Title: To George Washington from d’Estaing, 20 March 1790
From: Estaing, Charles-Hector Théodat, comte d’
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Paris March 20th 1790

Permit one of the least, but one of the most zealous assistants in the great work which you began, conducted, and have completed, to join a private letter to his official answer—and to commune freely with you. The small token which I take the liberty to send you begging your acceptance of (the Bust of M. Necker, and the engravings which accompany it) will better express the public opinion and my own than any dissertation could do.
When a bow has been too much bent the vibrations of its cord are proportionably lasting and strong; when the wavering of ideas, and the false steps they occasion which produces diffidence, and which serve as pretexts, have caused sudden jerks and the cord which ought to have been gently relaxed is broken by the same hand with a stroke, too often unseasonably, and meets in its course an ill-timed opposition of some week branches, which it has broken without an effort, but of which it has been able, and perhaps ought, to exagerate voluntarily, the imaginary resistance; then all the data vary, and political Geometry no longer exists; supposing always that another example like that of the conduct of General Washington has been able to establish the probability of the reality of such Geometry. The duration of the movements of the cord which we draw, and the sufficient springing, and the lawfulness of the arrow of the executive power, without which there can be no active and imposing bow—appears to me to be more incalcalable, but the time is not far distant.
Thus where force is wanting there must be annihilation; or repose; the first is demonstrated impossible in my eyes, the public spirit which combines, and which unites individual forces, will not produce a dislocation of the members of the great whole. I dare to believe that repose is very near. I am going to prove to you how much I am pursuaded of it by putting into your hands wishes which may appear chemerical to others as to you. The wisest have considered it here, and in the midst of the confusion in which we are yet involved as being at least ill-timed—they imagine that I busy myself about future ages; I pursuade myself, nevertheless, that it is time to submit to you

what it is possible to be actually preparing for, and that which I presume can be executed in a few months.
The goodness of your heart, which connects, in the strongest degree the indulgent simplicity of a man who regards the private virtues with the majesty of the founder—the president—and the General induces me to hope to be pardoned for the imprudence of turning your attention to so small an object as what relates to me. I have three debts to pay—Strongly attached to my nation I have rendered, such as they are, all the services in my power to her; I percieve that I am now about to cherish her—my career is terminated as to action, but my wishes yet remain with me. My zeal alone has obtained for me the favor of being adopted by two other nations. Spain and America have honored me with their best titles—I enjoy their rights of Citizenship. It is painful to me to think that there can exist, between those who have condescended to distinguish me by marks of their goodness, motives of division which France might endeavour perhaps in vain to accommodate, and that for an object which ought to increase their forces and unite them forever. I do not dissemble that I suffer myself to be more easily led to this inquietude, because heretofore I proposed the same object as a means of accomplishing the American Liberty. When Louisiana was ceded to Spain M. le Duc de Choiseul had ministerial influence: he sometimes consulted me respecting distant countries; and I gave him a memorial in which I proved the honesty, the convenience and the utility of making Louisiana a free colony under its own government & its own laws, and immediately protected by France & Spain. [The] Stamp Act, and that which I learnt after being governor of St Domingo of the dispositions of the continent, made me say in that memorial, that an example so near would establish the confidence—increase the desire & that this would be to put under a hot bed a germ which has sprouted from the revolution of North America.
This America, Sir, you have; she is sufficient of herself, the injustice of the English has done more than I dared to foresee; the events which I wished to hasten have come on of themselves—and your virtues and talents have rendered them possible. The circumstance of the Island of Corsica which they had just trafficked with Geneva, and which they then laboured to subject, drew M. de Choiseul’s attention, he appeared to me to

be principally detered by the unimportance of which they would accuse him if he should be occupied at the same time about two objects whose principals were so diametrically opposite. The tragical mission so unfortunate to the talents of M. O’Reiley was effected at New Orleans, and the only fruit of my reasonings and solicitations has been to leave to our government traces of an opinion which has been held by me in the place of talents, and which probably led to a belief that I was the most proper person to command the first forces which were united with you. This very long narration appears to me to be a suitable preface to the ideas which an irresistable sentiment for everything which can contribute to peace engages me to lay before you. I have endeavoured by it to justify the short exposition which follows.
I wish Sir for that which I have heretofore proposed. I believe it possible. The Liberty of Louisiana established upon the same basis of protection, and having nearly equal relation to the three nations, appears to me necessary for their tranquility and their accommodation. The territorial madness, and the excluding principles of the Spanish nation have less influence with the Count de Florida Blanca than upon any other minister. I have been a witness of the confidence so productive with which M. le Comte de Montmorin inspired him when the French ambassador had to combat the predictions of other ministers of Spain, who, under the gloom of appearances, foresaw not only the dollars but the sovereignty of Maxico ranged under your approaching conquests. The power of Spain which I have certified to you, which I have yet in my hands, incontestably proves how far M. le Comte De Montmorin was credited; and how far the Ct de Florida Blanca is susceptable of just and great ideas. I have had the right to employ Spanish troops, vessels and money under your direction upon the continent of North America; and you have known what the forces were which sailed from Cadiz to join those at St Domingo & Porto Cavello. The credit of the Count de Florida Blanca has survived the change of the King. The King of this day is less attached to Louisiana than his predecessor; he has not acquired it himself; he will moreover remain its protector; the pomp of his titles and the map of his territories cannot be lessened by it; it will secure the immensity of his other possessions. I wish by exchange they might be still augmented by participating the sovereignty of the Isles of France & Bourbon,

and the co-sovereignty of our commercial possessions in the East Indies. This would be a satisfactory equivalent to the people of Spain whose particular inclinations it appears to me the government attends to and consults more than is generally beleived. From this arrangement mutual advantages will result to the three nations. The solidity of the existance, and the success of the Philippine company as well as of the free commerce of Spain in this part of the world depend upon it. The distance between Manilla & Europe is too great to be run over without some place to touch at. And so long as Manilla has not the means to purchase directly from the continent of India those merchandizes of which the English have learnt them the necessity, or the luxuries of Peru, these last will always have the art to furnish them either by their proximity, or by the force of their new Colonies, or by their superior address in smuggling; and they will likewise give to European Spain the merchandize of India sufficiently low for this counterband trade to be profitable & consequently it will exist.
The establishment of Pondicherry and the other French settlements justify that of the Isle of France; a colony which is a much greater expense in proportion than any that we have founded & supported. Things have been so arranged from the beginning that it is all a dead weight on the finances of the metropolis. The existance, cultivation, commercial speculations, whether profitable or unprofitable, its very faults or knaveries of the most insignificant kind are all paid from the Treasury of our marine. This will appear to you inconceivable, but a reform in this Island can only be gentle and difficult. It is to be feared, I dare say by the universe, that we are threatened with having only one market, that of the English. It is apprehen⟨ded⟩ by every body, that our national assembly, distracted by the crowd of great objects, will only consider the abuses and expen⟨ses⟩ without perceiving the political importance of this Island, and pass a decree which will amount to a dereliction of it. A participation of the Sovereignty with Spain will produce a new order of things. The expenses will no longer fall upon one. The expanded views of commerce will turn our Colonies from their narrow circle, so burdensome for our finances. Your corn and naval Stores in the time of distress or of war will occasion those millions; which we there employ, to pass through better hands

than those of the Dutch at the Cape of Good Hope. The Triumvirate of the guarantee of the triple alliance will be a safe-guard to our settlements in the East Indies. it will suffice to render them respectable without further expense, and without increasing their forces. These commercial arrangements will be advantageous to all three. The triple pavillion of each of these modest consular houses of the three allied people will do as much or more than cannon badly supported.
Under your presidency, Sir, America must become what Rome & Carthage formerly were. The terrible friendship England prepares for herself the inheritance of the commerce of the Dutch Company; already the money, destined to the envoys which this company actually established in season at Batavia, goes, it is said, to pay the Prussian Soldiers. The fury of the savages on your frontiers will be one day much better paid. I will not pretend to say but that the French of Canada may one day be tempted to enjoy the same good fortune as those of Loisiana. It is unnecessary to remark to you that the English tree produces branches stronger than its trunk; and that sooner or later the vigour of the sap must seperate them from it with the fruit: that of the East Indies will be also in this predicament; its maturity must be attended to without being too much hastened. Far from every thing that is honest, is that which accelerates a fatal Revolution by the scourge of war, but the key of the East Indies is the Isle of France; some feeble essays which heretofore I hazarded about this place, have proved it much more than another would have done; this precious key belongs to the human race, let there be three to keep it, and let us take care that it is not delivered to those who have wished to deprive the Americans of the right to tax themselves—who then have not offered them at least the shadow of liberty—Representation in their parliament—and who finally have employed fire & sword to subject them.
I have conversed too much with M. Alexr Hamilton on board the Languedoc of your great talents and what they could effect to doubt his opinion. He so sincerely condemned the proceedings of the English when he had the goodness to transmit me the first letter which I received from you, that I hope he will not disapprove my ideas. He thought that agriculture and commerce ought to form the first ages of American greatness. The

conquest of the Mexican dollars, if it ever happened, would mark the epoch of corruption & depopulation. Will you have the goodness to condescend to transmit for me to M. Hamilton two of the little engravings.
Our two greatest men are ignorant of the homage which I pay them: the greatest they could wish is to have their pictures distributed by you. They are so necessary to our existance, to our tranquility, to our good fortune, to our glory, that they will be viewed with pleasure in that part of the globe which has formed for us the Marquis de la Fayette, and which has given us a double example. It would be too much to go so far as America for one of these resemblances, when we have a king who has himself opened the career of liberty—who consents & desires to be but the father as he has been the preserver of the blood of his subjects, he must be pleased to give his children repose, but shall not have attained in the second resemblance, to the perfection to which you have arrived until the modulation of our executive power shall have compleated the bow of our Government. You must certainly interest you[r]self enough to take part in the satisfaction which I feel. M. Necker is much better, we keep him at the helm of our affairs. The health of the Marquis de la Fayette resists his fatigues, his popularity increases every day, I would give my blood to cement it if it would contribute towards serving my country & my friendship; It seems to me that I esteem him more & more every day, & yet it appears to me impossible that I should. I am with Respect Sir, your most obedt & very Hble St

Estaing


Title: To George Washington from Friedrich von Poellnitz, 20 March 1790
From: Poellnitz, Friedrich Charles Hans Bruno, baron von
To: Washington, George

Sir,
New York the 20th March 1790.

That encouragement and protection which You are pleased to grant to agriculture are my only apology for intruding on time so precious to the happiness of America: In hopes that this may plead my excuse, I humbly lay before You Sir, the following Ideas on a general improvement of this art, the plan there in sketched has a tendency to be of more effect, than the choicesd theory can be; and ’tho it differs from plans of similar views adopted for public purposes in france, England, Italy, Russia &c: &c: it will equally exhibit under Your auspices Sir, husbandry fully exemplify’d. There may be temerity in me to propose myself to execute the plan, as my skill is no doubt inferior to gentlemen’s who direct those establishments in Europe, my good will only is equal to theirs and by this I will try to make amends for my small ability’s. The outlines of the plan are—
The ground in general to be workd with horned cattle; arable ground dressed in the Spring with variety of summer plants, and with winter ones in the Fall; on select spots the garden and field culture intermixed, work’d by the plough with total exclusion of the spade except for plants of running vines. If the situation is convenient for irrigated meadows, I should establish such on the plans of Italy and the Swiss country; and foreign artificial meadows of various Kinds. I would spare no trouble to discover usefull indigeneous grasses, and describe these agreable to Lineus system: This may be conducive to increase the sum of green manures, and of green food for sheep both in the fall and spring, a success in this pursuit is also likely to procure an improvement in the quality of the wool itself; as I have reason to presume that the beauty of the Spanish wool, arises more from the variation and the nature of the food, than from the Climate. I would stock the land in the propre proportion to arable, meadow, and pasture, horses only excepted, which are an expence to the farmer, and ’tho their utility for other purposes

is obvious, an object of luxury to him. I would sow special useful trees in separate clumps agreable to the best rules. For the entire distribution of the ground a plain rustic stile should be observed, which is to combine usfulness, and agreableness with simplicity, and to unite continued pasture with cultivation.
The arable, meadow, and pasture grounds; I would divide in enclosures mark’d by numbers, stating the chymical analysis of soil of each number as far as it may have reference to agriculture; these numbered enclosures to be kept in account with their contents in acres, their course, the annual change of courses, their produce, and loss or profit drawn up every two years; such accounts I should be willing to publish, as I presume that in time they may become usefull to establish regular systems in farming. I should make meteorological observations, and try to compare the state of the atmosphere with some vegetable, animal or mineral body; this field is rather as yet unexplored, but the analogy exists and I believe it to be the best method to make on a simple scale meteorology serviceable to agriculture.
Sir if this plan meets Your Gracious approbation, and You should please to favor me with the execution of it, then I humbly request the grant of Three Thousand acres of land in the vicinity of the federal City near some great river, communicating with one by a creek, on which I would settle as soon as The Honble the Congress has chosen the future Residence. A smaller extent of ground would set the plan on a scale not to answer, and a too great distance from the federal City would I presume equally defeat the desired end.
I have three sons I educate to be farmers, it is probable that the one or the other will be able to follow my steps, and I will bind myself for me and my heirs, neither to sell or mortgage this land under penalty of forfeiting the Grant, as I believe that such a condition is proper to promote industry in my family, and to preserve the spirit of the institution. My domestic family consits in the whole out of Twenty three persons; my implements I thinck are equal to the undertaking; those of husband’ry and others applicable to it will be, 3 levers ready made, 2 levers not finished all differently constructed for drawing trees out of the ground. 2 hog ploughs. 1 four coultered plough. 4 Dutch ploughs. 4 horsehoe ploughs. 2 turnwrist ploughs. 2 sowing ploughs. 1 rippeling cart not finished. 1 thrashing mill. 1

mill for fattening cattle. 1 Earth augre. 1 augre for conducting water works. Phisical instruments, 2 air pumps. 1 electrical aparatus, and instruments for experiments on Air. Chymical tools, 1 burning glass able to melt metals; 1 fire thermometer ascertaining from boiling to melting heat, and from that to the greatest heat that fire can produce. 1 Essaying furnace &c. &c.
Moreover what would make this undertaking specially usefull is, that whenever desired, this ground will be open to the view of gentlemen from all quarters who on business apply to the Honble The Congress, and as I presume that a establishment Patronised by You Sir will attract particular notice those gentlemen will improve what they have seen, and diffuse agricultural intelligence over the whole extent of the Empire. Sir, I am with the greatest respect, your, most obedient, and most humble, Servant

 F.C.H.B. Poellnitz


Title: To George Washington from Anthony Wayne, 20 March 1790
From: Wayne, Anthony
To: Washington, George

Sir
Richmond State of Georgia 20th March 1790

Nothing but the particular ⟨illegible⟩ of an Officer of merit which request I cou’d not refuse shou’d have induced me to intrude upon your Excellency’s time at a season when I know it must be precious—but as the Object which he has ⟨in View⟩ might be lost by any delay—I take the Liberty to mention Colo. James Armstrong—who wishes an Appointment in one of the Regiments which are expected to be raised he wou’d prefer Dragoons to the foot Service if any such establishment takes place, he however has been accustomed to both, & was an Officer in Canada in the Pennsa Lines early in 1776 & afterwards a Capt. of Dragoons in Colo. Lees Legion & highly esteemed by that Gallant partisan—not only for his bravery which is not to be Questioned but Conduct & continued to preserve and merit that esteem until the close of the War even after which he became a Citizen of this State & has alternately been a member of the House of Representatives or Council ever since he lately Commanded the troops raised for the protection of the Frontiers which have been members disbanded for some time.
shou’d an Opening offer & that it is con⟨illegible⟩ with your Excellency’s Opinion—to nominate him for rank he wishes it

will add to the Obligations already confered upon Your Excellency’s most Obt Hume Servt

Anty Wayne


Title: To George Washington from John Hazelwood, 22 March 1790
From: Hazelwood, John
To: Washington, George

Philadelph⟨e⟩ia March 22d 1790

The Memorial & Petition of John Hazelwood respectfully Sheweth
That your Memorialist was early appointed to Command a Vessell of force in the Pennsy[lvani]a State Fleet when he was sent by the Council of Safty to New-York to Form some fire Rafts & Ships which he performed, was ordred by your Excellency to pokepsy to construct a Boom & Chain a cross the North river which was effected, that on his return to New-York was active in bringing off the troops from long Island and Governor’s Island with Genls Putman & Mifflin, on his return to Philada he was Commi[ssion]ed Commodore of the State fleet & also was Commissiond by Congress to Command all the Contl Vessells then in the Deleware bay & river which he did and Exerted his utmost abillities at the Seige on the river Deleware & the Defence of mud Island & Red Bank Forts which your Excellency may possibly remember, & flatering himself that in these & other services he gave General Satisfaction, & for which he was honoured by Congress with a Sword—Since the peace being out of office & meeting with some heavy Losses in trade finds himself constrained to Solicit some Publick employment, and being Informed that a person is to be appointed to superintend & take care of the Buys Bacons & piers in the Deleware Bay & river
Your petitioner therefore prays your Excellency to appoint

him to that office as he has a thorough Knowledg of that business having been some time a Warden of the Port, or that your Excellency will give him some other appointment to assist him in supporting his family, which will be ever remembred with Gratitude by your Excellencies Most Obt & Very Humbl. Sevt

John Hazelwood

I beg leave to mention the Honble Robt Morris & Mr Fitzimmons to whom I have the honor of being known.


Title: To George Washington from Hugh Williamson, 22 March 1790
From: Williamson, Hugh
To: Washington, George

New York 22nd March 1790.

Mr John Skinner of North Carolina who is at present in New York has been mentioned by severals ⟨of⟩ his fellow Citizens as a Gentleman who would discharge the Duties of Marshal with great Reputation.
Mr Skinner having had the Misfortune to lose his Wife a short

Time before the Sitting of our Convention had resolved to attempt the Relief of his Mind by Traveling, for this Reason Governor Johnston gave him a Certificate that is inclosed.
The Family and Connections of Mr Skinner have long been influential and much respected in the State. One of his Unkles Genl Skinner was Treasurer for many Years and has lately been Officer of Loans. Mr John Skinner has been a Member of our Legislature, ever since he was eligible, either in the Commons or Senate, except when he has been of the Governors Council. He has ever been distinguished in political Life by a manly firmness as well as by a sound Understanding whence he is generally respected in the State.
The Office of Marshal would probably be the more acceptable to Mr Skinner from the Idea that it is considered as being honourable rather than profitable. He is very independent in his Circumstances.

Hu. Williamson


Title: Conversation with Thomas Jefferson, 23 March 1790
From: Washington, George
To:

[New York] 23 March 1790. In his diary for this day GW notes that there was “A full, & very respectable Levee to day—previous to which I had a conversation with the Secretary of State on the following points, viz—
First, with respect to our Captives in Algiers, in which, after detailing their situation—the measures he had taken for their relief and the train in which the business was in by means of a Genl.  who is at the head of a religious society in France whose practice it is to sollicit aids for the relief of the unfortunate Christians in captivity among the Barbarians, it was concluded betwn. us, that it had better remain in that train a while longer. This person had been authorised to go as far as about £150 Sterlg. each, for the ransom of our Captives; but the Algerines demanding a much larger sum it was conceived that acceding to it might establish a precedent which would always operate and be very burthensome if yielded to; and become a much stronger inducement to captivate our People than they now have, as it is more for the sake of the ransom than for the labour, that they make Slaves of the Prisoners. Mr. Short was to be written to on this Subject, and directed to make enquiry of this General  what his expectations of redemption are at present.
Second—He is of opinion, that excepting the Court of France, there is no occasion to employ higher grades in the Diplomatic line than Chargé des affaires; and that these, by the respectibility of their appointments, had better be at the head of their grade, than Ministers Plenipotentiaries by low Salaries at the foot of theirs. The reason of the distinction, in favor of a Minister Plenipo at Versailles, is, that there are more Ambassdadors at that Court than any other and therefore that we ought in some measure to approximate our Representative and besides, its being a Court with which we have much to do.
Third—With respect to the appointment of Consels he refers to a letter on the nature of this business—the places where necessary—and the characters best entitled to appointmts. which he had written on the Subject, while in France, to the Secretary of Foreign affairs.
Fourth—That it might be advisable to direct Mr. Charmichael to Sound the Spanish Ministry with respect to the obstacles

which had hitherto impeded a Commercial Treaty to see if there was any disposition in them to relax in their Territorial claims & exclusive right to the Navigation of the River Missisipi.”


Title: To George Washington from Jeremiah Jordan, Edmund Plowden, and Joshua Thomas, 23 March 1790
From: Jordan, Jeremiah,Plowden, Edmund,Thomas, Joshua
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Maryland St Marys County 23 March 1790

We hope we stand excused in recommending to Your Excellencys Notice Captain Henry Carbery, as nothing could induce us to do it, but a thorough conviction that he is not unworthy of it, and that he is well able to discharge with propriety the duties of any place he may be employed in.
We have known him from his early Youth, and we can truly say, that we never heard, or knew any thing, either in his public or private life (the unfortunate Affair of Philadelphia excepted) that he or his Friends need be ashamed of. The little patrimony left him by his Father, was sunk during the war, and his present

situation is such, that he stands much in need of some assistance to screen him against Want.
If, Sir, you should think proper to employ him, either in the Civil or Military Line (the latter we believe he would prefer) we can venture to say, that so far from disgracing, he would do Honour to the appointment. He is well qualified to serve as a Clerk in any of the Departments, where writing a good hand, and a competent knowledge of figures should be required—and we are certain, if employed, he will pay every attention to the Business he may be ingaged in.
Few men among us are better acquainted with the Creek, Chacktaw, Chickesaw, and Waybash Indians than Captn Carbery is, having not long since been in their Countries, and is personally known to many of their great men. His faithful unremitted Services during the War, and the Blood he has shed in his Countrys cause, we trust has not only obliterated his unfortunate conduct, but will restore him again, to the Favor and protection of his Country. We have now only to beg Your Excellencys excuse for troubling You with this Letter, and to assure You that we have the Honor to be, Your Excellencys Most Obedt Most humble Servants

Jeremiah Jordan
Jo. A. Thomas
Edmd Plowden


Title: From George Washington to Friedrich von Poellnitz, 23 March 1790
From: Washington, George
To: Poellnitz, Friedrich Charles Hans Bruno, baron von

Sir.
New York March 23d 1790

I received, a few days ago, your letter on the subject of establishing a farm, under the public patronage, for the purpose of encreasing & extending agricultural knowledge—in answer to which, I have only leisure to make the following general observations.

As I have passed a considerable portion of my life very satisfactorily in the business of agriculture, it will be understood, that I am alike fond of it, on an individual account, as on account of its public emoluments. But, however convinced I am of the great advantages to be derived to the Community from improvements in it, however susceptible of improvements I consider the present state of farming in this Country, and however desirous I am of seeing these improvements take place immediately—yet, in my public capacity, I know not whether I can with propriety do any thing more at present, than what I have already done. I have brought the subject, in my speech at the opening of the present Session of Congress, before the national Legislature. It rests with them to decide what measures ought afterwards to be adopted for promoting the success of the great objects which I have recommended to their attention. I can only say farther, that whatever wise & prudent plans may be deemed most feasible & effectual (as being clearly within the functions & abilities of the general Government) will meet with my ready & hearty concurrence.
Since the Seat of Government of the United States is not yet determined, and since the subject of Finance has not yet received such a form as may justify any considerable new expenditures, it is hardly probable that Congress could enter deeply into the discussion of your meditated improvements in agriculture, during their actual Session-—But, I request, Sir, you will be persuaded, that, in all events, I have a proper sense of your zeal in this matter, that I have great confidence in your ability, and ardent wishes for your success; being with due consideration Sir Your most obedt & humble Servant.


Title: From George Washington to David Stuart, 23 March 1790
From: Washington, George
To: Stuart, David

Dear Sir,
New York March 23d 1790

The only answer I can give to your letter of the 11th Instt is, that under my present view of the subject, the agreement you

have entered into with Mr Robt Alexander had better be carried into effect. But I must declare to you at the sametime, that from my imperfect knowledge of the original bargain—of the proceedings which have been had under it—and of the points on which the dispute between Mr Custis & Mr Alexander have turned, that I feel an incompetency, and of course an unwillingness to give a final opinion thereon, without further information.
All I recollect of this business is, that the former was to have given the latter the sum of (I believe) £12,000 for the Mansionhouse tract; to be paid as Mr Alexander says, with compound interest at the expiration of (I think) 24 years—or, according to Mr Custis’s ideas, on or before the expiration of that period.
This difference of opinion has given rise, it seems, to the dispute now subsisting—a highly important one indeed it is—and very interesting in its decision to both parties; but how it came to pass that there should be this difference of opinion on a point which might, I should suppose, be decided by resorting to written documents, I am at a loss to discover; nor am I better informed with respect to the kind of money in which the payment was to have been made; and yet, as in the last case, one would think this also might be determined by the plainest construction of the Instruments, or by such oral testimony as could be adduced in explanation of the words, if they are found to be ambiguous.
With respect to the first point, if it was optional in Mr Custis to pay on or before the expiration of the term, on what ground did Mr Alexander refuse to receive payment? and if the payment was not to be made in Specie (by the agreement) why was any medium that was currt at the time, refused? The great nominal sum which was to be given for the land, is, to my mind, an unequivocal proof (if nothing is expressed to the contrary) that both parties were Speculating in paper; for the one never could have had the conscience to ask or the other the folly to have given, £12,000 specie for it.
If my comprehension of this matter (as here stated) is not right, I wish to be set right—If it is, I could wish, before I give any conclusive opinion, to receive information on the following points.

First—What are the opinions of those who have been consulted, with respect to the option, claimed by Mr Custis, to pay on or before the expiration of the term of 24 years?
Second—Whether in the articles of agreement, Mortgage, bond, or other evidence, there is an exception of Paper Money, or proviso to pay in any other sort?
Third—At what period was the agreement made? How long after this agreement was the deed dated? and what was the Continental & State Scale of depreciation, at both those periods?
Fourth—In what sort of paper money was the tender made, and how long after the date of the Deed was it, before it was made? Why in the opinion of your Lawyers, was not that paper a legal tender? Was there any other Paper money in being at that time which would have been? and why, unless emitted by the State, and made tenderable by law? In that case, why was not such money tendered?
After the solution of these several questions I shall be able to decide with much more satisfaction to myself than at the present moment, whether it will be best to give £600 to annul the bargain—Pay rent (but this is just)—and sustain the loss of the sums which went to procure the money tendered—or hazard a decision in the high Court of Chancery; by which the whole Sum of £12,000 with interest might be decreed, if not scaled, according to the opinion of the Lawyers on the one side, or the other, agreeably to your statement thereof.
My best wishes, in which Mrs Washington & the Children unite are presented to Mrs Stuart and yourself & family—With much truth I am Dr Sir Your Obedt & Affecte Hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Jacob Wray, 24 March 1790
From: Wray, Jacob
To: Washington, George

Virginia Port Hampton
May it please your ExcellencyMarch 24th 1790
As I, find myself groing very short in Memory & of coarse my small abillities going in the same line & find publick business if ever so profitable so great a burthen to my mind without I could

controll the business according to Law & Instructions which in my Opinion makes some nice reflections.
 Therefore if you will please to relieve me of a great Burthen altho of so little business to the Nation I, shall rest happy in keeping up till a successor comes to hand which is my real wishes to Resign. I am with all Duty your most Obedt Sert

Jacob Wray Collr
Port Hampton


Title: From George Washington to John Eager Howard, 25 March 1790
From: Washington, George
To: Howard, John Eager

Sir,
New York March 25th 1790

You will receive with this a Medal struck by order of the late Congress in commemoration of your much approved conduct in the battle of the Cowpens—and presented to you as a mark of the high sense which your Country entertains of your services on that occasion.
This Medal was put into my hands by Mr Jefferson; and it is with singular pleasure that I now transmit it to you.I am, with very great esteem, Your Excellency’s most Obedt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to William Washington, 25 March 1790 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Washington, William

	Letter not found: to William Washington, 25 Mar. 1790. William Washington wrote to GW on 7 Nov. 1790, referring to “Your Excellency’s favor of March 25th.”


Title: To George Washington from George Augustine Washington, 26 March 1790
From: Washington, George Augustine
To: Washington, George

Honord Uncle
Mount Vernon March 26th 1790.

Your Favor of the 14th did not come to hand untill the day before yesturday owing as I was informed to a delay of the Mail north of Baltimore.
Previous to my paying Messrs Porter & Ingrahams Acct I satisfied myself by Mr Lears statement on the Ledger and their last acct renderd that I was right in so doing. but in all matters of the kind where I have doubts, shall delay payment and take Your directions: the last payment Mr Lear made those Gentlemen was 28 oz. 1 Qr Gold £106.13.6 at which time there was a Ball: due them as stated in their last acct of £39.8.0¾. The original accts I kept, those forwarded You were Copies.
I did not in many instances suffer Mares or Jennets to be taken away which were sent to the Jacks without payment being made, but confess I was wrong in suffering it in any, and in future will not allow it. it is disagreeable to refuse some persons.

notwithstanding it is an indulgence that no one has a right to expect.
The 6 mares which remaind to complete the 20 purchased by Mr Zantzinger arrived here on Friday night last. a Copy of the discriptive list which accompanied them is enclosed, of these I do not think less favorably than the first sent—there were three of the last Blacks which with the one before discribed as black and all black are pretty well matched and are fine mares—the black and all black is the youngest and promis’s to be the largest—I have enclosed Mr Zantzingers Letters—I would have setled with the Men—the bills taken by them to this place would have enabled me to have done it but could not ascertain their return expences.
I shall be making enquiry for a person to replace Fairfax (but make no engagement) in case he continues his determination of going—The Son of Mr James DeNeil who Doctr Stuart was speakg to you of in such high terms he has now in his service as an Overseer on the plantn he purchased of Pain—the Doctr speaks in terms of the greatest dissatisfaction of his cruelty and intolerable management and has determin’d to part with him—Mr Gwins character stands very high and I believe deservedly so—but no enducement short of setling on his own estate would tempt him to leave Mr Fitzhugh I am persuaded—he has purchased Mr Fendall⟨s⟩ seat in Maryland and is very desirous of setling himself, but has been prevented by Mr Fitzhughs great aversion to parting with him—I have had an application for The Ferry & Frenches from a Mr Anthony Whiting an Englishman who says much of his knowledge as a manager and produced as a proof of it a certificate from General Dickinson and Mr Cadwalader, a copy of which I took and have enclosed—he desired I would refer You to Mr Cadwalader who is in Congress for further information of his qualifications and character—he says he is out of service at present and would take the management of those places—but talks of 40 Guineas the first year and signified his expectation of an encrease after from the proofs he expected to give of his good management⟨.⟩ he appeared conversant in the business he profess⟨’d⟩ he said that he had been entrusted with the entire management of General Cadwaladers estate and for some time had no assistant, but finding he was incompetent to it they allowed him I think 70 Guineas, out of which he was

to obtain assistance on the best terms he could—he applied for the Ferry understanding a person would be wanting but seem’d to signify that he thought himself competent to act on a larger scale—Mr Cadwalader perhaps may be able to give you certain information—he may perhaps be qualified to replace Fairfax should he go—the Mans conversation so far as I am capable of judging is much superior to what is met with among people of that pursuit—he is now in Chester Town Maryland where he desired I would direct to him in case You should incline to employ him—I have informed Mr Bloxham that You would continue him no longer than the end of the year—I believe it was not an agreeable communication to him but he said that it was, and wished to go before winter set in. if you would liberate him I told him that this was an unseasonable time for changeing Overseers but should mention it to you and if one could be got I did not know of any great objection there would be to it nor do I for He has not much to recommend him—I intended on my return from Berkley to have removed Davy to D: Run and Will to Muddy hole but on mentioning it to Davy he beged that he might not, and urged that he did not think You would compell him to it for that since the severe fit of the jaundice he had before you went away that he had been very weakly and thought himself unable to take the management at D: Run that he was now fixed and hoped to give you satisfaction—he really appears to conduct himself well and what he says of his health I think is so, for he looks badly—I thought it best to communicate his dislike to removing and take your directions, for to press it on him I fear’d not much could be expected of him—and by continuing Will untill I heard from You no great injury could arise—tho’ not much can be said of his skill he is active and perfectly disposed to execute orders—but do not think his management equal to conducting a plantan of its consequence—I have enclosed the No. of 8 hoggsheads of Tobacco which have been inspected and will the others which I expect will be 6. I have not seen the Inspecter but understand it was much approved—I shall be sorry if Colo. Biddle should not be able to furnish the ballance of the Buckwheat—the 200 Bushls shiped on bord of Capt. Elwood has arrived—the Gardner very much lamented not recieving the Cabbage seed which was mentiond in his list, the other seed came safe—he seems fond of flours &c. but says

he will pay strict attention to the more necessary parts of Gardning by furnishing a good supply for the Kitchen—The Posts which stood against the Barn at the Mansion house I had put within shortly after You left home—the winter has been so wet that the Fence at D: Run from the Corner of No. 7 across the swamp has not yet been done but shall not be neglected and hope to make the divisions in the Mill meadow which were directed—When Bishop and Green went away I had the house secured and attended to, so that it has sufferd no injury—they are living at a place of Colo. McCartys where Mrs Barns formerly lived.
The Ground has only been in order for seeding for a few days and that in parts of the fields at D: Run Muddy hole and R: Plantn at Frenches they were plowing but the Ground too wet for sowing at the above mention’d Plantns they have been seeding for 3 or four days but the rain that fell last night and to day will I fear put a stop to it for some time and the present appearances of the weather threatens much more—the plowing at the Ferry & Frenches has and fear will for some time be much interupted by the distemper among the horses some of them are very ill 2 Peter fears will die I make him direct for them—it is a violent running at the nose and some swell very much in throat it has attacked several of the horses about the house—I lost one some time ago and had another on the eve of death for near two months most of the Mules have had it and some severely—the severe frost previous to the heavy fall of snow has been a very fatal one the wheat where the ground is flat has sufferd severely and I fear very little inded will ever recover it—I delay’d the sale of Flour as long as it appeard prudent to risk it indeed before I went to Berkley I was offerd by Mr Potts 41/ which I would have taken but you appeard by Your Letters to think there was no reason to apprehend a fall therefore declined it—on my return went to Alexandria to examin the Market and found that 40 was the highest price—Mr Potts & Wilson who had been among the Principal purchasers Commission’d by Mr Donald had recd orders not to exceed 36/. it appeard to me from the best information that I could obtain that a rise was very uncertain and from the fluctuating state it had been in for some time ⟨thought it⟩ advisable after a full deliberation to dispose of

the whole on hand—119 Bls Comn Flour @ 40/6 d. taken from the Mill by Colo. Hoe. 38 Bls of Ship Stuff @ 14/6 d. pr hundred and 1/6 d. for the Barrel—35 Bls Midlings @ 17/ pr hundred and 1/6 d. for the Bl taken at the Mill and the Cash pd by Horn & Jemmison Bakers in Alexandria—Mr Lawry offerd me 41/ deliverd at Alexandria but required a credit untill June—but accident and delay taken into consideration induced me to prefer 40/6 d. Cash—Fanny joins me in sincerest affection to You my Aunt & the Children and good wishes to the Family—with the tenderest regard I am Honord Uncle Your truely affectionate Nephew

Geo: A: Washington


Title: To George Washington from the Earl of Buchan, 27 March 1790
From: Buchan, eleventh earl of (David Stuart Erskine; 1742-1829)
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Dryburgh Abbey Scotland March 27. 1790

I have the honour to reccomend to your Excellency’s Countenance a Periodical work about to be circulated in the States by Dr James Anderson, whose view of it will be handed along with this Letter for your perusal.
I have long wished for a publication of this kind that should be neither a Booksellers jobb nor a stalking Horse for party and such from my confidence in Dr Anderson I expect his Journal to be and if so of great importance to literature and to usefull information wherever it may be circulated. I have the Honour to be with high Esteem & Respect Sir! yr Excellencys most Humble and Obedient Servant

Buchan


Title: From George Washington to Robert Morris, 27 March 1790
From: Washington, George
To: Morris, Robert

Saturday 27th March 1790

The President and Mrs W——Compliments and thanks to Mr Morris for his politeness. They have nothing to charge Mr Morris with but their affectionate regards for Mrs Morris and

the family; and to wish him a pleasanter journey than the state of the Roads promise, and a safe return to this City when his business in Philadelphia shall be accomplished.


Title: From George Washington to David Stuart, 28 March 1790
From: Washington, George
To: Stuart, David

Dear Sir,
New York March 28th 1790.

Your letter of the 15th enclosing the Act of Assembly authorising an agreement with Mr Alexander came to my hand in the moment my last to you was dispatched.
I am sorry such jealousies as you relate should be gaining ground, & poisoning the minds of the Southern people. But, admit the fact which is alledged as the cause of them, and give it full scope, does it amount to more than what was known to every man of information before, at, and since the adoption of the Constitution? Was it not always believed that there are some points which peculiarly interest the Eastern States? And did any one who reads human nature, & more especially the character of the Eastern people, conceive that they would not pursue them steadily by a combination of their force? Are there not other points which equally concern the Southern States? If these States are less tenacious of their interest, or, if whilst the Eastern move in a solid phalanx to effect their purposes, the Southern are always divided, which of the two is most to be blamed? That there is diversity of interests in the Union none has denied. That this is the case also in every State is equally certain—and that it extends even to Counties, can be as readily proved. Instance the Southern & Northern parts of Virginia—the upper & lower parts of So. Carolina &ca—have not the interests of these always been at varience? Witness the County of Fairfax, has not the interests of the people thereof varied, or the Inhabitants been taught to believe so? These are well known truths, and yet it did not follow that seperation was to result from the disagreement.
To constitute a dispute there must be two parties. To understand it well both the parties & all the circumstances must be

fully understood. And to accomodate differences good temper & mutual forbearance is requisite. Common danger brought the States into Confederacy, and on their Union our safety & importance depend. A spirit of accomodation was the basis of the present Constitution; can it be expected then that the Southern or the Eastern part of the Empire will succeed in all their Measures? certainly not. but I will readily grant that more points will be carried by the latter than the former, and for the reason which has been mentioned—namely—that in all great national questions they move in unison, whilst the others are divided; but I ask again which is most blameworthy, those who see & will steadily pursue their interests, or those who cannot see, or seeing, will not act wisely? and I will ask another question (of the highest magnitude in my mind) and that is, if the Eastern & Northern States are dangerous in Union, will they be less so in seperation? If self interest is their governing principle, will it forsake them, or be less restrained by such an event? I hardly think it would. Then, independent of other considerations what would Virginia (and such other States as might be inclined to join her) gain by a seperation? Would they not, most unquestionably, be the weaker party?
Men who go from hence without feeling themselves of so much consequence as they wished to be considered—disappointed expectants—and malignant designing characters that miss no opportunity to aim a blow at the Constitution, paint highly on one side without bringing into view the arguments which are offered on the other. It is to be lamented that the Editors of the several Gazettes of the Union do not more generally & more connectedly publish the debates in Congress on all great National questions that affect different interests instead of stuffing their papers with scurrility & malignant declamation, which few would read if they were apprised of the contents. That they might do this with very little trouble is certain. The principles upon which the difference in opinion arises, as well as the decision, would, in that case, come fully before the public, & afford the best data for its judgment.
Mr Madison, on the question of discrimination, was actuated, I am persuaded, by the purest motives; & most heartfelt conviction; but the Subject was delicate, & perhaps had better not have been stirred. The assumption of the State debts by the

United States is another subject that has given birth to long and laboured debates without having yet taken a final form. The Memorial of the Quakers (& a very mal-apropos one it was) has at length been put to sleep, from which it is not ⟨illegible⟩ it will awake before the year 1808. With much truth I am ⟨Sir⟩ Yr Affecte Hble ⟨Servt⟩

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from John Talbot Ashenhurst, 29 March 1790
From: Ashenhurst, John Talbot
To: Washington, George

Dame Street Dublin Ireland
May it please your ExcellencyMarch 29th 1790
Being firmly attached to the cause of public Liberty and a zealous admirer of those virtues by the exertion of which America obtained her freedom, I take the liberty with all possible respect of introducing myself to your Excellencies notice upon the following occasion.
Denmark and Spain may it please your Excellency have severally appointed their respective Consuls here, these Consuls are natives of this Country and were and still are Merchants resident in this City—Portugal too hath her Consul resident amongst us, but I do not find that the United States of America have as yet conferred upon any person the Dignity of their Consul General for this Kingdom: Should they at any time deem such an appointment expedient may I presume to offer my best Services to your Excency and the Congress and at the same time find credit when I declare that the high honour of being thought worthy the confidence of so Illustrious a Body, divested of every Idea of pecuniary consideration, is the motive alone by which I am influenced.

I do beseech your Excellency not to accuse me of too much presumption in thus obtruding myself (a stranger) on your leisure. I am, may it please you, a native of this country, a resident of this City, allow me to say of Independent fortune and, I trust, unsullied reputation—This I intend as my humble introduction to your Excellency nor know I of any other, that I could make use of, unless you will permit me to add that I had the honour of filling the office of Principal Secretary to sixty thousand of my countrymen, the volunteers of Ireland from the origin of their institution; and that I likewise served as Principal Secretary to the National Conventions held here for the purpose of obtaining a more equal Representation of the people in Parliament, and of Inducing Great Britain to renounce all right of Enacting Laws to bind this Realm in the British Senate, which latter measure was happily effected—and in the discharge of the duties of those stations I have the happiness to think that I never incurred the imputation of faction on the one hand or of want of promptitude on the other. I have formed and am Secretary to the Irish Insurance Company for Ships, Merchandise and Lives which is composed of the first Commercial Characters of all the great trading towns of this Kingdom a circumstance which I humbly conceive places me in a situation to fill the department I have the ambition of aspiring to with some advantage: But lest other authority be deemed necessary for what I have taken the liberty of submitting to your Excellency’s consideration respecting myself, I will, with all deference, suggest that having served as an Officer, in various gradations, under his Excellency the Earl of ⟨Charlemont⟩ Commander in Chief of the Volunteers of this Kingdom and President of those Conventions I have before mentioned (a nobleman whose many distinguised quallities are possibly not intirely unknown to your Excellency) I have the confidence to hope that he would vouch my probity and report me not unlikely to merit the honour I anxiously wish to obtain.
May it please your Excellency in your goodness to acquit me of vanity, charge me with ambition if you will, but let it be the ambition of being denominated the servant of the United States of America which should I have the good fortune to be constituted—to discharge the duties of my station with Caution, firmness, and fidellity shall be the first wish of my heart and the invariable rule of my conduct. I have the honour to remain

May it please your Excellency with the highest veneration your Excellency’s most obedient And Devoted Servant

John Talbot Ashenhurst

P.S. lest this should miscarry through the post I shall take the liberty of forwarding a Duplicate at the end of three months.


Title: To George Washington from Alexander Hamilton, 29 March 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

Treasury Department [New York] March 29th 1790.

The Secretary of the Treasury begs leave respectfully to inform the President of the United States of America,
That, in order to be able to furnish in the course of the ensuing month for the compensation of the members of Congress, & the officers and Servants of the two houses, a sum of about sixty thousand dollars; for the payment of the Salaries of the Civil List to the end of the present month a sum of about forty thousand dollars; for the use of the Department of War a sum of about fifty thousand dollars; and for procuring bills to pay an arrear of interest on the Dutch Loans to the first of June next, a sum of about thirty five thousand Dollars: amounting together to about one hundred and eighty five thousand dollars, it will be requisite to obtain a Loan of one hundred thousand dollars, There being in the Treasury now a sum not exceeding fifty thousand dollars, including thirty thousand dollars which the Bank

of New York stands engaged to advance on demand to complete a Loan of fifty thousand dollars stipulated for on the seventeenth day of February last, which is considered as equivalent to a sum in the Treasury.
And in as much as the payment of former Loans and other current demands, will probably call for a considerable part of the monies which may be expected in the interim from the product of the Revenues,
 Wherefore the said Secretary submits to the President of the United States the propriety of authorising a Loan to be made to the extent of the said sum of one hundred thousand Dollars.

A. HamiltonSecy of the Treasury


Title: To George Washington from Charles Cotesworth Pinckney, 29 March 1790 [letter not found]
From: Pinckney, Charles Cotesworth
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Charles Cotesworth Pinckney, 29 March 1790. Listed in McKay 3905, item 2192.


Title: To George Washington from James Walton, 29 March 1790
From: Walton, James
To: Washington, George

Sir
New York new Goal March 29th 1790

I humbly beg liberty to present your Excellency the small ship Pastime which accompanies this—It is the production of Liesure hours which hard fortune deprived me the priveledge of employing to better advantage—I never studied the mechanical art for any other purpose but to pass a lingering moment, & to keep disagreeable reflections from encroaching on my mind, which my unfortunate situation was likely to excite—I have been near two years a prisoner, in the Goal of this City, for debts which a variety of misfortunes has put out of my power to discharge, &

have experienced all the wretchedness common to such, a situation—during this time I made the little ship and as she is not sufficient to transport me from this harbour of misery, I humbly pray your Excellency to accept of her—As I consider your Virtues a proper shrine, to which every Lover of a noble & humane soul should make an offering, and this (except my Good wishes and prayers) is all I have to make—I have myself been a soldier, & honored with a Commission, but even in that I have been unfortunate, having lost a leg, which obliges me to recruit a wooden one—But I have yet a heart left that adores your bravery in the field and wisdom in the Cabinet—and do (like all others) consider you as the protector & ornament of your Country. That you may long continue so, & final meet with endless felicity is the fervent prayer of your ever respectfull Humbl. Servt

James Walton


Title: To George Washington from Marinus Willett, 29 March 1790
From: Willett, Marinus
To: Washington, George

Charleston, S.C., 29 Mar. 1790. “The sole designe of this letter is to signify to you Sir, That I have a very great desire of serving in some executive appointment under the Union—Should any office present itself for which in your opinion I am Qualified, no person shall be more carefull to do Justice to such appointment than Sir your most obedient & very humble Servant.”


Title: Bezaleel Howe to David Humphreys, 30 March 1790
From: Howe, Bezaleel
To: Humphreys, David

Sir
New York 30 March 1790

As Congress are making an Addition to their Military Establishment, I am induced to offer myself as a Candidate for an Appointment in the same—hopeing my past Services will claim

Your influence with the President in my behalf I served in the late War almost Nine years which I hope will plead in my favor. I was a Captain in the Army, and since the Peace have been a Captain of Infantry in this City which I recruited & Disciplind for which I received the most flattering Marks of Approbation, from the Principal Officers in the State & City, many of whom have Certified, that my private as well as my Military Character stands fair—and to keep it so shall ever be my study—These are my Pretensions to the Notice of the President, and hope he may think me Worthy of an Appointment, Your Communicating my Wishes to the President will much Oblidge sir your most obedt Hbbe Servt

Bezaleel Howe


Title: To George Washington from Mary Mason, 30 March 1790
From: Mason, Mary
To: Washington, George

SIR,
March 30, 1790.

MARY MASON and family, being the widow and children of the late Charles Mason, deceased, respectfully wait on you, and solicit your friendly assistance, towards paying their passage to England. The character of Mr. Mason, as an eminently useful Astronomer, is well known in Europe and America. He was for several years assistant to Dr. Bradley, the British Astronomer Royal, at Greenwich,: From thence he was sent, in 1764, to the

Cape of Good Hope, to observe the transit of Venus. On his return to Europe, he was sent, in company with Mr. Dixon, to America, to run the boundary line between Pennsylvania and Maryland: And after being appointed to observe the second transit of Venus in Ireland, in 1769; he engaged in the correction of Mayer’s Lunar Tables, and brought them to a degree of perfection, exceeding the most sanguine expectations of the best astronomer; nevertheless he began and completed a second and still more accurate set of tables, from which the British and French nautical Almanacs, for finding the Longitude at sea, are now calculated; the utility whereof is well known to every maritime nation in the world, but especially to those trading to the East-Indies. He received 800[£] from the British government for the first set of tables, but nothing for the second; as they were under consideration of the board of longitude, when he sailed with his family for Halifax, in Nova-Scotia, with an appointment to survey the lands given by the British government to the royalists; but this business, through a variety of circumstances, being delayed, whereby what little cash he had was exhausted, and there appearing no probability of being supplied in time from England, he resolved to remove with his family to Philadelphia, where he was well acquainted with Drs. Franklin, Rittenhouse, Ewing, &c. and whose friendship he had formerly experienced. But being worn out with disappointments, and laying the same much to heart, he fell sick before he reached Philadelphia, and died four weeks after his arrival there, without meeting a friend he had ever seen before, except Dr. Ewing. He left behind him, in the deepest poverty and distress, the widow and eight children, the youngest two months old, and eldest scarce thirteen years; who must inevitably have perished, were it not for the benevolent interposition of Dr. Franklin, Mr. Robert Morris, Mr. Phineas Bond, Drs. Rittenhouse, Ewing, White, &c. who have raised subscriptions for their support since the time of Mr. Mason’s decease, in October 1787.
With an intention of returning home to her native country and friends, and with a desire of living no longer on the generosity of benevolent strangers, besides hopes of receiving some gratuity from the British government, for Mr. Mason’s second set of tables, she has came to New-York to embark for England; if, through humanity, and respect for the memory of a good

man, who spent his life-time in promoting useful knowledge, she should be so fortunate as to raise a sum sufficient to pay the family’s passage to England. For which, Sir, your kind contribution is solicited.

MARY MASON.

P.S. Your Excelly will please to send your Subcription, to Sir John Temple Queen Street, or to Mrs Mason at her lodgings No. 17 Maiden Lane.


Title: From George Washington to the Society of Free Quakers, c.8 April 1790
From: Washington, George
To: Society of Free Quakers

Gentlemen,
[New York, c.8 April 1790]

I desire to assure you of the sensibility with which I receive your congratulations on my appointment to the highest office and most extended trust which can be confided by a free People—and I thank you with sincerity for the obliging terms in which you express yourselves in my behalf.
Ever happy in being favored with the approbation of my fellow-citizens, the time at which yours is declared does not diminish my sense of the obligation it confers.
Having always considered the conscientious scruples of religious belief as resting entirely with the sects that profess, or the individuals who entertain them, I cannot, consistent with this uniform sentiment, otherwise notice the circumstances referred to in your address, than by adding the tribute of my acknowledgement, to that of our country, for those services which the members of your particular community rendered to the common cause in the course of our revolution—and by assuring you that, as our present government was instituted with an express view to general happiness, it will be my earnest endeavor, in discharging the duties confided to me with faithful impartiality, to realise the hope of common protection which you expect from the measures of that government.
Impressed with gratitude for your supplications to the supreme Being in my favor, I entreat his gracious beneficence in your behalf.

G. Washington


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Jefferson, 1 April 1790
From: Jefferson, Thomas
To: Washington, George

[1 April 1790]

Th: Jefferson has the honor to inform the President that mr Madison has just delivered to him the result of his reflections on the question How shall communications from the several states to Congress through the channel of the President be made?
“he thinks that in no case would it be proper to go by way of letter from the Secretary of state: that they should be delivered to the houses either by the Secretary of state in person or by mr Leir. he supposes a useful division of the office might be made between these two, by employing the one where a matter of fact alone is to be communicated, or a paper delivered &c. in the ordinary course of things and where nothing is required by the President; and using the agency of the other where the President chuses to recommend any measure to the legislature and to attract their attention to it.”
The President will be pleased to order in this what he thinks best. T. Jefferson supposes that whatever may be done for the present, the final arrangement of business should be considered as open to alteration hereafter. the government is as yet so

young, that cases enough have not occurred to enable a division of them into classes, and the distribution of these classes to the persons whose agency would be the properest.
He sends some letters for the President’s perusal praying him to alter freely any thing in them which he thinks may need it.


Title: From George Washington to the United States Senate and House of Representatives, 1 April 1790
From: Washington, George
To: United States Senate and House of Representatives

United States [New York] April 1st 1790.
Gentlemen of the Senate and House of Representatives.

I have directed my private Secretary to lay before you a copy of the adoption, by the Legislature of South Carolina, of the articles proposed by Congress to the Legislatures of the several States as amendments to the Constitution of the United States; together with the copy of a Letter from the Governor of the State of South Carolina to the President of the United States, which have lately come to my hands. The originals of the foregoing will be lodged in the Office of the Secretary of State.

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from George Clinton, 2 April 1790
From: Clinton, George
To: Washington, George

Sir,
New York 2nd April 1790.

I have the honor of transmitting to your Excellency, herewith inclosed, Exemplifications of three Acts of the Legislature of this State, passed at their present Session, and to be with the highest Respect Your most Obedient Servant

Geo: Clinton


Title: To George Washington from John Paradise, 2 April 1790
From: Paradise, John
To: Washington, George

Sir,
c.2 April 1790

 I avail myself of the opportunity, afforded me by my friend Count Andriani, of conveying to you an ode, which Count Allien, the author of it, desired me long ago to convey to you. The rambling and of course unsettled condition I have been in since my return to Europe has entirely put it out of my power to comply sooner with Count Alfieri’s request; and this unpleasant condition added to an apprehension of being troublesome has likewise deprived me of the satisfaction of joining my most sincere congratulations with those of my fellow citizens on the auspicious event, which has placed you, the object of our veneration, love, confidence and gratitude at the helm of our government. That you may long, Sir live to make our country prosper is, I can assure you, the most ardent wish not only of us Americans, but of all those Europeans also, who, sensible of the value of liberty, know how much indebted they are to the example which the glorious cause you have so nobly defended has given to the world, for the rapid and successful strides that are now making in a considerable part of Europe towards the attainment of that invaluable blessing. There is not a more popular man in France than our gallant Marquis, your pupil; nor indeed can popularity

be more justly merited—His actions are directed by the purest views, and his glory consists in doing good to mankind. May his labours, therefore, be crowned with success. Count Andriani is a nobleman from Milan, highly distinguished by every valuable endowment, and deserving of the honour of being presented to you. As he is thoroughly acquainted with the affairs of Europe, I have nothing further to say at present, than to offer my most respectful compliments to Mrs Washington, and subscribe myself with the greatest respect, Sir, your most obliged, and most obedient humble servant

John Paradise.


Title: To George Washington from David Stuart, 2 April 1790
From: Stuart, David
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir,
Abingdon [Va.] 2nd April 1790

As it was my desire to give you the fullest information on the subject submitted to your judgement, I have to lament that I have failed; particularly, as I think it would have been of some importance, to have had the rents fixed, before the plantation was improved in its appearance, by the advance of the Spring—However, in a matter of such moment, a clear knowledge of every circumstance is certainly superior to every other consideration—To aid the explanations I have already given, and those I shall now attempt, I inclose a copy of the bill in Chancery, exhibited by Mr Dandridge. I wish it was in my power to furnish you with all the papers on the subject. By the agreement,

Mr Custis was not to pay ’till the expiration of the 24 years—By the mortgage however, he undoubtedly had the right to pay at any time before, he thought proper—The reason of Mr Alexander’s disputing this right, is founded on the difference between the agreement, and Mortgage—As the words “on or before,” are not in the agreement, as well as mortgage, he insists these words were introduced without his knowledge, and contrary to the intentions of either party—But this evasion in the opinion of my Lawyers, would have been of no avail if the money tendered had been of the proper kind. I informed you in my last, how it happened that this discovery was made—This being the case, you will observe that the object of the Bill, so far as it prays that the Mortgage should be cancelled, in consequence of the tender, is defeated—You appear to be in the same error with respect to the scaling the £12,000, that my Lawyers were in; ’till last Summer, when the trial was expected—Tho’ this sum no doubt gave rise to the £48,000: You will observe, from the short recitement of the agreement & Mortgage in the Bill, that there is no mention of it—The £48,000 only is mentioned—On discovering this circumstance, the Lawyers are of opinion that the £48,000 will be scaled, as there is no foundation for the Court to enquire, how it accumulated; and every man has a right to sell his property for the most he can get—The omission of the £12,00[0] in the writings, was no doubt asigned, to avoid all evidence of Compound interest—Had my Counsel continued in opinion, that the £12,000 would be scaled I should never have thought of a compromise; for at either of the scales of five, according to the time of the agreement or six, the time at which Alexander contends the deed and mortgage ought to have been dated, I should have thought it a good bargain to the estate—I confess I was alarmed at the sum to which the £48,000 would amount, at either of the scales, and immediately consulted you respecting the compromise—I informed you last fall, of the dispute about the time at which the deed is dated, and when Alexander contends it ought to have been dated. This I informed you, was the circumstance on which my Lawyers founded their advise to me, to suffer a nonsuit; if a compromise could not be effected—hoping that Alexander at the expiration of the 24 years would not be able to exhibit such strong proofs of its being Post-dated, as he could at present—It seems that the deed and

mortgage both, are dated the 10th of April 1779. The scale at this time was sixteen—If we could have assurance in succeeding in this point, I should disapprove of a compromise. But tho’ the Lawyers view it as the most favourable circumstance in the cause, they are by no means sanguine respecting it; as Alexander might obtain an order, and no doubt would, to perpetuate the testimony, proving how it happened to have this date, rather than the 25th December 1778—It is certain, Mr Custis was put into possession on the 25th of December 1778, and had his Overseer with all his hands there—I find I mentioned in my last letter to you on this subject, that the Deed was dated the 25th December 1778—This has happened, from the opinion at present entertained by my lawyers, on a consideration of all circumstances, that Alexander at present at least, would succeed in establishing it at this period—I have already mentioned, that it was the expectation of Alexander’s Lawyers to have the scale fixed according to the date of the agreement, which would be five—Marshall thinks according to the present adjudications, was it a suit at Common Law, that it would be regulated by the date of the deed; but that in a suit of Chancery, exhibited by us, and resting on the merits of our cause, the Chancellor would order the error to be corrected, if the testimony adduced, was strong.
I shall now proceed to answer your questions, tho’ many of them are already solved; as it will be the best means of drawing the whole to a point—1st What are the opinions &c.—It has ever been the opinion of those I have consulted, that Mr Custis had the option of paying at any time, before the expiration of the 24 years—2nd Whether in the articles &c.—There is no exception or proviso whatever against paper money in any writing whatever—3rd At what period &c. The agreement was entered into the 1st of July 1778, the deed is dated on the 10th of April 1779—the Virginia scale at the first period is five, at the second sixteen—I am not acquainted with the Continental scale—On December 25th 1778, the time at which Alexander contends the deed ought to have been dated, the scale is at six—4th In what sort of paper money &c.—The inclosed description of the money certifyed by the person who tendered it, and one of the witnesses will satisfy you of the sort tendered; on which I inclosed in my former letter the opinions of Messrs Randolph,

Marshall & Innis, that it was not proper—Mr Randolph’s opinion contained the reason, (if I don’t forget) why it is not proper—You will see by the inclosed bill, that it was tendered in May 1781. Why the proper money was not obtained I cannot say—You have now every information which I can give you on this subject—If there is any point in which I have not succeeded, I will make any application you shall propose to my Lawyers to clear it up—I have only to add further that I saw Mr Randolph on his return from New York and mentioned the conditional agreement I had made with Alexander. He expressed much satisfaction at it, and thought it fortunate for the estate, Alexander had acceded to the compromise—As I must set out for Williamsburg, by the 10th of the month, I must beg, if you approve of the agreement, that you will inclose your approbation to Mr Lund Washington, whom I must depute to manage the fixing the rents in my absence—I must also beg, you will drop me a fiew lines directed to the care of Mr Nicholson at Williamsburg, signifying your determination, one way, or the other, that I may know what directions to give to my Lawyers. I am Dr Sir with the greatest respect Your Affecte Serv:

David Stuart


Title: To George Washington from Harriot Washington, 2 April 1790
From: Washington, Harriot
To: Washington, George

Mt Vernon April 2d 1790

I now set down to write to my dear Uncle as I have not wrote to him since he left this place I should have done it but I thought you had so much business that I had better write to Aunt Washington yet I am sure you would be very glad to se me improveing myself by writeing letters to my friend’s.
I am a going to ask you My Dear Uncle to do something for me which I hope you will not be against but I am sure if you are it will be for my good, as all the young Ladyes are a learning musick, I will be very much obleiged to you if you will send me a gettar, there is a man here by the name of Tracy that teaches to play on the harpsicord & gettar, a gettar is so simple an instrument that five or six lessons would be sufficient for any body to learn, If you think it proper to send me a gettar I will thank you if you will send it by the first opportunity I was informed the other day that you and Aunt Washington were certainly a comeing home this Summer which gave me a great deal of pleasure for I want to se you very much.
If you please to give my love to Aunt Washington Nelly & Washington. I am My Dear Uncle your Sincere Neice

Harriot Washington.


Title: To George Washington from Alexander Johnson, 3 April 1790
From: Johnson, Alexander
To: Washington, George

Sir,
G. Portland St. London April 3rd 1790.

The Complacent Attention generally granted to a Cause of Humanity makes me bold in the Liberty of bringing before You one of its Pleas, which were it not founded on the Basis of public Utility, discretion would forbid me to propose, considering the Interruption it must Cause in numerous Weighty Matters that engross Your Attention: Yet as the Subject in its Nature is analogous to a purpose, which on other Occasions, and to good Advantage often has occupied Your Thoughts, I may venture to offer it for a moments Consideration; announcing it to be that of preserving the Lives of Individuals.
The Discovery of the practice affording that great Benefit the easy Treatment by which it is obtained, and the Cheap Means by which everyone can be taught to produce it are set forth in the Papers I herewith make free to lay before You, and which at a Moment’s Leisure, Sir, will shew that the practice is not of the medical Kind, as likely it might be thought from the Conduct of some Societies in England sprung from my early proposals & called Humane, composed and managed by Men professionally medical who arrogate the practice to themselves, and craftily exclude from it, that Class of Common People that performed the numerous Recoveries abroad & thereby withhold its extensive Advantage from the Nation.

This new Practice is of undeniable Value to Mankind, as its Application is unlimited to Countries and Climates; the Method of disseminating the Knowledge of it, described in these papers, must therefore be everywhere necessary—It is to be taught to the people at large, and they in speedy Return will not fail to give convincing Proofs that they understand and like it—Striking Instances of this were seen in the numerous Recoveries made by them in Holland and France, Countries whose late and present Proceedings deservedly call to them the Attention and Consideration of all Nations.
As therefore this practice can easily be learnt & exercised, and that its salutary Effects have undoubtedly been proved by the active Efforts of the People: Can a doubt be entertained of its Acceptance by judicious Rulers, while the Art of Medecine offers no effectual Method for recalling Life, when its powers are suspended, & it can be done by an unmedical Treatment that offers at the same Time a discriminate Test between Life & Death! May I not rather, in full Belief of its Adoption for the Growth of a rising nation, say with the Voice of the Nation: From whose Hands can the Diffusion of such Benefits receive the generous Sanction that will so effectually spread them thro’ the United States, as from those of our Protector! from whom can the Care of the Lives of His People so naturally derive, as from him who has saved us! To whom should we owe the Blessing of lasting social Enjoyment, but to our Deliverer! Who are we to look up to for our share of this universally beneficent Discovery, but to the Eminent Preserver of our Rights! Can it then be doubtful whether a great Conductor of a rising free People, shall among other Gifts, dispense Longevity, the Means of preserving and restoring Life, to its Individuals with the consequent happy Effect of an encreased Population. These Blessings can be dispensed by no other than Your great Self! At your Command, Sir, the practice will be everywhere made known, exercised & operate its surprising Effects! Acclamations & Shouts of Gratitude will do honour to your Philanthropy! The Magistrates & persons in power, generally addressed, will follow the liberal Example; & every Family will thankfully owe to You & them thro’ you, the Comforts enjoyed in the preservation of a Parent, a Child, a Relation, a Friend, or some valuable person.
That it may be Your pleasure, Sir, on this earnest Representation,

to honor my proposal with a gracious Assent, is my ardent Request, which divested of Motives of sordid Interest, is animated by a zealous Expectation of ultimately procuring & ascertaining to Mankind, the particular Advantage of a long & probably a more useful Existence in this World. I have the Honor to profess myself, an Admirer of Your great Talents & Virtues & thence, with much Respect & Veneration, Sir, Your most humble and very obedient Servant

Alexr Johnson


Title: From George Washington to the United States Supreme Court, 3 April 1790
From: Washington, George
To: United States Supreme Court

Gentlemen,
United States [New York] April 3d 1790

I have always been persuaded that the stability and success of the National Government, and consequently the happiness of the People of the United States, would depend in a considerable degree on the Interpretation and Execution of its Laws. In my opinion, therefore, it is important that the Judiciary System should not only be independent in its operations, but as perfect as possible in its formation.
As you are about to commence your first Circuit, and many things may occur in such an unexplored field, which it would

be useful should be known; I think it proper to acquaint you, that it will be agreeable to me to receive such Information and Remarks on this Subject, as you shall from time to time judge expedient to communicate.

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Jefferson, 5 April 1790
From: Jefferson, Thomas
To: Washington, George

Apr. 5. 1790. a quarter before one.

Mr Jefferson has the honor of inclosing for the perusal of the President rough draughts of the letters he supposes it proper to send to the court of France on the present occasion. he will have that of waiting on him in person immediately to make any changes in them the President will be so good as to direct, and to communicate to him two letters just received from mr Short.


Title: To George Washington from Ferdinando Fairfax, 6 April 1790
From: Fairfax, Ferdinando
To: Washington, George

Sir
Fairfax County [Va.] April 6. 1790.

Being informed that William Vans Esq. of Salem (a friend of mine) has received an appointmt from the General Court of Massachusetts, as Collector of the Excise for the South District of the County of Essex in that State, and that it is expected that Congress will take that branch of Revenue into their own hands; I take the Liberty of mentioning this appointmt to you, and (as it is probable his modesty will prevent his making a direct application) to request, that, if upon enquiry, you shou’d think him, as well qualified for that office under Congress, as any other person who may apply, you wou’d confirm his appointment. Or that, if he shou’d not succeed in this, you would confer upon him such other office at your disposal as you may think best suited to his abilities & Situation in Life.

Sensible that nothing which may be said in his favour, will have so much weight with you, as the general Character for Probity & Integrity, which he bears in the place of his Residence, on this I rest his probability of Success; and am, with every Sentiment of unfeigned Esteem & Regard Sir your obedt servt

Ferdinando Fairfax


Title: From George Washington to Louis XVI, 6 April 1790
From: Washington, George
To: Louis XVI (of France)

[New York, 6 April 1790]

Very great and good Friend and Ally
As the Time limited for the Duration of Mr Jefferson’s Residence in Quality of our Minister plenipotentiary near your Majesty will shortly expire, and the public Interests require that he should undertake other Functions, we have directed him to take Leave of your Majesty, and to assure you of our Friendship and sincere Desire to preserve and strengthen the Harmony and Confidence which so happily subsist between the two Nations. We are persuaded that he will do this in the Manner most expressive of these Sentiments, and of the Respect and Sincerity with which they are offered. We pray God to keep your Majesty under his holy Protection. Written at the City of New York the 6th Day of April 1790. Your good Friend and Ally.

Go: Washington
by the President
Th: Jefferson


Title: Proclamation, 9 April 1790
From: Washington, George
To:

[9 April 1790]

Whereas a Convention for defining and establishing the functions and privileges of the respective Consuls and vice-Consuls of his most Christian Majesty and of the said United States, was concluded and signed by the Plenipotentiaries of his said most Christian Majesty and of the said United States, duly and respectively authorized for that purpose, which Convention is in the form following, vizt
(here the Translation of it was inserted)
And whereas the said Convention has been duly ratified and confirmed by me on the one part, with the advice & Consent of the Senate, and by his most Christian Majesty on the other, and the said Ratifications were duly exchanged at Paris on the 1st Day of January in the present year. Now therefore, to the end that the said Convention may be observed and performed with good faith on the part of the United States, I have ordered the premises to be made public, and I do hereby enjoin and require all persons bearing office, civil or military within the United States, and all others, Citizens or Inhabitants thereof, or being within the same, faithfully to observe and fulfil the said Convention and every clause and article thereof.
In Testimony whereof I have caused the Seal of the United States to be affixed to these Presents and signed the same with my Hand. Given at the City of New York the ninth day of April in the year of our Lord 1790, and of the Sovereignty and Independence of the United States the fourteenth.

George Washingtonby the PresidentThomas Jefferson


Title: To George Washington from Noirmont de La Neuville, 10 April 1790
From: La Neuville, René-Hippolyte Penot Lombart de Noirmont de
To: Washington, George

Sir,
St Marc april 10th 1790.

I cannot determine myself to let my Brother to return to America, without charging him with a letter for your Excellency. I Beseech you to look upon it as a very inadequate testimonial of my constant and respectful gratitude for your past kind offices. they have been confered in too flattering a manner and are still too deeply imprinted into my mind to permit my heart ever to forget them. it will be the everlasting debt of my life to form vows for the continuance of your so well deserved renown; and I can assure your Excellency that your reputation never shone with a purer lustre as Since the beginning of our dear-bought revolution. how often since one year has your name been repeated with enthusiastick respect, and painful and melting remembrance, attended with comparisons absolutly redounding to the inexpressible advantage of the Restorer of american liberty! how often have we lamented that the generous, human and loyal principles upon which has been pursued and attained the Redress of your grievances have not been adhered to in france! when General Washington is still alive, when he is still the pride and glory of his grateful country, when his example, his virtuous principles, his unshaken firmness are still warming and filling with indelible veneration the breast of every french officer that has been wittness to that glorious and just war, by what fatalaty must we see our annals stained with deeds that make every human heart almost regret the dawn of liberty which begins to light upon us? excuse, Sir, the overflowing of a heart that can not think of your Excellency’s and our conduct in the present contest without invoking the same tutelary genius that unhappily for our national honor has been ever deaf to my prayers. I am with every sentiment inspired by Respect and gratitude, Sir, your Excellency’s The most humble and obedient Servant

Noirmont


Title: To George Washington from Rochambeau, 11 April 1790
From: Rochambeau, Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de
To: Washington, George

Rochambeau near Vendome [France] april the 11th 1790.

Do you remember, my Dear general, of the first repast that we have made together at Rod island. I did you remark from the Soup the difference of the character of our two nations, the french in burning their throat, and all the americans waiting wisely of the time that it was cooled. I believe, my dear general, you have Seen Since a year that our nation has not change of character. We go very fast—God will that we come at our aims. I have had my part of the troubles of that revolution. I have passed half of the last year in my department of Picardy, they made me passed in the month of July in that of the province of alsace—I did find there Strasbourg and all the province in a terrible insurection—I have employed there six months to retreive good order. I came back here afterwards to rest myself and make Some remedies for my health which has been altered of. The natal air made me well, and the king has named me yet here commissary to have an eye to the organisations of the assemblies of department—you are you, my dear general, in a full enjoyment of a work of fourteen years, and we will in a year of time complete a work that cannot be but the fruit of the patience that I have known to you and of a complete regeneration of the manners—God make us arrive to it and make forget to the univers Some wicked Strokes that have not fouled the revolution of america—Let me hear of you my Dear General and be

well persuaded of the inviolable attachment with which I have the honour to be my Dear General Your most obedient and very humble servant

le cte de rochambeau

a thousand kindness and compliments to M. Jefferson, to M. Knox and to all my ancien camarades and friends which are near you.


Title: From George Washington to David Stuart, 11 April 1790
From: Washington, George
To: Stuart, David

Dear Sir,
New York April 11th 1790

I have given my consent in the manner the law directs, to the agreement you have made with Mr Alexander; and, agreeably to your desire, have this day forwarded it under cover to Mr Lund Washington; being persuaded, under the existing circumstances, it is better to do this than hazard a decision at Law—but it is a strange affair!
I wrote to you a few days ago, and directed for you at Abingdon or Richmond; and hope, as it is to Williamsburgh you are going, that the letter came to hand before you set out. The question of assumption has not been taken yet—when decided, I wish it may be for the best; it has been fully, & I think ably discussed; but the majority will be small on whichever side it happens; which, in questions of such magnitude, is to be regretted.
As this letter will have to travel to Williamsburgh, I shall take another opportunity to forward such original papers as you have transmitted to me. When you return, I should be glad to learn from you in what temper and state of politic’s you found the Country—such information would be always satisfactory; and may be very useful. I am—Dear Sir Your Obedt & affecte

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Joseph Wheaton, 11 April 1790
From: Wheaton, Joseph
To: Washington, George

May it Please the PresidentApril 11th 1790
Sir
Having had an oppertunity of learning that an additional force is to be aded to the present Establishment of the troops, I am constrained to mention to the President.
The office which the House of Representatives have been pleased to appoint me to, is not altogether that popular Situation nor So profitable to our Country as one would wish to fill.
Having Served in the army from the begining of the war to the end, and having made the duty of a Soldier much of my Study that with the encouragement of many of my Friends in both Houses of Congress, have Considered it a duty I owe my Country to make known my wishes.
If my Services could be made acceptable in the army, it would be the pride of my Heart to perform a duty in which there was full Conviction of rendering Services eaqual to the rewards.
I have only to observe that Should the President view these with a favourable eye I would be happy to resign my present office in favor of Some disabled officer or other person whom the House of Representatives might think proper to appoint as my Successor. This with great defferance is Humbly Submitted to the President By His Most obedient and most devoted Servant

Joseph Wheaton


Title: To George Washington from Gouverneur Morris, 12 April 1790
From: Morris, Gouverneur
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
London 12 April 1790

I have ordered at a capital manufacturers the plated Coolers which you desired. Nothing of this Sort has ever yet been executed here except in a coarse and clumsy manner in lacquered Ware. As far as I can judge from the Design which has been drawn consequent upon my Directions they will be very elegant, and cheaper than in a Form less beautiful. Still they will be expensive. I own that considering the Simplicity of the Workmanship I have been much tempted to have them made of Plate but upon considering well your Letter I could not venture what would have looked so much like Extravagance—It will require about six weeks from this Time to have them compleated and I expect that an opportunity will then offer for sending them out so that about the middle of July you may receive them. Should the weather in America have continued as mild as our accounts to the Begining of February have anounced it these machines will be useless. I am my dear Sir very sincerely yours

Gouvr Morris


Title: To George Washington from Gouverneur Morris, 13 April 1790
From: Morris, Gouverneur
To: Washington, George

private
Dear SirLondon 13 April 1790
My Letter of the seventh will have communicated what passed with the Duke of Leeds respecting the Business you committed

to me. I take the Liberty to mention here that from his Countenance and Manner on the Perusal of your Letter, he seemed to derive from it that Sort of Pleasure which a Man feels at the Removal of Some thing which every now and then brings to his Mind disagreable Ideas. I do not exactly see from what Cause this Emotion was produced. By the Eagerness of his subsequent Expressions I conjectured that the critical Situation of Europe had excited some Disquietude respecting the Part which the United States might take in Case of a general War—What strengthened that Idea, and perhaps led me to form it was that in a Chamber to which I was introduced previous to the Audience there was a large Book of Maps open at that of Poland—But the Silence since observed leads to a Suspicion that his Satisfaction was derived from another Source. I am told that in a late Debate the Ministers committed themselves by throwing out in pretty clear Terms the Idea that some Sort of Treaty was on the Carpet with America; and if so, the opening now given must have releived them from the Fear of future Contradiction.
I trouble you my dear Sir with all this Conjecture because it is not impossible that Circumstances may turn up on your Side the Water with which it may be useful to compare minutely what passes here. I am always most sincerely yours

Gouvr Morris