Title: From George Washington to William Gordon, 23 December 1788
From: Washington, George
To: Gordon, William

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon December 23d 88

Your letter dated in London the 24th of Septr has been duly forwarded to me by your friend Mr Hazard. As I shall be able to notice the contents but generally and briefly; I request, in the first place, that you will be pleased to accept my best thanks for your good wishes for my happiness here and hereafter.
I am pleased to learn that your History is at length completed. I conclude by the spring we may expect to be favored with a sight of it.
Your mention, of the several objects, you Judge of national consequence to the United States; is to be esteemed among the tokens of your kind remembrance of America, and regard to its interests. How far I may ever be connected with its political affairs is altogether a matter of uncertainty to me. my heartfelt wishes; and, I would fain hope, the circumstances are opposed to it. I flatter myself my countrymen are so fully persuaded of my desire to remain in private life; that I am not without hopes and expectations of being left quietly to enjoy the repose, in which I am at present. Or, in all events, should it be thier wish (as you suppose it will be) for me to come again on the Stage of public affairs—I certainly will decline it, if the refusal can be made consistently—with what I conceive to be the dictates of property and duty. For the great Searcher of human hearts knows there is no wish in mine, beyond that of living and dying an honest man, on my own farm.
I had quite forgot the private transaction, to which you allude: nor could I recall it to mind without much difficulty. If I now recollect rightly (and I believe I do, though there were several applications made to me) I am concious of only having

done my duty. As no particular credit is due for that, and as no good, but some harm might result from the publication—the letter, in my Judgment, had better remain in concealment.
The prospect that a good general government will in all human probability be soon established in America, affords me more substantial satisfaction; than I have ever before derived from any political event. Because there is a rational ground for believing that not only the happiness of my own countrymen, but that of mankind in general will be promoted by it.
As it is realy so long since I have had any occasion to make use of a cypher or key to communicate my sentiments to my Correspondents; and as it was so little probable I should ever have any occasion to express them by such modes in future, I have absolutely mislaid or entirely lost yours, with others. Besides, I have not a single idea to communicate to any person while in Europe; the knowledge of which could give any advantage to those who should be curious enough, or mean enough, to inspect my letters. Thus much I thought it might be well to say, in apology for my not being able to comply with your request. Indeed, when you consider the domestic walk of life in which I pass my days, the multiplicity of private concerns in which I am involved, the numerous literary applications from different quarters, the round of company I have at my house, and the avocations occasioned by my being at the head of the Company for clearing the Potowmac, you will do me the Justice to suppose that I can have few topics or little time, for correspondencies of mear friendship, ceremony or speculation. This, I entreat, may be accepted as the true reason, why I am not able to write to you very fully, or very regularly—Mrs Washington Joins with me in compliments to Mrs Gordon. I remain, Dear Sir Yr &c.

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Henry Lee, 23 December 1788
From: Lee, Henry
To: Washington, George

My dear Genl
Alexa. 23d Decr 88.

It would give me great pleasure to wait on you tomorrow, but Mrs Lee situation p(revents) it. She is reduced as low nearly as e(ver) by violent attack of the former s(ickness) which continued for 3 days & nights wi(th) occasional intervals.
I will communicate your invitation to Mr Lee &c.
The bill of sale is reed, & Magnolio safely delivered agreable to my request for which I beg to return my thanks, with great respect I am dear genl truely & most affy yours

Henry Lee


Title: From George Washington to Clement Biddle, 26 December 1788
From: Washington, George
To: Biddle, Clement

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 26th Decr 1788.

I have but just time to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 14th Inst.—to inform you that the Vessel on board of which the Clover seed was shipped has not yet arrived, and as the River is shut up it is uncertain when she will reach Alexa.—and to beg the favor of you to forward the enclosed to Mr Smith—It is a duplicate of one which I committed to your care in Septr last and as the receipt of it is not acknowledged in a letter which I lately reed from Mr Smith, I fear it has miscarried. With very great esteem, I am, Dear Sir, Yr most Obedt Hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to John Canon, 26 December 1788
From: Washington, George
To: Canon (Cannon), John

Sir,
Mount Vernon December 26th 88

As I have not reed an Answer to my letter which I wrote to you on the 15th of September I have reason to suppose that it never reached your hands, and have therefore enclosed you a duplicate of it, adding, at the same time, that I have never before felt the want of Cash so severely as at present—and of course any monies that may arise from my property under your care could never come more opportunely than at this time. I am Sir, Yr Most Obedt Hble Sevt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Embree & Shotwell, 26 December 1788
From: Washington, George
To: Embree & Shotwell

Gentlemen,
Mount Vernon December 26. 88

Your letter of the 3d Inst, came duly to hand. The price of the Clover seed is such as will induce me to take 2000 lb. provided you can wait a few months for the payment, as I cannot make it with convenience until I can dispose of produce or something else to obtain the cash. If you incline to furnish me with the above quantity upon these terms I desire it may be shipped and sent round by the first opportunity—Should it not be convenient for you to do it you will not fail to let me know it immediately that I may obtain a supply from some other quarter—If you can get me six Bushels of good fresh Timothy Seed upon the same terms of payment, I should wish it to accompany the Clover. I am Gentlemen your most Obedt Hble Servant.

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Smith, 26 December 1788
From: Washington, George
To: Smith, Thomas

Sir,
Mount Vernon December 26th 88

I have received your letter of the 29 Ulto  and have forwarded the one enclosed to my Nephew Bushrod Washington who will undoubtedly give you every information in his power respecting the land of which I am wholly ignorant.
As you have not acknowledged the rect of my letter of the 15th of September I fear it has miscarried and therefore enclose you a duplicate.
Any money that you may have received on my account may be lodged in Philadelphia as heretofore—and I can assure you it would never come more opportunely than at present. I am &c.

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Clement Biddle, 27 December 1788 [letter not found]
From: Biddle, Clement
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Clement Biddle, 27 Dec. 1788. GW wrote Biddle on 20 Jan. 1789 acknowledging Biddle’s letter “of the 27th Ulto.”


Title: To George Washington from La Luzerne, 1788
From: La Luzerne, Anne-César, chevalier de
To: Washington, George

Sir,
[1788]

Permit me to recommend to you Monsr Lattin, an Irish Gentleman in the French service, he intends visiting the United States, & particularly Your Excellency, he cannot return until he has rendered homage to your talents & virtue; I dare promise myself that your friendship for me will lead you to pay attention to Monsr Lattin. I wish you to be persuaded of the sentiments of Attachment & respect with which I have the honor to be Yr Excellency’s Most Hbe & most Obedt Servt

de la Luzerne


Title: To George Washington from Robert Ballard, 1 January 1789
From: Ballard, Robert
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Baltimore January 1st 1789

I flatter myself the period is not far distant when we shall see the new Government in motion, and your Excellency elected President of the United States by the unanimous Voice of their grateful Citizens. I entreat your forgiveness in thus early soliciting

an appointment under the new Constitution. I have been urged to the measure by a sad reverse of Fortune, and emboldened by the Idea of your disposition, to relieve the sufferings of the unfortunate soldier.
My Attachment and Love for my Country have been uniformly ardent and sincere, and though I presume not to claim equal distinction with many other Officers who had the Honor of serving under your Excellency’s Command, yet I humbly hope even my services will not be wholly forgotten. Early in the late glorious Struggle for Peace, Liberty and Safety, sacraficing as well pecuniary as other Considerations, I steppd forth a Volenteer to oppose the Depredations of Lord Dunmore, near Williamsburg; after which I received an appointment to command a Company in the First Regiment raised in Virginia, which I speedily recruited and marched to Camp—resigning at the same time the Clerkship of Mecklenburg County, a lucrative place which I purchased of John Tabb Esqr. the then Clerk after serving five years.
During the infatuation which generally prevailed in this Town for purchasing Lots, I was unfortunately drawn in to speculate to my distruction, and by one ill-fated step, I lost all I had acquired, which hath left me, with a Wife and a number of small Children, destitute of the means of a comfortable support. Thus circumstanced, Sir, if I might venture to name the Office I should prefer, I would solicit the Clerkship of the Federal Court, as I flatter myself my past Experience would enable me to discharge its Duties with propriety. If I should be so fortunate as to meet your Excellency’s Patronage on this occasion, I shall consider it the happiest Event of my Life, and my Children may live to thank their generous Benefactor. I fear your Excellency will think me premature in thus early addressing you on this subject—but I trust my necesstous situation will plead my excuse.
I will no further obtrude on your Excellency’s Time than to add the anxious hope that my true Federal Principles will have some Influence with the Friends of the Federal Constitution, and that I am with the greatest Deference Your Excellency’s Most Obet hum. Servt

Robert Ballard


Title: From George Washington to John Fairfax, 1 January 1789
From: Washington, George
To: Fairfax, John

Mount Vernon January 1. 89.

A View of the work at the several Plantations in the Year 1789. and general directions for the Execution of it.
From the Plans of the Plantations. From the Courses of the Crops which are annexed to these Plans. And from the mode of managing them, as there prescribed—may be derived a full and comprehensive view of my designs, after the rotation is once perfectly established, in the succession proposed. But as this cannot, at all the Plantations, be adopted this year; everything in the meantime must be made to tend to it against the next, as far as circumstances will admit.
For Muddy-Hole.
The Plows belonging to this Plantation, together with those from Dogue Run, are to continue without intermission or delay (when not prevented by frost or rain) to break up field No. 5 for Indian Corn. and when that is accomplished. Next to break up No. 4 for Buck Wheat, which is to be sowed in April and plowed in before harvest, as a manure for the Crop of Wheat which is to be sown therein in the month of August next. After these plowings are performed.
Then, as there is no field at this Plantation which can, with convenience, be appropriated for spring grain—or for the Crop of Sundries this year, and as the Plows at Dogue Run (especially if the winter should prove hard & unfavourable) will not be able of themselves to break up fields No. 4 & 6 at their own Plantation, and at the same time prepare those of No. 3 for Barley & Oats—and No. 7 for Indian Corn in due season; the whole may go to Dogue Run (’till the Corn at Muddy Hole shall want them) and work in No. 6 if the condition of it is such as to admit thereof; or in No. 4 at the same place if it is not; for the respective Crops which are designed for them.
The fence on the Ferry road, from the division between the fields 4 & 5 to the lane on the Mill Road must be repaired with new rails—but from thence to the gate leading to the barn from the Overseer’s house should be made tolerably secure with Rails which may be taken from the opposite side, round field No. 7. But this last mentioned fence must not be stripped so bare

as to render it altogether unfit for a pasture by becomming a Common.
As the days are short—walking bad—and the different Kinds of Stock will require careful attendance; it may, perhaps, be best to relinquish the idea of the people of this place having anything further to do with the New Ground at the Mansion, and when not employed (in open weather) with their fencing, to be thrashing out grain. But there is a work of great importance if the weather, and other circumstances, would concur for the execution of it in season. I mean that of getting up rich mud from the most convenient part of the Creek and laying it in small heaps (for amelioration) to be carried over the poor parts of No. 5 which will be in Corn. If this last mentioned work can now be accomplished (and it must be done soon if any effect is expected from it this year, in order that the frost may have time to operate) the Cart may be employed in hauling it to the ground.
Another piece of work to be done here (as I propose to make a small quantity of Tobacco at this, as well as at my other plantations) is to hill the ground that is marked off for it in time. But previous to hilling, it must be laid off with the plow into 3 feet squares, that the hills may be made directly on the Cross; so as in the early stages of the growth of the Tobacco, it may be tended with a plow each way.
If these several kinds of work should not afford sufficient employment for the Hoe people, with the cultivation of the ground which will be marked out for potatoes & carrots, and which ought to be plowed up immediately, they may be preparing field No. 6 on the Creek for Corn in 1790. In the execution of this work, the Cedar trees are not to be cut down, but trimmed only; and other trees left here & there for shades. The brush and rubbish of all sorts are to be thrown into the Gullies, and covered over so as to admit the Plows to pass.
Both parts of field No. 1 should, from this time, be withheld from Stock of all kinds, that there may be, in the spring, food for the ewes and lambs—and calves.
The field No. 3 now in Wheat and Rye, must be sown with Clover & Timothy on the first snow that falls—6 pints of the first and two of the latter per acre.

For Dogue-Run.
The Plows belonging to this Plantation, when they have performed what has already been directed for them at Muddy-Hole—together with those of the latter, are to begin, if the ground will admit of it, to break up No. 6 for Buck Wheat; to be sown in April. But if this, on account of the levelness of the field, and the water which may stand on it, cannot be done—then to plow No. 4 for the Crop of Sundries. But as it is of essential importance that the Oats & Barley should be sown early—and the working of the fields for Indian Corn not so much delayed as to endanger the prospect for that Crop—the plowings of both 6 and 4 must be delayed—at least till the Oats and Barley are in—if they cannot be broke up in season for the above purposes. The Oats ought to be sown in Feby next the Post & Rail fence; and the Barley as soon after as possible, on the other side adjoining the Corn. With both, Clover & Timothy in the proportions already mentioned, are to be sown.
After the above work is accomplished, it will be time to cross plow and sow such parts of No. 4 as is intended for Carrots; and this is to be done in drills, four feet asunder; and, if the ground is dry enough, in the month of March—and for flax which should be sown in April.
By the time these are done, possibly before it, the fields for Corn will want listing. This Corn in the South part of the field (next the woods) may be planted at five feet—each way—with two stalks in a hill—and in the North part—next Colo. Mason’s—at four feet each way, with one stalk in a hill. The Plowings and Harrowings necessary for which, without going into detail, with respect to manner & times, must be given when wanted.
The sowing of Buck Wheat (in April) for manure seems to be the next thing which calls for the Plows. Because it ought to be in the ground as soon as all danger of frost is over, that it may be in the proper state (full bloom) for plowing before harvest.
After Buck-Wheat, pease will come next; and the ground for these, as for Tobacco, must be laid off in squares for hilling, that they may, before they begin to run & spread, be plowed each way. These ought to be planted in May.
Pumpkins, Potatoes, Turnips and Buck Wheat for a Crop, in

the order they are mentioned, will next claim the assistance of the Plows. The first should be planted in May, in hills, eight feet apart, and to be well manured. The second in June, in drills four feet apart and one foot asunder in the Rows, with a large handful of dung on each potatoe which let be uncut and of the largest sort. The third, that is Turnips, to be sown partly in June and partly in July. And the 4th (Buck Wheat) as near as may be about the 10th of July.
This field of Sundries may be thus apportioned.

            Carrots
            5 Acres.

            Potatoes
            5 ditto.

            Pumpkins
            1 ditto.

            Turnips
            1 ditto.

            Pease
            15 ditto.

            Flax
            3 ditto.

            Tobacco
            5 ditto.

            Buck-Wheat
            being the remainder.

That it may be ascertained by repeated experiments whether Carrots or Potatoes is the most productive and valuable root—I would have the ten Acres allotted for them in one square, and the rows for each alternate through the whole square, and each to have the same quantity of dung allowed to it.
The work which has been enumerated for the Plows—together with the plowing in of the Buck Wheat before Harvest—the wheat after harvest—with the workings of the several species of Crops during their growth, is all the employment that can be recollected at present for this part of the force of the Plantation, until the Autumn plowing for the next year’s Crop commences. But as these, till the System is brought more into practice, and the preceeding Crop is a better preparation of the ground for the succeeding one than is the case at present will require much exertion and an addition of Plows—one may be added to the number at Dogue Run, which will make 5 there—and another to Muddy Hole, which will make four there.
Much fencing is necessary at this Plantation before it can be said to be advantageously laid off, and in good order.
Those which require to be first done—are, the one which divides field No. 4 from the meadow—but as the rails which are about the Stacks will be most convenient for this work, it may be

delayed ’till they can be spared. In the meantime no heavy stock must run in that field, to trample & poach the Meadow.
The next that requires doing is the line from the head of the meadow to the new-Road (which is to be laid off)—thence with the road to the Tumbling dam; and then round field No. 7 agreeably to the plowing, and the Rails which have been laid there.
Next after these, the cross fence between field No. 5 and the wood should be done—and
Then the fence which was begun last year (but not finished) between fields No. 2 & 3. The fence which divides the first of these, that is No. 2 from the Great Meadow requires doing also.
All these are essential, as it also is to strengthen the Post and Rail fence which divides No. 1 from 2 & 3; but as this can never be made a good one until the whole is taken down and both Posts & Rails shortened; it must be postponed ’till there is time to do this—righting it up in such a manner as to make it answer for the present, being all that can be attempted this year.
Lastly, when time will admit, after the Posting & Railing from the Tumbling dam to the Mill is compleated, the Rails which at present run upon that line may serve to seperate the great Meadow into three divisions; as will be marked out.
Every thing that the Hoe people can do in the course of the winter towards getting the old Crop off hand, and preparing for the new one, ought to be the first objects of consideration; and must be closely attended.
Carrying out dung, when the Cart can be spared, and the ground is in order for its reception either for Carrots, Potatoes, Tobacco &ca is not to be neglected.
Grubbing and filling up Gullies in the fields which are to receive Crops this year is also essential.
And if this should not afford sufficient employment the overplus time may be spent in clearing swamps, or the sides of them, so as that they may hereafter, when drained effectually, be tended in Tobacco previous to their being laid down in Grass.
At this place I propose to plant about thirty thousand Tobacco plants, in field No. 4 round the houses and stacks, where they will ⟨be⟩ most convenient to manure; and where the ground is not very rich I would give a Gallon—or a large double handful

of manure to each hill—The ground for this Crop ought to be broke up (either with the Plows or Hoes) early, that the green sward may have time to rot. If 30,000 cannot be got here, that is proper, the deficiency may be made up by the Gate that goes into No. 5.
River-Plantation.
Early and good plowing at this place is indispensably necessary—The field No. 7, intended for Spring Grain (that is Barley & Oats) would, was justice done to it, call for a second, or cross plowing by the time the Plows will begin to break it up. Consequently field No. 1 designed for Corn will hardly get more than a listing—and the field No. 4 which ought to have received a crop of Sundries must go altogether uncultivated, this year.
After field No. 7 is sown, with Barley, Oats and Grass-seeds (the latter in the proportion mentioned at other places)—if the preparation of No. 1 for Corn cannot be postponed without involving injurious consequences to that Crop, the Plows must go there next; and do all that is necessary for getting it planted in time, and in good order.
But as I do not mean to plant Potatoes or Carrots among Corn this year, as was the case last year, inclining to allot seperate Spots for this purpose—these spots and that which is intended for Tobacco, ought to be immediately plowed, that the weeds & grass (where there are any) may have time to rot and the ground be in order to receive manure. The spot which I would principly appropriate for Carrots & Potatoes, is that whereon the flax grew last year—but if more can be conveniently obtained elsewhere, it ought, as that spot is insufficient. The Ground for Tobacco (40,000 plants) I mean to lay off in a long square from the Farm pen up to field No. 2 which when plowed & checquered will be ready to receive dung at times when the Carts can, with convenience, carry it out.
All the plowings which are here enumerated, being accomplished; the season, probably, will have arrived when No. 8 will require to be cross plowed and sowed with Buck-Wheat for manure (in April). This is, in all respects, to be managed as has been directed for Dogue-Run—and after harvest is to receive Wheat (in August) as there mentioned.
These, with the necessary workings of the several spe⟨cie⟩s of

Crops, which must not be neglected, will, it is presumed, give sufficient employment for the plows—If not there can be no difficulty in finding work for them.
Much fencing is wanting on this Plantation before it can be in the order I wish to see it; but among the most essential of these ⟨is the fence which⟩ is to enclose field No. 1 for Corn.
That which runs from the second Gate (going into the Plantation) to the Creek dividing my land from Colo. Mason’s, and
That which is to form the lane which is to lead from the Barn into the lane, which now goes to Johnson’s, and which must continue the other way, so as to open a Communication with fields No. 1, & 4.
As Timber is very scarce on this tract, it must, in fencing, as well as in other things, be made to go as far as possible—consequently Posts & Rails (of a good & substantial kind) must be substituted instead of the usual kind of worm fences.
To point out all the work for the Hoe people of this Plantation is unnecessary. To finish the old, and prepare for the new Crop. To put up fences. To heap up the dung early, that it may get well and soon rotted. To carry it out and lay it in the furrows intended for Carrots & Potatoes—and on the ground intended for Tobacco. Making hills for the Tobacco—Grubbing and filling up Gullies in the fields which are to receive crops this year (with old rails, old Stumps, old Trees and such other rubbish as can be had conveniently. Levelling the bank on which a fence formerly run through Field No. 8, will, with the cultivation of the Crops that will be planted & sown, and gathering them in compose the greater part, if not all of their labour. But if there should, notwithstanding, be time for other things I know of nothing in which they could be more advantageously employed than in getting up rich mud from the branches in No. 8 to spread over the poor and washed parts of that field before it is sown in Wheat next August.
Mansion House.
The Ditchers, after the Post & Rail fence which they are now about to the Tumbling dam, is compleated, and a strong one put up across the Mill-run (as will be marked off) may continue on to the Mill by the line of stakes which will be set up—but are not to use (for this purpose) those Posts which were got by Manley’s

House as they will be more convenient for the lane which is to form the New Road from the Ferry by the Mill as authorized by the ⟨court.⟩ After this work is performed it will be time enough to point out more.
To say what the other part of the force at this place shall be employed about is next to impossible as there is such a variety of jobs for them to attend to besides fishing—Hay making—and the Grain Harvest in their respective Seasons which must unavoidably employ them while they last.
But as it is designed to raise Tobacco, and to tend that part (at least) of the New-Ground in front of the house, which was cleared last year in Corn; in order that it may be laid down in the fall in wheat and Orchard-Grass—they must prepare for them accordingly—and under the circumstances above mentioned, attempt as much of the first (that is Tobacco) as there is a moral certainty of their tending well. The men may be employed in getting Posts & Rails of a good kind for the purpose of enclosing this Tobacco. But it is essential if any labour is expected from the Girls & Boys which are about this house, to keep some person with them which will not only make them work but who will see that the work is well executed—and that the idleness which they appear every day in ⟨the⟩ practise of, may be avoided—for, at present, to skulk from house to ⟨house⟩ under some frivolous pretence or another seems to be the principal employment of most of them.
To request that my people may be at their work as soon as it is light—work ’till it is dark—and be diligent while they are at it can hardly be necessary, because the propriety of it must strike every manager who attends to my interest, or regards his own Character—and who on reflection, must be convinced that lost labour can never be regained—the presumption being, that, every labourer (male or female) does as much in the 24 hours as their strength, without endangering their health, or constitution, will allow of—but there is much more in what is called head work—that is in the manner of conducting business than is generally imagined. For take two Managers and give to each the same number of labourers and let those labourers be equal in all respects. Let both these managers rise equally early—go equally late to rest—be equally active, sober & industrious—

and yet in the course of the year one of them, without pushing the hands which are under him more than the other, shall have performed infinitely more work. To what is this owing. Why, simply to contrivance resulting from that fore thought and arrangement which will guard against the mis-application of labour and doing it unseasonably; For in the affairs of Farming or planting—more, perhaps than in any other—it may justly be said there is a time for all things. Because if a man will do that kind of work in clear and mild weather which can as well be done in Frost, Snow or Rain—when these come he has nothing to do—consequently—during that period there is a total loss of labour. In plowing too, though the field first intended for it, or in which the plows may actually have been at work, should, from its situation be rendered unfit (by rain or other Causes) to be worked; and other spots, even though the call for ⟨them⟩ may not be so urgent, can be plowed, this business ought to go on because the general operation is promoted by it. So with respect to other things, and particularly carting; where nothing is more common than, when loads are to go to a place, and others to be brought from it, though not equally necessary at the same moment, to make two trips when one would serve. These things are only enumerated to shew that the Manager who takes a comprehensive view of his business will throw no labour away.
For this reason it is, I have endeavoured to give a general view of my plans—with the business of the Year—that the concerns of the several plantations may go on without application daily, for orders unless it be in particular cases, or where these directions are not ⟨clear⟩ly understood.

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Henry Knox, 1 January 1789
From: Washington, George
To: Knox, Henry

My dear Sir,
Mount Vernon Jany 1st [1789].

I have received by the last Mail your favour dated the 21st of Decr and hasten to return this acknowledgment, together with the enclosed Certificate of Service for Major Haskell. I give that testimony with the greater alacrity, because it always affords me satisfaction, when I can gratify the wishes of a worthy man, in perfect conformity to my own judgment.
I am much pleased to find that the Accts, which I had heard from different quarters of the encrease of fœderal sentiments, are confirmed by your letter. The appointment of Senators taken collectively is certainly very happy. I suppose the two gentlemen appointed by this State are looked upon at the Eastward as being included in that class of antifœderalists, who wish to cause such great and premature amendments, as will render the government abortive. This idea I have the best reason to believe, will be found untrue. My belief is founded upon the unequivocal assertions of Colo. Grayson previous to his election; and those of Mr R. Henry Lee posterior to his election; as handed to me from men of veracity who have heard them expressed. It is also pretty well ascertained, that, if any considerable proportion of the pains shall be taken by the fœderalists which will be by the antifœderalists, a majority of the representation from this State to Congress would undoubtedly be composed

of the former description. At present, however, it appears very uncertain whether that will be the case or not: as several fœderalists, who might in all probability be chosen, have, on account of their private affairs, declined standing as Candidates. Insomuch that it is to be feared, in some instances, the Votes of the advocates for the Constitution will be scattered & lost.
From different channels of information it seems probable to me (even before the receipt of your letter) that Mr John Adams would, be chosen Vice President. He will doubtless make a very good one: and let whosoever may occupy the first seat, I shall be entirely satisfied with the arrangement for filling the second Office.
Colo. Humphreys, who accepts most cordially your kind remembrance, says that he has nothing of consequence sufficient to trouble you with a letter, & therefore requests me to present his best respects to you. Mrs Washington joins me in presenting the Compliments of the Season to Mrs Knox & yourself & in best wishes for those of the family who by your last letter were indisposed. With sentiments of the sincerest regard & friendship—I am—as ever Your affectionate

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Henry Emanuel Lutterloh, 1 January 1789
From: Washington, George
To: Lutterloh, Henry Emanuel

Sir
Mount Vernon Janry 1st 1789

I have regularly received your letter dated the 27th of Novr.
It would take up more time than I could well spare, to notice the applications which have been made to me in consequence of the new government. In answer to as many, as I have been at

leisure to acknowledge, I have invariably represented the delicacy of my situation, the impropriety of bringing such things before me, the decided resolution I had formerly made, and the ardent wishes I still entertain of remaining in a private life. You will not then expect that I should commit myself by saying any thing on a Subject, which has never failed to embarrass & distress me beyond measure, whensoever it has been forced upon my consideration.
I can therefore have nothing to add, but that, with wishes for your prosperity, I am, with due regard & esteem Sir &c.


Title: From George Washington to William Pierce, 1 January 1789
From: Washington, George
To: Pierce, William

Sir,
Mount Vernon Janry 1st 1789

As it would be altogether improper for me to anticipate any thing on the event which you suppose may happen; I only write to let you know that I have duly received your letter of Novr 1st. I most sincerely & fervently hope it will be found, that I shall not be in a situation to have any agency in the disposal of federal appointments. For you will permit me to say, that the choice is as yet very far from being certain; and that should it (Contrary to all my wishes) fall upon me, I shall certainly be disposed to decline the acceptance, if it may, by any means, be done consistently with the dictates of duty.
In this to me unpleasant state of affairs, when I cannot but

feel myself disagreeably affected by having the Subject even obliquely forced upon my mind—you will be pleased to consider my studied reserve as not in the least intended to militate against your pretensions, and as not having any referrence, in the remotest degree, to an office, for which I perceive there will be several Competitors.
Although I have thought, it would ill become me at present to be more explicit with any person on public matters; yet in all personal considerations I take a pleasure in subscribing myself with sentiments of great respect & esteem Sir Your


Title: From George Washington to James Madison, 2 January 1789
From: Washington, George
To: Madison, James

My dear Sir,
Mount Vernon Jany 2d 1789

The letters which will accompany this, for you, came to my hand by the Post on Tuesday. The direction of them is altered; and they are fowarded to Alexandria to receive a conveyance in the Mail tomorrow.
Is there any safe, and tolerably expeditious mode by which letters from the Post Office in Fredericksburgh are conveyed to you? I want to write a private & confidential letter to you, shortly, but am not inclined to trust to an uncertain conveyance, so as to hazard the loss or inspection of it. With the most sincere & perfect friendship, I remain, My dear Sir Your Affectionate

G. Washington


Title: To George Washington from Stephen Sayre, 3 January 1789
From: Sayre, Stephen
To: Washington, George

Sir
London 3d Jany 1789

Convinced, that your Excellency will be unanimously chosin President of the United States of America, before, or soon after, the receipt of this Letter, it is address’d to you, as such. I request it may be understood, that my continuance in this Country, is necessary for the settlement of my private affairs, and those honorable engagements, to some freinds here, which can never be alter’d by the Ties: or the disputes of Kings, or Nations. The principles of Justice, and rules of honor, are so far above all political contest, or general convulsions, as to leave me the right of observing them with my former Enemies; and yet preserve all due love for my native Country.
The Records of Congress will furnish some proposals, I made them, in 1785, for improving their Navy—the merits were, by Resolution, left to the single opinion of General Knox according to my particular Request.
Being made to understand, soon after, that Congress were unable to give me any thing, or any situation adequate to the object: I have, till this moment, waited Events.
It is now to be supposed, that the thirteen States, will immediately make some Efforts to establish a naval Force equal to their ability, if not equal to their wants: they must therefore, have one, or more Commissioners to effect it—I am now pretty well acquainted with the business of it, but if Congress should

think me worthy of this Commission, I could yet make myself more perfectly master of the Science, by attending the Dock Yards here or in France.
My advice would be to confine the present establishment to small Ships, & such a number of Frigates, as may be thought necessary, for peace only. In case of war, I can build them the only effective fighting Ships in the Universe—these shall not cost one half the money, which Ships of the Line now cost other Nations.
America may not be soon involved in war: but I should think it my duty to deposit a perfect Model, in case of death, in such manner, as may be thought most secure for if once the Idea finds its way into the world, all nations will, according to their abilities, embrace it.
Please to observe that, tho I think myself every way intitled to the high Commission before mentioned, I make no condition, but upon a decided favourable Report: as to the Invention offer’d.
If Congress should think it expedient to name a Consul General for this Country, I would endeavour to fulfill that Trust till farther orders and as I have some property here, I should require no advances with the Appointment.
Trusting your Excellency will think it your duty, to lay this Letter before the great Assembly of the States; I request the earliest Reply may be made thro the Ambassador at Paris or my Bankers here, Messrs Newenham & Co. I am most devotedly your Excellencys very obt Servt

Stephen Sayre


Title: From George Washington to Clement Biddle, 4 January 1789
From: Washington, George
To: Biddle, Clement

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 4 Jany 1789.

I shall want to procure about 250 Bushels of Buck Wheat, in addition to what I now have, to sow the ensuing spring & summer—and will thank you to inform me (as soon as may be after receiving this) upon what terms I could obtain the above quantity in Philadelphia, and what would be the freight of it round here, that I may know precisely the cost of it—and determine, upon the receipt of your answer, whether it will be best for me to procure it there or in this neighbourhood.
I found I could obtain Clover-seed in New York upon much better terms than it could be had in Philadelphia and have

therefore written for a supply from that place. You will, however, accept my thanks for the trouble you have been at in making inquiries about it. With great esteem, I am, Dear Sir, Yr most Obedt Hble Servt

Go: Washington

P.S. By a letter that I lately recd from Mr Smith I expect he will shortly deposit some money in your hands on my acct.


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Lincoln, 4 January 1789
From: Lincoln, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

My dear General
Boston Jany 4th 1789

I mentioned in my last that our Senators were chosen—This common wealth has been divided into Eight districts each having a right to chuse one representative to the general Government. Each town was directed to return the name of two persons for electors of President & vice President from the two highest in each district the General court are to chuse one this will make Eight and two are to be chosen by the Court at large in the State.
By our mode of voting, the person chosen must have a majority of all the votes put in so that by the first attempt we shall not chuse more than five at most perhaps but four. Those elected are Mr Partridge, formerly member of Congress, Mr Leonard, Mr Ames, known in our convention, and Mr Thatcher, now a member in Congress, It is probable Mr Sedgwick is elected but we cannot be certain of that untill to morrow evening, if he is not now chosen he doubtless will be the next attempt—All the Gentlemen elected are federal—If Mr Sedgwick is chosen, the divisions unrepresented are the Essex, Middlesex & Worcester—Essex votes are in favor of Mr Goodhue of ⟨Sale⟩m, Mr

Jackson of Newbury port, Mr Dane ⟨mutilated⟩ Congress of Beverly, and your old friend ⟨mutilated⟩ten—Goodhue is the highest & will ⟨proba⟩bly be the man. In Middlesex Mr Gerry stands high, perhaps the highest, and Mr Gorham next—Mr Gorham suggested to his friends that he would not accept the appointment or probably he would have been elected[.] Brooks & Hull are put up one or the other will be pushed the next attempt—Worcester are very much divided—The struggle there finally will be, I think, between Mr Paine, who was one of the mandamus counsillors a Gentleman of abilities and a good federalist and a Colo. Grout of a different character—We can I think promise our selves that six and perhaps seven of the Eight representatives will be firmly attached to the constitution.
By the returns of Gentlemn for electors of President and vice President we cannot have a bad set indeed we must have a good one—What we call good here are Gentlemen who love the constitution & who will vote for ----- President and Mr J. A----s vice president—The other candidate could not act if he was elected his want of health is such as to prevent his attending to the duties of so important a station he has not been abroad but a very few times for two months past and is now confined to his Chamber and it is quite uncertain whether he will be able or not to see the General court which met here on Wednesday last.
We feel exceedingly the ill eff⟨ects⟩ of the late rebellion in this State, not ⟨mutilated⟩ from the temper of the people, they ⟨mutilated⟩ generally quiet, as from the derangment the expence of it caused in the system of finance. It not only broke in upon appropriations but it led to a mode of drawing orders upon back taxes for debts due from government & for interest by this means orders have been multiplied and much exceeded the sum ⟨illegible⟩ the consequence of this has been a great depreciation of them and a proportionate discontent among the people interested in them—The question is now what shall be done with them Government can establish a system by which the common expence of it can be discharged as well as the interest of our debt but the system will not be so productive as to pay of these orders in addition[.] It has been proposed to borrow these outstanding orders but the ⟨ho⟩lders object; so that whether any system will be adopted or not is uncertain the people cannot bear a tax equal to the redemption of all those outstanding

orders the expences of Government and the interest of our outstanding debt We are also much embarrassed respecting a system of finance for this State as we cannot determine how far the general government will find it necessary to excise—I am very apprehensive that unless the state debts, contracted by the war, are embraced by the United States that we shall have constant bickering between the parts and the whole that different interests will be created and one ⟨mutilated⟩ cement, necessary to a firm union of ⟨mutilated⟩ whole, totally lost. I have the honour of being my dear General with the most perfect esteem your Obt Sevt

B. Lincoln


Title: To George Washington from Robert Morris, 5 January 1789 [letter not found]
From: Morris, Robert
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Robert Morris, 5 Jan. 1789. On 15 Jan. GW acknowledged Morris’s “favor of the 5th.”


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Powel, 6 January 1789
From: Powel, Samuel
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Philadelphia Jany 6. 1789

A few Days since I had the Pleasure of hearing from you by Mr Fairfax, whose Modesty & Apprehensions of being troublesome prevented his delivering your Letter earlier⟨.⟩ From the very short Time that we have been acquainted both Mrs Powel & myself promise ourselves much pleasure from our Intercourse with your Godson, to whom we shall most chearfully render every Service in our power. He purposes to be inoculated for the small Pox Tomorrow.
I have taken the Liberty to enclose a Letter for your Nephew, which I should not have done but that several of my Letters to him have miscarried.
Our Friend Mr Gouverneur Morris is probably, by this Time nearly arrived in France. I wish it was in my Power to say any

thing acceptable on the interesting Subject of Politics. The antifedœralists are still exerting every Nerve, in this State, to defeat the new Constitution; but I trust the good Sense and Virtue of Pennsylvania, as well as of the whole Continent, will confound & bring their Machinations to nought.
Mrs Powel begs Leave to join me in most sincere presenting the Compliments of the Season to yourself, Mrs Washington, the Major & his amicable Lady with all our little Friends under your Roof. I have the Honor to be dear Sir Your most obedt humble Servt

Samuel Powel


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Hanson, 7 January 1789
From: Hanson, Samuel (of Samuel)
To: Washington, George

Sir
Alexa. 7th Jany, 1789

With the utmost diffidence I am constrained to trespass, once more, upon your politeness & indulgence, in addressing you with regard to a difficulty, of considerable consequence to myself & family.
I am informed that the only objection to my appointment in the English School of the Academy is my unwillingness to contract positively, for more than one quarter. In my application I stipulated for the privilege of retiring at any time, upon giving 1 Month’s notice. You, Sir, are acquainted with the reasons that prevent my engaging for a longer term. Since I took the liberty of addressing you upon the subject of my application to the New Government, I have been advised to procure the advocation of influential characters with the Fcederal Senate. This advice I have pursued, and have received the most flattering & obliging promises of recommendation & Service from Gentlemen of the first respectability in several States. Sir, I beg you to consider this address as made to you in your present, private, station. It was chiefly upon the hopes of your patronage that my expectations were founded. It is through your influence, whether in a public or private capacity, that I have any chance of

succeeding. In the former, without your nomination, the Senate can have no opportunity of serving me. In the latter, I conceive that, having lived so long in your own neighbourhood, and enjoyed the honour of your personal Acquaintance, the want of your recommendation would be an ⟨impassable⟩ defect in my pretensions. The object of this Letter is not to gratify an impertinent or impatient curiosity, but to request the favour of you to advise me how, in my situation, it will be prudent to act with regard to the School: whether it were better to accept, while I can, a certain, but scanty, provision for my family, or continue my application to the new government.
Well acquainted with your repugnance to injure the feelings of any one, even in the lowest station, permit me to assure you, Sir, that as, on one hand, no determination you can make in my favour, can encrease my respect; so, on the other, your rejection of my suit, cannot, in the smallest degree, diminish it. I am not so partial to my own pretensions as not to know that a Gentleman may be entitled to my esteem & gratitude, though he should think me unqualified to hold an office under the united States. I therefore, neither expect, or wish, any apology for an unfavourable determination; satisfied that it will be dictated by perfect propriety, and an unerring regard for the Publick Good. I have only to request a short line, intimating your opinion whether, with flattering hopes of favour from the Senate, it will be prudent to relinquish those hopes, and accept the School.
The particular crisis of my affairs will, I hope, excuse the purport of this address, which in a situation less delicate, nothing could have extorted. It is occasioned by my extreme reluctance to consign myself, for Life, to an employment, the drudgery of which is, in my mind, more irksome than that of a Common Ploughman. With Sentiments of unalterable respect & Esteem, I have the honour to remain Sir Your much obliged & most obedient Servant

S. Hanson of Saml


Title: From George Washington to Samuel Hanson, 10 January 1789
From: Washington, George
To: Hanson, Samuel (of Samuel)

Sir,
Mount Vernon January 10, 1789

The letter with which you favored me on Wednesday was handed whilst I was at Dinner at Pages when it was not in my power to give it an acknowledgment. and this is the first day since, that I have had an occasion to send to Town.
It is painful to me to be called upon to give an opinion upon a matter to which I feel myself incompetent—The first wish of my Soul is to spend the evening of my days on the bar of a private citizen on my farm but if circumstances which are not yet sufficiently unfolded to form the judgment on the opinion of my friends, will not allow me this last boon of temporal happiness and I should once more be led into the walks of public life It is my fixed determination [to] enter there not only unfettered by promises but even unchargeable with creating or feeding the expectation of any man living for my assistance to Office. And sure I am, a Gentleman of your candour and Judgment will approve the resolution—first because all offices are yet to be created, by Law; and consequently are, as yet uncertain. 2dly because the appointment of Officers may, possibly be left to the heads of departments—or in many instances referred to the Executives of the respective States. And 3dly because the ear of the nominator ought to be open to the Coments or the merits of each candidate and to be governed primarily by the abilities which are most peculiarly adapted to the Nature and duties of the Office which is to be filled. If unhappily for me it should be my lott to have any share in the execution of the government it will be under the influence of these sentiments, and the best knowledge I can obtain of characters, that I shall invariably act with respect to appointments, and with respect to my conduct as a private man I do verily believe I never shall interfere in the appointment to any office—whatsoever, beyond a general certificate of facts.
The candid and cautious line of conduct which has been the

rule of my past life, and which I mean shall be my government to the end of it, must apologize for the frankness of this declaration—not Sir, that I wish it to be considered as any dereliction on my part to promote your interest in any matter wherein I can do it with perfect consistency and propriety but rather because I will never put it in the power of any to say that I have deceived or missled him by assurances or hopes which on the completion I might find myself embar[rasse]d. With very great esteem and regard I am &c.

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Hanson, 10 January 1789 [letter not found]
From: Hanson, Samuel (of Samuel)
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Samuel Hanson, 10 Jan. 1789. On 16 Jan. GW wrote Hanson that his letter “of the 10th . . . came duly to hand.”


Title: To George Washington from Robert Chambers, 14 January 1789 [letter not found]
From: Chambers, Robert
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Robert Chambers, 14 Jan. 1789. On 28 Jan. GW wrote to Chambers: “I have received your letter of the 14th Instt.”


Title: To George Washington from James Madison, 14 January 1789
From: Madison, James
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Orange [Va.] Jany 14th 1789.

Your favor of the 2d instant with the letters attending it never came to hand till last evening. I have good reason to believe that the delay happened between Alexanda & Fredg, rather than at or from the latter place. Mr F. Maury pays particular attention to all letters which arrive there for me, and forwards them to Orange by opportunites which are frequent & safe. I apprehend there will be no impropriety in committing a confidential letter to that channel. As an additional precaution, I will desire him to be particularly attentive to any letter which may have your name on it.
I have heard from two only of the returns from the Electoral districts, the one in favor of Mr Gilchrist—the other of General Stephens. He succeeded agst Col: Cabel by a majority of 82 votes. He owes his success to the coalition between the two parties in Spotsylva. My situation is unfavorable for intellegence from the State at large, and therefore I can say little of the prospects as to the Feby election. I fear, from the vague accounts which circulate that the federal candidates are too likely to stand in the way of one another. This is not the case however in my district. The field is left entirely to Monroe & myself. The event of our competition will probably depend on the part to be taken by two or three descriptions of people, whose decision is not known, if not yet to be ultimately formed. I have pursued

my pretensions much farther than I had premeditated; having not only made great use of epistolary means; but actually visited two Counties, Culpeper & Louisa, and publicly contradicted the erroneous reports propagated agst me. It has been very industriously incalcated that I am dogmatically attached to the Constitution in every clause, syllable & letter, and therefore not a single amendment will be promoted by my vote, either from conviction or a spirit of accomodation. This is the report most likely to affect the election, and most difficult to be combated with success, within the limited period. There are a number of others however which are auxiliaries to it. With my respectful compliments to Mrs Washington & the others of your family, I remain Dear Sir, your most obedt & affecte Servt

Js Madison Jr

            Stephens
            Cabel

            109
            71—Albemarle

            *
            270—Amherst

             15
            66—Fluvanna

            268
            10—Spotsylva

            113
            4—Orange

            177
            26—Culpeper

              4
            157—Buckingham

            686
            604

            82 bal: in favor of Stephens

P.S. I this moment hear that Mr Zachy Johnson is the Elector for his district.
*The unanimity in Amherst was produced by a previous declaration as I am told, of Col: Cabel on the subject of the Presidt which satisfied the federal party. Little attention seems to have been paid any where to the vice-president. Among the bulk of the people, the choice of a President has been regarded as the sole object of the election.


Title: From George Washington to Robert Morris, 15 January 1789
From: Washington, George
To: Morris, Robert

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon Jany 15th 1789

I pray you to receive my thanks for your favor of the 5th and for the obliging attention which you have given to the Flour matting from China. The latter is not yet arrived at the Port of Alexandria nor is the navigation of the River at this time open for the Passage of any Vessel—while the frost has much the appearance of encreasing and continuing.
In every wish that can contribute to the happiness of Mrs

Morris yourself and family I am most cordially joined by Mrs Washington and all under this Roof, and with Sentiments of sincere regard and friendship I am Dr Sir Yours &c.

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Henry Lee, 17 January 1789
From: Lee, Henry
To: Washington, George

My dear General
Alexa. Jany 17th 89

Inclosed you have the patents for the land sold to you. I have Doer Skinners deed with me which is recorded in the general court, therefore when you please my conveyance can be made—It is my custom to convey only with special warrantee viz. against me & all claiming under me—this I hope will be satisfactory to you—the title I have not the smallest doubt of, should you think differently I will give you other lands for those sold.
Being lately from Richmond I will detail the political information collected, for your amusement.
Mr Thek Bland will be elected into Congress from his district.
From the Norfolk district Mr Matthews is considered certain; from the Richmond district Mr B. Harrison probable, tho’ great expectations are entertained in favor of Mr S. Griffin.
From the Westmoreland district, Mr Page I beleive to be sure, Mr Corbin Mr Roan & Mr M. Smith contend. Mr Madison is gaining ground fast but still he is involved in much doubt & difficulty. Powerful & active supporters appear in every county for him—his presence has done good & will do more.
Here, Mr Lee or Mr Pope—my information induces me to consider the event doubtful.
among the electors will be many antifederal characters, but not one of them will act on the principles you suggested in their

choice of the president—I beleive in the election of the V. President their hostility to the govt will sway them—Mr ⟨ ⟩ Lees ill health forced him to decline in his district & two of the countys have in consequence thereof voted for Mr F. of Chatham who I beleive is the elector.
Mrs Lees better health will permit me in a few days I trust, to ride to Mt Vernon. With the highest respect I am always yours truely

H:Lee


Title: From George Washington to Battaile Muse, 18 January 1789
From: Washington, George
To: Muse, Battaile

Sir,
Mount Vernon 18th Jany 1789.

I have reed your letter of the 19th Ulto and, <in com>pliance with your request, have taken, from Colo. Fairfax’s <ledger a> Copy of Colo. Warner Washington’s Acct which is here enclos<ed. There is no> Acct in his Book with Mr Lee—neither father nor <Son>.
 I am very sorry that indisposition<, or any other cau>se should have prevented you from coming down <at the time> you proposed; for it is my earnest wish and <desire> to have the Acct of my Lands &c. which are under your care <brought> into a degree of regularity that will enable me to see upon <what> footing they stand, and what my expectations from that quarter may be. It is so long since this request was first <m>ade to you—it has been so often repeated—and the time which would <be required to do it> is so trifling, that it would even justify <a suspicion that> this delay arose from some cause which ought not to exist; However, I trust that a speedy compliance with my repeated requests in this particular will place the matter in such a situation as to make it perfectly satisfactory to us both.
 The immediate payment of such rents <as are> due to me would be essentially serviceable at this time <and I doubt n>ot, therefore, but you will use your utmost end<eavours to c>ollect them as soon as possible. I am, Sir, Yr most Obedt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Bushrod Washington, 18 January 1789
From: Washington, Bushrod
To: Washington, George

Dr Uncle
Alexandria Jany 18th 1789

I was not at home when your Letter arrived yesterday, or Should then have thanked you, as I now sincerely do, for your kind offer—previous to the rect of it, I had rented an office of

Mr Watson, at the exorbitant price of £15. Your Stable I will put into repair & make use of until you may want it. I very readily accept your offer of Hay, as it is both difficult to procure it Here, and when got comes very dear. Wishing you health & happiness—I am with Love to my Aunt Dr Uncle Your very affect. Nephew

B. Washington


Title: From George Washington to Clement Biddle, 20 January 1789
From: Washington, George
To: Biddle, Clement

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 20th January 1789.

I have received your letters of the 27th Ulto and 4th Inst.—the former enclosing an acct of the Herrings, which I am sorry did not turn out better—however I am certain there was nothing wanting on your part to dispose of them to the best advantage.
Neither of the Vessels on board of which you shipped articles for me have arrived. If they got out of the Delaware they could not have reached Alexandria, for the River has been impassable

for several weeks; but there is now a prospect of its being soon open.
Enclosed is a Memorandum from Mrs Washington respecting some shoes which she wishes Mr Palmer to make for her, and I have sent a slipper herewith as a pattern which she will thank you to send to Mr Palmer.
If there are any homespun Cloths in Philadelphia which are tolerably fine, that you can come readily at, I would be obliged to you to send me patterns of some of the best kinds—I should prefer that which is mixed in the grain, because it will not so easily discover its quality as a plain Cloth. With great esteem, I am, Dear Sir, Yr most Obedt Hble Servt

Go: Washington

The Memo, mentd above is in the Slipper—for Mr Palmer.


Title: From George Washington to Henry Lee, 20 January 1789
From: Washington, George
To: Lee, Henry

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon Jany 20th 1789

Your favor of the 17th enclosing two Patents for 5000 Acres of Land on Rough Creek in Jefferson Couty (and rough indeed they appear principaly to be) came duly to hand, but I am sorry to say that the specialty of the conveyance proposed by you neither meets my inclination nor expectation. I neither buy nor sell (and I have done both) without a general Warrantee. If their is no dispute with respect to the title, no possible injury can result from giving a general Warrantee. If contrary to your knowledge & belief there should appeare an other and better claimants of these Lands of what avail, to me, is a special Warrantee? Will that afford compensation when it is against the claim of yourself and heirs only that I am indemnified? In that case shall I get anything for the horse, the original cost of which was five hundred pounds and with the hire of the groom there keeping and other incidental charges cannot I should suppose

stand me in much if any less than Seven hundred pounds? There would be no equallity in such a Bargain, you say if I have any doubt of your Title to these Lands you will give others in place of them. I have nothing but report of the general confusion of Landed property in that Country to form any opinion on—& this with me operates equally with respect to all—having made no enquiry into the rights of any; never having speculated in an Acre there.
I thank you for the information respecting Elections. A little time now will bring the whole to a close—It gives us much pleasure to hear that Mrs Lee is better, and will always do so to see you at Mount Vernon. Being with sincere friendship and regard Yours &c.

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from John Eager Howard, 23 January 1789
From: Howard, John Eager
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Annapolis [Md.] Jany 23. 1789

I have the honor to inclose a proclamation which will inform you of the result of the late elections in this state. The federal ticket has been carried by a very large majority. Knowing that this circumstance will give you pleasure I have taken the earliest opportunity of communicating it. One circumstance I will add that in the county which bears your name out of 1164 taken there was not one for the antifederal ticket. I am, Sir, Yr most obt sert

J.E. Howard


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Powel, 26 January 1789
From: Powel, Samuel
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Philadelphia Jany 26 1789

I have taken the Liberty to enclose a Letter for your Nephew, in which I know not how far I may have acted agreeably to you. My reason for doing it is the fear of its being delayed by any other Mode of Conveyance, which it is of Consequence to him should not happen in the present Instance.
I do not recollect any Topic which at present, occupies the Conversation of Men, so much as the Insanity of the King of Great Britain. I am told, & I believe truly, that Dr Franklins observation upon hearing the Report was that he had long been of Opinion that the King of Great Britain was insane, tho’ it had not been declared to the World till now.
Mrs Powel begs Leave to add her best Wishes for Mrs Washington, yourself, the Major & his amiable Partner, with our little Friends to those of dear Sir Your most obedt humble Servt

Samuel Powel

I have the pleasure to inform you that Mr Fairfax is recovered from the small Pox and goes abroad.


Title: To George Washington from John Armstrong, 27 January 1789
From: Armstrong, John
To: Washington, George

Dear General
Carlisle [Pa.] 27th Janry 1789

Your very Obligeing letter of the 25th of April last came only to hand, and yeilded much Satisfaction to several Gentlemen of the Federal cast occasionally at this place, to find your decided opinion that Virginia would adopt the Constitution; and I cannot

suppress my Obligation to acknowledge the receit of that letter, otherwise ’tis matter of doubt whether any part of your time ought to be given to the consideration of what is to follow, but to avoid the light compliment of a blank sheet, I must send you the best I can.
I hope before this time, Sir, you have determined to yeild your services to the providential voice of God expressed in the voice of your country which I think appears to be an event morally certain: and whatever embarrasments you may apprehend to attend your acceptance, if a refusal involves still greater (as you will doubtless see) the consequent duty is thereby apparent. to this I shall add nothing, but as your day is, so may your strength be.
It is said that a large number & amongst them men of distinction too, are still harping on sudden or early amendments as they call them—this at the outsetting of the new Government & in our national situation, is not a little absurd, true there is wisdom requisite in hitting the proper medium of time for a revission—but perhaps some promisary good words early thrown out, assigning for delay a few of the many reasons that exist, may command the patience of the disquiet, as to this effect I have heard some of them ready to give their assent. I have at present no intention to mention any alterations or amendments that may be supposed to do good & which have frequently been spoken of, but beg leave to take notice of a certain defect which I humbly conceive belongs to most of our State Constitutions & to the newly adopted national Constitution also; but must prefix, wch I do with regret, that of all other alterations or amendments, this supposed defect is according to the present taste of too many men, the least likely to be supplyed.
The thing I mean is a religious Test or declaration, in a moderate, but significant extent or degree, our various Creeds need not be carried to any great length in this matter, but a Solemn acknowledgement of the One living & true God, who pervades the minds of all men, and shall judge us righteously at the end of this world, is perhaps the least (and perhaps enough) that should be required of those to whom we commit the important trust of which I need not give a detail: and seems at once to correspond to the reverence we owe to the deity, and that security

which may reasonably be expected by our fellowmen. If God is the Ruler of the universe, the Author & patern of all order & good Government, it seems highly becoming in constituting a National Government, that notice should be taken of his cognizance, as well as of his patronage in the execution of it: and the omission of it we may rather fear to be displeasing to him, who requires us to acknowlege him in all our ways. at best the Omission has but a lax, if not a cowardly appearance, and leaves no favourable aspect of the religion of America, either to posterity or to the nations of the world—farther the Omission leaves an open door for men of the most licentious principles to possess the first offices in the union, and altho’ some such might possibly be good Statesmen & even true to their particular trust, yet all such are in their measure a national reproach, and cannot be trusted thro’ process of time; so that the laxity complained of, virtually throws an unfavourable aspect not only on future policy, but on the Christian religion also. Deists & Socinians, who in this country are likely to do more injury to Christianity than any other Sect we know, are the avowed enemies of all tests, Articles & Creeds, civil or Religious; and for what purpose they are so, is no secret. the Test mentioned above lays no obstacle in these mens way to office (and perhaps therefore deficient) it only acknowledges the being of one God & that we are finally accountable to him—which in my opinion would at least be more respectable & give more Satisfaction to many of the Citizens, than as the Constitution now stands. I am aware of a variety of Objections to this doctrine, and some of them specious too, which doubtless may have influenced the conduct of many well disposed men on the point in question, but am obliged to consider them collectively, as light in the ballance.
Thus far am I gone in the forlorn hope, before I once recollected the strong Negative to any Religious Test expressed in the Constitution! and therefore for the present conclude this head, in full assurance of your candid construction & forgiveness. Very lately casting an eye on Mr Jeffersons Notes of Virginia—that Gentlemans Solutions of what he calls his 17th Query gives me considerable surprize & in short excited the thoughts on the foregoing Subject—to you I need quote but little of that query, being persuaded it has not passed your notice

—his catholick possition wherein with great ease & indifference he allows his fellow citizen the belief of “One God, twenty Gods, or no God at all” is without any parallell that I have met with and am much mistaken if it is not alike replete with ill policy as with very bad divinity—nor is this the only dangerous & exceptionable part of that Query, written as it is in the high taste of the Gentry mentioned above. the belief & experience of honest Socrates stands opposed to Mr Jefferson, for he lost his life because he would not reject the belief of one God and adopt or avow, that of a multiplicity of Gods! ’tis no small stigma on the Christian Religion that many of our younger Gentn some of whom possess fine talents too, should discover a greater attachment to the sentiments of Priestly & Price—Hume, Voltaire, & Rossau—than to those of the holy Scriptures themselves, or any of all the writings deduced from them! this dear Genl is what we have the greatest reason to fear, & prudently (I wish our Zeal would admit the word couragiously) guard against in our small measure as well as we can. I point at no individual amongst us, their own conversation & writings will but too probably point them out.
Soon after the existance of the new Government, Congress will receive various local representations, as so many candidates for the Seat of the Federal Town. I am no way sanguine on this point, but least this should be my last to you, beg leave to say that the two leading objects to a wise decision on that point, are Safety, and a practical, or accomodating reach of the Western Country. You have dilated on both yourself, there fore I shall not. There are a variety of lesser considerations involved in the question & some of very considerable moment which are also familiar to every one; but if the two things mentioned above, are allowed to preponderate there are no spots within my knowledge that will equally agree to them as Carlisle, or Watkins’s Ferry on Potomack—each of these have their respective circumstantial advantages, & if my opinion is free from prejudice as I think it is, these in a comparative view are clearly in favour of Carlisle. In opposition to any place remote from the Sea, I might tell you a fable of the forseable address & irresistable locution of Oysters & fish, which some modern thinkers have got into their heads, but how the discovery or efficacy of

this phenomenon should thus early become a leading trait in the patriotick character, is yet to be discussed. I have dear General the honor to be, your Sincerely Affectionate And most humble Servt

John Armstrong

Our Representatives are I believe all Federal, but in some other important respects the choice is not thought so respectable as the State admitted of & the weight of the business requires In yr situation I look for no acknowlegement of this letter. may God sustain & direct you.


Title: From George Washington to John Fitzgerald and George Gilpin, 27 January 1789 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Fitzgerald, John,Gilpin, George

	Letter not found: to John Fitzgerald and George Gilpin, Mount Vernon, 27 Jan. 1789. The dealer’s catalog quotes from this letter: “As the business of the Poto’k Company seems, in some measure, to have come to a crisis—I have thought (since you left this on Sunday) whether a Full meeting of the Board is not More desirable than to write to Messrs. Johnson & Lee.—No communications can be so full and satisfactory as verbal ones—nor any measures so well devised as those which may be agreed on in such an Interview.—If in this instance you coincide with me in sentiment, and will request their attend’e at the Seneca falls (which is about central) I will make it a point to be there.—The sooner this happens after the General Election on Monday next (sooner it can not) the better it will suit me—and, according

to your Acc’t the affairs of the Company also.—Do not trust the summons to accidental conveyances—but act, if you approve the Measure, on sure ground—and let me know the day that is fixed on. . . .”


Title: From George Washington to Embree & Shotwell, 28 January 1789
From: Washington, George
To: Embree & Shotwell

Gentlemen,
Mount Vernon January 28th 1789

Your letter of the 19th Instt came duly to hand; and as the time of payment for the Seed, which you mention will answer my purpose I must request you to ship it by the first Vessel that sails for Alexandria as the season for sowing is fast approaching—with esteem—I am Gentn &c.

G. Washington


Title: To George Washington from John Canon, 29 January 1789 [letter not found]
From: Canon (Cannon), John
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from John Canon, 29 Jan. 1789. On 22 Mar. GW wrote to Canon: “I have received your letter of the 29th of January.”


Title: From George Washington to Lafayette, 29 January 1789
From: Washington, George
To: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de

My dear Marqs
Mount Vernon Jany 29 1789

By the last Post, I was favored with the receipt of your letter, dated the 5th of September last. Notwithstanding the distance of its date, it was peculiarly welcome to me: for I had not, in the mean time received any satisfactory advices respecting yourself or your country. By that letter, my mind was placed much more at its ease, on both those subjects, than it had been for many months.
The last letter, which I had the pleasure of writing to you, was forwarded by Mr Gouverneur Morris. Since his departure from America, nothing very material has occurred. The minds of men, however, have not been in a stagnant State. But patriotism, instead of faction, has generally agitated them. It is not a matter of wonder, that, in proportion as we approached to the time fixed for the organization and operation of the new government, their anxiety should have been encreased, rather than diminished. The choice of Senators, Representatives and Electors, whh (excepting in that of the last description) took place at different times, in the different States, has afforded abundant topics for domestic News, since the beginning of Autumn. I need not enumerate the several particulars, as I imagine you see most of them detailed, in the American Gazettes. I will content myself with only saying, that the elections have been hitherto vastly more favorable than we could have expected, that federal sentiments seem to be growing with uncommon rapidity, and that this encreasing unanimity is not less indicative of the good disposition than the good sense of the Americans. Did it not savour so much of partiality for my Countrymen I might add, that I cannot help flattering myself the new Congress on account of the self-created respectability and various talents of its Members, will not be inferior to any Assembly in the world. From these and some other circumstances, I really entertain greater hopes, that America will not finally disappoint the expectations of her Friends, than I have at almost any former period. Still however, in such a fickle state of existence, I would not be too sanguine in indulging myself with the contemplation of scenes of uninterupted prosperity; lest some unforeseen

mischance or perverseness should occasion the greater mortification, by blasting the enjoyment in the very bud.
I can say little or nothing new, in consequence of the repetition of your opinion, on the expediency there will be, for my accepting the office to which you refer. Your sentiments, indeed, coincide much more nearly with those of my other friends, than with my own feelings. In truth my difficulties encrease and magnify as I drew towards the period, when, according to the common belief, it will be necessary for me to give a definitive answer, in one way or another. Should the circumstances render it, in a manner inevitably necessary, to be in the affirmative:Be assured, my dear Sir, I shall assume the task with the most unfeigned reluctance, and with a real diffidence for which I shall probably receive no credit from the world. If I know my own heart, nothing short of a conviction of duty will induce me again to take an active part in public affairs—and, in that case, if I can form a plan for my own conduct, my endeavours shall be unremittingly exerted (even at the hazard of former fame or present popularity) to extricate my country from the embarrassments in which it is entangled, though want of credit; and to establish, a general system of policy, which, if pursued will insure  permanent felicity to the Commonwealth. I think, I see a path, as clear and as direct as a ray of light, which leads to the attainment of that object. Nothing but harmony, honesty, industry and frugality are necessary to make us a great and happy people. Happily the present posture of affairs and the prevailing disposition of my countrymen promise to co-operate, in establishing those four great and essential pillars of public felicity.
What has been considered at the moment as a disadvantage, will probably turn out for our good. While our commerce has been considerably curtailed, for want of that extensive credit formerly given in Europe, and for fault of remittance; the usefull arts have been almost imperceptibly pushed to a considerable degree of perfection. Though I would not force the introduction of manufactures, by extravagant encouragements, and to the prejudice of agriculture; yet, I conceive, much might be done in that way by woman, children & others; without taking one really necessary hand from tilling the earth. Certain it is, great savings are already made in many articles of apparel, furniture

and consumption. Equally certain it is, that no diminution in agriculture has taken place, at the time when greator and more substantial improvements in manufactures were making, than were ever before known in America. In Pennsylvania they have attended particularly to the fabrication of cotten cloths, hats, and all articles in leather. In Massachusetts they are establishing factories of Duck, Cordage, Glass and several other extensive and useful branches. The number of shoes made in one town and nails in another is incredible. In that State and Connecticut are also factories of superfine and other broad cloths. I have been writing to our friend Genl Knox this day, to procure me homespun broad cloth, of the Hartford fabric, to make a suit of cloaths for myself. I hope it will not be a great while, before it will be unfashionable for a gentleman to appear in any other dress. Indeed we have already been to long subject to British prejudices. I use no porter or cheese in my family, but such as is made in America—both those articles may now be purchased of an excellent quality.
While you are quarreling among yourselves in Europe—while one King is running mad—and others acting as if they were already so, by cutting the throats of the subjects of their neighbours: I think you need not doubt, My Dear Marquis we shall continue in tranquility here—And that population will be progressive so long as there shall continue to be so many easy means for obtaining a subsistence, and so ample a field for the exertion of talents and industry.
All my family join in Compliments to Madam la Fayette and yours. Adieu, my dear Marqs believe me, what I am—With &c.

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Rochambeau, 29 January 1789
From: Washington, George
To: Rochambeau, Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de

My dear Count,
Mount Vernon Jany 29th 1789

By some unusual delay in the conveyance of your kind letter

dated the 15th of June last, I had not the satisfaction of receiving it before this time. As I am always happy in hearing of your prosperity, I would not defer expressing my obligations, by the first occasion.
I had long Judged from the different public accounts I had seen, relative to the affairs of France, that you were nearly in the moment of a Crisis; when your Constitution would assume, in some respects, a new form. By intelligence of a more recent date than your letter, I learn there has been a change in administration, and that an Assembly of the States was to be convoked on the first of January. The upright intentions, which I have always been taught to believe were possessed by the present King of France, and the unbounded affection, which the Inhabitants of that country are accustomed to entertain for their monarch; persuade me that affairs will all go right, and that the temporary derangment will ultimately terminate in the permanent welfare of the Kingdom. For if the interests and resources of that Kingdom should be Judiciously managed, you can hardly fail of being the happiest and most powerful people in the world.
In the strange situation of political affairs in the North of Europe, and in the midst of the various changes of alliances which have taken place, between the most considerable nations in your quarter of the globe; one is left to wander in a labyrinth of uncertainties in regard to the result. The Nations seem to be so entangled by different ties, that it will require all the skill of their Statesmen to dissolve or all the force of their Warriors to cut the Gordian Knots. Calculating upon the known superiority of civil institutions and discipline over ignorance and brutal force; and I am astonished to find, that the two Imperial Powers have made so little progress against the Turks, in their first Campaign. As to the general issue, though we should use all the fixed principles for making the calculation, much will doubtless depend upon contingency. For example, the fate of the King of England may make some important alterations in the European system. Notwithstanding it might probably, in a commercial view, be greatly for the advantage of America that a war should rage on the other side of the Atlantic; yet I shall never so far divest myself of the feelings of a man, interested in the happiness of his fellow-men, as to wish my country’s prosperity

might be built upon the ruins of that of other nations. On the contrary, I cannot but hope, that the Independence of America, to which you have so gloriously contributed, will prove a blessing to mankind, It is thus you see, My dear Count, in retirement, upon my farm, I speculate on the fate of nations; amusing myself with innocent Reveries, that mankind will, one day, grow happier and better.
I had the honor of writing to you, some time ago, by Mr Gouverneur Morris. He will have told you every thing important concerning the affairs of this Country, untill his departure. Since which, little worthy of notice has happened, Our prospects have been gradually meliorating. Unanimity encreases. Economy has succeeded to profusion. Industry prevails. Such is the general picture of the United States. We are on the point of seeing the completion of the new Government, which, by giving motives to labour and security to property, cannot fail to augment beyond all former example the capital Stock: that is to say, the aggregate amount of property in the Country. I speak with the more confidence, because so many of the elections of Senators and Representatives to Congress are already made, that there is the best reason to believe, the wisdom, the patriotism, and the virtue of America will be conspicuously concentered in that Body. I am &c.

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Armand, 31 January 1789 [letter not found]
From: La Rouërie, Armand-Charles Tuffin, marquis de
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Armand-Charles Tuffin, marquis de La Rouërie, 31 Jan. 1789. On 13 Oct. 1789 GW wrote to Armand: “I have been honored with the receipt of your letters of the 31st of January and 17th of February last.”


Title: From George Washington to Benjamin Lincoln, 31 January 1789
From: Washington, George
To: Lincoln, Benjamin

My dear Sir,
Mount Vernon Jany 31 st 1789

Your two letters of Decr 20th & Jany 4th are before me. I am much obliged to you for the intelligence contained in them: because it enabled me to contradict a report, in circulation among the Antifederalists, that your State had made choice of only one Representative to Congress, that no more would probably be appointed, & that every thing was in very great confusion. Though facts will ultimately become known; yet much mischief to the federal cause may be done, by suffering misrepresentations to pass unnoticed or unrefuted. Last winter the Antifederalists in Philadelphia published, “that Connecticut had been surprized into an adoption of the Constitution, while a great majority of the freemen were opposed to it.” Now, it is certain, nothing can fix the stigma of falsehood upon that assertion, better than the late respectable appointments in that State. Much the same thing has happened in Maryland. The federal Ticket has been carried by the majority of thousands.
By the best information I can obtain, federal sentiments are spreading, perhaps, faster than ever in this Commonwealth. It is generally supposed that six, if not seven, of the Representatives from it to Congress will be decided fr[ien]ds to the Constitution—Monday next will however, confirm or contradict this opinion; it being the day of election throughout the State. I will only add, that, in Maryland & this State, it is probable Mr John Adams will have a considerable number of the votes of the Electors. Some of those gentlemen will have been advised that this measure would be entirely agreeable to me, and that I considered it to be the only certain way to prevent the election of an Antifederalist. With sentiments of the greatest esteem & regard. I am My dear Sir Yr Most Obedt & Affe. Servt

Go: Washington


Title: Statement concerning George Mercer’s Estate, 1 February 1789
From: Washington, George
To:

Mount Vernon Feby 1st 1789.

From such parts of the following statement of facts (as are applicable to the case) the answer of George Washington must be drawn, to the Bills of complaint exhibited by both Brown and Owens.

Colo. George Mercer when he left this Country for England vested (as I have been informed, and as the proceedings of the General Court I believe will prove) his brother, James Mercer Esqr., with a power of Attorney to Manage & dispose of his property according to circumstances & his best discretion.
In consequence, & to satisfy some heavy claims on the Estate of the said George Mercer—or securities which were some how or another involved therewith; the said James Mercer by virtue of the Power under which he acted, Mortgaged part of the said George’s estate to Messrs Dick & Hunter of Fredericksburgh.
Nearly about the same time (to the best of my remembrance)Colo. George Mercer—in order to secure the payment of large Sums which he had borrowed in England—also mortgaged the said premises—with other parts of his estate to a certain Richard Gravatt Banker, of London & Mary Wroughton of Bath, Spinster. and, in conjunction with these, sent a Power of Attorney to the Honble John Tayloe, Colo. George Mason & myself to sell & dispose of the whole Mortgaged effects for their use, & to apply the monies arising from such Sales agreeably to the directions contained in the said Power.
A doubt arising, whether the whole Estate of the said George Mercer would be adequate to the payment of his English & Virginia debts—and the priority, or validity of one of the Mortgages (given in England) being questioned, it became a matter interesting (in case of deficiency) for the said James to establish the one which he had given to Messrs Dick and Hunter. Accordingly, an amicable suit in chancery was instituted by him, for this purpose: Not to stay the Sale, but to subject the money arising therefrom to the further Order of the Court, as will appear by the Interlocutory Decree of the 5th of November 1773.
Under these circumstances Colonel Tayloe & myself (Colo. Mason having refused to act) Advertised the Estate of the said George Mercer to be sold agreeably to the Decree of the Court—which sale was accordingly made in Novr 1774 by me, Colo. Tayloe not attending; & Bonds for the amount were taken, payable in Novr 1775 to Tayloe & Washington.
In the interim, between the sales which were made in Novr 1774 and the time at which the Bonds were to become due in Novr 1775. I obeyed a call of my Country in attending the Con-gress

which met at Philadelphia in the Month of May in the latter year. From whence (being appointed thereto) I proceeded in the latter part of June following, to take upon myself the Command of the American Army at that time Assembled in Cambridge in the State of Massachusetts.
Seeing no prospect from the then situation of our Affairs of being any longer useful to Colo. Mercer or any of the Parties concerned; about, or very soon after the expiration of the period at which the Bonds became due, I wrote in very decided terms to Colo. Tayloe informing him that I should no longer consider myself as the Attorney of Colo. Mercer and his Mortgagees; or be responsible for any future transactions respecting that trust. So far then from having left, at the time of my departure from home, the Bonds in the hands of Mr Lund Washington with authority to Collect and give acquittals thereon, that, at or about the time I wrote to Colo. Tayloe to the purport abovementioned, I directed him the said Lund to deliver into the hands of that Gentleman, the whole of these Bonds; & take his receipt for the same—recommending it to the latter (that is, Colo. Tayloe) to put them into the hands of Colo. Francis Peyton (a person not only well qualified from his knowledge & attention to business for the purpose, but as one who was privy to all the proceedings at the Sale) to collect. This however was not done; and applications thereafter being made to Mr Lund Washington (in whose hands the Bonds still remained)—I informed Colo. Tayloe in a subsequent Letter, as he had it seems requested the said Lund to receive the money, that I should not, on acct of its interference with my business, oppose his doing it; as I was sure he would act with fi⟨de⟩lity.
From ⟨the⟩ date of my first ⟨letter⟩ to Colo. Tayloe I constantly refused to have any farther Agency in this business, until the death of that Gentleman, when I was informed (and upon taking the best advice was satisfied) of the indispensable necessity that existed, for my making a report of the proceedings with respect to the Sale, and such other matters as were my own immediate acts to the Court, in order to the final settlement; which report was accordingly made; but as It was known that I meant to proceed no farther in the business—a second Interlocutory Decree bearing date the 9th day of Novr 1782 took the

Bonds out of my hands & placed them in those of John Francis Mercer Esquire, to collect; subject nevertheless, as in the former case, to the future Decree of the Court.
Under this authority it is, that Suits (thoug⟨h⟩ instituted in my name) have commenced—and though I am convinced that Mr Lund Washington was authorized by Colo. Tayloe (notwithstanding my recommendation of Colo. Peyton for this business) to collect the Money which was due by Bonds, yet, as this authority did not proceed from me, the Interrogatories which are founded ⟨thereon⟩ must fall. And those others which depend upon the appropriation of the monies arising from the Sales, are with the Court to decide. To sell the Estate, and to submit the proceeds thereof to its future Decree, was what was required of the Attorneis.

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Clement Biddle, 1 February 1789 [letter not found]
From: Biddle, Clement
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Clement Biddle, 1 Feb. 1789. On 11 Feb. GW wrote to Biddle: “I have now before me your letters of the 19th Ultimo & 1st Inst.”


Title: From George Washington to John Eager Howard, 2 February 1789
From: Washington, George
To: Howard, John Eager

Sir,
Mount Vernon Feby 2d 1789

I have been duly honored with your polite favor of the 23d Ulto enclosing you[r] Excellency’s proclamation of the Representatives and Electors returning by the State of Maryland.

The whole number of Representatives being federal and the large majority by which they were chosen, is the most decisive proof that could be given of the attachment of the people of your State to the general Government—and must effectually silence any assertions that may be made in future declaring that the sentiment of the People was not in unison with that of the Convention which adopted the Constitution by so large a majority. It is somewhat singular that among so large a number of votes as you mention to have been found opposed to the federal ticket—it was a circumstance not to be expected in any County.
The Election of Representatives to Congress takes place in this State today—upon the most moderate calculation it is thought at least one half of the number will be friends to the Constitution—the more sanguine speak with confidence of 6 or 7 out of the ten. I have the honor to be Yours &c.

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Lotbinière, 2 February 1789
From: Washington, George
To: Chartier de Lotbinière, Michel, marquis de

Sir,
Mount Vernon February 2d 1789

I have received your polite letter of the 2d Ulto and am much obliged to you for your kind wishes for my health and welfare—you will be so good as to accept of my best wishes for the reestablishment of your health which I am sorry to hear has been so much impaired of late—The keen air of the season, will, it is to be hoped, militate with your disorder and produce a favourable change in your Constitution. I am Sir with due respect Yr Most Obedt Hble Sert

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from John Polson, 4 February 1789
From: Polson, John
To: Washington, George

Sir
London 4th Feby 1789

Your obliging favor of the 28th of Septr last  came to my hands the 21st Ulto under cover from Captain Milford of Date

the 22d of Novr. He also sent me the letter you were so good as [to] write to him on the Subject of my Lands in Virginia. I want words to express my gratitude to you for the uncommon pains you have taken to put him in the way of geting the necessary information, for which I return you my best thanks. I am well convinced that my letter of 1783, to you, miscarried, which may turn out to be very detrimental to me. I find by a letter of the Captain to me dated from York Town the 23d Octr that he had found out the Executors of my late friend Mr Craig, who were ready to give him every information they could; and told him my Lands were not Confiscated, and that they were still my property, and now in the heart of a Settled Country: He says that he was going in a few days to Richmond to find out a proper person to be my Attorney, and wod write me all the particulars by the next Ship: But by his last letter, I find he had been Sick, which prevented his going to Richmond, but promised to do it as soon as he could. I hope my Lands are not Sold for Quit Rents and that they will be of benefit to my Family.
Your old Acquaintance Colo. Robert Stewart is at Bath. He has been much of an Invalid for years past, but has had very bad health since last October.
I only came here about a fortnight ago, to apply for compensation for my Property Sold by the State of Georgia, to the amount of £3997. My Lands & my Brors Sold for that Sum; but I am convinced that if our Attorney had represented our Case, that our property would Not have been Sold.
I beg you will Accept my best thanks for all the favors you have done me, and believe me, it wod give me infinite pleasure to have it in my power to serve you or any of your Friends. believe me to be with great regard and respect Sir your much obliged and most Obedient Humble Servt

Jno. Polson


Title: To George Washington from James and Edward Penman, 5 February 1789
From: Penman, James,Penman, Edward
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Charleston So. Carola 5th February 1789.

The Situation of our friend Mr Wedderburn’s health, preventing him from following out his original Intention of paying his Respects to you in person, he has requested us to forward the inclosed, which We embrace the earliest Opportunity of ⟨doi⟩ng and are, very respectfully, Sir, Your most obedient humble Servts

Jas & Ed. Penman