Title: To George Washington from Arthur Young, 1 February 1787
From: Young, Arthur
To: Washington, George

Sr
Bradfield Hall near Bury Suffolk [England]feb. 1. 1787.

I recd both the letters wch you did me the honour of writing, & the duplicate of one of them.
It gives me a satisfaction not easily expressed to find that the liberty I took so much against common forms in writing to you, met with so favourable an interpretation; & the testimony you are so kind as to give in favour of my exertions in the Annals is the most flattering applause I could receive; from him on whom the eyes of all the world have been, & are still fixed. To acquire your approbation Sir, will be my warmest wish: To deserve it, my unceasing endeavour.
Annexed to this you receive a list of the things I have been able to get in time for the ship wch Mr Welch advises me will sail this month.
The ploughs are excellent; I have had them both tried; & ploughed some furrows with them myself & find that they do their business perfectly to my wish. In regard to the mould by which the shares are made & wch you seem to lay some stress upon; I do not perfectly comprehend you; as they are not wrought, or cast on any. but I have taken every possible precaution

that you should find no difficulty in their reparation, having sent three shares & three coulters to each plough, In order that you may keep one of each as a pattern to work them by; and that you may know whether they are made properly & put on so, I also send the measures of each plough by wch you may examine them; for if they do not at any time go well (that is quite easy in hand & for small distances almost without holding: I should add that I saw them both go without being touched, for several seconds) you have only to alter them till they agree with the measures & then you are sure of their performing. I should add that they are made for a 9 inch furrow, & from 4 to 6 or 8 inches deep; & to be drawn by two stout oxen or horses: the depth of 8 inches only in loose easy friable soils. The horses are to go abreast & without a driver. I have sent one pair of whippletrees. Should you afterwards approve better of Wooden ploughs I would with great pleasure send you one; but they admit scarcely any alteration; if once twisted or drawn out of the right line, new ones must be made. Whereas you will see on examining these ploughs that they are to be taken entirely to pieces by the screws in half an hour.
In regard to the seeds, yr order came at a time when I could not send you my own Velvit wheat wch is perfectly free from any other sort: this now sent has a small mixture of red. I have sent 2 bushels of a wheat called Harrissons of wch I hear an extraordinary character; also 2 bushels of spring wheat of the sort the King had from the Empress of Russia & gave to Mr Ducket. These two articles tho not in yr order will I hope not be disagreeable to you. I have likewise added grass seeds enough for an acre of ground exclusive of the hopclover and ray grass you ordered. From the description of your soil, wch you have given most intelligibly I have little doubt of those seeds answering. Of Sainfoine I have not sent so much as you ordered, for I cannot conceive that it will succeed at all with you. But I may be mistaken.
The ground plan of a barn &c. I have calculated for a farm of 500 acres well managed; but the mode of conducting it will make great variations necessary. It is sketched on the idea of all cattle being tied up: If on the contrary they are kept loose in yards the difference is nothing more than an inclosure of walls or pales, for the sheds and leantoos should be the same.

A ploughman I beleive I cd get (but am not certain) at very high wages £30 or £40 a year for instance; wch single circumstance would make him good for nothing. It is amazing how rarely it answers: I have sent them to all parts of Europe, & hardly one that turned out well. I however think that a very little attention to these ploughs will supersede the want of him, since they go with such ease that the holder has no labour at all; the difficulty of holding a plough well is a proof it is good for nothing.
When I have the honour of another letter from you, to wch I look forward, as with the expectation of certain pleasure, I should be much obliged to you to let me the general arrangement of farms in your neighbourhood. The courses of crops & the system if there is one of connecting cattle with arable crops: Or is the land so new & rich that manure is not necessary? In England husbandry never prospers but in proportion to the attention to cattle. I put no faith in your bailiff; & have formed a most erroneous idea of the compass of your mind if you are not able to instruct him. Might I take the liberty of requesting the prices of products & labour: including in the former cattle, sheep, wool &c.
As you have written for beans I should recommend your making them a preparation for wheat, & keeping them quite clean during their growth. They should either be dibbled, or drilled in rows fro. 14 to 18 inches asunder; except it be a lay; & then a row on every furrow.
I am informed that there is an agriculture Society at Philadelphia, will you allow me to beg the favour of you to transmit to them the set of the Annals I now send: I do not know how to direct to them, or would not take this liberty; but going thro’ yr hands Sir, will make the present acceptable. If I can be of any service to their laudable exertions, They may freely command me.
I send also the sixth Volume of the same work of which I beg the honour of your acceptance.
It would give me great & real concern If I thought Sir that you would not with the utmost freedom favour me with yr commands: nothing I assure you will give me more pleasure than executing them to the best of my power. You must allow me to consider myself as your agent for everything that concerns

agriculture. I have the honour to remain with the greatest respect Sir, Your much obliged & most devoted Servt

Arthur Young


Title: To George Washington from William Peacey, 2 February 1787
From: Peacey, William
To: Washington, George

Hond Sir
Northbeach [England] Feby 2d 1787

Your favor of the 5th August and that of the 16th of novembr came safe to hand the former on the 6th of Decemr the latter on the 12th Jany last It was great Joy to me to hear that my Old Servant (James Bloxham) was with your Excellency—I sincerely hope he may answer Your Expeactation as he was throw me recomended to Your Excellency by The Honle G. W. Fairfax[.] James Bloxham’s first Letter (in august) was ritten in Bad Spirits on acount of Being at so great a distance from his fammily—his Last of November the 12 was Vearry Plaseing he have Ritten for his wife and Two Daughters to come over to him, his two Sons to be left hear to have some Learning—according to Your Desire I have Opend a Corrispondence with Wakelin Welch Esqr. who have beene Verry kinde in procuering a Passage for Mrs Bloxham and hur two Daughters—I have Inclosed you a bill of the Seeds I have Sent—am Sorry it is not in my Power to Send the plows by this convayance—the plows we use have Wheel’s, and Bloxham have written for Plows without a Wheel I have had Plows made but am doutfoll of thair answering so well as some I have Seene in the Ragland Parts of Worcestershire, I have written to a frend to Send me two but thay will be

too Late for this convayance. Mr Welch in forms me that thare is a Vessel that will Sail Soon. Your Excellency may Depend on the plows Coming by the next Vessel—Caleb Hall have not made up his Mind to Leve this Kingdom. I have had three Blacksmiths who have a great Desire to Embark for America if Your Excellency should have Ocasion of one of that Trade.
I have no Dought but I could Send a Wheelright if Your Excellency wold wish to have one from England. I shall be Verry happy in doing any thing in the Farming way for Your Excellencey in England. I am Hon. Sir Your Most Oblig’d and Duty foll Sarvant

William Peacey


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Peters, 3 February 1787
From: Peters, Thomas
To: Washington, George

Sir
Baltim[or]e Feby 3. 87.

I must beg your pardon for my having been so remiss in not answering your favour of Decern. 4 but I assure you I suppos’d I had done it, And I am very sorry I have not at present the Barley you write for to send, but as I informd you before I think I shall not disappoint you, my Partner is going to Phila: next Week and will exert himself to procure the Quantity you want. I likewise shall have by the first Vessell, (or at least I expect it) from new England a Quantity of Spring Barley where it is to be had of the best quallity, the first that comes to hand I will Immediately send you, as I wish to encourage the raising of Barley to the Southd I have exerted myself to have Seed provided for me in time.
I can not find any other person in this Town that has Clover Seed but the person named in the enclosd which I have sent you with his own Account of it & his Prices. should it be such as you wish pray inform me & what Quantity and the way it is to be sent you, which shall be done with Pleasure by Your Most Obedt Hume Servt

Thos Peters


Title: To George Washington from Lafayette, 7 February 1787
From: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de
To: Washington, George

My dear General
Paris february the 7th 1787

The last letter I Had from You is dated November the 19th, and Announces the Safe Arrival of the Asses who I Hope Will Be less frigid than those of His Catholick Majesty—Whatever Be their intrinsic Value, I Have found it Encreased in a Maryland Paper to a degree Which does Not indeed do justice to the Maltheze Merchants—and as the Estimate of the three Animals is truly Extravagant, I must tell you, altho’ it is not Very Usual for people Who Make a present to Give the Receiver a Peep into

the Bill, that the trium Asinanat’s Cost in Maltha does Not Much Exceed fifty Guineas, and Yet the jack Ass is the Best that Could Be found on the island.
I have Given You an Account of the Assembly of Notables, Wicked People say not able[,] which would Have Already Begun Had Not three of the Ministers, the Count de Vergennes, M. de Calonne, and the Keeper of the Seals fallen Sick Very importunately. I am Sanguine in the Hope that this Assembly will Be productive of Good Consequences. I flatter Myself We May Get a Kind of House of Representatives in Each province, Not to fix, it is true, But to divide the taxes, and an abolition of Several duties on the Commercial intercourse Within the Kingdom. it is not probable that the affair of the protestants Will Come Before the House. As the Reclamations of the Clergy and a Bigoted party Might Hurt the Business, We shall, I Hope, Have it done Before long one Way or other, and Nothing Hinders the King deciding at once on that important affair, provided He does not Mind too much the opponent party Whose only Means are to intrigue or Complain, and Since We Have the inconveniences of power, let us in this instance Have the Benefits of it. The Easier so, as the Greater Part of the Clergy, if Unconsulted, Will Not throw obstacles in the Way, and the people at large wish for a More liberal system.
My journey to Krimée Will not of Course take place, and Nothing Can Be determined Upon While the length of our Session is Not Known. I Will Acquaint You With Every thing that is Worth Crossing the Atlantic. This letter is Carried By Col. franks Who Has Particularly well Behaved in His Mission to Marocco and By Mr Banister Who is Going Home. this Young Man is Very clever. france Has just Made a treaty of Commerce With Russia Wich does Honour to Count de Segur. The Health of Count de Vergennes is Rather in an Alarming Situation. Nothing Settled as yet in Holland. the New King of prussia Seems Averse to the idea of imitating His predecessor, and does not, as You Easely Guess, shine the more for it.
We are told that the disturbances in New England are Subsiding. God Grant it! the people of America ought to Be Made Sensible that Any MisConduct lowers them the More in the opinions of Europe as they Have Been So Highly and So deservedly Admired,

and they are Most Seriously interested in preserving their Happiness at Home, and their Consequence Abroad.
Adieu, My Most Beloved General, Be pleased to present My Best Respects to Mrs Washington, Mrs Stuart, Your Respected Mother, all your family. Remember me to George, the Young ones, and all friends. let your Affectionate Recollecton, and fatherly Blessing often Attend Your absent, Your dearest, and Most devoted friend, and let your Heart judge What I so Warmly feel, and Cannot Sufficiently Express, that With Every Sentiment of Affection, Respect, and Gratitude I am My Great and Good General till the last throb of My Heart Your Loving friend and affet. Servt

lafayette

Mde de lafayette and the Young family Beg their Best Respects to You and Mrs Washington


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Clagett & Company, 10 February 1787
From: Thomas Clagett & Company
To: Washington, George

Sir
London 10 February 1787

Having established a House in this City with a view of transacting business on Consignment we beg leave to make you a tender of Our Services, and to Solicit a share of your confidence and favours.
Being determined to enter into no Engagements which might deprive us of the means of executing on the very best terms the Business entrusted to our care, We mean, therefore, cautiously to avoid Shipping Goods but for Property actually in hand.
We shall pay ready Money for every article we purchase and give our Correspondents Credit for the Discounts and Drawbacks at the foot of each bill of parcels. On Tobacco we charge the same Commission as the first Houses in London have done for the two last years, and on Goods 2½ ⅌ Ct & ½ ⅌ Ct for making Insurance.

We sincerely hope these Terms will meet your Approbation, and as we apprehend they will confine our Business to narrow limits, we shall, of course, be the better able to attend to that which may fall into our hands. We are very respectfully Sir Your most Obedt Servts

Tho: Clagett & Co.


Title: John Francis Mercer to GW, 10 February 1787 [letter not found]
From: Mercer, John Francis
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: John Francis Mercer to GW, 10 Feb. 1787. On 1 April GW wrote Mercer: “Enclosed I return the letter which you forwarded to me the 10th of Feby.”


Title: From George Washington to Clement Biddle, 11 February 1787
From: Washington, George
To: Biddle, Clement

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon February 11th 1787

As we are now on the verge of the middle of Feby and the season is fast approaching when the ground should be in readiness to receive spring grain, permit me to remind you of the Barley you were so obliging as to procure for me—and beg (as I have been disappointed in another expectation) that the 50 bushels may be encreased to one hundred, if in your power to do it conveniently. At any rate write me decidedly, what I have to expect, that I may not, in expectation of Barley, with-hold my best grounds from oats till it is too late to sow them, to advantage, Ascertain the freight, in the Bill of Lading that I am to pay for the Barley and Clover Seed: without this is previously done, impositions are but too commonly met with.
Since writing to you last, I have met with, and obtained the quantity wanted, of Jerusalem Artichoke. What price would well cured Herrings sell for with you, by the barrel? Are they in demand? and what would be the freight from this River to Philadelphia? I have about 50 Barrels that I am told are good. with great esteem I am—Dear Sir, Yr Obed. Humble Servt

G. Washington

P.S. If the Vessel by which you send the Barley and should not have sailed, pray send me two good and Strong linnen Wheels.
I would thank you for paying Mesr Sidden and Co. for the Columbien Magazenes which they have sent me. G.W.


Title: To George Washington from David Humphreys, 11 February 1787
From: Humphreys, David
To: Washington, George

My dear General.
Hartford [Conn.] Feby 11th 1787

I had the honour to receive, last evening by the Post, your letter of the 23d of Jany, and am happy to relieve you from your apprehension, by informing that your confidential favor of the 26th of Decr with its enclosures had long since been safely received; & duly acknowledged in a private letter which was forwarded more than a fortnight since, by Colo. Wadsworth. But as he has business at New York & in Philadelphia, and travels like Mr Morse at his leisure, this may probably reach you, before his arrival at Mount Vernon.

In my last, I fully accorded with you, my dear General, on the inexpediency of your attending the Convention in May next:and gave you my reasons pretty fully on the subject.
It now gives me pleasure to advise you, that affairs have taken as favorable a turn in Massachusetts, as could be expected. The official letters (which are published) will inform you of the manner in which the mob from Hampshire, Berkshire & Worcester Counties assembled at Springfield; how they attempted (under Shays) to take possession of the Stores & Barracks; and finally how Sheppard by firing his Field Peices killed four Men & dispersed the rest. No small arms were discharged on either side. The next day Lincoln arrived from Boston with about 2500 Men, and routed a part of the Mob at West Springfield, without bloodshed. Shays soon after collected the different parties, who were in arms against government, at Pelham—Genl Lincoln advancing to Hadley, the Insurgents scattered, some retiring home, others coming in & taking the oath of allegiance. Shays, thus abandoned, fled with about 100 of the principals to the Hampshire Grants; as is supposed, either with a design of making their way to Canada, or of waiting to see whether the General Court (now sitting) will not pass an Act of oblivion in their favour. The plans of the Insurgents do not appear to have been devised, or managed, with system, or even with common ability. At an earlier period it was obviously in their power to have seized the public Magazine. The suppression of this crude essay, I am in hopes, will give a firmer tone to our governments in the East.
I beg you will make me to be remembered to Mrs Washington & the family with every token of essteem, and that you will believe me to be with sentiments of the highest veneration & respect Your sincere friend & Hble Servant

D. Humphreys


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Newton, Jr., 11 February 1787
From: Washington, George
To: Newton, Thomas Jr.

Mount Vernon.
February 11th 1787.

It is now two or three months since I requested, in very explicit terms, that if my flour was not then sold, that it might be disposed of for what ever it would fetch, & the money remitted to me by Doctr Stuart who was then attending the Assembly, or some other safe conveyance. As I have heard nothing from you since, it is probable the letter may have miscarried—I therefore beg that no further delay may arise in transmitting me the proceeds, as I want the money.
In the letter alluded to above, to the best of my recollection I asked if well cured Herrings commanded a ready sale at Norfolk and what pr Barrel.I am Sir, yr most obed. Servt

G. Washington


Title: To George Washington from Mauduit du Plessis, 12 February 1787
From: Mauduit du Plessis, Thomas-Antoine, chevalier de
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Savannah 12th Feby 1787.

I have not forgot the attention with which your Excellency treated me when I was at Mount Vernon, nor the polite reception which Madam Washington gave me; I beg you both to accept of my warmest acknowledgements.
From the moment I left you, my General, I have had reason to complain of the lot which has persecuted me, for, a few days after, I was thrown, my horse, Chair & myself, into a Gully 18 feet deep. A little beyond Monforts’s mill, passing over a bridge, it broke down under my horse; providence preserved me, for if the top of my Chair had been down I should have crushed my head in a thousand peices, but its being up, saved me from the disaster; my horse was not so fortunate as myself, for he was dangerously wounded so that I was obliged to leave him at Halifax. After having travelled this far, finding the bridges broken, & the rivers very high, I was obliged to embark, with my horses for

Charleston; this passage which is commonly made in 24 hours, I was 19 days in performg & suffered greatly from hungar & thirst—6 days of the passage we were in imminent danger of perishing, & finally, 3 hours after I landed, the vessel was lost upon the bar.
I proceeded on to Georgia as soon as possible, & eight days after my arrival at Savannah I fell sick, & was three times brought to the door of death, but it pleased God to let me escape & I have been three months in a very low state.
I have lost my Surgeon by a fever, and likewise every European domestic which I brought with me from France. I arrived alone at my Mills, but was extreemly surprised upon findg only a part of the mills which I purchased in France of Mr John McQueen; they say it is not the fault of him, but of his Agent who disposed of them during his Absence—this I am willing to beleive but it is as true that I have found but a part of what I purchased.
I hope that by industry, perseverance & attention, this settlement will, in time be pretty considerable; I shall employ myself to make it useful, & in some degree, agreeable, since it is to be the place of my residence in preference to Savannah, as I am determined to have every thing carried on under my own inspection, for the eye of the Master makes the horse fat.
While I lay sick I sent for Genl McIntosh & gave him the letter which you wrote to him, as well as that of the Count de Estaing—in consequence, an extraordinary meeting was called in which I was admitted into the Society of the Cincinnati; General McIntosh showed me every attention imaginable. Think what obligations I am under to your Excellency for the honor which I have received by my admission!
Colo. Washington, who lives in Charleston, has been so kind as to charge himself with the conveyance of a small package which contains 6 India fans; I beg you to present them, for me, to Madam Washington; they have no merit in themselves but as a mark of gratitude.
I wish I could be so happy as for my affairs to permit me to go & breath that pure & agreeable air which is inseperable from, & which every one enjoys who inhabits, the place where General & Madam Washington reside. I beseech your Excellency

to be persuaded of the truth of this, & of my profound respect.

DuplessisBrigadier of the Armies of the King


Title: To George Washington from Henry Knox, 12 February 1787
From: Knox, Henry
To: Washington, George

My dear Sir
New York 12 February 1787

In my last to you of the 8th instant I enclosed you a number of General Lincolns letters to Govr Bowdoin, in order to give you a connected statement of the rebellion in Massachusetts. I have now the great satisfaction of informing you, that this ugly affair, is in a train of being speedily and effectually suppressed—pursuing my former plan, I enclose you (in confidence) 4 copies of letters from Genl Lincoln, to Govr Bowdoin which brings the affairs to the 5th instant inclusively.
The legislature of Massachusetts convened in Boston on Saturday evening, the 4th instant. The Governors speech detailed to them the progress of the insurrection—A Committee was immediately appointed to consider it—who reported the existence of a rebellion, in the State, an approbation of the Conduct of the executive, and an assurance of the utmost support to Government. The two houses met on Sunday for the consideration of the report, and there were no doubts that they would adopt it. This conduct must have been produced by the imminent danger, but happily the business was the same day terminated.
Several Gentlemen in the legislature of Massachusetts to

whom I wrote on the subject assure me of their hearty concurrence in the proposed convention to be held next May, and that they shall urge the matter in the Legislature with all their might—I am persuaded that they will appoint delegates, but as I mentioned to you in my letter of the 14th ultimo, they will be the only state from New England—and as the Convention will be able only to propose perhaps it may answer all the purposes as if the others were to choose.
Congress will this day have nine states represented which is for the first time, since the existence of the new Congress, that is, since the first monday in Novr last. With sincere and affectionate Compliments to Mrs Washington I am my dear Sir Your most obedient humble Servant

H. Knox


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

Dear Sir:
Mount Vernon, 14th Feb., 1787

I forgot, in the letter I wrote to you the day before yesterday, to request the favour of you to send 6 Screw Augers, that will bore holes 2½ inches.—I want them for Posting and railing—If this size is not sufficiently large they may be made bigger—for this, or indeed any kind of work I am informed that Screw Augers are much preferred. I am, Dear Sir, Yr. Most Obedt. Servt.,

G. WASHINGTON.


Title: From George Washington to Charles Washington, 14 February 1787
From: Washington, George
To: Washington, Charles

Dear Charles,
Mount Vernon February 14. 1787

When the enclosed was written, I knew nothing of Georges intention of visiting Berkeley. The safe conveyance offorded by him, is very favourable and gladly embraced it.
Having seen Bushrod and Corben Washington on their way from Berkeley their information is the subject of this letter and is exceedingly distressing to me in as much as I have not the means of affording immediate relief. By them I learn that the remaning Negros of my deceased Brother Samuels Estate are under an execution and a momentary Sale of them may be expected and this too by the extraordinary conduct of Mr White in applying moneyes received towards the discharge of a Bond not in Suit when they ought to have given it in payment of Mr Alexander’s Claim on which judgment had been, or was on the point of being, obtained. How in the name of Heaven came Mr White to be vested with powers to dispose of the Money he should recover unaccompanied with instructions respect to the disposal, will not Mr Alexander when he sees every exertion making to pay him have mercy on the Orphan. Can he as a Father and man of feeling see the Fatherless reduced from Competency to distress untouched. If there was an unwillingness to pay him. If property had not been sold for the express purpose of doing it, and if there was not a prospect of being done in a very short time it would be right in Mr Alexander to push matters to extremity. but when (as I am informed) every exertion is making to satisfy him, to cause perhaps three pounds worth of property to be sold to raise 20/ Cash would be inconsistant with that benevolence which should be characteristic of every man and to which from what I have heard of the Gentlemen he is justly entitled. I therefore think that as Executor to the Will and guardian to the boys you should before the dye is cast apply by fair & candid representation to Mr Alexander on this subject—not in the cold mode of letter but by personally to see if this evil can not be averted. Vain would it be for me to offer Mr Alexander any assurances of the money at a short given day—I have it not. I cannot get it from those who owe me without suit and I hate to sue them. I have offered Lands for sale at very moderate prices but have not, been able to sell them—otherwise, or if I

could raise the money by any other means I would relieve my Nephews without hisitation from the impending evil. Indeed I would essay any thing to save the Estate for if the negros are sold for ready money they will go for a song. to add aught to this is unnessary. with the most affe⟨t⟩e regard. I am ever yours

G. Washington.

P.S. My love in which Mrs Washington Joins to my Sister and the family.


Title: Richard Henry Lee to GW, 15 February 1787 [letter not found]
From: Lee, Richard Henry
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: Richard Henry Lee to GW, 15 Feb. 1787. GW wrote Lee on 20 Feb.: “Your favour of the 15th . . . came safe to hand.”


Title: From George Washington to Battaile Muse, 15 February 1787
From: Washington, George
To: Muse, Battaile

Sir
Mount Vernon Feby 15. 1787.

I have just received your letter of the 4th inst. and the 50 pounds sent by Mr A. Morton.
Mr Wales accepted the order upon him, and says he will endeavour to pay it when it becomes due, but as the time of payment has not yet arrived I cannot say anything decided upon it. It is not in my power to send a person to meet you at Leesburg as the time which you mentioned to be there is already elapsed. Tho’ I am not in want of horses at present, yet, as it may prevent my tenants from being distressed, & perhaps be the only chance I may have to secure my rent, I will consent to take a few, at a reasonable price, provided they are young, strong & serviceable, I should prefer good breeding Mares; but old horses I will not receive at any rate. The cut money which you sent me in the above 50 pounds fell short, by weight, 10/6—I do not regard the present deficiency, but only mention it that in future you may receive it by weight, as it is the only way in which it will pass here. I am Sir yr Obdt Hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from David Stuart, 15 February 1787
From: Stuart, David
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir,
Abingdon 15th Feby 1787

I shall take steps immediately for discharging your taxes on the best terms—I have written to Mr Henley to dispose of the tobacco directly—From some conversation the other day with Mr Wilson, I expect Certificates and indents may be had as cheap from him, as in Richd—I shall know this tomorrow: and if they cannot, I shall write to Mr Donald in Richmond for them.
With respect to Peter, it will be very agreeable to me that he should continue out the year—Mrs Stuart informed me of his having been here, but as I concluded his successor could not be so well acquainted with the management of a horse in the covering season; I intended when last at Mt Vernon, to have informed you that I should not expect him this year. I am Dear sir with great regard Your Obt Servt

David Stuart


Title: To George Washington from James Tilton, 15 February 1787
From: Tilton, James
To: Washington, George

Dr Sir,
Dover [Del.] 15 Feby 1787.

I had the honor to receive your circular letter of the 31 Octr 1786 together with your private favour dated the 7th Novr following. Contrary to my opinion & inclination, the state society have hitherto continued to elect me their president. I should therefore have thought it my duty to have answered you on the subject of your circular letter before now, had I not been delayed in the oportunity by which I intended to write.
At the last meeting of the society, Captn McKennan was appointed, on behalf of all the members, to wait on the President General and obtain his signature to their Diplomas. The wound he received in his arm at German Town, broke out soon after, &

has hitherto delayed his Journey. He now entertains the pleasing hope of prosecuting his Jaunt to Mount Vernon very soon, and promises to deliver this letter with his own hands.
I shall not fail to lay your letter before the society at their meeting in April next. They will regret, I know, that any thing should deprive them of your name & influence, at the head of the association. That degeneracy of health, which threatens an abatement of your usefulness as well as happiness will, and ought to be, particularly afflicting. The same affectionate regard, which would make the Delaware Society very reluctant to any change of the President General, will, probably, induce them to conform, in that respect, to whatever they shall be persuaded is most agreeable to your wishes.
Captn McKennan will be able to explain the particular business on which he is sent, and to give every information relative to this state society. I will only observe generally, that at the first state meeting, after the last general meeting, the delegates from this state society communicated to their brethren the transactions of the general meeting. These transactions were referred to a committee to report thereon, particularly with respect to an application to the legislature, for an incorporation. The committee from time to time, at the respective meetings of the society, requested further time, until the last meeting: when they reported, that no state society in the union had been able to procure an incorporation ’tho some had attempted it; and that they were well convinced, it would be very inexpedient to propose such a thing in Delaware. The society thereupon declined the measure, and resolved to instruct their delegates to the next General meeting. I have reason to think the principal objects of these instructions will be the security of their funds & perpetuity of the society. This will be the principal business of our meeting in April next, when we hope to have every information to be obtained previous to the general meeting. We do not despair of an establishment, upon so unexceptionable a footing, as not to excite the Jealosy of the good people of America: and then, a little time will evince, that our association is not only harmless, but of public utility.
I sincerely wish you a perfect restoration of health; and that you may be equally happy in the success of your future endeavours for the public good, as in the great event of your past labours!

With the greatest respect, I have the honor to be Dear Sir, your most obt Servt

James Tilton


Title: From George Washington to Mary Ball Washington, 15 February 1787
From: Washington, George
To: Washington, Mary Ball

Hond Madam,
Mount Vernon February 15 1787

In consequence of your communication to George Washington, of your want of money, I take the (first safe) conveyance by Mr John Dandridge to send you 15 Guineas which believe me is all I have and which indeed ought to have been paid many days ago to another agreeable to my own assurances. I have now demands upon me for more than 500£ three hundred and forty odd of which is due for the tax of 1786; and I know not where, or when I shall receive one shilling with which to pay it. In the last two years I made no Crops. In the first I was obliged to buy Corn and this year have none to sell, and my wheat is so bad I cannot neither eat it myself nor sell it to others, and Tobaca I make none. Those who owe me money cannot or will not pay it without Suits and to sue is like doing nothing, whilst my expences, not from any extravagance, or an inclination on my part to live splendidly but for the absolute support of my family and the visitors who are constantly here are exceedingly high; higher indeed than I can support, without selling part of my estate which I am disposed to do rather than run in debt or continue to be so but this I cannot do, without taking much less than the lands I have offered for sale are worth. This is really and truely my situation—I do not however offer it as any excuse

for not paying you what may really be due—for let this be little or much I am willing; however unable to pay to the utmost farthing; but it is really hard upon me when you have taken every thing you wanted from the Plantation by which money could be raised—When I have not received one farthing, directly nor indirectly from the place for more than twelve years if ever—and when, in that time I have paid, as appears by Mr Lund Washingtons account against me (during my absence) Two hundred and Sixty odd pounds, and by my own account Fifty odd pounds out of my own Pocket to you. besides (if I am rightly informed) every thing that has been raised by the Crops on the Plantation. who to blame, or whether any body is to blame for these things I know not, but these are facts. and as the purposes for which I took the Estate are not answered nor likely to be so but dissatisfa[c]tion on all sides have taken place, I do not mean to have any thing more to say to your Plantation or Negros since the first of January except the fellow who is here, and who will not, as he has formed connections in this neighbourhood leave it as experience has proved him I will hire. of this my intention I informed my brothe[r] John some time ago, whoes death I sincerely lament on many Accounts and on this painful event condole with you most sincerely. I do not mean by this declaration to with hold any aid or support I can give from you; for whilst I have a shilling left you shall have part, if it is wanted, whatever my own distresses may be. what I shall then give I shall have creadit for. now I have not for tho’ I have received nothing from your Quarter, and am told that every farthing goes to you, and have moreover paid between 3 & 4 hundred pounds besides out of my own pocket I am viewed as a delinquent. & considered perhaps by the world as unjust and undutiful Son. My advice to you therefore, is, to do one of two things with the Plantation—either let your grandson Bushrod Washington, to whom the land is given by his Father have the whole interest there, that is lands and negros, at a reasonable rent—or, next year (for I presume it is too late this, as the overseer may be engaged) to let him have the land at a certain yearly rent during your life; and hire out the negros—this would ease you of all care and trouble—make your income certain—and your support ample. Further, my sincere, and pressing advice to you is, to break up housekeeping, hire out all the rest of your servants

except a man and a maid and live with one of your Children. This would relieve you entirely from the cares of this world, and leave your mind at ease to reflect, undisturbedly on that which aught to come. On this subject I have been full with my Brother John and it was determined he should endeavor to get you to live with him—He alas is no more & three only of us remain—My House is at your service, & would press you most sincerely & most devoutly to accept it, but I am sure and candour requires me to say it will never answer your purposes, in any shape whatsoever—for in truth it may be compared to a well resorted tavern, as scarcely any strangers who are going from north to south, or from south to north do not spend a day or two at it—This would, were you to be an inhabitant of it, oblige you to do one of 3 things, 1st to be always dressing to appear in company, 2d to come into in a dishabille or 3d to be as it were a prisoner in your own chamber The first yould not like, indeed for a person at your time of life it would be too fateiguing. The 2d I should not like because those who resort here are as I observed before strangers and people of the first distinction. and the 3d, more than probably, would not be pleasing to either of us—nor indeed could you be retired in any room in my house; for what with the sitting up of Company; the noise and bustle of servants—and many other things you would not be able to enjoy that calmness and serenity of mind, which in my opinion you ought now to prefer to every other consideration in life. If you incline to follow this advice the House and lotts on which you now live you may rent, and enjoy the benefit of the money arising there from as long as you live—this with the rent of the land at the little falls & the hire of your negros would bring you in an income which would be much more than sufficient to answer all your wants and make ample amends to the child you live with; for myself I should desire nothing, if it did not, I would, most chearfully contribute more. a man, a maid, The Phæten and two horses, are all you would want—to lay in a sufficiency for the support of these would not require ¼ of your income, the rest would purchase every necessary you could possibly want, and place it in your power to be serviceable to those wth whom you may live, which no doubt, would be agreeable to all parties.
There are such powerful reasons in my mind for giving this

advice, that I cannot help urging it with a degree of earnestness which is uncommon for me to do. It is I am convinced, the only means by which you can be happy. the cares of a family without any body to assist you—The charge of an estate the proft of which depend upon wind weather—a good Overseer—an honest man—and a thousand other circumstance, cannot be right, or proper at your advanced age & for me, who am absolutely prevented from attending to my own plantations which are almost within call of me to attempt the care of yours would be folly in the extreme; but the mode I have pointed out, you may reduce your income to a certainty, be eased of all trouble—and, if you are so disposed, may be perfectly happy—for happiness depends more upon the internal frame of a persons own mind—than on the externals in the world. of the last if you will pursue the plan here recommended I am sure you can want nothing that is essential—the other depends wholy upon your self, for the riches of the Indies cannot purchase it.
Mrs Washington, George & Fanny Join me in every good wish for you and I am honored Madam, Yr most dutiful & affe. Son

G. Washington


Title: From George Washington to Charles Willson Peale, 16 February 1787
From: Washington, George
To: Peale, Charles Willson

Sir,
Mount Vernon Feb. 16th 1787.

You will receive by the Stage the body of my Gold Pheasant, packed up in wool agreeable to your directions. He made his Exit yesterday, which enables me to comply with your request much sooner than I wished to do. I am afraid the others will follow him but too soon, as they all appear to be drooping; whether it is owing to their being confined, or to the Climate, I am not able to say: I am very desirous of giving them Liberty, but the danger of their being taken by Hawks prevents me. I am Sir Yr most Obedt Hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Stone, 16 February 1787
From: Washington, George
To: Stone, Thomas

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon February 16 1787

Your favor of the 30th Ulto came duly to hand. To give an opinion in a caus of so much importance as that which has

warmly agitated two branches of your legislature, and which, from the appeal that is made, is likely to create great, and perhaps dangerous divisions, is rather a delicate matter; but as this diversity of opinion is on a subject which has, I beleive, occupied the minds of most men; and as my sentiments thereon have been fully and decidedly expressed long before the Assembly either of Maryland or this State were convened; I do not scruple to declare that, if I had a voice in your Legislature, it would have been given decidedly against a paper emission Upon the general principles of its utility as a representative, and the necessity of it as a medium, and as, far as I have been able to understand its advocates (for the two papers you sent me were the same, and contained no reasons of the House of Delegates for the local want of it in your State, though I have seen, and given them a cursory reading, elsewhere) I should have been very little less opposed to it.
To assign reasons for this opinion would be as unnecessary as tedious. The ground has been so often trod that a place hardly remains untouched. But, in a word, the necessity, arising from a want of specie greater than it really is, I contend that it is by the substance, not with the shadow of a thing, we are to be benefited. The wisdom of man, in my humble opinion, cannot at this time devise a plan by which the credit of Paper money would be long supported; consequently depreciation keeps pace with the quantum of the emission; and articles for which it is exchanged rise in a greater ratio than the sinking value of the money. wherein then is the Farmer, the Planter, the Artizan benefitted? The debtor may be, because, as I have observed, he gives the shadow in lieu of the substance, and in proportion to his gain, the creditor, or the body politic suffer: for whether it be a legal tender or not, it will, as hath been observed very truly, leave no alternative—it must be that or nothing. An evil equally great is, the door it immediately opens for speculation; by which the least designing, & perhaps most valuable part of the community, are preyed upon by the more knowing and crafty speculators. But contrary to my intention & declaration, I am offering reasons in support of my opinion—reasons too, which of all others, are least pleasing to the advocates for Paper money I shall therefore only observe, generally, that so many people have suffered by former emissions, that, like a burnt child who dreads the fire,

no person will touch it who can possibly avoid it. The natural consequence of which will be, that the specie which remains unexported, will be instantly locked up. With my great esteem and regard—I am Dr Sir your most obed. Servant

G. Washington


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Smith, 17 February 1787
From: Smith, Thomas
To: Washington, George

Sir
Carlisle [Pa.] 17th February 1787

Mr McCrea, who informed me that he kept the Post-office in Alexandria, was up at the Supreme Court at Bedford, in November last, & was to return immediately; I embraced the oppertunity to inform you that we had Tried and gained all the Ejectments which I had the honour of bringing for you in Washington County: I took the liberty of mentioning that it would be

necessary that you should appoint some Person to receive the Possession from the Sheriff, unless you and the Defendants should come upon Terms that would supersede the necessity of Issuing writs of Possession. On my return from the Circuit Courts, unexpected business called me suddenly to the City, in which I arrived a Day before the Judges—I was detained there so long, that for the first Time, I could not attend the County Courts over the Mountains; this absence has prevented me from knowing whether such Terms have been made or proposed, and therefore I take the liberty (although perhaps unnecessarily) to remind you that the Agent should be appointed & the writs of Possession executed, before Harvest; unless the Defendants have solicited, and obtained, the favour, at which I took the liberty to hint, in the Letter to which I allude: if their solicitations shall have obtained the gift of their crops, they will have a proper sense of the obligation; but if the suit of Possession should be delayed to be executed so long that they may, without solicitation, reap the benefit, they will not esteem it any favour at all.
When I was in Philadelphia, I left provisional orders with the Prothonotary, to be executed when I should think it proper—for there being now four Terms in the year in the Supreme Court, it would be of no use to order the writs of Possession, until nearly about the Time that your Agent could attend to receive the Possession; therefore, in order to avoid unnecessary Expence, & that the writs may be sent up to the Sheriff at such Time as may be convenient to you, I inclose a Præcipe to the Prothonotary, who will send the writs to you, to send to the Sheriff by the Person whom you may appoint to receive Possession; unless you should order Mr Bend to send them, as he can, to the Sheriffs: you will perceive that I have ordered him to Issue them at such Time Returnable as you shall direct—If the Sheriff Should receive the Writs when I am at Washington County Court, I shall of course, give him directions, if any should be necessary, respecting the execution of them—if I should be absent, Mr Ross will give any assistance that my be requisite.
It gave me, as it must give every good citizen of the united States, very sincere pleasure, to observe that you will probably be in Philadelphia in May—I most ardently Pray that you may

be as sucessful in the Cabinet, in giving energy, permanency & happiness to the United States, as you was in the Field, in establishing them as a Nation.
Attendance of the Courts of Nisi Prius at that Time of the year will prevent me from being in the City, but as soon as I shall hear of your arrival, I will transmit your Papers by a safe conveyance.
If you should have come on terms with the Defendants in the Ejectments, I am convinced that you will excuse this Letter, which I should not have taken the liberty of writing, had I any certainty as to that fact. I have the honour to be with great respect, Sir, your most obedient & very humble Servant

Thomas Smith


Title: From George Washington to David Humphreys, 18 February 1787
From: Washington, George
To: Humphreys, David

My Dear Humphreys,
Mount Vernon February 18th 1787

Colo. Wadsworth has handed me your obliging and much esteemed favor of the 20th ulto for which I offer you my sincere thanks.
The tranquil state, in which the people of this commonwealth are affords me nothing to offer you in return for the interesting communications in your letter of the above date the House of Delegates, in maryland, have adjourned in high dudgeon. As you are neare the theatre of more important transactions—and have the wheels of the political machine much more in view then I have, I hope you will not find it incompatible with your military duties to allot a few moments for the purpose of keeping me adviced of their revolutions, my anxiety for the welfare of this Country encreases with the attempts to destroy its peace,

what is to be done is in every ones mouth, yet none can answer. which is conviction to my mind, that matters must get worse before they will be better. You have the good wishes of every one in this family and the warmest affection of your sincere friend.

G. Washington


Title: To George Washington from Clement Biddle, 20 February 1787
From: Biddle, Clement
To: Washington, George

Feby 20 1787

I had engaged the Freight & was preparing to Ship the Articles you had ordered in the Sloop Dolphin Capn Steward (the first Vessel that had offered this Spring for Potowmack) when I received your favour of 11th inst., Mr Haines had Kept 50 bushels of Barley for me but could share no more—what I send is New England Summer Barley which is much the best. I should have applied to another Brewer to make up the 100 Bushels, but Mr Haines who has taken much pains to introduce & improve the Culture of Barley in this State, informs me that the Summer barley does not answer here so well as in New England & after many trials they now generally raise the Winter Barley here—the Summer Barley comes foward too fast in this Climate & he thinks will be more apt to do it in Virginia. I have made no Engagements for the Produce of it.
I have procured some Grass seed which I think is extraordinary good & much Cheaper than it has been sold. You have also the Spinning Wheels, all of which Articles are Shipped on board the Sloop Dolphin Aaron Steward Master for alexandria & you have the Bill of Loading & Invoice inclosed—the Sloop will leave this about Sunday next, & I hope will be with you in Good time for seeding—the Captain could not deliver the Goods before he reached Alexandria as he must first enter there. I have paid Mr Seddon & Co. for the magazine for Six months. Well Cured Herrings have sold @ 22/6 or three dollars ⅌ Barrell—they ask 3/9 this Currency ⅌ Barrel freight—the freight from hence is inserted in the Bill of Loading.
Mrs Biddle begs leave to present her best respects to Mrs Washington & am &ca

C. Biddle

See sd Invoice over leaf


Title: From George Washington to Bridget Kirk, 20 February 1787
From: Washington, George
To: Kirk, Bridget

Madam,
Mount Vernon February 20 1787

I must beg the favor of you to give the bearer (Mr Lear a young Gentlemen who lives with me) a decided answer with respect to the money which is due to me from the Estate of Mr Kirk your late husband, I wish it may not be forgotten that the Flour for which this money is due ought to have been paid on the delivery of it notwithstanding I have been kept out of it so long.
I beg leave to add that it is from the real want of it I make such frequent, and pressing applications. I am Madam your most obed. Servant

G. Washington


Title: From George Washington to Richard Henry Lee, 20 February 1787
From: Washington, George
To: Lee, Richard Henry

MOUNT VERNON, February 20, 1787.

Dear Sir—Your favour of the 15th, with the seed of the honey locust came safe to hand, and claims my particular thanks. I have but one doubt of its forming the best hedge in

the world; and that is, whether it can be sufficiently dwarfed. If this cannot be effected, the other purpose mentioned in your letter, and a valuable one too, of subserving stock, is alone sufficient to induce the cultivation of the tree.
Mrs. Washington offers respectful compliments to Mrs. Lee, to whom, though I have not the honour of being known, I beg leave to tender mine; we both join in best wishes for you, and the young ladies, and with great esteem and respect, I have the honour to be, dear sir, Your most obedient and affectionate servant.

GEO: WASHINGTON.


Title: From George Washington to Jeremiah Wadsworth, 20 February 1787 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Wadsworth, Jeremiah

Letter not found: to Jeremiah Wadsworth, 20 Feb. 1787. In the Collector, September-October 1956, GW is quoted as writing: “The Post of this day, brought similar information of yours.” Goodspeed’s catalog (1918), no. 125, item 2761, indicates that GW referred to Henry Knox and is quoted as having written: “the gentleman at whose house I am.” The “gentleman” is identified as “Mr. Fendal.” GW and Mrs. Washington on 20 Feb. had dinner in Alexandria at the house of Philip Richard Fendall and his wife Elizabeth Steptoe Lee Fendall, with Henry Lee, Jr., and his wife Matilda Lee Lee (DiariesDonald Jackson and Dorothy Twohig, eds. The Diaries of George Washington. 6 vols. Charlottesville, Va., 1976–79., 5:107). Lee, who had been reelected to Congress, did not attend Congress in New York until 19 April.


Title: To George Washington from James Madison, 21 February 1787
From: Madison, James
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
New York Feby 21. 1787

Some little time before my arrival here a quorum of the States was made up and Genl Sinclair put in the Chair. We have at present nine States on the ground, but shall lose South Carolina today. Other States are daily expected. What business of moment may be done by the present or a fuller meeting is uncertain. The objects now depending and most immediately in prospect, are 1. The Treaty of peace. The Secretary of foreign Affairs has very ably reported a view of the infractions on both

sides, his exposition of the contested articles, and the steps proper to be taken by congress. I find what I was not before apprized of that more than one infraction on our part, preceded even the violation on the other Side in the instance of the Negroes. Some of the reasoning on the subject of the debts would be rather grating to Virginia. A full compliance with the Treaty according to judicial constructions, and as a ground for insisting on a reciprocal compliance, is the proposition in which the Report terminates. 2. a Recommendation of the proposed Convention in May. Cong[res]s have been much divided and embarrassed on the question whether their taking an interest in the measure would impede or promote it. On one side it has been urged that some of the backward States have scruples agst acceding to it without some constitutional sanction: On the other that other States will consider any interference of Congs as proceeding from the same views which have hitherto excited their jealousies. A vote of the Legislature here entered into yesterday will give some relief in the case. They have instructed their delegates in Congs to move for the recomendation in question. The vote was carried by a majority of one only in the Senate, and there is room to suspect that the minority were actuated by a dislike to the substance rather than by any objections agst the form of the business. A large Majority in the other branch a few days ago put a definitive veto on the Impost. It would seem as if the politics of this State are directed by individual interests and plans, which might be incommoded by the controul of an efficient federal Government. The four States North of it are still to make their decision on the subject of the Convention. I am told by one of the Mass[achuset]ts delegates that the Legislature of that State which is now sitting will certainly accede and appoint deputies if Congs declare their approbation of the measure. I have similar information that Connecticut will probably come in, though it is said that the interference of Congress will rather have a contrary tendency there. It is expected that S. Carolina will not fail to adopt the plan, and that Georgia is equally well disposed. All the intermediate States between the former and N. York have already appointed deputies except Maryland which it is said means to do it, and has entered into some vote which declares as much. Nothing has yet been done in the New Congs with regard to the Missisippi. Our last information from Massts gives

hopes that the mutiny or as the Legislature there now style it, the Rebellion is nearly extinct. If the measures however on foot for disarming and disfranchising, those concerned in it should be carried into effect, a new crisis may be brought on. I have not been here long enough to gather the general sentiments of leading characters touching our affairs & prospects. I am inclined to hope that they will gradually be concentered in the plan of a thorough reform of the existing system. Those who may lean towards a monarchical Govt and who I suspect are swayed by very indigested ideas, will of course abandon an unattainable object whenever a prospect opens of rendering the Republican form competent to its purposes. Those who remain attached to the latter form must soon perceive that it can not be preserved at all under any modification which does not redress the ills experienced from our present establishments. Virginia is the only State which has made any provision for the late moderate but essential requisition of Congs and her provision is a partial one only.
This would have been of earlier date, but I have waited for more interesting subjects for it. I shall do myself the pleasure of repeating the liberty of dropping you a few lines as often as proper occasions arise, on no other condition however than your waving the trouble of regular answers or acknowledgments on your part. With the greatest respect and Affection I am Dr Sir Yr Obedt friend & Servt

Js Madison Jr


Title: To George Washington from Henry Knox, 22 February 1787
From: Knox, Henry
To: Washington, George

My dear Sir
New York 22 February 1787.

The storm in Massachusetts is subsiding for the present. But what effects the disfranchisement of a great body of people will create is not easy to say. a numerous body of high spirited men, conceiving themselves oppressed by the government composed of their equals, will reguard the oppression more than the causes which gave birth to it—They will be probably plotting perpetually, to releive themselves from burdens, which they will think intolerable. This will manifest itself variously, and perhaps in some cases in open hostility—Although the insurgents are fled, and dispersed, yet the government conceives itself unsafe without a force. accordingly 1500 men, are raised for five months. This force is to be posted by detachments throughout the disafected Counties—Neither discipline or prudence, will restrain the troops to such conduct, as to avoid offence—The people will think themselves curbed and tyrannized over. The troops will consider the least symptom of discontent, as a step to open hostility—one or the other must be masters—The operation will require force, and hence probably springs a standing army, for the support of government—my conjectures may be erroneous, but it is not impossible but something like this will result from the commotions of Massachusetts.
Congress will probably adopt the idea of a convention for the revision of the Confederation to assemble in May at Philadelphia—This will take away the objections against the legality of the proposed convention. and meet the ideas of the eastern States—I hope it will be effected in Congress & a general attendance of the states be the consequence—I am my dear Sir Your truly respectful and affectionate

H. Knox


Title: From George Washington to Alexander Spotswood, 22 February 1787 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Spotswood, Alexander

Letter not found: to Alexander Spotswood, 22 Feb. 1787. On 5 Mar. Spotswood wrote: “Your Favr of the 22d February . . . never came to my hands until this day.”


Title: To George Washington from William Moultrie, 23 February 1787
From: Moultrie, William
To: Washington, George

Sir
Charleston [S.C.] February 23rd 1787

Your Excellency’s Circular Letter, addressed to me, as President of the Society of the Cincinnati of this State, wherein you were pleased to express your desire of not being re-elected President of the Order on their next general Meeting—I did myself the Honor of laying before the Society at an extra meeting held the 12th instant.
At the same time that we return your Excellency our Sincere thanks for the Honor you have conferred on us during your Presidency, and the Sentiments of attachment which you have expressed for the Society—we must lament the Causes you have assigned for declining being again elected at the next General Meeting, as they appear to be almost insuperable bars, to any hopes of prevailing on you, once again, to accept of being President.
Yet Sir, Since the date of your Letter, an Event has happened which may prove more favourable to our hopes and wishes—Your Country Still holding you in View, when her first Characters are required to come forward and Act for her good—have made choice of your Excellency in her Delegation to the Convention of the States which is to meet at Philadelphia in May next—a Serious and truly important Call! and which your Excellency’s regard for the general Interests of America, has Occasioned you to forego all other considerations, and quitting the desireable Sweets of retirement, accept the appointment—Thus then shall we hope that, as the general triennial Meeting of the Society will be convened at the same time and at the same place, Your Excellency will find less difficulty in complying with the ardent wish of this State’s Society—and that you will again be President.
We have once more to Offer to you, Sir, our Sincere thanks for the Honor the Society has gained by your Patronage—and to offer to Heaven unfeigned prayers that your Excellency’s health, happiness and prosperity may be continued, and that you may long be spared—for the benefit of your Country and Mankind. I have the Honor to be, Your Excellency’s Most Obedient Humble Servant

Willm Moultrie


Title: To George Washington from Philip Pendleton, 23 February 1787
From: Pendleton, Philip
To: Washington, George

Sir.
Berkeley Co. Feby 23rd 1787.

The late decision between the Hites Grantees & the late Lord Fairfax, has occasioned great uneasiness in this County. among many others, a few of us who are interested in lands adjoining a Tract you hold on Bulskin are a little alarmed; It appears by the proceedings in that suit that a survey had been made for Joist Hite on both sides that run. So much thereof as lay on the So. side they acknowledge to have been sold to one Lewis Thomas under whom you hold, as well as by a Patent from Lord Fairfax granted either to Thomas, George Johnson from whom we are informed you were the immediate purchaser or to yourself since your purchase.
in making the survey on which this Patent Issued we find no regard was paid to the Original made for Hite but in this as in many other Cases of a similar nature, some parts were intentionally left out & other lands of greater value taken in as best suited the purchase. the lands thus left out, were considered as Vacant Lands & have without any kind of molestation been Patented held & enjoyed ever since by other persons. I am told that about four acres of the original Survey is possessed by Mr Robt Throckmorton about Seven by John McCormack & a few, I do not know how many by Thornton Washington who holds thro’ me of Owen Thomas who was the Eldest son & Heir at Law of Lewis, under whom you claim the Lands you hold there. We are well assured that shoud you have all the rights of Lewis Thomas to that survey you are perfectly satisfied with the survey on which your Patent Issued and do not wish or expect to recover one acre more, yet a Copy of the decree has been served upon us, which makes it necessary for us to State our Claims to the Court—the equity of which your Excellency will at once percieve arises from the Conduct of those claiming under Hite who Carved out their own lands & left the ballance to the next adventurers —However we think it woud save us a great deal of expence &

Trouble, woud your Excellency relinquish to us & those claiming under us your right in such parts of the Original survey as we are respectively possessed off. we have requested the bearer hereof John McCormack to wait on you for that purpose. this we the more readily expect as your Excellency never has heretofore put in any claims to these lands. I will only beg leave to add that it will perhaps render us essential service & for which we shall ever retain the most gratefull sentiments. I have the Honour to be yr Excellency’s Mo. Obt Servt

Phil. Pendleton


Title: From George Washington to Jaques Campion, 24 February 1787
From: Washington, George
To: Campion, Jaques

Sir,
Mount Vernon February 24th 1787

Your letter of the 26th of Jany came duly to hand. I am much obliged to you for your good wishes, and interest which you take in my welfare—The Asses are in very good order, but I am sorry to inform you that the Gold cock and the Silver hen pheasant are ded; the others appear to be drooping, and I am afraid that all the care and attention which is paid to them will not be able to preserve them. I am Sir yr Humble Servant

G. Washington


Title: From George Washington to Benjamin Lincoln, Jr., 24 February 1787
From: Washington, George
To: Lincoln, Benjamin Jr.

Sir,
Mount Vernon Feby 24th 1787.

I have reed your letter of the 24th Ulto & the receipt for Messrs Josiah Watson & Co. bill of exchange which was enclosed in it. I am much obliged to you for the Acct of the political situation of your State which you gave me, and am very happy to find, by later advices, that matters are soon likely to terminate entirely in favor of Government by the suppression of the insurgents, and it adds much to the satisfaction which these accounts give that it may be effected with so little blood-shed. I hope some good may come out of so much evil, by giving energy & respectability to the Government.
General Lincoln’s situation must have been very painful, to be obliged to march against those men whom he had heretofore looked upon as his fellow citizens, and some of whom had, perhaps, been his Companions in the field; but as they had, by their repeated outrages, forfeited all the rights of Citizenship, his duty & patriotism must have got the better of every other consideration &

led him with alacrity to support the Government. I am Sir.


Title: To George Washington from Nicholas Simon van Winter and Lucretia Wilhelmina van Winter, 26 February 1787
From: Van Winter, Nicholas Simon,Van Winter, Lucretia Wilhelmina
To: Washington, George

Monseigneur,
[Amsterdam] de⟨r⟩ 26 fevrier 1787

Vos Lettres, que nous avons eu l’honneur de recevoir l’Année passée, par la main de Monsieur le Marquis de la Fayette, par les quelles vous avez eú la bonté d’agréer les Vers de ma chere Compagne, (hommage dû a votre magnanimité et a Votre Vertu,) nous donnent ⟨assèz⟩ de ⟨pardiesse⟩ pour vous presenter à prèsent Germanicus, Nous nous flattons, que votre admiration poúr le meilleur Héros de l’Antique Rome, (l’Objet du Poëme dont nous avons l’honneur de vous offir úne Tradúction Françhise) n’est-pas moindre que la nôtre. Peutêtre l’Amerique, delivrée par vous, reconnoîtra-t-elle Son Libérateur dans ce Tableaú. Peutêtre donne-t-il un jour occasion à un Poëte de l’Amerique de chanter le Germanicus de la Patrië. Permettez que deux Epoux Hollandois, qui aiment leúr Patrië, tâ⟨c⟩hent de soutenir sa réputation Litéraire, trop peu connúë chez l’Etranger. Daignez donc recevoir l’Ouvrage d’une Citoyenne des Pays Bas Unis; accordéz lui l’honneur d’y fixer votre attention quelques instans; et quoi qu’il semble, que l’infirmité de Son Autheur ne lui promette pas une longue carriere, elle rémit ses voeúx sinceres a ce un de Son Epoux pour votre prosperité &

votre gloire. Acceptéz les temoignages du profond respect, avec lequel nous avons l’honneur d’être.


Title: To George Washington from Clement Biddle, 27 February 1787
From: Biddle, Clement
To: Washington, George

Feby 27. 1787.

I reced your favour of 14th in time to procure five Augers—they are made in the Country & I could not get a sixth at the Shops which sell them. they Cost 6/ is £1.10.0. to your Debit I have sent them by Capt. Steward by whom I shipped the Barley &c. & inserted them in the Bill of Loading which remained here—he Sails this Day for Alexandria & returns here immediately—I consulted the Iron Mongers who Supply the Fence Maker & by their advice have sent two Inch Augers which my Father also informs me are quite large Enough for Post Holes—the Sort sent are deemed much best for any Kind of work. The Barley is Rhode Island Barley which is much the best & Colo. Wadsworth tells me he always gets his Seed from thence—the Clover seed is very good & I hope they will be with you in Season & am your Excellencys &ca.

Clement Biddle


Title: To George Washington from Henry Knox, 27 February 1787
From: Knox, Henry
To: Washington, George

My dear Sir
New-York 27th February 1787

My last to you was on the 22d instant, in which I stated my apprehensions respecting the proposed disfranchisement in Massachusetts. I did not mean to find fault with the measure. I am persuaded circumstances have rendered it necessary, and proper. But any rigorous chastisement of the rebels, will enflame them and render it right and expedient for the government to provide for its own safety against the sudden attempts of men, who have already flown to Arms, in order to redress ideal grieviances. The assembly have voted £40000 to pay the expences,

which have been & will be incurred by the rebellion. This circumstance will exceedingly embarrass them, because, they must Mortgage their only efficient fund, which has been invariably hitherto applied to the payment of the debts due to the late Army, who now must go without their interest.
I have received a letter from General Lincoln dated at Pittsfield in the County of Berkshire, in which he says, that Shays and some of his officers have fled to Canada—and that the rest of the insurgents have dispersed—that his parties were busily engaged in receiving the submissions and apprehendg desafected characters.
I enclose a newspaper, containing the act of the legislature for disfranchisement.
You will have observed that Congress has passed an Act approving the idea of a convention, so worded, as to include all appointments already made—This circumstance will remove all objections to the convention on account of its legality. With Mrs Knoxs and my very affectionate respects to Mrs Washington I am my dear Sir Your sincere and most Obedient humble Sert

H. Knox


Title: To George Washington from Edward Newenham, 27 February 1787 [letter not found]
From: Newenham, Edward
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Edward Newenham, 27 Feb. 1787. On 25 Dec. 1787 GW wrote Newenham that he had received his letter of “27th of Feby.”


Title: To George Washington from Charles Willson Peale, 27 February 1787
From: Peale, Charles Willson
To: Washington, George

Dr Sir
Phila[delphi]a Feby 27. 1787

Your obliging favor of the Body of the Golden Pheasant, I have received in good condition, although by a stage two Days after the receipt of your Letter. The delay was vexatious, yet I am richly paid in being able to preserve so much beauty. Before this time I had thought those Birds which I have seen in the Chinease paintings were only works of fancy, but now I find them to be only aukerd Portraits.
I am sorry that thier lives cannot be preserved. I did not find the body very lean, the musels of the Thighs were strong, which

with smallness of the Wings, makes me think that they run fast and fly but little. When you have the misfortune of loosing the others, if the weather should be warm, be pleased to order the Bowels to be taken out and some Pepper put into the Body, but no Salt which would spoil the Feathers. and if you please to have some directions put on the box which would prevent delay on the Passage of them. Another labour which I have lately undertaken I hope will give you Pleasure, I mean the making of Prints in Mezzotinto from my Portraits of Illustrous Personages. I am fully confident amongst the number are many dear to you. From the experience I have lately had, I feel my powers to execute in this way the most faithful Liknesses, as I hope to prove by the next Plates that I publish. I have finished a Plate of Doctr Franklin, which I give to the Public as a specimen of the Size and manner of my intended series of Prints, yet I do myself injustice, as this Print is much coarser than the others will be. Please to present my most respectful Compliments to Mrs Washington, and believe me with much respect Dr Sir your very Humble Servant

C.W. Peale


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Hanson, 28 February 1787
From: Hanson, Samuel (of Samuel)
To: Washington, George

Sir
Alexandria 28th Feby 1787

At the request of Mr George Fitzhugh I do myself the pleasure to forward to you Dr Youngs 1st 3d & 4th Vols. of his Tour. The 2d Vol: being missing (& never sent to me by him) I have detained the others some time, with the hope of procuring it in the Neighbourhood, in order to send you the Set compleat. Having as yet been unsuccessful, & being informed that the 2d Volume is not material to the Sense of the rest, I think it best to

keep them no longer. I shall, however, continue my pursuit after the missing Volume.
Mr Fitzhugh also requested me to inform you that another Work on Agriculture, of considerable reputation, is entirely at your Service. It is entitled Museum Rusticum, and is now in my Hands. Should you have an Inclination to peruse it, I will immediately send it.
I beg leave to inform you that I have several Treatises on Husbandry of great Character, with which it would give me great pleasure to accomodate you; as well because I am informed you are engaged in a course of Experimental Agriculture, as to testify that profound respect with which I have the Honour to remain Sir Your most obedt Servt

S. Hanson of Saml


Title: To George Washington from David Humphreys, 28 February 1787
From: Humphreys, David
To: Washington, George

My dear General,
Springfield [Mass.] Feby 28th 1787.

Since I had the pleasure of writing you last, I have received Orders to march the part of my Regt which is raised in Connecticut to this place. Two compleat Companies arrived on Saturday last. They occupy the Barracks & take the guard of the Arsenal & Magazines. I intend to return to Hartford in a few days, & shall remain there probably for some time.
As I conceived you would be anxious to know what is the actual situation of affairs in this part of the Country, which has been the scene of tumult & confusion; I take up the pen to inform you, in brief, that after the Insurrection was quelled in this County, General Lincoln marched into Berkshire. In which County Genl Patterson is Majr Genl of Militia, his conduct is

   variously reported—upon the whole it is said not to reflect much credit upon him. As Lincoln approached, the Insurgents, who were collected in bodies of from 100 to 150 & 200, fled. Some of these are still undispersed, & lurk on the frontiers of N. York & Vermont. The time of Service of the men who were raised for the first expedition, is expired. Government are proceeding to raise 1000 more for four months. Lincoln with a handful of Recruits is at Pittsfield, & will continue to command the new Levies. Tho’ the spirit of Rebellion does not seem to be absolutely broken, yet it is to be presumed, with prudence and perseverance it may be utterly subdued.
You will see in the public Papers the Proceedings of the Legislature of this State, which carry much stronger marks of energy & decision, than have been exhibited on any former occasion.
I am just informed, that in consequence of the refusal of the Legislature of New York to comply, satisfactorily, with the Requisition of Congress respecting the five pr Cent impost; the last mentioned Body have recommended to all the States to send a Representation to the Convention which is to be holden at Philadelphia in May next. This may give a new Complexion to that Businesss—Requesting to be remembered to Mrs Washington & the family I have the honour to be with the sincerest esteem & affection your friend & humble Servt

D. Humphreys.


Title: To George Washington from Fielding Lewis, Jr., 28 February 1787
From: Lewis, Fielding Jr.
To: Washington, George

Dr Sir
Bloomsbery Frederick County Fabry 28th—87

I am grately Obliged to you for the timber you was pleased to give me Neare Recter town—am Sorrey that it never has been in my power to Come to See you Since peace Owing to the Distressd Situation I have been in ever Since—(til now) Your Mentioning my being in Fairfax and never going to Se you is Very

Right, but when there, I was Obliged to be evry day indevoring to make up Money to discharge my debts—and Should not have injoyed my Self in Seing you when in Such a Situation—but now being Cleare of debt I hope to Spend two or three weakes with you in Some Satisfaction.
My Son will hand you this—and Inclosed I have Sent you a fue lines of his riteing as perhaps you may want him in Some busniss or Other, Should it be the Case he may Continue with you till of Age which will not be for this fore Years to Come—With my love to My Aunt—I remain yrs with Evrey Esteem and Regarde.

Fielding Lewis

N.B. Should you not want him you will oblige me In geting him into busniss—his temper is Smooth and Easey—and I can Say I am hapy in his behavior if it Continues & I at preasent have no room to believe to the Contrarey but what it will. F.L.


Title: To George Washington from John Armstrong, 2 March 1787
From: Armstrong, John
To: Washington, George

Dear General
Carlisle [Pa.] March 2d 1787—

Amongst many others, I consider myself your Excellencys debtor—and that the small Annuity of a letter is the least discharge I can offer. how this acknowledgment has been made in the two preceding years, memory is now too weak to inform me, and having enuff to do with the trivial Originals, I do not pretend to keep Coppys—but whether my last reached you or not, will be known by the liberty I took of expressing three or four particular wishes, in detail, at the close of it.

That our political affairs at present possess but a sable aspect, and are ground of serious concern to every worthy American, I know must be Obvious to you—the early refusal of some of the States, to admit the Impost (and ’tis again refused by New-York the other day) I fear will bring on ruine—Congress is & has been, but a Council of advice, whose influence daily grows less. amongst all our diseases as far as I can observe, distrust, or the want of confidence, is not the least. it is hard to tell how we shall be governed, when we cannot trust ourselves, or which is the same thing, the men of our own choice! We seem to require more time, & perhaps discipline too, before we gain that knowledge of Government in general and of that species we have adopted in particular, that can quallify us for proper & rational Subjection, even to laws of our own making. and whosoever expects more than this from the splendid word liberty—perverts the only true meaning of it. Our happy transition from the former State, is neither well understood nor properly improved—too many think they are wise—too many selfwilled—jealous of the advantages of a Sister-State, or partial to their own; forgetting practically at least, that the Federal interest is one & but one. as to incidental advantages that are merely local, natural & inevitable, they may happen to all in their turn, they belong to the body, and should never be grudged; as well may we envy our feet, because our Shoes may happen to be better than our Hatt. On the other hand, Congress too, may probably need a reform—patience—Economy in the whole circle of their business, with frequent & explicit accounts of the disbursments of the peoples money—encouragement of honesty, industry & frugallity. from what we have heard, we must be ready to concieve that Congress have Set out in the Arrangments of their federal government, on a large & expensive Scale: a written display of them would indeed be pompous enough, and might induce strangers to believe us to be a well established & wealthy nation. a number of great departments, Boards & Tables—Rented Houses, & a group of Clerks—Capital Officers, with three & some of them four thousand dollars ⅌ annum: and all this without moral certainty or high probability, that their finances were equal to a gradual discharge of the national debt at least, as well as to this projected expence of the Federal Government, but what services may have resulted from this well Organized System,

these three years past, are not so obvious as might be wished—my meaning in these hints is far from standing opposed to method; and am also sensible that some considerable Polititions have laid it down as a Maxim, that a republican Government requires more Servants than a Monarchial—this may be so, (or rather problematical) but we know no human maxim how generalsoever, that does not vary in it’s use according to the circumstances under which it is to be applyed. An economical reformation, would appear well, as coming from the head, and likely to produce good effects—the Civil list perhaps with safety might be curtailed, & the Salaries of the absolutely necessary lessened—this would contribute much to conciliate the people & restore confidence to that body—and altho it be true in the general, that in the time of Peace we ought to prepare against War, I cannot readily admit that such preparation should lead us to infringe the rules of justice, or risque our national faith & credit—I confess dear General, I should rather See the rulers of our country in the present situation, trust the protection of God, in their weak State—than attempt to be either wise, pompous, or strong, at the expence of honor & justice; apprehending more immediately as I do from intestine difficulties, than from foreign invasion.
Most men are ready to say that Congress should have more power, as much as will answer the end of government—but what degree of power will serve this great purpose, is the question—and not easy to ascertain; this difficulty great enuff in itself, is enhansed, by the strange spirit we see too ready to prevail amongst different classes of men, every man or his neighbour, is now wise eno.—or jealous eno.—in their own conceit, or at least every State is likely to have their own Oracle. by disease & otherwise Superannuated as I now am, as you will see in the sequel of this letter, I have put my brain to the rack of late, in quest of some permanent or probable ground short of a plenary or Coercive power, and confess (tho’ with fear & trembling) I can find none—the power & ability of execution, is the very essence of power, this must be lodged somewhere, otherwise legislation is to no effect. but will this be yielded, and where shall it be placed? It must be yielded sooner or later, or we must be a much better people than at present. however evident this may be to some men, it is very questionable whether it will yet be concured

in, or whether at this Crisis, or in the first instance it ought to be adopted. there are some measures or things, wrong in themselves, that when gone into, cannot be altered for the better: so there may also be measures the most proper & salutary in themselves, that must for a time be waved & give way to the force of prejudice, which probably may happen in the question above. In a former letter I ventured to say you were not likely to have altogether done with publick appointments—and therfore mention the satisfaction of many, to see your nomination for the Convention in May next. the States will probably all send delegates, but with what restrictions we cannot tell, the late conduct of New-York relative to the Impost, is not promising—the meeting appears to be of great importance, may God Vouchsafe his blessing to it—however gloomy & unsettled the present state of things may be, there is still this Solid consolation left behind, that as God has lately favoured this country with a deliverance so remarkable & worthy of himself, we may humbly hope he has something farther in store for his Church amongst us, than to leave this people to division, anarchy & ruine! and for this hope in the favourable superintendence of the deity, we have the highest assurance interspersed thro’ his word, provided we do not, or have not already forfieted it. Our attention as a people or nation to the Gospel of jesus, (the only ground of pleasing God) and his institutions, is very far from what it ought to be, a comparative Supineness, or neglect, is too apparent, even among those we have esteemed as the best—Other Classes either verging to deism, or grossly ignorant & profane—these things & their fruits, are what we have to fear—⟨&⟩ notwithstanding, a merciful God may not yet take these forfietures at our hands; so as to leave us to ourselves—I am glad to find your Legislature supporting the morallity of the Sabbath day. If the rumour be true that the people of Kaintucky have Seized a Spanish Sloop with goods & money coming near to, or amongst them it has at this distance the aspect of very bad policy—more especially as it’s said the Governor of New-Orleance, has been rather favourable to them, and in several cases winked at his masters orders in their favour! there are various apprehensions to be infered from the forward & untutored spirit of our western people.
The allarming flame in Massachusetts seems nearly extinguished, but if the subsequent measures of that State respecting

the insurgents should be severe, amounting to death, Confiscation, or disfranchisement, the consequences may be bad, as tending to rekindle the flame. Shall I tell you in confidence, I have now twice heard, nor from low authority, some principal men of that State begin to talk of wishing one general Head to the Union, in the room of Congress!
Whether I mentioned my present disorders in a former letter to you I disremember, therefore take the liberty of doing it now. near two years ago, I was instantaniously seized with a vertigo or dizziness, attended with great Stomach sickness for a few hours, which frequently returned for about ten days, when it left me, but the Swiming or dizziness of my head remains, greatly affecting my memory & hearing tho’ without any acute pain. It is of the paralytic kind, and at my age not to be removed, but rather to look for a farther Stroak of the same kind—In this situation it is some consolation to Mrs Armstrong & myself that our Sons are Spared—the D[octo]r after a long contest with a pulmonary complaint, is pretty well recovered, but has not yet attempted his practice. The other yet remains in Philadelphia, on a mere subsistance, but I hope at once improving his mind, and outgrowing the Sallies of youth—he is said to have many friends, perhaps too many in his situation. I cannot dear General conclude this letter already too long, without a farther tresspass on your time—In Our New College began at this place, the professors are punctual, men of regularity & good Scholars, I often secretly wish you acquainted with our Principal Dr Nisbet, from Montrose in Scotland—he is a man of plain manner, a kind of walking library—speaks several of the modern, as well as the dead languages—of quick disernment & sound judgment—a great republican, but decidedly in favor of Coercive power in the Executive body, more especially as ours are elective.
I have for some time given over the thoughts of ever seeing Philada again but the funds of this institution being very weak I am often pressed by the Board of Trustees to endeavour to go down with the Principal in order to collect something for the institution—I confess the prospect of seeing you again will be a great inducement, to my undertaking this disagreeable effort hower small the effect may be, the generous & wealthy having been called on already. as I wish your name to be enrolled amongst the benefactors of this institution, I hope you may be

so fortunate as to have a few Extra guineas in your pocket for this laudible purpose. I shall when in town, send you the Doctors discourse on the advantages of human learning, & his introductory address to the Scholars.I have dear General, with great truth, the honor to be your Excellencys faithful friend & most humble Servant

John Armstrong


Title: From George Washington to William Hartshorne, 2 March 1787
From: Washington, George
To: Hartshorne, William

Sir
Mount Vernon Mar. 2d 1787.

Whatever sum Colonels Gilpin and Fitzgerald think proper to order, or the state of the treasury will enable you to pay, the Contractor for supplying the Workmen for the Potomack Company—the same being due to him—will be agreed to by Sir Yr Most Obedt Hble Ser⟨vt⟩

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from John Minter, 2 March 1787
From: Minter, John
To: Washington, George

Jacobs Crick [Pa.] the 2 day of March 1787

Sir I am informed you have a Conveyance of three tracts of Land from Vallentine Crawford one of which I as administrator sold to the widow Stephenson to rais money to pay the debts of Mr Crawford not knowing their was any inthrolment on it I have sum reason to believe the Lands was Conveyd to you as a security for a sum of Money that he owed to you if this is the Case you will Let Mr Wells know the amount of your demand as he is know impowerd to settle Crawfors Estate—I refer you to Mr Wells for the situation I am in and hope you will give up the Land on gitting a Crtainty for what Crawford is indebted to you—from yours—

John MinterADMinSt.


Title: To George Washington from Edward Newenham, 2 March 1787 [letter not found]
From: Newenham, Edward
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Edward Newenham, 2 Mar. 1787. On 25 Dec.1787 GW wrote Newenham that he had received his letter of “2d of march 1787.”


Title: To George Washington from George Steptoe Washington, 2 March 1787
From: Washington, George Steptoe
To: Washington, George

Dear Uncle
Alexandria March 2d 1787

I receiv’d your letter dated 27th Feby the contents of which give me great concern, sensible of the usefullness of a good education and the many advantages which result from it I have always made it a primary consideration nor have I allowed a thought of dress and plasure to engross my attention prejudicial to it. I believe I am rather defective in the spelling and writeing of english as I always paid more attention to my lattin but I shall make it my particular study, with every other peice of advice you shall be kind enough to give me. Your letter seems to insinuate that I make my brother Ferdinand the object of my immitation I am very sensible of his unbecoming conduct and altogether disapprove of it: I have other relations who have afforded me a better example and which would be more agreeable to me to follow.
The letters I have sent to you were wrote in a hurry and without much attention I shall here after be more particular. Your affectionate et dutifull Nephew

Geoe S. Washington


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

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


Title: To George Washington from Alexander Spotswood, 3 March 1787
From: Spotswood, Alexander
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Nottingham March 3d 1787

By the Stage you will receive 3 bushle of my oats—One Busshle of Siberian Barly—Half of my Stock of the Bunch Homony Bean—& half d[itt]o of the English white Feild pea.
The oats are the best kind that I ever propagated, but unfortunately, and in order to make out my crop—I saved two years ago some of the Black oat, which has occasioned a mixture—those I now send, are out of a parcel made from picked Seed, but Still I discover a few Black grains; therefore, wou’d advise, before you sow—to have them run over by hand.
The quantity sent, sowed about the 25th of this month, on one Acre of High manured land well prepared, and the seed put in with a light Harrow—will if no accident happens, Yeild you 70 bs.
The Barley is a Spring grain, & may be Sowed at the Same time of the Oats on half an acre, Harrowed in.
The Bunch homony beans I can Say Nothing off as to my own knowledge, I am Told they are Superior to the Other kind—& I presume may be Planted about the time of planting yr last corn.
The Feild pea, are usually Planted in England from the 20 february to the 20 of March—but here, where our vegetation is more Rapid; I presume about the first week in April will be in good time—The oats are what are called the Dutch Whites; if my Stilliards are good, they weigh 42 lbs. to the bushle—and I believe the crop before wd have Weighed 50 at least Betsy Joins me in the most afft. Manner to the Family. I am dr Sr with afft. regd yr most ob. H. Sert

Alexr Spotswood


Title: To George Washington from Henry Knox, 5 March 1787
From: Knox, Henry
To: Washington, George

My dear sir
New York 5 March 1787.

I wrote you on the 22d ultimo, that the affairs of Massachusetts were quietly settling down to peace and good order. But by recent advice from General Lincoln, it appears that the Insurgents

who fled from Massachusetts, have received encouragement from the Inhabitants of this State bordering on the Line—and that embracing the time when the greatest part of his force were disbanded on the 23 ultimo, and before his force for four months were enlisted in any considerable numbers, the insurgents to the amount of three hundred headed by one Hamlin, made an irruption to Stockbridge and great Barrington on the 27th ultimo—Genl Lincoln on the 27th sent an express to Govr Clinton on this subject which was laid before the legislature now in session—In consequence of some resolutions he set out from this City on Sunday, in order to expell the Massachusetts Insurgents from this State.
Since his departure, a letter has been received from Kenderhook, dated the 1st instant mentioning that an action had taken place near great Barrington on the 27th between a party of Massachusetts troops & the insurgents, in which four were killed on each side and 40 wounded—The government kept the ground and the insurgents retreated into this State with their wounded and some prisoners—I beleive this account may be true although it is not official General Lincoln in his letter states that he had sent parties in pursuit of the Insurgents, and that they were at great Barrington.
The legislature have this day made choice of delegates to represent this State who are, Colo. Hamilton, Judge Yates, and a Mr Lansing.
Colonel Wadsworth arrived here last evening and begs his respects may be presented to you. I am my dear Sir Your affectionate & respectful humble Servt

H. Knox


Title: To George Washington from Alexander Spotswood, 5 March 1787
From: Spotswood, Alexander
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Nottingham March 5th 1787

Your Favr of the 22d February pr Majr Barret, never came to my hands until this day.
The Seeds I promised you, were Sent of by the Stage this day to Alexandria; to the Care of the Clerk of the Stage office at that place, & every precaution mentioned in yr letter, has been

attended to by me—Sent 3 bus. of oats—1 bus. Barley—the Bunch homony bean, and a Small quantity of the White Feild pea—which I find Subject to the bug—The oats weigh 42 lbs. and are the best Sort I ever Saw, but notwithstanding the precaution I used in picking the Seed which produced them, I find Still a few black grains among them—Therefore wd advise you to have them run over by hand—The Charge of Stage Carraige, will make them come Sufficiently High, without an additional one—You are exceeding Welcome to them—and if you like the Oat—will if I make a good crop this Year (haveing prepared much ground) will Furnish you next yr; and I hope with as much as will sow you a Full crop—of this will advise you of in time.
Will you be so obligeing, as to Communicate Yr Several Experiments in Corn to me—and what distance, yeilds the best crops—have you any of the green Top Turnip—any of the large yorkshire red—if you have none & wish to have some, I shall be able to Send you some of the Seed of each—having put out about 200—Mrs Spotswood Joins me in best Wishes for the health & Happiness of all about you. I am dr Sr with much Esteem & aff. Regard Yr obt

A. Spotswood


Title: To George Washington from Thomas McKean, William Jackson, and Francis Mentges, 6 March 1787
From: McKean, Thomas,Jackson, William,Mentges, Francis
To: Washington, George

Dear General,
Philadelphia March 6th 1787

In obedience to a resolve of the Standing-Committee of the Pennsylvania Society of the Cincinnati, we do ourselves the honor to inform your Excellency that your circular letter of the 31st of October last, addressed to the President of our State-Society, was laid before the Committee at their last meeting.

They desire to communicate their respectful thanks for the early information which you have been pleased to give of the triennial general-meeting—and to express, with heartfelt concern, their regret at the necessity, which induces your desire not to be re-elected to the Presidency.
While they admit the cogency of those reasons which are assigned for your determination—they lament, with the sorrow of sincere affection, that impaired health should be numbered among them—and they profer the prayer of grateful regard for its speedy restoration.
Your Excellency’s wishes will be intimated to our Delegates to the general-meeting—and your letter will be laid before a Meeting of the State-Society which is called on the 26th instant. With profound respect and attachment, We have the honor to be Your Excellency’s Most obedient, humble Servants

Thos McKean
W. Jackson
F. Mentges