I am obliged to you, for what you have written.
The enemy came out in force from Philadelphia to surprize the Marquis; but I have not yet met with positive proof of their being commanded by Genl Howe in person. This matter I shall be able to ascertain when in London.
I rejoice most sincerely, that the difficulties respecting the navigation of the Patowmack decrease instead of increasing.

The obliging manner in which your Excellency & your Lady have been pleased to accept the trifling token of my strong gratitude is peculiarly pleasing.
When young people fulfill engagements of long standing, they do themselves honour & prove the genuineness of their affections. May your nephew & niece live long mutual blessings to each other; & a joy & comfort to all around them. I pray to be kindly remembered to them; as also to the Dr & his lady & children at Alexandria; not forgetting Mr & Mrs Lund Washington, & upon no account my young friend.
Have reason for thankfulness, that upon the whole we enjoy good health.
Have drawn out the cypher (which I shall enclose) & given a specimen of the mode of working with it. To you it may have no novelty. I remain with sincerest regards Your Excellency’s very humble servant

William Gordon

Col. Henley is likely to be a widower in a short time.


Title: To George Washington from Henry Lee, Jr., 16 February 1786
From: Lee, Henry Jr.
To: Washington, George

My dear General
New York 16th Feby 86

You desired to hear from me now and then, when I left Virginia. I obey your wishes with pleasure, & must assure you, that I continue to feel the same unabating zeal to administer to your happiness, which my public duty formerly commanded from me. I wish that my communications may be always agreable; I apprehend your solicitude for the honor & prosperity of a nation formed under your auspices will illy relish intelligence ominous of its destruction. But so circumstanced is the federal government, that its death cannot be very far distant, unless

immediate and adequate exertions are made by the several states.
The period is hurrying on, when no longer delay can be permitted.
The late returns from the continental receivers in the different states prove unanimity in one point among the members of the Union—no money—Congress impressed with the lamentable effects which await the United states from their adherence to temporary and disunited exertions, again have addressed the states. I enclose it—If success attends, we may divert the evils which menace our existence & may still enjoy that happiness which we so arduously contended for. But should the same supineness continue in our councils, jealousy instead of patriotism direct the measures of our governments, consequences most distressing must certainly ensue. Part of the principal of our foreign loans is due next year, & no certain means yet devized to pay even the interest.
Our agents have arrived in Morrocco, and Algiers, & we have some hopes that their negotiations may be successful.
It is very doubtful how our commissioners may succeed with the indians. We have too much reason to fear a war, which among other evils will encrease our finance embarrassments. People here are very inquisitive about the progress of the potomack navigation—the moment that business wears the prospect of certainty, rich emigrants from all the eastern states will flock to our towns. The assembly of this state are in session, & will emit 200,000£ paper. They are violent enemys to the impost, & I fear even the impending and approaching dangers to the existence of the Union will not move them—Please to present my respects to Mrs Washington & accept the best wishes of your friend & h. ser.

H: Lee junr


Title: To George Washington from George Savage, 18 February 1786
From: Savage, George
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Northampton Feby 18th 1786

Yours by my Skipper Mr Whitney enclosing a Rect for the Oats Contracted for with Doctr Stewart came safe to hand; and in Consequence of the Agreement Mr Whitney entered into with your Excellency, have sent the Schooner Molly & Betsey off to Pamunky for the Corn which I hope will arrive at your Excellency’s Landing in good order & in due time—The want of a new Jibb oblig’d me to detain the Schooner 3 or 4 days. I am your Excellency’s most Obedt hum. Servt

George Savage


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

Letter not found: from Clement Biddle, 19 Feb. 1786. GW wrote Biddle on 18 May: “Your favors of the 19th of Feby . . . [is] before me.”


Title: Agreement with William Halley, 20 February 1786
From: Halley, William,Smith, Alexander
To:

February 20th 1786

I have this Day agree’d to pay for the Use of Genrl Washingtons House and Lott in the Town of Alexandria (lately occupy’d by Doctr Wm Brown) for the Term of one year from this Date Forty Pound Specie, to Fence in the Lott with a Good and sufficient Fence either of Post and Rail or Plank, to cleanse and repair

the drain leadg from the Cellar and Glaze the Windows of the said House.

William Halley

I promise to see the above engagement fullfil’d.

Alexandr Smith


Title: From George Washington to William Hartshorne, 20 February 1786
From: Washington, George
To: Hartshorne, William

Sir,
Mot Vernon 20th Feby 1786.

I ought to have acknowledged the receipt of your letter of the 10th sooner, tho’ I am at a loss what answer to give it now.
When I sent to Boston for my Jackass, which was previous to the presentation of Captn Pearce’s order, tho’ subsequent to the date of it, I requested Mr Cushing (the Lieut: Governor) to whose care this animal was addressed, to pay all the charges which had accrued for freight & other accidental expences attending the importation [of] him, and to draw upon me for the amount. In consequence I have answered a Draft, to Mr Taylor of your town, for 300 Dollars; & was informed by Mr Cushing,

by letter of equal date with the Draft, that he had not at that time been able to obtain Captn Pearce’s Accot—but that it should be transmitted as soon as the matter could be settled with him. In this way the thing has lain ever since; Post after Post I have been looking for some further advice respecting this business, but hitherto in vain. I am ready at any moment to answer Captn Pearce’s demand, when it is properly ascertained (if it has not been already paid) but it would be inconvenient for me to advance the money twice; of this, I think both Mr Shaw & L. Washington were requested some time ago to inform you—for if the 300 Dollars has not, in part, been appropriated to the payment of Captn Pearce’s demand, I know not for what purpose the order was drawn upon me. All the other charges did not amount to more than one third of that sum.
I depended so much upon others to enquire into the usual freight of a horse from London to this Country, as not, hitherto, to have taken any steps myself, to obtain information; & it is to be feared none has been taken, either by Mr Shaw or L. W——, nor do I know at this moment where to direct my enquiries.
I am thankful for your attention to my request respecting the Buck wheat and Flax seeds, & shall be glad to know when they arrive, as I wish to secure all my Seeds for Spring sowing, in time. I am Sir, Yr most Obt Servant

G: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Battaile Muse, 20 February 1786
From: Muse, Battaile
To: Washington, George

Honourable Sir,
Berkeley C[oun]ty February 20th 1786

Your Favour by Daniel McPherson dated Jany The 27th Last I received, Its out of my power To grant Him a Lease for Lott No. 18 on the first Condition—all the arrears of rents are not Paid up and admiting they were, I See no obligation For Him To have a Lease, the man has been Ignorant in Purchaseing what the Seller Cannot Justify. I repeatedly offered Him the Place on Terms I think Justifiable, but He refuses. I have now To rent it on the best Terms I can for your Interest as well some other Lotts on the Same Tract—the First day of March I have advertised I shall attend To rent the Vacated Lotts, they have been Advertised all the winter but none has apply’d but one, that I would admitt as Tenant. the money that McPherson Paid in my opinion Should go To the Credit of Lott No. 18 and Not To Mrs Lemarts accts as She is not charged with arrears of that Lott, on which acct the money was Paid.
Your Favour dated the 4th Instant I receiv’d by the Last Post—I was very Sorry the butter did not get down in Time, not on acct of the high price, but on acct of my Promise. it lay on the road many weeks as a Quantity of my wheat does at this Time, I had Four waggones Last week returned after reaching as Far as Leesburg owing To the roads & weather being so Severe—the Quantity of wheat I engaged has been ready Some Time, but the roads are not Passable, as their is some on the roads—I cannot say what Quantity has been delivered. I will do all I can To get it down Early. If my overseers in Loudoun do not clean the wheat well I wish your miller would write To them as I Well Know they are Generally Diatily Inclined—the wheat From My House I see well clean’d. I shall Collect all the money I Possable Can From the Tenants before the 20th of april & Shall be down about that Time. I have Collected about £110 Clear of Charges, and I expect To Collect about as much more, but that depends on chance as many of the Tenants are Pooer and Money Very Scarce.
I observe all your Instructions and Friendly Powers given me in the Settlement of the Tenants Accts I Shall attend To all things as Far as my Knowledge Extends—the accts will not be settled this year if so, it will be Late Next Fall—as there are many things

Doubtfull with me—I Find you have given a receipt on John Dyers Lease for rent you Say became due 1774 the Lease Sayes 1770—in Griggs acct He is over charged—Lott No. 16 Ezekiel Phillips is charged with £20. in another place Abraham Morgan is Charged with Lott No. 16 £58.14.0—Some Tenants has not receipts—others do not chews To settle at present as they want Time To avoid distresses—under those Circumstances a Stranger as I am To those accts might Commit and Errour—was my Reason (as Far as I at present recolect) for saying that at a Future day To Explain Every Circumstance Respecting these Accts Put into my hands might be difficult To do—So Clearly as I wish all things To appear From my Transactions—I do not desire any Farther Powers—I Shall Take Care To Close no acct or make Final Settlement (only in desperate cases where distresses are required) unless all things appear Clear To my understanding—To go Farther on this Subject would be Tedious To you as I am sinceble that your are Crouded with Perplexsities the Time Draws nigh when I expect To make ⟨a⟩ Proper report of my Transactions, I should not have ⟨trou⟩bled you on the business so much as I have done only from ⟨pr⟩inciple of wishing To do well. I have seen Mr Scott He sayes Mr Jenny gives a wrong representation of the Lines—when I go down I shall Enquire Farther in the matter—but do not at this Time Intend To make a survey untill the Tenaments on that Tract are Properly Pointed out, so as to do all the Surveying business at once To prevent Trouble as well Expences. I beg Leave To present my Self—To be your Faithfull Obedient and Very Humble Servant

Battaile Muse


Title: From George Washington to William Hartshorne, 21 February 1785 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Hartshorne, William

Letter not found: to William Hartshorne, 21 Feb. 1785. On 25 Mar. Hartshorne wrote GW: “Your favor of the 21st inst. came.”


Title: To George Washington from George Taylor, Jr., 21 February 1786
From: Taylor, George Jr.
To: Washington, George

Sir,
New York 21st February 1786.

Since the beginning of the Season for gathering Fruit, I have been very particular in my Inquiries for an Opportunity to send the Apples which Your Excellency was pleased to Honor me with a Commission to Purchase, all which have hitherto proved unsuccessful, and had I not met with a disappointment in November last, I should now have been incapable of embracing the

present Conveyance. At that Time I was told by a Gentleman belonging to the House of Messrs Murry & Co., who have also a House at Alexandria, that a Vessel would go from thence to that Place. Upon this, I purchased six Barrels, (Copy of the Bill of which I do myself the Honor to send your Excellency herewith enclosed), and in a few Days after was informed that she was sold. I therefore thought it advisable to keep them ’till a good Opportunity should offer, and of this desired Mr Fairfax, when here, to inform your Excellency, and that should I not be able to send them in Season, I would keep them ’till the Spring, at which Time they would probably be more acceptable.
Not having since heard of any, for Alexandria, till the present Vessel, I have had the six Barrels examined with Attention, and find only five of them in good order, which I have herewith put on board of her. I could have wished they were larger, but believe they were as large as any exposed for Sale the last Season, as the Man of whom I purchased them is said to have one of the best Orchards on Long Island. Indeed their keeping so well is a proof of their being good and gathered with Care.
I am sorry that the Season for Lobsters is past. Permit me, however, the Honor of presenting to Your Excellency a few Pickled and Fried Oysters preserved in Pots—there are Eight of the former and Four of the latter packed in two Boxes, for which, and the five Barrels of Apples, I also do myself the Honor to enclose the Captains Receipt. They are done by a very decent Woman and one who is accustomed to preserve them for the West Indies. I shall be happy if, on their Arrival, they should prove acceptable, and hope that the Pleasure and Satisfaction in using them, may be equal to that which I feel in presenting them.
I shall always esteem myself highly honored in executing any Commands which Your Excellency may be pleased to confide to me.
Permit me to present my most Respectful Compliments to Mrs Washington & Family. I have the Honor to be with the highest Respect, Your Excellency’s, Most Obedient, And Very humble servant

Geo. Taylor Junr

   I shall do myself the Honor to send a Duplicate of this Letter by the Post.


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Cushing, 22 February 1786 [letter not found]
From: Cushing, Thomas
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Thomas Cushing, 22 Feb. 1786. GW wrote Cushing on 5 April 1786: “I have now the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your several favors of. . . 22d of Feby.”


Title: To George Washington from David Ramsay, 22 February 1786
From: Ramsay, David
To: Washington, George

Sir
New: York Feby 22d 1786

I beg that you would do me the honor to accept a copy of a book I have lately published & which is herewith transmitted. I only regret that my remote situation precluded me from comprehending the operations of the middle & eastern States in which you were the principal actor. Should the perusal give you a moments pleasure I shall be happy. At all events I beg you would accept it as a token of my gratitude for the important services you have rendered our common country & as an evidence of the particular esteem in which you are held by your Excellencys most obedient & very humble servt

David Ramsay


Title: From George Washington to James Taylor, 22 February 1786 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Taylor, James

Letter not found: to James Taylor, 22 Feb. 1786. On 13 Mar. Taylor wrote GW: “I had the Honor of yours of 22d febry.”


Title: From George Washington to Tench Tilghman, 22 February 1786
From: Washington, George
To: Tilghman, Tench

Dear Sir
Mount Vernon 22d Feby 1786

If you have reduced the agreement with Mr Rollins to writing, I should be glad to receive it, and the plan by wch the Work is to be executed, as soon as convenient. At any rate the latter, if I am to depend upon Mr Rollins for the execution; because my Joiners assure me, that if any thing is to be done in their way, to the doors or Windows, it must preceed the Stuccoing—& that the plan must be their guide.
This induces me once more to call upon Mr Rollins for particular directions for them (if any are necessary) that there may be no delay; nor any thing wanting on my part previous to his arrival—If this cannot be done by writing—nor prepared in proper time after he comes by four or five workmen (which I have) I would, if he does not consider it to fall within the spirit of the agreement, rather bear the expence of his journey hither myself, than error, or delay, should result from a want of proper instruction. With great regard, and sincere attachment I am—Dear Sir Your Affecte & Obedt Servt

Go: Washington

P.S. If any body within your circle, hath lately imported a horse from London (I suppose any other part of England will be the same) you would oblige me by enquiring what the freight of him was. This, not comprehending the provision for the voyage, is the freight I am to pay for my Jackass, to Boston.


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Newton, 24 February 1786 [letter not found]
From: Newton, Thomas
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Thomas Newton, 24 Feb. 1786. On 9 April GW wrote Newton: “I have been favored with your letters of. . . 24th of Febry.”


Title: From George Washington to Robert Edge Pine, 26 February 1786
From: Washington, George
To: Pine, Robert Edge

Sir,
Mount Vernon 26th Feby 1786.

Your favor of the 16th of Decemr (tho’ some what delayed) came safely to hand.
The pictures arrived shortly after in good order, & meet the approbation of Mrs Washington & myself—the first of whom thanks you for the portrait of Fanny Washington, with which you have been so polite to present her—she with the Major are on a visit to her friends in the lower parts of this State, & have been so since the middle of December.
It is some time since I requested a Gentleman of Annapolis (who is owing me money & was to have sent it to me) to pay you Twenty guineas & sixteen Dollars; the first for balance due on the pictures—the latter for their frames; but having heard nothing from him respecting it, I begin to suspect it never has been done, & therefore send these sums by Mr Hunter of Alexandria.
I have lately received a Letter from our old & worthy acquaintance Colo. Fairfax, who again mentions you in terms of great regard. Mrs Washington unites her best wishes to mine for you—on congratulations on the safe arrival of Mrs Pine &c. With great esteem I am Sir Yr most Obedient humble Servant

G: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Josias Hawkins, 27 February 1786
From: Washington, George
To: Hawkins, Josias

Sir,
Mount Vernon Feby 27th 1786.

At the request of Mr Booth, I give you the trouble of this letter. This request, added to an inclination to do justice, must be my apology, for I have no motive but to rescue his character from the injurious aspersions which he says has been cast it.
My acquaintance with Mr Booth is of more than 30 years standing. I have known him in the characters of Batchelor, husband, & widower; in all of which his conduct has been unexceptionable. In that of husband & father, particularly, it was ever esteemed kind, affectionate, & remarkable indulgent. In a word, he has passed through life unimpeached by those who have had the best opportunities of forming a judgment of him; and in every instance, to my best knowledge & belief, has supported the character of a Gentleman. I am Sir Yr Obedt Hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Leonard Henley, 27 February 1786
From: Henley, Leonard
To: Washington, George

Sir
Newkent Feb: 27th 1786.

Agreeable to your directions I have delivered to Mr John Whitney of the Schoone Betcy & Molly two hundred Barrells of Indian Corn from the lower Plantation in King-william County belonging to the Esta. of the late Mr Custis—The Vessel arrived

on Wednesday evening last, & Your letter Came to hand the day after—The badness of the Weather prevented me from puting any Corn on board (except a few Barrells) before Saturday; in consequence of which the Vesel was detaind until today. I am Sorry it has not been in my power to procure for You any of the large gray Pease You wrote for by Mr Dandridge but have Sent Six bushells of the best I cou’d get & hope this may answer—I got from Colo. Bassett’s your Case of Pictures & put them on board the Vessel & gave particular directions to the Skipper to take proper Care of them—After conversing with the Skipper, & viewing the Vessel, I was of Opinion that the two Calves from Colo. Cary, Could not be Sent with Safety I therefore thought it best to keep them here until You had a more favourable Oppertunity to get them up—Mrs Henley’s love accompany’d with my best wishes are offer’d to your Self Mrs Washington & family. I am with great respect Sir. Your Mo: Obdt humble Sert

L: Henley


Title: From George Washington to William Hunter, 27 February 1786
From: Washington, George
To: Hunter, William

Sir,
Mount Vernon Feby 27th 1786

Mr Shaw informing me of your intended journey to Philadelphia, I take the freedom of asking you to carry Twenty guineas, and Sixteen Dollars for Mr Pine the Portrait Painter; whom you will find at Baltimore or Philadelphia—at Col. Rogers’s if in the former—and at the Stadt House, if at the latter.
Be so good as to take his rect for the money—but, previous to paying it, ask if this Sum has not been offered by Mr Jno. F: Mercer. This Gentlemen is owing me money &, out of it, was requested to pay the above sums whilst Mr Pine was at Annapolis; but having no acct of the compliance it is questionable, his having done it.

The bearer will delive[r] you the above sums—I wish you a pleasant journey & safe return—and, with esteem & regard—am Sir Yr Most Obedt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Tench Tilghman, 1 March 1786
From: Tilghman, Tench
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Baltimore 1st March 1786

I have recd your favr of the 22d ulto in consequence of which I sent for Rawlins and have prevailed upon him to go down to Mount Vernon, as I found him incapable of giving such directions in writing as would have been intelligible—The Expences of this journey are certainly provided for in the Agreement, which you have inclosed. I did not hint at a doubt of this, as I knew if I gave Rawlins the least opening to make it an extra matter, he would take advantage of you.
No Horse has been imported here lately from England. The last that I remember belonged to a Mr Hall of Prince Georges County—what Freight he paid I cannot learn.
I must beg the favor of you to make the Compliments of Mrs Tilghman and myself to Mrs Washington—I am with very sincere Regard Dear Sir Yr most obt & most humble Servt

Tench Tilghman


Title: To George Washington from John Jay, 2 March 1786
From: Jay, John
To: Washington, George

Dr Sir
N[ew] York 2 March 1786

at & for some time after the arrival of your kind and friendly Letter by mr Taylor, official Business obliged me to postpone writing the Letters due to my private Correspondents. In Decr a young Man under the Influence of more important advisors, made an attack in the Papers, which rendered the Publication of my Correspondence with him expedient. The first Edition being replete with Errors of the Press, a second became indispensable; and from the moment of the attack I concluded to delay answering your Letter until I could transmit with it a proper State of Facts. a new Edition has just been compleated, and I have the Honor of enclosing a copy of it with this.
now my dear Sir let me tell you, and very sincerely, that no Letter, since my Return, has given me more pleasure than yours. as civilities like true and counterfiet Coins, are sometimes difficult to distinguish, and as Commendation, having no intrinsic Value, borrows the Chief of its worth from the merit of those who bestow it, I feel on this occasion all the Satisfaction which can result from approbation under the most advantageous Circumstances.
an apprehension that this Letter may not reach the post office

in Time, presses me not to enlarge at present. Mrs Jay whose best wishes you enjoy, disires me to tell you so, and with me requests the favor of you to present the like to mrs Washington—with perfect Esteem & attachmt I am Dear Sir your most obt & very hble Servt

John Jay


Title: To George Washington from Henry Lee, Jr., 2 March 1786
From: Lee, Henry Jr.
To: Washington, George

My dear Genl
March 2d n[ew] york. 1786

I did myself the honor to write to you some days past: since which an Arabian stud horse has arrived in this City & has been announced in the gazettes a present to you, from his Catholic Majesty.
I consider it not improper to inform you that the printers have mistaken the matter, the horse being sent to Mr Jay.
Our fœderal distresses gather fast to a point. New Jersey has refused the requisition, and will grant not a shilling, till New york accedes to the impost.
Pe[r]haps this intemperance in Jersey may bring this state to acquiesce in a system of finance long ago approved by ten states & whose operation might have saved the difficultys which impend over the Union.
I intended to have sent you Mr Ramsays late publication, entitled the “revolution of So. Carolina” but am anticipated by the Author who forwarded you a sett by a vessel from this port to Alexandria.
Gordons history has not yet made its appearance & Many hope never may; as the character & genius of the writer illy correspondents with the subject.
I hope your lady enjoys her health & beg to be presented to her. I have the honor to be dear sir your most aff. h. sert

Henry Lee Junr

Mr Jays narrative of his late altercation with Mr Littlepage accompanys this.


Title: To George Washington from Edmund Randolph, 2 March 1786
From: Randolph, Edmund
To: Washington, George

Dear sir
Richmond March 2. 1786.

The delay, which has hitherto occurred in transmitting to you the inclosed proceedings, will be ascribed, I hope, to its true causes; one of which will be found in my last letter, and the other in the daily expectation of Mr Ross’s visit to Mount-Vernon, in pursuance of our resolution of the 8th of december 1785.
You may possibly be surprized, that a work, which has already expended a considerable sum of money, should be delineated in so few words, as the copies now sent contain, But I beg leave to inform you, that We have detailed in the execution almost the whole of the resolutions.
For example: We have procured the ascertainment of a precise point, to which the navigation is to be extended; Crow’s ferry being now established, as such.
We are authorized to borrow money at six per cent, and to extend the number of shares.
Unexperienced as we were, we yet conceived that our duty called for an examination of the ground between Richmond and Westham. The difficulties seemed greater than we at first apprehended. As soon as the report is prepared by a more skilful hand, than we affect to be, it shall be forwarded to you.
The old books of subscriptions are not compleat, as I supposed, when I wrote to you last. Seven shares are still unoccupied; of which we shall reserve the five, which you wished for yourself.
It was impossible to engage any other labour, than that of blacks: and this necessity has obliged us to bring the labourers into actual service, earlier perhaps than we should have done, in the present state of our imperfect knowledge of canals. But the subscribers would have been dissatisfied, had we not begun

in the course of this Year, and negroes, you know, sir, must be hired in January at farthest.
Concerning our progress in this great business, our plans, and future expectations, we beg you to enquire of James Harris, our manager, who will deliver this letter. He is a quaker, of good character, as a man, and a mechanic, formed by nature for the management of water, when applied to mills. He has added nothing to his natural turn, by the view of any very great works. We therefore request, if you see no impropriety, that you would give him such a passport to the Potowmack works, as will enable him to get a thorough insight, into what is there projected. You perceive that Mr Ross was originally intended to be sent to Mount Vernon for this purpose; but he has been for a length of time under a severe disease, and is not yet restored. The office of subordinate manager, mentioned in one of the resolutions, does not exist; it being swallowed up in that of Mr Harris.
It is not improbable, that Mr Harris may continue his journey to the Susquehanna canal. If so, we shall thank you, to furnish him with a certificate of being employed by the James River company in any manner, which may appear most likely to introduce him into an acquaintance with those of that scheme, who may be most intelligent.
Thus, my dear sir, I have written to you at the desire of my brethren in office a tedious account of our operations. Permit me therefore to return to the contemplation of private friendship, and to assure you, that I am always with the greatest respect and esteem your mo. affte and obliged humble serv.

Edm: Randolph


Title: To George Washington from Smith & Douglass, 4 March 1786
From: Smith & Douglass
To: Washington, George

Sir
Alexandria March 4th 1786

We acknowledge your Excelencys goodness in the Indulgence we have had in makeing our remittencess for the last year and also Return you thanks for your kind offer on tuesday Last but have Since thought proper to decline for this year.
We have in your fish house A number of Hhds we wish to dispose of they possibly may answer your purpose if So we wait your Answer to detirmine us concerning them. With every Sentiment of respect we are your Excelencys Most Obt & Humble Servts

Smith & Douglass


Title: To George Washington from William Hartshorne, 6 March 1786
From: Hartshorne, William
To: Washington, George

Sir
Alexandria March 6. 1786

Your favor of this day I recd and shall forward your Letter to Mr Mercer tomorrow & if he will pay the money my assistant will bring it, or should Mr Mercer be returned to Virginia, bring back the Letter.
I have a Letter from Capt. Pearce of the 26th Janry wherein he says he has wrote you respecting his acct for Freight of the Jack Ass and that you might Settle with me as you pleased and that he should be Perfectly pleased with what Suited you—I observe the uncertainty you are in about this accot being paid as mentioned in your Letter of the 20th Ulto—Mr Pearce writes me he had sent you a Letter on the Subject—if the matter has not been cleared up to your Satisfaction Please to informe me as I owe you money for Flour which should have been paid before, but I was in hopes this accot would have been deducted, but I

will now pay as soon as I can get the money which expect will be in a few days—I am very Respectfully Yours

Wm Hartshorne


Title: From George Washington to John Francis Mercer, 6 March 1786
From: Washington, George
To: Mercer, John Francis

Dr Sir,
Mount Vernon 6th March 1786.

The Treasurer of the Potomack Company being desired by the Directors of it to send a careful hand to Annapolis for the advance due on the State subscription; I pray you to pay the Bearer (who will be that person) the £200—for which you requested me to draw on you at that place. I am Dr Sir &c.

G: Washington

P.S. Since writing to you the 30th of Jany on this subject—I have myself sent the 20 guineas &c. to Mr Pine.


Title: From George Washington to John Murray & Co., 6 March 1786 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: John Murray & Company

Letter not found: to John Murray & Co., 6 Mar. 1786. John Murray & Co. wrote GW on 6 Mar. “in reply to your favor of this date.”


Title: To George Washington from John Murray & Company, 6 March 1786
From: John Murray & Company
To: Washington, George

Sir
Alexandria March 6th 1786

In reply to your favr of this date we have to say that we have already contracted for a quantity of herring at Eighteen Shillings pr bbl & give salt in excha. at three Shillings pr bus., 2/9 in Coarse & 1/3 in Liverpool Salt, on which terms we are willing to engage for two or three hundred bbls more, the fine Salt to be ⟨did⟩ either here or at Dumfries, the Coarse either at the landing where the fish are caught or in this harbor, as may be most convenient, by this we mean, if a Vessel of our own should bring it, we would deliver it where most convenient to the purchaser,

if freighted it must be receiv’d at the port of delivery; if those terms which are the only we can offer, suit, you will be kind enough to let us know as soon as convenient.
I hourly expect a Vessel from New York, which we suppose has been out about ten days, she has on board some freight for Your Excellency & should she come to an anchor near Mount Vernon, the Captn will deliver it if at hand upon shewing him the inclosed order. Very respectfully we are Sr Your most obedt Servants

John Murray & Co.

P.S. It is most likely we shall want the early fish.


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Purviance, Jr., 6 March 1786
From: Purviance, Samuel Jr.
To: Washington, George

Sir
Baltimore 6th March 1786

I took the liberty of troubling you in 1779 with some Queries relative to a parcel of Lands which were offerd to me near the mouth of the Great Kanhaway—My Brother & I became Purchasers thereof, to the Amount of Fourteen thousand Acres, besides some other parcels in which We have become interested, upon Elk River a branch of the Kanhaway—This having interested Me so much in that Quarter, I am anxiously desirous to procure some authentic information whether any Settlements have yet begun, or are like to take place in that part of Virginia: And altho I have been at some pains to inform myself, the only certain Account which I have yet obtained, is, that Colo. Lewis had begun a Settlement at the mouth of the Kanhaway, which if it succeeds, must probably have a considerable effect on the Value of Lands in that Vicinity—Knowing that you had a considerable property near that place, I conceived that you coud probably inform me better than any Person to whom I coud apply, of what is done or doing towards the furtherance of any new Settlements upon the Kanhaway: for without the Execution of some such Measures, it is evident, that Property there can neither have any present nor encreasing Value—If I coud be assured that any effectual Steps were taken to promote or further

such Settlements, I shoud gladly use every endeavour in my power to promote the design—It is with this intention that I now take the liberty of addressing You, and requesting that you will oblige Me with the best information you can give, how Matters are situated in that part of your State, And what probability there is of any effective Settlements being made there.
Permit Me also to request if it is in your power, to gratify me with any tollerable description of the Great Kanhaway and the principal branches of it, as all my Enquiries hitherto upon that Subject have been very imperfectly answerd—My Son who returned from Kentucky in August, informs Me that the Kanhaway where he crossed it, which I suppose to be the branch called New River, is a very large navigable Stream, And that James River where he crossed it, is also a fine navigable Stream of Two to three hundred Yards across—This with every other Account I have had of those Rivers, excite my Wishes to know whether the State of Navigation in the former, is such as can Establish a Communication between James River & the Western Waters, and whether such design is comprised in the Scheme now carrying on to improve the Navigation of James River. So various & contradictory have been all the Informations I coud ever collect, about either the quality or quantity of Lands on the Kanhaway, as well as of the different Falls in that River, that I coud form no certain Judgement on those Subjects—The Accounts which I have had of Elk River, are, that it is the lowest principal branch on the Northside, emptying into the Kanhaway about 40 Miles above its mouth, and considerably below the lowest Falls on that River, that it extends across towards the Little Kanhaway, And the Lands on it are said to be very rich, but Not very level.
The noble design which you have taken such pains to promote, of establishing a Communication between the Eastern & Western Waters thro’ Potomack I heartily wish to see atempted thro every other Channel that promises Success to such Undertakings: And it appears to Me that if the Navigation of the Kanhaway is practicable, a Communication between it & James River is more likely to be of extensive utility to your State, than that thro Potomack. I flatter myself that if the Susquehanna Canal is once compleated, it will unite the Views of Pensylvania & Maryland in opening a Communication between the Waters of Susq[uehann]a & the Allegeney, which is generally thought very

practicable—The Secretary of our Corporation of the Susqa Canal is now here, and informs Me that Mr Brindley our Engineer has now compleated about two Miles of the upper End of the Canal, in which distance were included all the principal difficulties of that Undertaking, and of which three Quarters of a Mile were One continued & solid body of Rock, thro part of which they had to cut about Sixteen feet deep—This being got over, there seems not a remaining doubt of our being able to effect the residue of that Undertaking, most of which is supposed to be not more difficult than an ordinary Mill Race—I shall be glad to learn that you find equal hopes of Success in the Potomack Scheme.
Mr Neilson the Bearer of this, my Nephew, having Occasion to go to Dumfries, I have directed him to forward my letter to you as he goes down, & to return by your House, in hopes you may find time for a Reply when he comes up—And as he is to proceed to Louisville immediately after his return here, and to go to Pitsburg or Wheelan, he will readily take charge of your Commands shoud you have any in his route—As he will have Occasion to call at Col. Pentecosts in Washington County, he can carry any Letters which you want to convey to that Quarter. I will also direct him to stop at Colo. Lewis’s Place at the Kanhaway in order to procure information how affairs go on there, as One tract of the Lands which We purchasd, is adjoining to Colo. Lewis’s.
Presuming on your Goodness to excuse this trouble, I remain with every possible Sentiment of Gratitude & Respect, and with the most Affectionate Wishes for you & Mrs Washingtons’ Wellfare Sir Your most Obededient And Very hble Servant

Saml Purviance


Title: To George Washington from Warner Washington, 7 March 1786
From: Washington, Warner
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
March 7th 1786

In the Month of March, I do not recollect the Year, one William Bartlett took a Lease of 125 acres of your Land in the Barrens of Bullskin, Bartlett has been dead some few Years & the Widow continued on the Lease till last Summer or Fall was twelve Month. Mr John Bryan who has the management of my Business took possession of the above Lease by your permission. I will be his Security for the punctual payment of the Rent & that every Article of the Lease shall be complyd with—A Dwelling house according to the dimentions has been built, also a Well of good Water, some Peach trees have been planted and about four Acres laid down in English Clover but it is now over run wuh blue Grass which will be broke up in the Fall & laid down with Clover—I am Dear Sir Your most Obedt Servt

Warner Washington


Title: From George Washington to John Murray & Company, 8 March 1786
From: Washington, George
To: John Murray & Company

Gentn
Mount Vernon 8th March 1786.

Your letter of the 6th in answer to mine of the same date, is before me; but from the present view I have of the subject, I do not conceive that my entering into a Contract for Herrings on the terms offered by you, would be eligible; 1st because in my judgment, you estimate them too low—lower than they usually sell for at the landings—2dly because your Salt is rated higher than, I believe it is to be bought for—more than I have lately given. 3dly because Liverpool Salt is inadequate to the saving of Fish, & therefore useless in this business—4thly because I would not, on any terms, go to Dumfries for this article; and fifthly, because it does not suit me to receive Salt alone in paymt.
Moreover, if your coarse salt is allum or lump Salt, I conceive it must be reduced by pounding, before it can be applied—which would add to the expence of curing. Lisbon is the proper kind of Salt for Fish.
From these considerations I must decline contracting to furnish Herring unless you are disposed to offer more favourable terms. I am &c. &c.

G: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Battaile Muse, 8 March 1786
From: Washington, George
To: Muse, Battaile

Sir,
Mt Vernon 8th March 1786

I have Just received your letter of the 20th of last Month, & only request that you will proceed as you have begun; that is, to do equal & impartial Justice to the Tennants, & myself, I want no improper advantage of them on the one hand—On the other, where leases are clearly forfeited by a manifest intention on the part of the Tennant to neglect all the Covenants in them, that were inserted for my Benefit; & their Sole aim has been to make Traffick of the land, I shall have no Scruple in Setting them aside, & Beginning a fresh, upon the best Rents I can get, for 10 years. At any rate it is my wish that you would be as attentive

to the other Covenants of the leases as to that which exacts the Rent. Particularly to those which require a Certain Proportion of Woodland to be left Standing in One Place—to Orchards, to Meadows, & to Buildings. These were as much objects with me as the Rent—Nay more, because to these I looked to have the Value of my lands enhanced, whilst I was, in the first instance, Contenting myself with low rents. If therefore these have Passed off unnoticed by the Tennants, it Should be Punished equally with the nonpayment of Rents. I mention these things because it is my wish, they Should be strictly complied with. There is another matter or Two, which in Renting my lands I am desirous you Should always keep in View. 1st To lease to no Person who has lands of his own adjoining them; & 2d to no One who does not Propose to live on the Premises. My reasons are these; in the first case, my land will be cut down, worked, & Destroyed to Save his own; whilst the latter will receive all the Improvements. In the Second case, If the Tennant does not live thereon, it will not meet a much better fate, & Negroe Quarters, & Tobacco Pens, will Probably be the best edifices on the Tenement. One Grigg (I think his name is) an Overseer to Colo. John Washington, must be an exception, because at the instance of my Brother, I consented to the Purchase he has made.
Inclosed you have a letter for Mr Robt Rutherford, of whome you will endeavour to receive the Amount of the Within. If you Should Succeed in this, you may carry it to my Credit, & draw a Commission thereon, as If Collected for Rent. I also Send you an Accot against a Capt. David Kennedy (I believe of Winchester,[)] to receive if you can on the Same terms, I put this Accot about 18 Mos. ago into the hands of Genl Morgan, to whome Kennedy had, I believe, made Sale of a Lott, in Winchester, but know not to what effect. It may be well to enquire of Morgan concerning it, previous to an application to the former. I am Sir Yr Very Hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Robert Rutherford, 8 March 1786 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Rutherford, Robert

Letter not found: to Robert Rutherford, 8 Mar. 1786. On 28 Mar. Rutherford wrote: “I am hond by your excellency’s letter of the 8th instant.”


Title: To George Washington from George Gilpin, 10 March 1786
From: Gilpin, George
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
March 10th 1786

Smith and Duglass inform’d me that they declined fishing this season which made me take my people from gitting Staves to other business, but it will be in my power to deliver Seventy five fish barrels on or before the fifteenth and seventy five more by the last day of April next in Alexandria, the barrels Shall be good my price is 4/6 ⅌ barrel, it will be convenient for me to wait Untill the fishing Season is ended, a line from you within

one week will fix this matter as you may choose. I am Dr sir with the greatest regard your most obedient Servt

George Gilpin


Title: From George Washington to John Murray & Co., 10 March 1786 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: John Murray & Company

Letter not found: to John Murray & Co., 10 Mar. 1786. On 10 Mar. a letter from John Murray refers to “yours of this date.”


Title: To George Washington from John Murray & Company, 10 March 1786
From: John Murray & Company
To: Washington, George

Sir
Alexandria Mar. 10, 1786

By yours of this date we find you conclude to take the two hundred fish barrels at five Shillings each. Should we want fish in payment we shall apply for them as you wish, otherwise we are content to wait for the Amot untill the end of the fishing season—Very respectfully we remain Sir Your most obedt Servants

John Murray & Co.