Title: To George Washington from Gouverneur Morris, 30 August 1790
From: Morris, Gouverneur
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
London 30 August 1790

In Reply to yours of the seventh of July I have the Pleasure to inform you that your plated Ware and Lamps are now on their Way to you. When I go to Paris (which will I think be shortly) I will get the additional Plateauxs which you want, and have them sent out by the first Conveyance. Should any Thing else occur in which I can be useful you have only to signify it, and you may rely on my best Endeavors.
It may perhaps be proper to mention one or two Things in Relation to the objects treated of in my Letters of last January. And first of a Commerce with the french Islands. Nothing has I beleive been done in France which may be favorable to our

Views. But the Commotions in the Islands themselves will I presume operate like liberal Regulations of Police, and probably the Colonists will eventually demand as Right, what some Time since they would have accepted as Favor. I am led to beleive that we should not be over anxious on this Subject just now because Circumstances will perhaps serve us better than we can serve ourselves.
My Predictions respecting the Turk have been so far verified as that he has got Rid of one of his Enemies upon tolerable Terms for he looses no Dominion worth a Contest. How far the Intercessions now making to the Empress of Russia will produce the desired Effect seems not to be clearly ascertained. If a Squadron of Dutch or English Ships had arrived in the Baltic last May, it is more than probable that the Peace of the North would have been restored, but there are many Events which would enable the Empress of Russia to carry on successful operations against both the Turk and the Swede. The armies of the former, which opposed those of the Emperor cannot suddenly be transported to the Quarter where they are now wanted, neither will the Expence of them cease during this Campaign. It appears to me that the Season is too far advanced for any Thing which Prussia can do, let the Intention of the King be what it may; and Sweden, unprotected by naval Superiority is exposed to the Land Force of his Enemy without much Chance either of Aid or Diversion. Finland, which will probably be the Object of the Czarina, cannot maintain the Forces needful to defend it, if the Sea-Communications be cut off. Therefore the whole prussian Army (could it be transported thither) would be worse than useless. And thus the withdrawing of Austria from the War will have less Influence than might have been expected.
The People of Flanders seem to be given up, after having been used to distress the House of Austria. Heaven knows what Desperation may prompt them to; but it appears to me that wise Conduct on the Part of France would have acquired for her the Dominion of that Country. And if ever that should happen, France having at the same time a good Constitution, the Consequence of this Island is gone. Antwerp seems intended by Nature for the Emporium of european Commerce and the Navigation of the Scheld[t] would undoubtedly be opened, if it belonged to a great naval Power. That River and the Thames being

nearly opposite to each other, mutual Visits might be expected, and in these the Superiority at Land must at length prove decisive.
The Situation of France however seems at first Sight to preclude all Effort. The national Bank which was in Contemplation is never taken Effect. after deliberating about it and about it, the Thing dropt, and they did expect to have made out with their new paper Currency (the Assignats) but my Predictions on that Subject seem to be verified. Still however the Situation of their Finances is not desperate. But their Assemblée is loosing Ground daily in the public opinion. The Army, long encouraged in licentious Conduct, is now in Revolt. All the Bands of Society are loosened, and Authority is gone. Unless they are soon involved in a foreign War it is impossible to conjecture what Events will take Place. For some Time past the Ministers have been threatned with the Lanterne, and they would gladly go out of Office. The great Difficulty is to find Successors, or rather Substitutes; Lafayette has been contriving an intermediate Ministry, to last for a few Months, till by the Dissolution of the Assembly (who have you know passed a Self denying Ordinance) a Set could be taken from among the present Members of that Body. But this will prove a bad Business for if the Intermediaries are not able Men they will make Things worse, and if they are they will not give up their Places.
We are in hourly Expectation of hearing the Decision of the Assemblee upon the Family Compact. The Spanish Embassador has required in pointed Terms a Compliance on the Part of France. This I have good Reason to beleive was in Concert with the french Administration. If it were possible to answer for such a Body as the Assemblée, and so placed as they are, I would pronounce in favor of their Adherence to the Terms of that Compact. If so, the Tone of the british Ministry may be a little lowered. In the mean Time both the Spanish and English Fleets are out, and were approaching towards each other. Probably each Side means only to terrify at present, but Spain will not recede any farther except in the last Necessity—In a Day or two I expect to learn Something of their Intentions here respecting us: and if I do not hear from them, shall make a final Address to his Grace of Leeds.
It is very flattering to me, Sir, that you are so kind as to approve

of my Communications with the Ministers of this Country so far as they had gone in the Begining of May. I earnestly hope that my subsequent Conduct may meet the same favorable Interpretation—This you may rely on, that if in any Case I go wrong it will be from an Error of Judgment. With sincere Esteem & Respect I am very truly yours

Gouvr Morris


Title: To George Washington from Alexander Hamilton, 3 September 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

sir
Treasury Department New York Septr 3d 1790

Agreeably to your direction I conversed the day after your departure with the Secretary of State on the subject of an Agent for conducting the Loans to be made abroad. I stated to him, that you had expressed to me a preference of Mr Shorts being employed, if he could be spared the requisite time from France, without injury to the affairs depending there; and that I conceived it wou’d be necessary for him to proceed immediately to Amsterdam and in the first instance to remain there for about three months; after which occasional journeys thither might suffice.
He gave it as his opinion that Mr Short might be spared from France without injury to the public service according to what I had stated to be necessary. Regarding his judgment on that point as conclusive to me, it only remained for me to fulfil your intention and I accordingly requested him to make the proper communication on his part to Mr Short, and have since transmitted instructions to that Gentleman in conformity to the general tenor of those which I received from you, a copy of which accompanies this letter. If any alterations or additions shou’d appear expedient, I request your commands for the purpose & shall lose no time in executing them. I have the honor to remain with the most perfect respect & truest attachment sir Your most Obedient & humble servant

Alexander HamiltonSecretary of the Treasury


Title: To George Washington from Tobias Lear, 3 September 1790
From: Lear, Tobias
To: Washington, George

Sir,
New York September 3d 1790

I have the honor to enclose such letters and papers as have come to hand since my last.

The British Packet arrived here last evening; but brings no decided accounts as to the War between Great Britain and Spain. She left Falmouth on the 12th of July, at which time the English fleet was lying in Torbay. This contradicts a report in the Philadelphia and Alexandria papers of an engagement having taken place between the British and Spanish Fleets off Cape St Vincent’s. A Vessel which arrived here on the 1st Inst. from Ferrol in Spain, after a passage of 53 days, brings no account of such engagement, which she must have done had it taken place at the time mentioned.
Colo. Humphreys will embark today; the Vessel in which he sails having been detained two days by a contrary wind. He requests me to send his most respectful and affectionate Adieu. Mrs Lear joins me in sentiments of respect and gratitude for yourself and Mrs Washington, and love to the Children. With the hiqhest respect & most sincere attachment I am Sir Your obliged and very humble Servant

Tobias Lear


Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 3 September 1790
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Philadelphia Septr 3d 1790.

Generally speaking, no task could be imposed on me so ungrateful as that of applying for a public office. In the present instance, however, I feel little reluctance in doing it; because I know the application will be duly noticed, and the ultimate decision, whether for or against me, be governed by a just regard to the interests of the United States.
By some of my friends I am informed that Mr Osgood is determined to resign the office of postmaster-general, to which they wish me to succeed. They represent it as an office to which I am competent; & I should myself conceive it not difficult to execute. Its emoluments, I find, are not very tempting; but with economy may support my family. In all events the office would now be desirable to me. For my appointments in Luzerne county are of inconsiderable value; and my present situation there is in all respects precarious. If the people of this state should elect for their governor a man who would do real honour to that important station, I should entertain no doubt of a reappointment; but at present there appears too much ground to fear they will make a very different choice. But besides that my offices are of much less value than I was led to expect, & may be of short duration, the tenure of my lands is now rendered uncertain. The General Assembly, at their sessions last spring, with that mischievous instability which characterizes a single legislature, repealed the law, passed three years before, for confirming the titles of the Connecticut settlers at Wyoming. That confirming law was the foundation of peace, and the sole ground of my removal to that country. The repeal has again set the titles afloat, and in consequence, the Pennsylvania claimants are now about bringing numerous actions of ejectment against us. Should the decisions of the courts be in their favour, I shall of course lose my lands, on which I very much depended for the maintenance of my family. These evils, which are likely to continue for years, are attended with another which affects me very sensibly: they prevent the establishment of a school where my sons (I have seven) may be tolerably educated; and I have not the means of sending them from home.
These considerations, I hope sir, will sufficiently apologize to

you for the trouble of this application. I have the honour to be, with great respect, sir, your most obedient servant,

Timothy Pickering


Title: To George Washington from Shubael Swain, 3 September 1790
From: Swain, Shubael
To: Washington, George

May it please your Excellency!
Debtors apartmentPhilada Septr 3. 1790

Impress’d with a sense of Gratitude and respect due your Eminent and Conspicuous Situation I pray leave with all deferance to approach you as an humble Supplicant.
Altho’ it might be an Improper Intrusion on the Important time that must Necessarily engage the Attention of the Father of this Riseing and Great Empire; Yet Emboldened by that generous and Unreserved Conduct which have ever been your distinguished Characterestic, Induce me to Implore your Attention and relate some Circumstances Which can by you be removed for my relief.
In the Month of November last I was intrusted with the Command of a Sloop from Nantucket to this port with a Cargo very Unproductive of Sources to either the Revenue or the Merchant as the Whole Amount did exceed  pounds, I therefore Submit it to your Excellency to Judge Whether any appearance of fraud Could arise in my Conduct as I was no ways Interested in either Vessel or Cargo only by a Gratuity of Sixteen Dollars per Month, The owner of both Vessel and Cargo Was on board during the passage and the Cargo was Laid in previous to my taking the Charge, I could therefore only report my Arrival Which I did as in Conscience I could not Swear to the Manifest bei⟨ng a⟩ Just one—that together with the Vessel being under Measurement Originated the proceedings Which afterwards followed that of Confineing our persons Until Trial Which we both had at a District Court and was thereby Sentenced to pay a fine of Fourhundred Dollars, Which my distressed Circumstances will not admit of having been in Confinement these Nine Month⟨s⟩ Without any relief for myself or family as their Subsistence depends on my Labour, I made application some time ago by petition to Congress praying a remission of fine Which petition was recommended by the Court and Jury and Several other respectable Citizens but did not Succeed in obtaining my Wish owing as I suspect to my petition not being presented—I hope you will be pleased to Consider my Youth and Inexperience and grant me some relief as I am a Natural born Subject of the United States and your Signifying your Wish to Judge Hopkinson

for my Liberation for Which Act of your humanity, Shall ever have the prayers of self and family.

Shubael Swain


Title: To George Washington from John Claypoole, 4 September 1790
From: Claypoole, John
To: Washington, George

Sir
[Philadelphia] The 4th of Septr 1790

I intreat your pardon for taking this method of presenting my petition, as I had not an opp’y, of sending it in the usual way.
I make bold to inclose the opinion of some of my fellow cittizens with respect to my Qualifications as an officer in aid of the Customs.
wishing not to intrude on your time, I have only to promise, that should you be pleas’d to appoint me, I shall exert my best abilities in a faithfull discharge of the duties of that appointment. I take the liberty to subscribe myself with every Sentiment of respect Your huml. Servt

John Claypoole

P.S. If it should please you to order me to your presence before you leave this Citty, or send an answer I live 3 doors above the Citty Tavern.


Title: From George Washington to Timothy Pickering, 4 September 1790
From: Washington, George
To: Pickering, Timothy

Sir,
Philadelphia September 4th 1790.

In the public letter which accompanies this you will receive such instructions for your conduct in your mission to the Seneca Tribe of Indians, as may without impropriety be communicated to them—Some others shall here be added more peculiarly proper for your own ear.
It is particularly desireable that they be made to understand that all business between them and any part of the United States is hereafter to be transacted by the general Government; and that the person who will attend you on the part of the Executive of the State of Pennsylvania be induced to corroborate this explicitly by his declarations to them.
The Indians have demanded that the property of the deceased Indians, taken by the murderers, be restored: I am informed that this has been secured by the Executive of Pennsylvania, to whom therefore you will apply for the same, and take proper measures for restoring it. They have further demanded that the property of the murderers be given up to them. I am informed that they had no property but lands—you will explain this to them, and of course that there is nothing to render under this demand. The Executive of Pennsylvania had proposed to

purchase goods suitable to the Indians to the amount of 266⅔rds dollars to be given to the friends of the deceased as a satisfaction for the wrong done them—You will take on behalf of the United States so much of this purchase as has been made, for which they shall be repaid, and you will complete the same to the amount before mentioned if it be not completed; and you will take measures for having the goods conveyed to the place of meeting, where you will cause them to be so distributed among the friends of the deceased as shall be most likely to give complete satisfaction. It is desireable that they be induced to content themselves with this peace offering; but should they consider it as absolutely inadequate, you will, in your discretion, give them such assurances of further gifts as the necessity of the case shall require.
So also, should any presents to the Chiefs of the Nation appear to you necessary you will do therein what in your discretion you shall perceive to be indispensable.
You are to receive for your time and trouble eight dollars a day from the date hereof until your return in addition to your reasonable expences as well personal as for the general objects of your mission.
It is expected that you will be at the place of meeting by the  instant, and have there at the same time if possible the presents provided, or otherwise that you take measures for their being conveyed thither by as early a day as possible.
In all your proceedings you are desired to adhere to as strict economy as the objects of your mission will reasonably admit.1 am Sir, Your most obedient Servant

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 5 September 1790
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Philadelphia Septr 5. 1790.

The messenger to the Seneca nation set off this afternoon, with a letter addressed by me to their Sachems Chiefs & Warriors, informing them of my appointment from you to meet them under the authority of the United States; inviting the relations of the deceased Indians to come to Tioga on the 25th of October next; and expressing your desire that the chiefs of the Turtle tribe, & other Great Men of the Seneca nation would accompany them, to be witnesses to their people of the Justice of

the United States, & to receive assurances of your & their friendship. I also wrote to Mr Phelps, & to Smith the interpreter. In each letter I have pointedly declared that tis only the relations of the deceased & the chief men whom I desire to meet; & have urged Mr Phelps to use his influence to prevent a large assembly. However, on conversing with Wm McClay esqr. who has had experience in such business, I find that notwithstanding every precaution to prevent it, a considerable company may be expected. I have therefore in the estimate subjoined stated them at 200. I had first supposed six days provisions would be sufficient; but Colo. Wilson assured me that I must reckon upon at least 12 days, including their supply when returning. However, as the beef & flour may be procured at Tioga & in its neighborhood, I purpose to make an absolute purchase of but part of the quantity mentioned in the estimate taking care at the same time to secure a full supply, if more should be wanted.


Title: Enclosure: Estimate of the expense of necessaries for the meeting of the Seneca Indians at Tioga Octr 25. 1790., 25 October 1790
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Washington, George

            4 barrels of Country rum 120 gall. @ at 3/.
            £ 18. 0.0

            Provisions for 200 Indians 12 days, including the supplies they must receive when going home, viz.

             3200 lbs. of beef @ 3 d.
            40. 0.0

             32 Cwts flour @ 15/.
            24.  .

            A silver gorget & other trinkets
            10.  .

            1 Cwt of tobacco & pipes
            2.10.

            94.10.0

            Provisions & necessaries for T. Pickering, & Colo. Wilson, agent for Pennsylvania, & for the boatmen
            12.  .

            Transportation of goods & stores from Philadelphia hire of boat & boatmen
            20. 0.0

            Pay of the interpreter
            12.  .

            Contingences
            11.10.

            £150. 0.0


Title: Enclosure: Edward Telfair to Henry Knox, 20 July 1790
From: Telfair, Edward
To: Knox, Henry

Sir
State-house, Augusta [Ga.], 20th July 1790.

On the 2nd inst: I received a letter from Timothy Barnard Esquire, dated Flint River the 23’rd ultimo, whereupon the enclosed

proclamation of the 2’nd inst: was issued—I was hopeful that this measure would have prevented further outrage contrary however to expectation I received a second letter from Mr Barnard of date the 12’th on which my proclamation of yesterday was founded—herewith are transmitted the Executive proceedings in both cases.
The transactions appear to be of a mysterious nature, as no information whatever has as yet been obtained of the names of the offenders—you will readily perceive that every exertion on my part is making to discover and bring to justice those daring violators of the public tranquility.
It will afford me a singular satisfaction, if my proceedings meet the approbation of the President of the United States, and should any additional matter occur to him in the premises, I should be happy to receive immediate information.
When the President shall determine the rank of officers commanding in the event of a connection of the militia with the federal troops, it is my earnest desire to be speedily informed thereof. I have the honor to be Sir Your most hble servt

Edwd Telfair.


Title: From George Washington to Clement Biddle, 9 September 1790 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Biddle, Clement

	Letter not found: to Clement Biddle, 9 Sept. 1790. On Tuesday, 14 Sept. 1790, Biddle mentioned in a letter to Tobias Lear that he “had a few Lines from the President at Baltimore dated on Thursday.”


Title: From George Washington to Robert Morris, 9 September 1790
From: Washington, George
To: Morris, Robert

Dear Sir
Baltimore Septr 9th 1790

Major Jackson having communicated the result of his conversation with you to General Stewart, the General was so obliging as to write the enclosed letter on the subject of giving you possession —and I was induced by his determination to give Mr Lear some directions relative to the removal of the furniture from New York. But that no unnecessary delay may be sustained in completing the repairs and alterations which it is proposed to make, I would beg leave to observe to you that they may be

proceeded in without regarding the accomodation of the furniture, as, independent of the space which may be taken up in making the Bow-window, there will be ample room for the reception of all our articles in other parts of the House—and I conceive this intimation the more necessary as Mrs Morris mentioned something to me, when I had the pleasure of seeing her on Sunday evening, about painting the House, which will require all the intervening time to compleat it.
The additional building for a Servants hall, and the converting of the Cow-House into stalls for horses, may be entered upon I hope without affecting your convenience while you remain in the House, although the alteration of the Bow-windows & the painting cannot.
Should the delay of your removal (or other circumstances) be longer than we have supposed—I beg you to inform Mr Lear thereof—that he may govern himself accordingly. We arrived here yesterday afternoon without accident, & tomorrow proceed. Mrs Washington (who is better than she was whilst in Philadelphia) joins me in every good wish for Mrs Morris, yourself & family, and I am Dear Sir Yr Most Obedt and Affecte Hble Servant

Go. Washington

P.S. I intended on Saturday last to have asked the Rent I was to pay, but neglecting it then, should be obliged to you for communicating it to me, when you are [at] leizure, in a line or two.


Title: To George Washington from John O’Donnell, 9 September 1790
From: O’Donnell, John
To: Washington, George

[Baltimore] Thursday 9 Septr [17]90

ODonnell presents his most respectful Compts to the President of the United States—intreats his Acceptance of the accompanying Indian Apparatus for Smoaking called “a Hooka” which He took the Liberty to mention to Him, when He had the Honor to visit Him sometime since at New York.
The Bearer will shew the President’s Servant it’s use, and the Manner of preparing the Tobacco for Smoaking.


Title: To George Washington from Edmund Randolph, 9 September 1790 [letter not found]
From: Randolph, Edmund
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Edmund Randolph, 9 Sept. 1790. GW’s 22 Sept. 1790 letter to Randolph mentions having received the attorney general’s “letters of the 9th and 10th instant” (see Shubael Swain to GW, 3 Sept. 1790, n.5).


Title: To George Washington from Alexander Hamilton, 10 September 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

Sir
Treasury Department [New York]September 10th 1790

The public service appearing to require the early establishment of the boats or cutters for the protection of the revenue, agreeably to the provision made by the Legislature in their last Session, I do myself the honor respectfully to submit to you what has occured upon that subject.
Cutters from forty to fifty feet keel being deemed by experienced persons the most eligible, my enquiries have been directed to the terms on which a boat of that size may be built in the port of New York. From the information received, there is reason to expect that ten of those Vessels may be procured for the medium sum of One thousand Dollars each, provided due care and aconomy are used in their equipment. To avoid dissatisfaction it may appear best to build them in different parts of the Union. One may be procured in New Hampshire; and another in Massachusetts, for the coast eastward of Cape Cod: One in Connecticut for Long Island sound and the coast adjacent to Rhode Island: One in New York for the bays of New York and Amboy and the coast adjacent to Sandy-hook: One in Philadelphia for the bay of Delaware and the coast adjacent to Capes May & Henlopen: One in Norfolk and another in Baltimore for Chesapeak bay and the coasts adjacent to it: One in North Carolina for the sounds & coasts of that State: One at Charleston for the Bays and Coasts of South Carolina. And one at Savannah for the coasts of Georgia.
Should this arrangement meet your approbation, the utility of the establishment leads me to request your permission to carry it into immediate execution; or that you will be pleased to direct such other as may appear to you preferable.
There not being sufficient light with regard to characters for officering the Cutters destined for the eastern coasts, particularly

Massachusetts, I have written private letters to the Collectors of Boston and Portsmouth on the subject: when their answers arrive, the persons who appear to have most in their favor from New York inclusively eastward shall be noted for your determination.
The latest arrivals from Europe bring intelligence of the continuance and encrease of warlike preparations by the Courts of Great Britain and Spain, tho’ no declaration of war was known in the Seaports of the latter on the 26th of July. I have the honor to be, with the most respectful consideration, sir, Your most Obedient and most hume servant

Alexander Hamilton


Title: To George Washington from Edmund Randolph, 10 September 1790 [letter not found]
From: Randolph, Edmund
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Edmund Randolph, 10 Sept. 1790. GW wrote to the attorney general on 22 Sept. 1790 and mentioned receiving Randolph’s “letters of the 9th and 10th instant” (see Shubael Swain to GW, 3 Sept. 1790, n.5).


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Marshall, 11 September 1790
From: Marshall, Thomas
To: Washington, George

Sir
Woodford County [Kentucky District of Va.]Septr 11th 1790

I have taken the liberty to inclose you a Kentucky paper wherein is published an extract from one of Mr Brown’s letters respecting the Spanish business. My reason for doing this is that you may judge how far it confirms a representation I formerly had the honor to make you on that subject. The part I then publickly took in this affair has intirely excluded me from any knowledge of his subsequent communications to his confidential friends.
You will discover by the paper I send you, to what lengths matters have been carried. Every thing relative to this matter

on the part of Mr Brown has by his friends & coadjutors been denied or conceeled, which has produced a necessity for the inclos’d publication.
I shall only take the liberty of adding that a great majority of the people of this District appear to be well dispos’d to the government of the United States tho’ they have, through the influence and industry of his confidential friends, again elected Mr Brown to Congress; and that our official & influential characters having taken the Oath to support the general Government together with the position the continental troops have taken, in my opinion leaves us little to fear at present from t⟨he⟩ machinations of any Spanish party.
That God may bless & preserve you, and that the United States may long continue to enjoy the happiness of your Government & protection, is the most fervent prayer of one who has the honor to be with the most respectful esteem & sincerity, Your most obedient and very humble Servant

T. Marshall


Title: To George Washington from Tobias Lear, 12 September 1790
From: Lear, Tobias
To: Washington, George

Sir,
New York September 12th 1790

I have been honored with your letter of the 5th instant; and am happy to find by accounts of your departure from Philadelphia, that Mrs Washington’s indisposition was not such as to retard your journey, which you had some apprehensions of when you wrote. As the weather for the week past has been pleasant, I trust the wishes of your friends have been answered in your having had an agreeable journey to Mount Vernon.
The arrangements which are made with respect to Mr Morris’ house appear to be such as will render it a more commodious and eligible dwelling than you had reason to expect on your first settlement in Philadelphia. The people here appear

pleased with the prospect of your being so well accommodated; and the circumstance of its being in Mr Morris’ house does not seem to be noticed here in the manner which there was reason to think it might, from the idea that was formed of Mr Morris’ agency in the removal of the Government.
When I get to Philadelphia I shall not fail of giving the attention you desire to your Coach which is in the hands of Mr Clark.
Colo. Biddle’s draft for the cost of the wood shall be honored at sight.
Upon the best consideration which I have been able to give the subject of the removal of the women servants of the family, (with a full knowledge of the circumstances of the case) the following seems to be the best disposition. Mrs Lewis, her daughter and one of the House maids (Peggy) who does not wish to go to Philadelphia will be discharged at the end of the month. Fidus’ wife is desireous of going to Philadelphia; but her situation will not permit her to do service in the family after she gets there; and she does not think she shall come into the family again when her circumstances might permit; for she says she finds herself, in point of constitution, unequal to the services which a woman in her station should perform in this family, and her father who lives in Jersey has promised to assist her with something. She has been a faithful and industrious servant since her residence in the family, and Fidus has not his superior, upon every account, in his station; I would therefore (unless you think proper to direct otherwise) permit her to go in the Vessel with the servants, but she will not be upon wages after this month, and when she gets to Philadelphia she will provide for herself. James’ wife has not been in the family for some months past; and I understand from Mr Hyde, that she does not intend to come into it again, as she finds it necessary to attend to her three children. She wishes to go to Philadelphia with the Servants; but I shall wait your order before I give her an answer. She has no means of subsisting here, and depends upon James’ wages for support. The Washer Women are desireous of continuing in the family. Fanny, the principal, has four children which must go with her. This is an objection to her going. But, on the other hand, Mrs Hyde informs me that she understands her business perfectly—is very diligent—can, and does do more at washing &c. in a day than most women—is œconomical in the use of such things as

are used in washing—and, that she is perfectly honest & exact in the return of such things as are sent to the wash house. This last is a weighty consideration in a family where so many things are committed to her charge as are in this; and so far as I have had an opportunity of making any observations with respect to this woman, they agree with the above information. Her children, she says, shall be no incumbrance to the family after they get to Philadelphia; and I have been as particular as I could in learning how she had supported them in this place, and it appears that she has been cautious of carrying anything to them from the family or suffering them to come often to the house, lest it should be an objection to her being employed in the family. Her husband follows the sea, and from his wages gives some little assistance to the support of their children, but it is very small. I have mentioned these circumstances thus fully that you may be able to see upon what ground I should decide upon her going to Philadelphia with the family; which I shall do unless I receive your orders to the contrary. The other washer woman appears to be a decent good woman in her place and has no incumbrances.
I have questioned Mr Hyde upon the subject of his continuance in the family; and he observes that he wishes to continue in it himself, if his services are acceptable; but that Mrs Hyde does not think that she can continue, as she finds the duties which she must necessarily perform are more than she can do consistent with her health. These duties are, generally, superintending the women of the family in washing the linen—cleaning the house &ca—taking care of the linen of the family—preparing the desert for dinners—making Cake, tea & Coffee—and assisting Mr Hyde in such parts of his duty as lay within the house. As she has not been accustomed to duties of this kind in so large a family she finds that she shall not be able to continue them on account of her health. Mr Hyde says he shall not think of going to Philadelphia at your Expence unless he continues in the family. And in case it should be determined that he goes I will have articles entered into. I have begun a comparison of his accounts with Fraunces’; but have not had time to go so fully into them as I intend to do in the ensuing week. I have found, however, in the course of the investigation that Hyde’s exceeds Fraunces’ perhaps 4 or 5 pounds per week in the same season

of the year; but there are causes which may account for it. When we lived in Cherry Street, we could not have more than 12 or 15 persons to dine weekly, exclusive of our own family. Since we have been in Broad way there has seldom been less than 20. The Price of bread has likewise risen at least 30 per Cent—We have had the addition of two persons to the family—viz.—Mrs Hyde and one House maid; the house in Broad way requiring more work in cleaning &ca than that in Cherry Street. We have had some extraordinary dinners, and the Company which has visited Mrs Washington on friday evenings has been much more numerous than it could be in the other house. All these things combine to swell the bills; and altho’ they have undoubtedly occurred to you, yet I thought it proper to mention them, as I had noted the difference of the bills. I have had no cause to suspect Mr Hyde’s honesty in his accounts; and so far as relates to the furniture, Linen, china &ca under his care, he seems to have been very careful of it; and on a late inspection every thing appears to be in good order, and much less china and glass destroyed than one could expect—in so large a quantity; and the pieces of those broken are all produced. The Porter and fruit seem to be two articles in which he much exceeds Fraunces. The former he accounts for in the consumption at table, and the regular demand of the Gentlemen in the evening; of which he says he has lately kept a regular account and it will avarage one dozen per week. The fruit he says has been more frequently asked for than formerly, and he is obliged to furnish it. I have made these observations which occurred to me in the course of the investigation of the accounts, as I thought it might not be amiss for you to have them brought to view. If any thing worthy of notice should appear in the further investigation, you will be informed of it.
I have got all the furniture of the large drawing room packed up in such a manner as I think will completely secure it from injury. All the large looking glasses are also in order for shipping; and we shall next pack up the Table Ornaments in the same manner in which they came. By or before the first of October we shall be ready to remove; I shall then engage two of the Packets (by the trip) which ply between this place and Philadelphia to take the things on board, and distribute the Servants between them.
I have spoken to Mr Macomb about the House in order to

know if he intended to remove into it when we left it. But he seems to think he shall not ’till the first of may next, unless he can get a tenant for the House which he now occupies; and as to the buildings which have been erected at your expense, he will not say whether he will allow any thing for them or not; however I have informed him that if he does not determine upon it soon I shall sell them for the most I can, and let the purchaser take them away before the first of may.
There has been no late arrival here from Europe, and we are still in the dark as to the issue of matters between G. Britain and Spain.
I have asked the opinion of Colo. Hamilton and General Knox respecting the Sum (if any) to be given to John A. Dingwell for his information. Colo. Hamilton seems to think it a mere catch-penny scheme and not worth notice; and that any reward given therefor would only serve to bring forward other things of a similar nature & of as little importance. Genl Knox thinks some small sum (perhaps 30 or 40 dolls.) should be given him, that if there is anything in his information, and matters of more importance with respect to it should come to his knowledge he might be induced to reveal them. As there is this difference of opinion I shall do nothing in the business ’till I receive your orders. Dingwell has not called upon me since your departure.
Colo. Humphryes sailed on the third Inst. and has had very favourable weather since.
Mrs Lear joins me in most respectful compliments to Mrs Washington and yourself; and kindest love to the children; to which I beg leave to add my best wishes and affectionate remembrance to my Virginia Friends. With the highest respect & warmest attachment I have the honor to be Sir Your obliged & Very humble Servt

Tobias Lear

P.S. General Knox set out for Boston on Wednesday next, with Mrs Knox and her family. He expects to be absent about three weeks.


Title: To George Washington from Charles Lee, 12 September 1790
From: Lee, Charles
To: Washington, George

Alexandria [Va.], 12 Sept. 1790. Informs GW of his readiness to comply with the secretary of the treasury’s orders to provide the president with any required funds in his hands.


Title: To George Washington from David & Francis Clark, 13 September 1790
From: Clark, David & Francis
To: Washington, George

Sir
Philadelphia 13th September 1790

Your favor of the 9th Instant I have received—with Respect to Mr Morris’s Coach, he has no Coat of Arms theron, but a Cypher on Doors, back & front, with a Chryst over the Cypher, and no inclosure—the ground colour of your Coach being White, the silver in our opinion will have but a bad effect—should you prefer continuing the seasons as already on the carriage, on the Doors, front & Back, your Chryst painted on the four quarter Pannels all inclosed within the original Ovals, which corresponds with the mouldings of the Coach, would in our opinion look well, but should you prefer having your Cypher & Chryst in Silver, in place of the Seasons, it would look extremely well within the original Mouldings, & on a deep Silver Grey, or purple Ground, and in our Opinion preferable to the other.
Inclosed we hand you a draft of a Cypher done in the same Manner with that of Mr Morris’s, also a pattern of the Cloth for the lining of the Coach, which we hope will meet with your approbation—should you prefer the silver Cypher & Chryst, we would recommend having the Cypher only on front, Doors & Back, & the Chryst on the 4 quarter pannels with Ovals reversed from what they now are, by this we mean having the oval in this way—every attention in our power will also be paid to the harness, & we would recommend the following to make the Coach uniform—a pair of plated handles to the Doors; plated Brace buckles, and plated mouldings around the roof—there being no Glass or Frame in front of Coach, I would wish to know if we are to fit one in—We have the honor to be With the greatest respect Sir Your Obedt Servants

David & Francis Clark


Title: To George Washington from the United States Supreme Court Justices, 13 September 1790
From: United States Supreme Court Justices
To: Washington, George

Sir,
[c.13 September 1790]

We, the Chief Justice and Associate Justices of the Supreme Court of the United States, in Pursuance of the Letter which you did us the Honor to write on the 3rd of April last, take the Liberty of submitting to your Consideration the following Remarks on the “Act to establish the Judicial Courts of the United States.”
It would doubtless have been singular, if a System so new and untried, and which was necessarily formed more on Principles of Theory and probable Expediency, than former Experience had, in Practice, been found entirely free from Defects.
The particular and continued Attention which our official Duties called upon us to pay to this Act, has produced Reflections, which, at the Time it was made and passed, did not, probably, occur, in their full Extent either to us or others.
On comparing this Act with the Constitution, we perceive Deviations, which, in our Opinions, are important.
The 1st Sect: of the 3rd Article of the Constitution declares that “the judicial Power of the United States shall be vested in one Supreme Court, and in such inferior Courts, as the Congress may from Time to Time ordain and establish.”
The 2d Sect: enumerates the Cases to which the Judicial Power shall extend. It gives to the Supreme Court original Jurisdiction in only two Cases, but, in all the others vests it with appellate Jurisdiction, and that with such Exceptions, and under such Regulations as the Congress shall make.
It has long and very universally been deemed essential to the due Administration of Justice, that some national Court or Council, should be instituted or authorized to examine the Acts of the Ordinary Tribunals, and, ultimately, to affirm or reverse their Judgments and Decrees: it being important that these Tribunals should be confined to the Limits of their respective Jurisdictions, and that they should uniformly interpret and apply the Law in the same Sense and Manner.
The appellate Jurisdiction of the Supreme Court enables it to confine Inferior Courts to their proper Limits, to correct their involuntary Errors, and, in general, to provide that Justice be administered accurately, impartially, and uniformly.

These controling Powers were unavoidably great and extensive; and of such a Nature as to render their being combined with other Judicial Powers, in the same Persons, unadvisable.
To the natural as well as legal Incompatibility of ultimate appellate Jurisdiction, with original Jurisdiction, we ascribe the Exclusion of the Supreme Court from the latter, except in two Cases.
Had it not been for this Exclusion, the unalterable ever binding Decisions of this important Court, would not have been secured against the Influences of those Predilections for individual Opinions, and of those Reluctances to relinquish Sentiments publicly, though, perhaps, too hastily given, which insensibly and not unfrequently infuse into the minds of the most upright Men, some Degree of Partiality for their Official and public Acts.
Without such Exclusion no Court, possessing the last Resort of Justice, would have acquired and preserved that public Confidence which is really necessary to render the wisest Institutions useful. A celebrated Writer justly observes that “next to doing right, the great Object in the Administration of public Justice, should be to give public Satisfaction.”
Had the Constitution permitted the Supreme Court to sit in Judgment, and finally to decide on the Acts and Errors, done and committed by it’s own Members, as Judges of inferior and subordinate Courts, much Room would have been left for men, on certain Occasions, to suspect, that an Unwillingness to be thought and found in the Wrong had produced an improper Adherence to it; or that mutual Interest had generated mutual Civilities and Tendernesses injurious to right.
If Room had been left for such Suspicions, there would have been Reason to apprehend, that the public Confidence would diminish almost in Proportion to the Number of Cases in which the Supreme Court might affirm the Acts of any of it’s Members.
Appeals are seldom made but in doubtful Cases, and in which there is, at least, much Appearance of Reason on both Sides: in such Cases, therefore, not only the losing Party, but others, not immediately interested, would, sometimes, be led to doubt whether the Affirmance was entirely owing to the mere Preponderance of Right.
These, we presume, were among the Reasons which induced the Convention to confine the Supreme Court, and, consequently

it’s Judges, to appellate Jurisdiction—We say, “consequently it’s Judges,” because the Reasons for the one, apply also to the other.
We are aware of the Distinction between a Court and it’s Judges, and are far from thinking it illegal or unconstitutional, however it may be inexpedient to employ them for other Purposes, provided the latter Purposes be consistent and compatible with the former—But from this Distinction it cannot, in our Opinions, be inferred, that the Judges of the Supreme Court, may also be Judges of inferior and subordinate Courts, and be at the same Time both the Controllers and the controled.
The Application of these Remarks is obvious. The Circuit Courts established by the Act, are Courts inferior and subordinate to the Supreme Court. They are vested with original Jurisdiction in the Cases from which the Supreme Court is excluded; and, to us, it would appear very singular, if the Constitution was capable of being so construed, as to exclude the Court, but yet admit the Judges of the Court. We, for our Parts, consider the Constitution as plainly opposed to the Appointment of the same Persons to both Offices, nor have we any Doubts of their legal Incompatibility.
Bacon in his Abridgment says, that “Offices are said to be incompatible and inconsistent, so as to be executed by one Person, when from the multiplicity of Business in them, they cannot be executed with Care and Ability, Or when, their being Subordinate and interfering with each other, it induces a Presumption they cannot be executed with Impartiality and Honesty—and this my Lord Coke says is of that Importance, that if all Offices, civil, ecclesiastical &c. were only executed each by a different Person, it would be for the Good of the Commonwealth, and Advancement of Justice, and Preferment of deserving Men—If a Forester by Patent for his Life, is made Justice in Eyre of the same Forest hac vice, the Forestership is become void; for these Offices are incompatible, because the Forester is under the Correction of the Justice in Eyre, and he cannot Judge himself. Upon a mandamus to restore one to the Place of Town Clerk; it was returned, that he was elected Mayor and sworn, and therefore, they chose another Town Clerk; and the Court were strong of Opinion that the Offices were incompatible, because of the Subordination—A

Coroner made a Sheriff, ceases to be a Coroner—so a Parson made a Bishop, and a Judge of the common Pleas made a Judge of the King’s Bench, &c.”
Other Authorities on this Point might be added, but the Reasons on which they rest, seem to us to require little Elucidation or Support.
There is in the Act another Deviation from the Constitution, which we think it incumbent on us to mention.
The 2d Sect: of the 2d Art: of the Constitution, declares that the President “shall nominate and by and with the Advice and Consent of the Senate, shall appoint Judges of the Supreme Court, and all other Officers of the United States whose Appointments are not therein otherwise provided for.”
The Constitution not having otherwise provided for the Appointment of the Judges of the Inferior Courts, we conceive that the Appointment of some of them, vizt of the Circuit Courts, by an Act of the Legislature, is a Departure from the Constitution, and an Exercise of Powers, which, constitutionally and exclusively belong to the President and Senate.
We should proceed, Sir, to take Notice of certain Defects in the Act relative to Expediency, which we think merit the Consideration of the Congress, but, as these are doubtless among the Objects of the late Reference made by the House of Representatives to the Attorney General, we think it most proper to forbear making any Remarks on the Subject at present. We have the Honor to be, most respectfully, Sir, Your most obedient, and Most humble servants.


Title: From George Washington to Charles Carter of Ludlow, 14 September 1790
From: Washington, George
To: Carter, Charles (of Ludlow)

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon, September 14th 1790.

Your favor of the 2. instant met me on the road to this place.
I beg you to be assured of my sensibility and gratitude for your friendly wishes respecting my health, which, since I overcame the severe attack in May last, has been better than I had enjoyed for twelve months preceding—for within that time I experienced more, and severer indispositions than I had felt in 25 years before, all put together; owing, I presume, to the change from an active life to one more sedentary and thoughtful.
To be instrumental, in any degree to the accomplishment of the object, which is mentioned in your letter, would, I do assure you, give me pleasure; but with truth I can add that I know no person who has either money to lend, or who seems willing to part with it—The most conclusive proof of which I shall give you: I was much in want of a sum, to answer some calls upon me, which I did not care to have unsatisfied, when I sat out for New York the Spring before last; but was unable to obtain more than half of it, (though it was not much I required) and this at an advanced interest with other rigid conditions—After this I took an occasion to sound Mr Carroll of Carrollton, as the most likely, being the most monied man, I was acquainted with—but without success—He assured me that he could not collect the interest of the money that had been loaned, by his father and himself, and his other resources were not more than adequate to his own occasions—thenceforward I made no further attempts, not knowing indeed where to apply.
At all times I shall be glad to see you; and, with Mrs Washington’s compliments to Mrs Carter, yourself, and family, in which I most cordially join, I am, my dear Sir, Your most obedient, and affectionate, humble Servant

G. Washington.


Title: To George Washington from Joshua Barney, 15 September 1790
From: Barney, Joshua
To: Washington, George

Sir
Baltimore Septr 15th 1790

On my arrival from the Easternshore I found your Excellency had left Baltimore in the morning of that day. By Mr William Smith I was informed you had done me the honor to enquire if he knew my determination respecting the Outfits of Cutters in this Bay for the protection of the Revenue. I received a letter from Mr Tench Coxe on that Subject a Copy of which and my Answer I have taken the liberty of enclosing to your Excellency, and have now to express my great pain in being obliged to relinquish a Command in which I might again be of Service to my Country, but unfortunately my circumstances will not admit of my confining myself altogether for the Allowance Stipulated by Law. It is for me an unfortunate circumstance indeed. The Inspectors which are the lowest Officers in the Customs have a larger Salary, and are not confined to such severe duty, as they can attend their families and other business, both of which these Officers are deprived. I hope your Excellency will believe me sincere, when I declare my every Ambition is to render service to my Country, but my family require my Consideration, and unless I leave them to suffer, I cannot accept the Commission offered me, upon the present establishment. I have taken the liberty to express myself freely & to lay before your Excellency my true situation, hoping something may offer, in which I may once more be called into public life so as to render services to

my Country, and a Comfortable subsistance to large family, And have the Honor to remain your Excells. Most Obt And Very Humble Servt

Joshua Barney


Title: To George Washington from Joseph Greenway, 15 September 1790
From: Greenway, Joseph
To: Washington, George

Sir
Alexandria [Va.] 15th September 1790

I have the Honor to inform you, that I bore a Lieutenants Commission in the Navy of the United States, during the late War and was made prisoner in the Dellaware Frigate. That after some time I made my escape from the Enemy; and having obtained

a furlough from Congress until called for, engaged in the Merchants Service, where I continued the remainder of the War, and some time after the Peace took place—Since I left that service, I have been employed by the public and have, I rely, conducted myself with propriety. That having lately observed the Collection Law of Congress directs a number of Cutters to be built for the use of the united States, I have to solicit your favor for the Command of one, to be stationed in this River and bay and respecting my Character and deportment, you will be informed by the under written certificate. I am Sir with the utmost respect, Your most Obedient Humble Servant

Joseph Greenway


Title: To George Washington from Alexander Hamilton, 15 September 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

Sir
New York Septr 15th 1790

The urgent avovations, in which I have been engaged, towards putting, in a train of execution, the laws of the last session, affecting my department, and a desire of reflecting, maturely, and giving the reasons for the result of my reflections, fully, have caused me to delay, longer than I wished, the answers to the

questions, with which you honored me, and I hope will excuse the delay.
The judgments formed, in particular cases, are almost always connected with a general train of ideas, in respect to some more comprehensive principles or relations; and I have thought it adviseable to lay that train before you, for the better explanation of the grounds of the opinions, I now give, or may hereafter have occasion to give on the like subjects, in obedience to your commands.
I feel no small regret, in troubling you with the perusal of so voluminous a discussion; but, as I thought it would be satisfactory to you to have the reasons of the opinions you required fully submitted to your consideration, I conceived it to be more consistent with my duty, to risk some intrusion on your time, than to withold any consideration that appeared to me of weight enough to enter into the determination.
With the most perfect respect and truest attachment. I have the honor to be Sir Your most obedient and humble ⟨servant⟩

Alexander Hamilton