Title: To George Washington from Charles Carter of Ludlow, 30 April 1792
From: Carter, Charles (of Ludlow)
To: Washington, George

My Dear Friend
Fredericksbg [Va.] April 30th 1792.

I am told Major Jackson is about to leave you, and that you have written to yr Nephew Howell Lewis to go up. If you shou’d be in want of another, give me leave to mention to you my son Chs L. Carter; he has had a good education, is well acquainted with the Greek & Latin languages, writes a good hand and very correct, as a specimen of which I have made him copy this Letter.
The wheel of fortune has made it necessary, for me, to endeavor, to put my sons, in a way of getting their livelihood. my Eldest Son Walker, is bound in Philadelphia, to a Mr Hunter, a Coachmaker. his master speaks well of him. my two youngst, are bound to Farmers. Colo. Meade, Mr Geo. Fitzhugh of Prince Wm and if you can take this Boy I shall be happy. If he was not my Son, I shoud say more, but depend on the word, of a sincere Friend. the Boy will please you, in any instance. Mrs Carter joins in compliments to yr good Lady & Famly. I am with every sentiment of regard yr Affe Friend & Hble St

Chs Carter


Title: From George Washington to the Earl of Buchan, 1 May 1792
From: Washington, George
To: Buchan, eleventh earl of (David Stuart Erskine; 1742-1829)

My Lord,
Philadelphia May 1st 1792.

I should have had the honor of acknowledging sooner the receipt of your letter of the 28th of June last, had I not concluded to defer doing it ’till I could announce to you the transmission of my portrait, which has been just finished by Mr Robinson (of New York) who has also undertaken to forward it. The manner of the execution does no discredit, I am told, to the Artist; of whose skill favorable mention had been made to me. I was further induced to entrust the execution to Mr Robinson from his having informed me that he had drawn others for your Lordship and knew the size which would best suit your collection.
I accept with sensibility and with satisfaction, the significant present of the Box which accompanied your Lordships letter.

In yielding the tribute due from every lover of mankind to the patriotic and heroic virtues, of which it is commemorative, I estimate, as I ought, the additional value, which it derives from the hand that sent it; and my obligation for the sentiments that induced the transfer.
I will, however ask, that you will exempt me from a compliance with the request relating to its eventual destination. In an attempt to execute your wish in this particular, I should feel embarrassment from a just comparison of relative pretensions, and should fear to risk injustice by so marked a preferenc⟨e⟩. With sentiments of the truest esteem & consideration I remain, Your Lordships Most Obedient Servan⟨t⟩

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Enoch Edwards, 1 May 1792
From: Edwards, Enoch
To: Washington, George

Philada May 1st 1792

Mr Clymer applied to me to procure for your Excellency a dutch Plough which I will with Pleasure immediately do, but I would wish to know whether you would prefer a Barr-Shear, or one made in the common Way, with a wooden Chip—the difference between the two is that the former runs much lighter than the latter, but there is a little more difficulty it getting it new laid & sharpned. the Bar is apt to spring a little on being heated, & will not fit on again unless the Smith has the Plough sent to him as well as the Shear, But if it is to be used on a Farm where there is a Smith there will be no Inconvenience. otherwise I would recommend the kind that has a Chip fited to it.

I also wish to know whether you would like to run after two horses or three as the Construction of it should be somewhat different.
I would just mention to your Excellency that I have a Harrow I think superior to any yet used in this country take all advantages together I think it quite equal to the plough. I will take the Liberty to send you a Draught of one of them, & if it should please you, will at any time direct one to be made for you under my immediate Inspection.
I am under the Necessity of going out of Town this afternoon & am therefore obliged to trouble you now for your instructions. I have the honor to be with due Respect your Excellencys obedt Srvt

En: Edwards


Title: To George Washington from John Greenwood, 1 May 1792 [letter not found]
From: Greenwood, John
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from John Greenwood, 1 May 1792. In his letter to Greenwood of 1 July GW referred to “Your letter of the first of May.”


Title: Enclosure: Washington Genealogy, 2 May 1792
From: Washington, George
To:

Philadelphia May 2d 1792

In the year 1657—or thereabouts, and during the Usurpation of Oliver Cromwell John and Lawrence Washington—Brothers Emigrated from the north of England, and settled at Bridges Creek, on Potomac River, in the County of Westmoreland. But from whom they descended the subscriber is possessed of no document to ascertain.
John Washington was employed as General against the Indians in Maryland, and as a reward for his services was made a Colonel; and the Parish wherein he lived was called after him.
He married Ann Pope, and left issue two Sons, Lawrence and John, and one daughter Ann, who married Major Francis Wright. The time of his death the subscriber is not able to ascertain—but it appears that he was Interred in a Vault which had been erected at Bridges Creek.
Lawrence Washington his eldest Son, married Mildred Warner, daughter of Coll Augustine Warner of Gloucester County, by whom he had two sons, John and Augustine, and one daughter named Mildred. He died in 1697 and was interred in the family Vault at Bridges Creek.
John Washington the eldest son of Lawrence and Mildred, married Catharine Whiting of Gloucester County, where he settled, died, and was buried. He had two Sons Warner and Henry, and three daughters, Mildred, Elizabeth and Catharine, all of whom are dead.

 Warner Washington married, first—Elizabeth Macon daughter of Colo. William Macon of New Kent County, by whom he had one Son, who is now living and bears the name of Warner. His second wife was Hannah, youngest daughter of the Honble William Fairfax; by whom he left two Sons and five daughters—as follow—viz.—Mildred, Hannah, Catharine, Elizabeth, Louisa[,] Fairfax and Whiting. The three oldest of the daughters are married—Mildred to——Throckmorton, Hannah to——[Peter Beverley] Whiting, and Catharine to——Nelson. After his second marriage he removed from Gloucester and settled in Frederick County, where he died, in 1791, and was buried.
Warner Washington his son married——Whiting of Gloucester, by whom he has many Sons and daughters—the eldest is called Warner and is now nearly, or quite of age.
Henry, the other Son of John & Catharine Washington, married the daughter of Colonel Thacker of Middlesex County, and died many years ago, leaving one Son, Thacker, and two or three daughters.
Thacker Washington married the daughter of Sir John Peyton of Gloucester County & lives on the family estate, left to his Grandfather John at Machodac in the County of Westmoreland. He has several Children, but what are their Sex is not known to the Subscriber.
Mildred, daughter of John & Catharine of Gloucester was twice married, but never had a child—Elizabeth never was married—Catharine married Fielding Lewis by whom she had a son and daughter—John, the eldest, is now living—Frances died without issue.
Augustine, son of Lawrence and Mildred Washington, married Jane Butler, the daughter of Caleb Butler of Westmoreland April 20th 1715 by whom he had three Sons—Butler (who died young) Lawrence and Augustine, and one daughter Jane, who died when a child. Jane, wife of Augustine died Novr 24th 1728 and was buried in the family Vault at Bridges Creek.
Augustine then married [Mary] Ball March 6th 1730: by whom he had issue George Now President of the United States born February 11th (old style) 1732; Betty, born June 20th 1733; Samuel, born Novr 16th 1734; John Augustine, born Jany 13th 173[6]; Charles May 1st 1738; and Mildred June 21st 1739; who died Octr 28th 1740. Augustine departed this life April

12th 1743 Aged 49 years and was interred at Bridges Creek in the Vault of his Ancesters.
Lawrence, Son of Augustine and Jane Washington, married July 19th 1743 Ann, eldest daughter of the Honble William Fairfax of Fairfax County, by whom he had issue Jane, born Septr 27th 1744—who died Jany 1745—Fairfax born August 22d 1747 who died in Octr 1747—Mildred, born Septr 28th 1748 who died in 1749—Sarah, born Novr 7th 1750 who died in 175– ——In 1752 Lawrence himself died aged about 34 and was interred in a Vault which he had caused to be erected at Mount Vernon in Fairfax County where he settled after he returned from the Carthagena Expedition and died.
Augustine, Son of Augustine and Jane Washington married Ann, daughter & Co heiress of William Aylett of Westmoreland County, by whom he had many children, all of whom died in their non-age & single except Elizabeth (who married Alexander Spotswood of Spotsylvania County, Grandson of General Spotswood Governor of Virginia, by whom she has a number of Children)—Ann (who married Burdet Ashton of Westmoreland, by whom she had one or two children & died young)—and William who married his cousin Jane, daughter of John Augustine Washington by whom he has four childn (names unknown to the Subscriber)—Augustine lived at the ancient mansion seat in Westmoreland County where he died and was interred in the family Vault.
George eldest son of Augustine Washington by the second marriage was born in Westmoreland County, and married Jany 6th 1759 Martha Custis, widow of Danl Parke Custis and daughter of John Dandridge—both of New Kent County. Has no issue.
Betty, daughter of Augustine & Mary Washington became the second wife of Fielding Lewis, by whom she had a number of Children—many of whom died young—but, five sons & a daughter are yet living.
Samuel, Son of Augustine & Mary was five times married. First to Jane, daughter of Colo. John Champe. 2d to Mildred daughter of Colo. John Thornton—3d Lucy daughter of Nathanl Chapman. 4th Ann daughter of Colo. Willm Steptoe and Widow of Willoughby Allerton—5th to a Widow Perrin. Samuel, by his second wife, Mildred, had issue one son, Thornton, who lived to be a man—was twice married and left three Sons. He died in,

or about the year  By his fourth Wife Ann he had three Sons, Ferdinand, George Steptoe, & Lawrence Augustine, and a daughter, Hariot. Ferdinand lived to be married, but died soon after leaving no issue; the other two sons, and daughter are living & single. Samuel had Children by his other wives, but they all died in their infancy. He departed this life, himself, in the year 1781 at Harewood in the County of Berkeley where he was buried.
John Augustine, son of Augustine and Mary, married Hannah Bushrod, daughter of Colo. John Bushrod of Westmoreland County, by whom he has left two Sons, Bushrod and Corbin—and two daughters, Jane and Mildred. he had several other Children, but they died young. Jane, his eldest child married (as has been before observed) William Washington, son of Augustine & Ann Washington and died in 1791 leaving four Children (names unknown to the Subscriber). Bushrod married in 1785 Ann Blackburn daughter of Colo. Thomas Blackburn of Prince William County—but has no issue. Corbin married a daughter of the Honble Richd Henry Lee, by whom he has three Sons (names unknown). Mildred married Thomas Lee, son of the said Richard Henry Lee. John Augustine died in Feby 1787 at his estate on Nomony in Westmoreland County & was there buried. Charles Washington, son of Augustine & Mary, married Mildred Thornton, daughter of Colonel Francis Thornton of Spotsylvania County, by whom he has four Children, George Augustine, Frances, Mildred & Samuel. George Augustine married Frances Basset, daughter of Colo. Burwell Basset of New Kent by whom he has had four Children, three of whom are living—viz.—Anna Maria, George Fayette, & Charles Augustine. Frances, married Colo. Burgess Ball by whom she has had several children. Mildred and Samuel are unmarried.
Mildred Washington, daughter of Lawrence & Mildred—& Sister to John & Augustine Washington married——Gregory by whom she had three daughters, Frances, Mildred and Elizabeth, who married three brothers—Colo. Francis Thornton, Colo. John Thornton, and Reuben Thornton—all of Spotsylvania County. She had for her second husband Colo. Henry Willis, and by him the present Colo. Lewis Willis of Fredericksburgh.
The above is the best account the subscriber is able to give, at present, absent as he is, and at so great a distance from Virginia

—and under circumstances too which allows no time for enquiry, of the family of Washington from which he is lenially descended.
The descendants of the first named Lawrence, and the second John, are also numerous; but for the reasons before mentioned, and from not having the same knowledge of them—and being moreover more remote from their places of Residence. And in truth not having enquired much into the names or connection of the lateral Branches of the family I am unable to give a Satisfactory account of them. But if it be in any degree necessary, or satisfactory to Sir Isaac Heard Garter Principal King of Arms, I will upon intimation thereof, set on foot an enquiry—and will at the sametime endeavor to be more particular with respect to the births, names, ages and burials of those of the branch to which the Subscriber belongs.

Go: Washington


Title: Timothy Pickering to Tobias Lear, 3 May 1792
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Lear, Tobias

Dear Sir,
Philaa May 3d 1792.

I inclose the information given me by Colo. Louis. The copy of the letter from his nation bears date the 24th of January. I sent to the war-office for the Original, which I found was dated

Feby 24th. Bad travelling at the breaking up of winter and ten days sickness, Louis says have occasion so much delay in his journey. He is anxious to return. In great haste sincerely yours

T. Pickering


Title: From George Washington to the United States Senate, 3 May 1792
From: Washington, George
To: United States Senate

Gentlemen of the Senate,
United States [Philadelphia]May the 3d 1792.

I nominate Edward Church of Georgia, heretofore appointed but not received as Consul for the United States at Bilboa, to be Consul for the United States at the Port of Lisbon in the Kingdom of Portugal, and for such other parts within the allegiance of her most Faithful Majesty as shall be nearer to the said port, than to the residence of any other Consul, or Vice-Consul of the United States within the same allegiance.

And, Elias Vanderhorst of South Carolina, now resident in Great Britain, to be Consul for the United States for the port of Bristol in the Kingdom of Great Britain, and for such other parts within the allegiance of his Britannic Majesty as shall be nearer to the said Port than to the residence of any other Consul or Vice-Consul of the United States within the same allegiance.

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to the United States Senate, 3 May 1792
From: Washington, George
To: United States Senate

Gentlemen of the Senate,
United States [Philadelphia]May the 3d 1792.

I nominate Tristram Dalton, of Massachusetts, to be Treasurer of the Mint—Aquila Giles, to be Marshal of New York District, vice Mathew Clarkson, resigned—and Edward Wigglesworth, to be Collector of the Port of Newbury-Port, vice Stephen Cross, superseded.

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to the United States Senate, 3 May 1792
From: Washington, George
To: United States Senate

Gentlemen of the Senate,
United States [Philadelphia]May the 3d 1792.

I nominate the following persons to fill vacancies which have taken place in the late military appointments—to-wit—

Rank.
Names.
States.

Brigadier General
Rufus Putnam
Territory of the United States North West of the Ohio—vice Marinus Willett, declined.

Captains of Cavalry
Jedediah Rodgers
New York—vice John Craig, declined.

Henry Bowyer
Virginia—vice Lawrence Manning, declined.

Lieutt of Infantry
William Rickard
North Carolina vice Thos E. Sumner, declined.

Surgeons Mates
Joseph Strong
Connecticut—vice Theophilus Elmer, declined.

Joseph Andrews
Massachusetts—vice James Mease, declined.

John C. Wallace
Pennsylvania—vice John Woodhouse, declined.

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Andrew Hamilton, 4 May 1792
From: Washington, George
To: Hamilton, Andrew

Sir,
Philadelphia May 4th 1792.

I have had the pleasure to receive your polite letter of the 12th of December, together with a copy of “An Enquiry into the Principles of taxation,[”] which accompanied it, & for which I must beg your acceptance of my best thanks.
The subject of your book is certainly of the first importance to society; and those who undertake works of this nature upon the extensive scale that yours appears to be, are entitled to the thanks of the patriotic of every nation. In this country, where we are commencing a Government upon the experience of ages, it

certainly behoves us to search into the “Principles of Taxation” and to avoid as much as possible the errors of other nations on this very important head: We must therefore receive with peculiar satisfaction any lights on the subject.
Your philanthropic wish “to see the world at large encreasing in knowledge, prosperity & happiness,” is no less pleasing to me as a Citizen of the World, than your expressions of personal respect are deserving the acknowledgements of Sir Your Most Obt Servant

Go: Washington


Title: Tobias Lear to Henry Knox, 4 May 1792
From: Lear, Tobias
To: Knox, Henry

 United States [Philadelphia] 4 May 1792. Returns by GW’s command “the Instructions to Major Genl Wayne & a letter to Mr Seagrove, both of which meet the President[’s] approbation.”


Title: To George Washington from John Lucas, 4 May 1792
From: Lucas, John
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Boston, 4th May 1792.

I take the liberty to communicate to you, for the purpose of perpetuating the evidence of a singular patriotic transaction of Elisha Brown, a poor man of this town, who in defence of liberty and the laws of his country, undauntedly stood alone as a barrier to our liberties, “Agreeably to the Inscription, on the Monument,” which I have the honor to forward to you, through the medium of General Knox, who was, at that time, in this place and, may, perhaps, confirm what I now relate. We read, that “a poor wise man delivered a city; yet no man remembered that same poor wise man.” Brown’s case I conceive to be analogous to this. My ardent desire, that every patriotic transaction, out of the common course, relative to our struggles for the rights of man, either of the poor or the rich, the wise or heroic, may have an equal chance to be transmitted to posterity, has constrained me to present the above mentioned Monument to the President of the United States and his Successor in Office.
That you may long live and see your country continue to prosper under your Presidency, is the sincere prayer of, Sir, Your most obedient And very humble servant,

John Lucas


Title: From George Washington to Ségur, 4 May 1792
From: Washington, George
To: Ségur, Louis-Philippe, comte de

Sir,
Philadelphia May 4th 1792.

I received with much satisfaction the information of your having made an acquisition in this Country, & of your intentions to take up your residence among us. Your letter of the 30th of Sepr giving me this information, did not get to my hands ’till some time in the last month.
The United States opens, as it were, a new World to those who are disposed to retire from the noise & bustle of the old, & enjoy tranquility & security. And we shall always consider men of your character as among our most valuable acquisitions.
Our connection with France, formed in a gloomy & distressful hour, must ever interest us in the happinss of that nation. We have seen, with true commiseration, those outrages, inseparable from a Revolution, which have agitated the Kingdom, and we have not ceased our most fervent wishes that their termination may be as happy as their progress have been distressing. With great esteem I am, Sir, Yr most Obt Set


Title: From George Washington to William Moultrie, 5 May 1792
From: Washington, George
To: Moultrie, William

Dear Sir,
Philadelphia May 5th 1792.

I have had the pleasure to receive your letter of last month, and the seeds you had the goodness to send me by Mr Pinckney. The plants & trees which arrived at Norfolk, have reached Mount Vernon in pretty good order.
My thanks and acknowledgements are due to you, my dear Sir, for the kind attention which you have paid to my wishes with respect to the seeds, plants &c. You must likewise accept of them for the detail which you have been so good as to give of the mode of carrying on a war against the Indians; the cloathing of the Troops employed in that service &c.
The first wish of the United States with respect to the Indians is, to be at peace with them all, and to cultivate a good understanding to our mutual benefit. As we have not been able to attain this without the effusion of blood, the next wish is, to pursue such measures as may terminate the hostilities in the speediest manner, & most for the honor & interest of the U.S. Observations, therefore, which are founded in experience, tending to effect this, cannot but merit the thanks and acknowledgements of those who have the management of public affairs.
I am much pleased to hear that the picture by Colo. Trumbull, gives so much satisfaction. The merit of this Artist cannot fail to give much pleasure to those of his Countrymen who possess a taste for the fine arts: and I know of no part of the U:S. where it could be put to a stronger test than in South Carolina. With sincere regard, & best wishes for your health & happiness, Sir, Your Affte and Obedt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Henry Merttins Bird, 6 May 1792
From: Washington, George
To: Bird, Henry Merttins

Sir,
Philadelphia May 6th 1792.

I request you will accept my thanks for your polite attention in sending me the copy of Genl Lloyd’s work which accompanied your letter of the 4th of February.
Mrs Washington joins me in Compliments to Mrs Bird and in acknowledgements for the kind offer of your & her services. I am Sir, with esteem, Your most Obedt Servt.


Title: From George Washington to Robert Sinclair, 6 May 1792
From: Washington, George
To: Sinclair, Robert

Sir,
Philadelphia May 6th 1792.

I have received your letter of the 12th of December, in which you request information respecting Captain James MacKay, and likewise respecting the part of this Country which would be the most eligible for forming an establishment as a farmer or planter.
The only information in my power to give you on the first head is, that my acquaintance with Captain MacKay commenced in the Army in the year 1754, when I commanded the troops w[hic]h were sent to prevent the encroachments of the french upon the western boundaries of the then Colononies. Captain Mackay then commanded an Independent Company either from Georgia or So. Carolina, and was captured with me by an army of French & Indians at a place called the great Meadows. In 1755 he left the service, sold out, and went to Georgia. I heard nothing of him from that time ’till about 5 or 6 years ago, when he went, by water, from Georgia to Rhode Island on account of his health. On his return to Georgia, by land, he was seized either by the complaint for which he had gone to Rhode Island, or by some other disorder, and died at Alexandria (not at my house as your letter mentions). I was not informed of his being at Alexandria until after his death, which was a circumstance that I regretted much, not only on account of the regard which I had for him from our former acquaintance, but because I understood that he was then on his way to pay me a visit—and

had expressed an anxious desire to see me before he died. I do not know whether Captain Mackay left any family or not; for from the time of his qu[i]tting the service until his death, as I observed before, I knew nothing of him. I have, however, been informed that he was possessed of a handsome property in Georgia.
On the second head of your enquiry I can hardly venture to give you an opinion. I do not, however, imagine that an establishment on the banks of the Mississippi would at this time be a very desireable one—and even the western parts of the U.S. lying on the waters running into the Mississippi, (which is perhaps as fertile a Country as any in the World) are now disturbed by the hostilities of some of the Indian tribes bordering upon them, and from that cause are at this moment unfriendly to new settlements. This evil will, however, I trust, be shortly removed and settlers sit down there in safety. I can observe generally, that the United States, from their extent, offer a variety of climate soil & situations that no Country in Europe can afford—and that in cheapness of land and in the blessings of civil & religious liberty, they stand perhaps unrivalled by any civilized nation on earth. To a person who intends to pursue the farming or planting business, and is possessed of the capital which you mention, I should think some one of the middle states, from New York to Virginia, both inclusive, would hold out the best advantages—they are free from the inconveniencies peculiar to either extreme & unite most of the advantages of both—they afford to the farmer a ready market for his produce—the country is intersected by large & numerous Rivers, & the spirit which now prevails for improving Inland Navigation promises to secure a cheap & easy transportation from the most interior parts of the Country to the shipping ports.
Your idea of bringing over Highlanders appears to be a good one. They are a hardy industrious people, well calculated to form new settlements—and will in time become valuable citizens.
Before I close this subject I would observe, that many persons in Europe who have purchased land in this Country for the purpose of settling upon it themselves, have on their arrival & after examining their purchase been disappointed in their expectations respecting it. Exaggerations, if not misrepresentations are apt to be made of objects at so great a distance, and those who

have lands for sale will naturally give them a gloss which perhaps a purchaser would hardly find. It would therefore be much more satisfactory to the purchaser & far more creditable to the Country, if those persons who wish to purchase land here & become settlers upon it themselves, would come into the Country and purchase on the spot. They could then suit their taste in point of situation—have a variety to chuse from, & see & learn with truth all the circumstances necessary for them to know to become settlers.
When this method is pursued I am persuaded that every one who comes over with a view to establish himself here may do it much to his satisfaction, & if he has with him the means of purchasing, it can certainly be done on much better terms than it could be through an Agent. I am Sir Yr most Obet Sert.


Title: From George Washington to Alexander Hamilton, 7 May 1792
From: Washington, George
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Philadelphia, 7 May 1792]

For carrying into execution the provisions in that behalf made by the Act in titled “An Act for raising a farther sum of money for the protection of the Frontiers, and for other purposes therein mentioned,” I do hereby authorise you the said Secretary of the Treasury to agree and contract with the President Directors & Company of the Bank of the United States; with any other body politic or corporate within the United States, or with any other person or persons, for a loan or loans to the United States of any sum or sums not exceeding in the whole Five hundred

and twenty three thousand five hundred Dollars to be advanced & paid in such proportions and at such periods as you shall judge necessary for fulfilling the purposes of the said Act. Provided that the rate of interest of such loan or loans shall not exceed five per centum per annum, and that the principal thereof may be reimbursed at the pleasure of the United States. And I hereby promise to ratify what you shall lawfully do in the premises.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto subscribed my hand at the City of Philadelphia the seventh day of May in the year one thousand seven hundred and ninety two.

Go: Washington


Title: Henry Knox to Tobias Lear, 7 May 1792
From: Knox, Henry
To: Lear, Tobias

 [Philadelphia] 7 May 1792. Asks Lear “to send me the Map of the tract to be reserved about fort Washington.”


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Pinckney, 7 May 1792
From: Washington, George
To: Pinckney, Thomas

Dear Sir,
[Philadelphia] Monday 7th May 1792

It has been discovered that, in the Card sent Mrs Pinckney and yourself to dine with me to day, Miss Elliot was not included. Be so good as to present Mrs Washington’s compliments and mine to her, and request the favor of her Company also. I am—Dear Sir Your Obedient Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Frederick Folger, 8 May 1792
From: Folger, Frederick
To: Washington, George

Sir
Baltimore 8th May 1792

Seeing some provision has been made by the Legislature of the United States for the Support of Consuls in the States of Barbary;
A number of respectable charactors in this town Encouraged me to Apply to your Excelleny for one of those Places—Should the Nomination not be filled up, & your Excelleny will pleas to notice my name as a Petitioner.
Recommendations of my Experience knoledge & Abilities Adequate to the Discharge of Such a Trust can be forwarded from here as soon as required.
With the most profound respect & veneration I beg leav to Subscribe myself Your Excellency’ Most Obedient & most devoted Servant

Fred. Folger


Title: To George Washington from Henry Knox, 8 May 1792
From: Knox, Henry
To: Washington, George

Sir
War department May 8th 1792

I have the honor to submit the military nominations[.] The post is in and no letters from General Williams.
I beg leave again to submit Joseph Howell as Accountant to the Department of War and Caleb Swan as Paymaster to reside with the Army. I have the honor to be with perfect respect Your most obedient servant.

H. Knoxsecy of War


Title: From George Washington to the United States Senate, 8 May 1792
From: Washington, George
To: United States Senate

Gentlemen of the Senate,
United States [Philadelphia]May the 8th 1792.

I nominate the following persons for appointments and promotions in the Army of the United States.

Appointed
Otho H. Williams, of Maryland, to be Brigadier General, vice Morgan, declined.

Cavalry

Promoted
William Winston to be Captain, vice Watts, declined.

Tarleton Fleming to be Lieutenant, vice Winston, promoted.

Appointed
John Webb Junr, of Virginia, to be Cornet, vice Fleming, promoted.

The following corrections in the names of former Appointments are requested to be made.

Major
George M. Bedinger instead of Henry Bedinger.

Lieutenant
Samuel Cochran instead of Robert Cochran.

Ensign
Andrew Marschalk instead of John Marschalk.

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to the United States Senate, 8 May 1792
From: Washington, George
To: United States Senate

[Philadelphia] May. 8. 1792.

If the President of the U.S. should conclude a Convention or treaty with the Government of Algiers for the ransom of the thirteen Americans in captivity there, for a sum not exceeding 40,000 dollars, all expences included, will the Senate approve the same? or is there any & what greater or lesser sum, which they would fix on as the limit beyond which they would not approve the ransom?
If the President of the U.S. should conclude a Treaty with the Government of Algiers for the establishment of peace with them at an expence not exceeding twenty five thousand dollars paid at the signature, and a like sum to be paid annually afterwards during the continuance of the treaty would the Senate approve the same? or are there any greater or lesser sums which they would fix on as the limits beyond which they would not approve of such treaty?


Title: To George Washington from Alexander Hamilton, 9 May 1792
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Treasury Department 9th May 1792.

I have the honor to send herewith an adjustment at the Treasury concerning the quantity of Acres in Warrants for army bounty rights, which ought to be deemed an equivalent for the 214,285, Acres of land mentioned in the second enacting clause of the Act intitled “An Act authorising the grant and conveyance of certain Lands to the Ohio Company of Associates”; and a Certificate of the delivery of the requisite quantity of Warrants in conformity to that adjustment.

It is with regret I find myself required by Law to discharge an official duty in a case in which I happen to be interested as a party, and which is capable of being regulated by different constructions.
Thus circumstanced I have conceived it proper to repose myself on the judgment of others; and having referred the matter to the accounting Officers of the Treasury, with the opinion of the Attorney General, which was previously obtained, I have governed myself by the determinations of those Officers.
I submit it nevertheless to the President whether it will not be adviseable to require as a condition to the issuing of the Grant that the parties give bond to pay any deficiency which there may be in the quantity of Warrants delivered, if the Legislature at the ensuing Session shall decide that the construction which has been adopted is not the true one, or to surrender the Letters Patent for the Tract in question. With the highest respect, I have the honor to be &c.

Alexander Hamilton


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Barclay, 10 May 1792
From: Barclay, Thomas
To: Washington, George

 Gibraltar, 10 May 1792. Encloses “a letter which fell into my hands some Days ago, and which I beleive is from Algiers.”


Title: To George Washington from William Preston, 10 May 1792
From: Preston, William
To: Washington, George

Sir
Virginia, Montgomery County, May 10th 1792

Some Gentlemen who have been honored with the appointment of Captains of Volunteer Companies of Rifflemen not accepting their appointments, leaves a vacancy now to be filled.
Though I have not the smallest acquaintance with your Excellency yet I hope soliciting an appointment of this nature will not be taken amiss.
I am the third Son of the late Colo. William Preston, with

whom you formerly had an acquaintance from which acquaintance he formed an attachment for you worthy an honest mind; by whose industry with a small addition of my own, my circumstances are not only comfortable but easy, yet I have from my infancy felt a fondness for a military life, in which I have some little experience in the Indian mode of Warfare living on the Frontiers, and only lament that my youth prevented my bearing a part with your Excellency in the late glorious Revolution between England and America.
Your Excellency I hope will pardon me for the Liberty I now take in Soliciting this appointment and at the same time referring you to the Honble John Brown and Andrew Moore Esquires for information of my abilities and integrity, and should I meet your approbation I hope I shall prove myself worthy the Appointment. I have the Honor to be Sir with Esteem your Mo. Obt Sert

William Preston


Title: Proclamation, 10 May 1792
From: Washington, George
To:

[Philadelphia, 10 May 1792]

In the name of the United States. To all to whom these Presents shall come.
Whereas it hath been duly certified to me by the Secretary of the Treasury, in pursuance of the Act intituled “An Act authorising the grant and conveyance of certain lands to the Ohio Company of Associates” that Rufus Putnam, Manasseh Cutler, Robert Oliver, and Griffin Green have delivered to him warrants which issued for army bounty rights, sufficient for the purposes of the grant and conveyance of two hundred and fourteen thousand two hundred and eighty five acres of land; in the second

section of the above recited act mentioned, according to the provision of a resolve of Congress of the twenty third day of July one thousand seven hundred and eighty seven.
Now Know Ye, that by virtue of the above recited Act, I do hereby grant and convey to the said Rufus Putnam, Manasseh Cutler, Robert Oliver, and Griffin Green and to their heirs and assigns one tract of land containing two hundred and fourteen thousand two hundred and eighty five acres to be located within the limits of the tract of one million five hundred thousand acres described in an Indenture executed on the twenty seventh day of October in the year one thousand seven hundred and eighty seven, between the then board of Treasury for the United States of America of the one part; and Manasseh Cutler and Winthrop Sergeant, as agents for the directors of the Ohio Company of Associates of the other part, and adjoining to the tract of land, described in the first section of the above recited act, and the form herein prescribed, as follows.
Beginning on a line that has been surveyed and marked by Israel Ludlow (a plat or map whereof is filed in the Office of the Secretary of the Treasury) as for the North boundary line of one million five hundred thousand acres expressed in an Indenture executed on the twenty seventh day of October one thousand seven hundred and eighty seven between the then board of Treasury for the United States of America of the one part and Manasseh Cutler and Winthrop Sergeant of the other part at a point which is and shall be established to be the North West corner of a tract of one hundred thousand acres granted to the said Rufus Putnam, Manasseh Cutler, Robert Oliver, and Griffin Green by letters patent bearing even date with these presents, Thence running Westerly on the said line surveyed and marked as aforesaid to a point where the said line would intersect the West boundary line of the eleventh range of Townships if laid out agreeably to the Land ordinance passed the twentieth day of May one thousand seven hundred and eighty five, Thence running South on the said Western boundary of the said eleventh range of Townships if laid out as aforesaid till it would intersect a Westerly continuation of the North boundary line of the third Township of the seventh range of Townships surveyed by the authority of the United States of America in Congress assembled, Thence running on a further Westerly continuation of the said

North boundary line of the said third Township to a point, station, or place, where the western boundary line of the sixteenth range of Townships would intersect or meet the same if laid out agreeably to the land Ordinance aforesaid, Thence running South on the said western boundary line of the sixteenth range of Townships if laid out as aforesaid to a point, station, or place, from which a line drawn due East to the West boundary line of a tract of nine hundred and thirteen thousand, eight hundred and eighty three acres granted to Rufus Putnam, Manasseh Cutler, Robert Oliver and Griffin Green by letters patent bearing even date with these presents will with the other lines of this tract as herein specified and described comprehend two hundred and fourteen thousand two hundred and eighty five acres, Thence running due East to the Western boundary line of the said tract of nine hundred and thiteen thousand eight hundred and eighty three acres, Thence running Northerly on the said Western boundary line to the Northwest corner of the said last mentioned tract, Thence running Easterly on the Northern boundary of the said last mentioned tract to the point where the same is touched or intersected by the Western boundary of the aforesaid tract of one hundred thousand acres, Thence Northerly on the said Western boundary of the said last mentioned tract to the place of beginning—To have and to hold the aforesaid tract of two hundred and fourteen thousand two hundred and eighty five acres of land to the said Rufus Putnam, Manasseh Cutler, Robert Oliver, and Griffin Green and to their heirs and assigns In Trust for the persons composing the said Ohio Company of Associates according to their several rights and interests and for their heirs and assigns as tenants in common, hereby willing and directing these letters to be made patent.
Given under my hand and the Seal of the United States at the City of Philadelphia this tenth day of May in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and ninety two and of Independance the sixteenth.

By the President Go:Washington.
Signed Th:Jefferson.


Title: To George Washington from Tench Coxe, 11 May 1792
From: Coxe, Tench
To: Washington, George

Sir
Philadelphia May 11th 1792

Having been informed by the Secretary of the Treasury, that you had been pleased to confide to me the office of the Commissioner of the Revenue, I should have deemed it my duty immediately to have waited on you for the purpose of expressing my grateful sense of the honor confered upon me, and of respectfully informing you of my chearful obedience to your commands in this and every service in my power. But your departure for Virginia, which I understood was to take place in a few minutes, and an apprehension, that a personal performance of that act of duty and respect might at such a moment prove inconvenient to you, occasioned me to adopt this mode.
I humbly request you to believe, Sir, that I shall steadily endeavour, by an honest and assiduous exercise of the portion of ability with which providence has endowed me, to justify your confidence; and to make to you that return of usefulness in my sphere, which alone you desire from those to whom you dispense the public honors & emoluments. With unfeigned veneration for your person and exalted station—I have the honor to be Sir your most obedient & most humble Servant

Tench Coxe


Title: William Pearce to Tobias Lear, 11 May 1792
From: Pearce, William
To: Lear, Tobias

Mr Lear Sir.
Philadelphia May 11th 1792

I now have my Machinery &c. at Work, and should be glad to be informed when the President of the United States and his Lady, would be pleased to Honor me with their Company, to take a look at them.
Mrs Hamilton has likewise a desire to see them, when the President and his Lady, is pleased to fix the time, I will let her know, if it is agreeable to them.

Your answer by the bearer, if convenient will greatly oblige Sir Your obt hble Servant

Wm Pearce

P.S. Mr Hamilton & Mr Jefferson wishes to be there at the same time.


Title: To George Washington from Alexander Hamilton, 13 May 1792
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Bristol [Pa.] May 13. 1792.

I left the City of Philadelphia this Morning on my way to Newark as I mention’d to you previous to your departure. Nothing new had occurred.
Mr Belli was furnished with the requisite sum for the purchase of Dragoon Horses in Kentucke, in conformity to an arrangement, which I understand [from] the Secretary at War, was made pursuant to your direction. The Quarter Master General also has had an advance commensurate with the objects he is immediately to provide for; so that every thing is in proper train as far as pecuniary supply is concerned. With the most perfect respect and truest attachment, I have the honor to be &c.

A: Hamilton


Title: To George Washington from Leonard Marbury, 13 May 1792
From: Marbury, Leonard
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Frederica [Saint Simons Island, Ga.] 13th May 1792

I did myself the Honor to Write your Excellency on the 21t Ult. since then we have a Report of the death of General McGillivray, shou’d this prove true I think it wou’d be advisable to have some Person among the Indians for a few Months in Order to prevail on the Chiefs to agree on some general Mode for the Regulation of their Conduct.
In my last I mention’d the manner in which the trade among the Indians had been generally conducted, but Omitted to inform that there was a stated Price for every Article thro’ the Whole Nations and wou’d again Recommend the same Mode to be adopted in order to Prevent any imposition.
If the Report of McGillivrays death is well founded, I wou’d more strongly than ever Recommend that the United States take the Trade into their Own hands, as they may, by Importing the proper Indian Goods and selling them to the traders on an advance only sufficient to Pay Charges, put it out of the power of any Individual to take any Part of the trade. it wou’d also enable the traders in the different Towns to sell to the Indians much Cheaper than they have been able to Buy since the Commencement of the late War, and wou’d most effectually secure their friendship. Shou’d this plan be adopted I wou’d recommend the place for carrying on the Trade to be near the Confluence of the Rivers Oconie & Oakmulga. I have the Honor to be with due Esteem Your Excellency’s Most Humble Servant

Leod Marbury


Title: To George Washington from Otho Holland Williams, 13 May 1792
From: Williams, Otho Holland
To: Washington, George

Sir
Baltimore 13th May 1792

By a Note, received this morning from Mr Lear, I am requested to let you know “if I have received the notification of my appointment to the Office of Brigadier General; and whether I accept.”
I have not, Sir, received any Official Notice of such an appointment.
My answer to a private letter from the secretary of War, of which the inclosed is a copy, may in some measure, account for the delay; at the same time that it adduces some of the reasons which I beg may be received as my appology for not accepting.
A propensity to the science of War, as a necessary means of public defence, and a desire of contributing to the service of my Country, had induced the contemplation of an appointment in the Army; and I had mentioned it to my friends previous to the receipt of General Knox’s private letter; But the advice of my Physicians and the intreaties of all my friends united with the consideration of very great private inconvenience to make me wish that I might not receive that honor.
It is with real regret, Sir, that I am forced to decline the command to which it has been your pleasure to appoint me; and I feel perhaps more than is common upon such occasions as this is the first instance, of a great many, wherein my services have been required by my Country, either in a Military or a civil capacity, in which I have not obeyed the summons with alacrity and pleasure. I have the honor to be, with the most perfect respect, Sir, Your most Obliged, and most obedient, Humble, Servant.

O. H. Williams

N.B. Sunday 10 o’Clock. I have this moment received an Official Notification from the Secretary at War, which I will answer immediately.


Title: To George Washington from Betty Washington Lewis, 14 May 1792
From: Lewis, Betty Washington
To: Washington, George

My Dear Brother
May 14th 1792

You will receive this by Howell, who seems Very happy In the thought of becoming One of your family, I sincerely wish he may be Equal to the task you desire for him, he has Promis’d me to Indeaver to Please, and by Close application to improve him self, it is with Infinite Pleasure to my self that he has a Prospect of geting in a Place where he may receive so much advantage to him self, his Fortune being very small there is little Prospect of happiness in this world without thay Can get into Busness of some sort.
I am Extrealy Obliged to you for your kind Invitation to Mount Vernon, if it is in my Power shall do my self that Happiness if any thing should Prevent my Comeing, it would a’d infinate satisfaction to me to see you and my Sister here. I am Dear Brother with sincere Love Your Affectionate Sister

Betty Lewis


Title: To George Washington from Jean François Gergens, 15 May 1792
From: Gergens, Jean François
To: Washington, George

Mayence en Allemagne Sur Le Rhin le 15 de May 1792.
Excellence Monseigneur le Président!

Les merits, que votre Excellence S’â attiré toujours pour le bien d’humanité, le zèle noble et infatigable, dont vous avez gagné le vrai bien de vos frères; les plusieurs heures pleins de trouble, que vous avez Sacrifié pour la liberté de vos freres, et les differents dangers, que vous vous étes exposé pour defendre la liberté civile, et pour eloigner tout esclavage déshonorant l’humanité: Tous ces traits grands d’une ame noble, ne preuvent que trop, que votre Excellence dans votre carriere politique ne vive pas, que pour cela qui est bon et noble; et que vous gouvernez a present en paix cela, que vos talents mititairs ont bati. C’est cette humanité, ce Zele pour la fortune humaine, qui â pousse peut etre deja plusieurs allemands de probité, Sous le gouvernement Sage de votre Excellence tenter ses forces pour le bien de Ses freres. Par la meme raison ose aussi un jeune medecin, qui S’est assez préparé pour la medecine par les études de la philosophie et mathematique; qui par les etudes de la medecine, non Seulment en medecine, mais aussi en chirurgie et ⟨e⟩n accouchement s’est gagné les Sciences necessairs pour leur pratique; qu’il â prouvé deja dans un examen, et pratiqué dans des hopitaux. Celui ose de S’addresser a votre Excellence et a Congrés des etats unis; de demander en tout obeisance une avis favorable; Si Sous conditions appaisants un jeune medecin, qui a deja la permission de pratiquer Ses Sciences dans Sa patrie; aussi en Philadelphia, ou dans une autre capitale des etats unis peuve exercer Ses Sciences pour le bien des hommes libres. Car vivre entre les hommes qui S’aiment ensemble comme des freres, qui ne connoissent pas plus l’esclavage, ces homms Servir pour leur avantage, c’etoit toujours mon desir passionné et est aussi a present

la cause de ma Supplique. Si peut etre quelques indignes, qui des differents causes etoint contraints de quittér leur patrie, un noble congrés, digne de la plus grande venération, ont deja plusieurs fois incommodé avec des priers indiscrets, je prie, de ne me compter pas sous le meme nombre. Les lettres testimoniales d’un Forster, qui avec le Capitain Kok faisoit le tour en cinglant du Monde; les lettres testimoniales d’un Soemmering, Weidmann, Strack et de mes autres docteurs, dont les nommes sont assez connues dans les Universités d’Angleterre, les lettres testimoniales de toute la faculté medicinale, tant sur mon Conduit, que Sur mes Sciences, et le patent du Doctorat, que j’ai reçu dans notre université, me garderont assez de ce Soupçon si jaurai le bonheure de recevoir une rescrit favorable. Avec plaisir je rendrai touttes cettes lettres testimoniales si je serois si heureux de me pouvoir rejouir de l’aide d’un Congres grand, et digne de la plus grande veneration.
S’il manquoit aussi dans ces provinces (qui doivent a votre Excellence tant de vrai fortune humaine) des hommes, qui par education et enseignement enrichissent le tresor publique en talents, Sciences, en eclaircissement de l’esprit, en gout sain, en diligence et industrié en passions des citoiens prudemment conduits: je connais ici un Professeur de l’université, dont les etudes per vingt ans etoint l’education selon les mellieurs principes, fondés sur la natur humain, et qui est dans une pratique continuelle. Cet homme a fait un plan complet, Sur les ecoles civiles, tant dans la paÿs plat, que dans les villes, pour les garçons et pour les filles: Sur les ecoles preparativs a l’universités, et Sur une ecole normale pour ÿ enseigner des maitres utiles; que cet homme avec mon assistence en quelques Sciences, realisoit, S’il etoit dans un etat, ou on favorisoit avec zele le bien humain, que, helas! dans notre patrie allemande et particulierrement dans un Archiepiscopat catholique (tant qu’on en écrit sur l’education) pourtant n’en attache pas de sitot, dont devoir le demande, d’ordonner l’education; et ce la, tant moins a present, ou on jette le mecontentement universel qui S’etende presque par toute l’Europe, Seulement Sur l’eclaircissment trop avancée; lorsque pourtant l’oppression trop impitoÿable Seulement en est la cause. Cet humaniste Solide dont j’ai fait mention, publieroit aussi des pieces convenables pour chaque classe des hommes utile. il appuÿoit l’imprimerie, et en generale il faisoit

tout pour l’état des gens de profession, qu’on peut attendre dans cette egard de forces d’un homme, et en effet, tout cela ave⟨c⟩ des Sentiments pleins de Sincerité et de tollerance.
Si nous nous verrons si heureuse de reçevoir une reponse de votre Excellence nous trouverons peut etre des hommes en Philadelphia meme, qui ne pas moi, pourtant le dit humani⟨s⟩te connoissent bien, et en personne peuvent donner l’avis a votre Excellence, Sur les talents et le caractére de cet homme Soli⟨de⟩ Cependant je prie favorable indulgence, Si cette Suplique de couvre trop leur auteur allemande, qui n’a pas jamais eu la bonheure de pouvoir exercer cette langue en france meme. En attendant une reponse favorable, je reste continnuellement a votre Excellence votre tres-humble et très-obeis⟨sant⟩ Serviteur

Jean Francois GergensMedecin

S’il est permis d’osér encore une priére, nous demandons tres humblement; Si un curé catholique de Mayence qui s’appelle Jean Frederic Koch, reste a present de puis un an et demi a Philadelphia. S’il se trouve sous le gouvernement de votre Excellence; celui vous peut enseigner sur l’état des Sciences, particulierrement Sur l’état de la faculté medicinale Sur notre Université.
S’il plait votre Excellence de nous faire le bonheure avec une reponse favorable: nous prions de signer votre rescrit gratieuse avec Suivante Inscription. A: Jean François Gergens Medecin praticien a Mayence: chez Monsieur Forster conseiller de la cour, et Bibliothecaire premier de l’université a Mayence.


Title: To George Washington from Henry Knox, 15 May 1792
From: Knox, Henry
To: Washington, George

Sir.
War-department, May 15th 1792.

I have the honor to inform you, that yesterday I received letters, from governor Blount, dated the 22’d of April, of more pacific appearance, than the one of the 14th of April to Doctor Williamson.
Mr Shaw, and the Bloody Fellow, and other Cherokees who left this city the 19th of February, were on the 22’nd, within four miles of governor Blount; all well. The said indians had generally been well treated, but sometimes alarmed by the folly and wickedness of the frontier people.
I have the pleasure to inform you, that the bearer of Blount’s letters, brought the enclosed from major Hamtramck. I trust, in God, it is the sure dawning of a general peace, north west of the Ohio.
General Putnam has not yet finished his Ohio business; but will probably to day—He, General Wayne, and the quarter master general, will, I expect, all depart this week.
The person who delivered Hamtramck’s letter, informed me, that Lieutenant Jennifer was charged with letters from brigadier general Wilkinson, but that he had halted at Hagers Town for a day or two—That brigadier general Wilkinson had established Fort St Clair, placed therein a garrison, and plenty of provisions; and returned uninjured to Fort Washington. I have the honor to be, Sir, with profound respect, Your most obedient Servt

H. KnoxSecy of War


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Jefferson, 16 May 1792
From: Jefferson, Thomas
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Philadelphia May 16. 1792.

The day after your departure I received from a mister Greene, a merchant now at N. York, through a third person, the following communication “that he had had very late advices from Spain by way of the Spanish islands, to this effect, that war with France was inevitable, that troops were marching from all quarters of the kingdom to the frontiers, & that 50. sail of the line had been commissioned.” this was permitted to be mentioned to me, but, for particular reasons, to no other person. I suppose the particular reasons were some mercantile speculation founded on the intelligence: perhaps it may be to buy up all our flour. we have London news to the 1st of April, and nothing of this is mentioned. I have a letter from Colo. Humphreys of March 18. which says nothing of it. I am in hopes therefore the only effect will be to get us a good price for flour or fish: this being our lookout, while the success of the speculation is that of the adventurer. you will recollect that we had learned the death of the emperor of Marocco after a battle in which he was victorious. the brother opposed to him it seems was killed in the same action, and the one, Muley Islema, who had been so long in the sanctuary, is proclaimed emperor. he was the best character of the three, and is likely to be peaceable. this information is from Colo. Humphreys. the Queen of Portugal is still in the same state. Wyllys does not pronounce her curable, tho’ he says there is nothing which indicates the contrary. he has removed from her all her former physicians. mister Madison has favored me with some corrections for my letter to mister H. it is now in the hands of the Attorney general, and shall then be submitted to

Colo. Hamilton. I find that these examinations will retard the delivery of it considerably. however delay is preferable to error. mister Pinkney is engaged in going over such papers of my office as may put him in possession of whatever has passed between us & the court he is going to. I have 100. olive trees, and some caper plants arrived here from Marseilles, which I am sending on to Charleston, where mister Pinkney tells me they have already that number living of those I had before sent them. I have the honor to be, with sentiments of the most perfect respect & attachment, Dear Sir Your most obedt & most humble servt

Th: Jefferson


Title: To George Washington from Bouscat, 17 May 1792
From: Bouscat, —— (M.)
To: Washington, George

Sir,
la goyave [Guadeloupe Island] 17th May 1792

He who has the honor to write to you is a young Frenchman who arrived about six months ago in the Island of Gaudeloupe. Brought up in the Romish Religion, smitten with the charmes, the morality and the truths of the Evangelists, with the excellence and dignity of Priesthood, his disposition was soon formed for a state so august & so sublime. Free to follow his vocation,

he prepared to receive the order which would irrevocably engage him in the service of the Alter, when the national Assembly usurped the exclusive power of putting down the Pope & the Council, and exacted an oath repugnant to the conscience of a man just, & jealous of the title of a true & faithful Catholic. By this illegal, & even tyrannical decree he was turned aside from his purpose, and saw himself thrown far away from that state after which he had so ardently sighed.
But, Sir, that which yet adds weight to his misfortune is the extreme indigence in which the Revolution has plunged his family. Deprived of a small Ecclesiastical Benefice, which was, however, a support & a resource to this family—without estate—without an income—reduced to groan under the cruel lot which oppresses the authors of his being, and impatient, nevertheless, to soften their misfortune, he hastened to commit himself to the fury of the waves, to go afar from his unhappy country to seek & obtain succour for them. Vain hope!
An European who arrives in America (West Indies) is incapable of holding a place in the government, he must have a knowledge of agriculture & the manufacture of Sugar, and, moreover, must suffer a continual degradation, and the total loss of his Physical Powers, the effects of frequent sickness occasioned by the heat of the climate.
A place of this description is the only one, Sir, that a young French ex-abby has been able to find & occupy; but this place, besides its trifling advantage, deprives him of the two greatest enjoyments, that of comforting his parents, and following his literary pursuits.
Beneficience, the virtue dear & precious to your heart, is this day, Sir, invoked & laid claim to, either to see accomplished the first wish of his heart, that of succouring his family, or to be able to cultivate letters & the sciences, which have become necessary to his moral existance.
The Title generally odious to the French, and the quality of a stranger in the government of the United States, does not permit him, Sir, to form the smallest apprehension of the favourable reception of his demand. Yes, Illustrious President! fortified by the too cruel truth of the considerations which he has exposed to you—by an enthusiasm sacred to humanity—and by the spirit

of fraternity & justice which has constantly ruled & directed your heart, the young emigrant dares to hope that his petition will obtain from you the wished for reception.
But whatever may be the decis[i]on with which you may please to honor it, Sir, it shall be precious to him under any form—and he will be among the first to offer you the homage of profound respect & lively gratitude with which he shall have the honor to be all his life Sir, Your most humble & Obedt-Sert

Bouscat


Title: To George Washington from Gimat, 18 May 1792
From: Gimat, Jean-Joseph Soubadère de
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Sainte Lucie [1]8 May 1792

The remembrance of the kindness which your Excellency shewed me when I had the honor of serving under your orders, gives me great hope that one of my friends, a man of rare and distinguished merit, will obtain your good will & deserve Your esteem, during the stay which he proposes to make in North America, whether he goes for the re-establishment of his health, which cannot support the warm climate of the Antilles—the temperate climate of the north will re-establish it without a doubt. Permit me, Sir, likewise to beg your attention for a young man, Mr de

Courville, whose parents are my particular friends in this Colony.
I pray your Excellency to pardon the liberty which I have taken in recommending to you M.[,] Made Raphel and M. de Courville, to whom I am very much attached. Their intention is to fix themselves in the State of Maryland where the rigour of the climate during the winter is more supportable to an inhabitant of the Antilles, than it would be more to the North.
I perceive that I shall myself shortly have need of the same Climate. It is in that happy country where I have passed the most pleasant days of my life that I hope to restore my health which has been much injured in the scorching county which I inhabit.
If I should be so happy as to be able to render any service to your Excellency, whether in my own Government, or in the other french Antilles, you ought to be persuaded of the lively pleasure which I should take in convincing you of my zeal in doing whatever might be agreeable to you, and of the respectful sentiments with which I have the honour to be Your Excellency’s Most humble & most Obedt Servt

Gimat.


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Jefferson, 18 May 1792
From: Jefferson, Thomas
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Philadelphia May 18. 1792

Since I wrote you the day before yesterday, I have recieved a letter of Mar. 25. from Colo. Humphreys informing me that the Queen of Portugal was considerably better: as also mentioning the death of the emperor of Germany. what effect this last event will have on the affairs of Europe, cannot be foreseen, the character of the successor being absolutely unknown. he is 24. years of age. one would conjecture that if he has any dispositions to war, he would think a little time necessary to get his election passed in form, to see if the troubles within his dominions quieted by his father would be likely to break out or not &c. and that this would hold him back one campaign. still this event renders peace less certain, as the character of his father was so decidedly pacific, that one might count on that. there seems to have been a magnificent story current in London for the three or four last days of March, of the capture of Seringapatam, & Tippoo Saib great slaughter &c. but on the 1st of April the date of the latest paper which the vessel brings (she is from Glasgow) it had died away to a hum, raised by Stockjobbers who wanted to sell out. it did in fact raise East India stock 2. or 3. per cent. still it was not fallen into entire discredit as appears by some paragraphs and consequently cannot be decidedly pronounced untrue perhaps the contradiction of it was the counter-hum of those who wanted to buy in. I have the honour to be with great & sincere respect & attachment Dr Sir your most obedt & most humble servt

Th: Jefferson


Title: To George Washington from John Sinclair, 18 May 1792
From: Sinclair, John
To: Washington, George

Sir
Whitehall London. 18th May 1792

Among the other respectable characters, to whom I take the liberty of sending the inclosed papers, it is impossible for me not to request General Washington’s acceptance of a copy.
It would give me, Sir, particular pleasure, to understand, that they are fortunate enough to meet with your approbation.
The objects to which they relate, are great and important, and, I flatter myself, the plans therein recommended, will be thought intitled, to the cordial co-opperation and support, of every real friend to the interests of society. I have the honour to be, with great esteem & respect, Sir—your most obedient & very humble Servant

John Sinclair


Title: From George Washington to Charles Carter of Ludlow, 19 May 1792
From: Washington, George
To: Carter, Charles (of Ludlow)

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon, May 19th 1792.

Your letter of the 30th ultimo was on its way to Philadelphia whilst I was on my journey to this place—owing to which I did not receive it until it reverberated—this must be my apology for not giving the receipt of it an earlier acknowledgment.
It would give me pleasure to receive your Son into my family,

if it could be made tolerably convenient to me—or if any advantage was likely to result from it to the young Gentleman himself. I was in no real want even of Howell Lewis, but understanding that he was spending his time rather idly, and at the same time very slenderly provided for by his father, I thought for the few months which remained to be accomplished of my own servitude, by taking him under my care, I might impress him with ideas, and give him a turn to some pursuit or other that might be serviceable to him hereafter; but what that will be I am at present as much at a loss to decide as you would be—for as the heads of the different departments have by law the appointment of their own Clerks—are responsible for the conduct of them—are surrounded always with applicants—and, I presume, have their own inclinations and friends to gratify: I never have, in a single instance, and I am pretty sure I shall not now begin, recommending any one to either of them.
My family, now Howell is admitted into it, will be more than full, and in truth more than is convenient for the House, as Mr Dandridge (a Nephew of Mrs Washington’s) is already one of it. and but one room for him, Howell and another person to sleep in, all the others being appropriated to public or private uses.
If your Son Charles is of age, and it should be yours and his own inclination to pursue a military course—I would, if any vacancy should happen (at present there is none) in one of the Regiments endeavour to place him therein. You will perceive I have made age the condition—the reason is, it is established as a rule in the War Office to appoint none knowingly, that are under it. My best respects to Mrs Carter. I am &c. &c.

Go: Washington.


Title: To George Washington from Henry Knox, 20 May 1792
From: Knox, Henry
To: Washington, George

Sir
War department May 20. 1792

I have the honor to inform you that the Pittsburg mail which arrived on friday last did not bring any information of further indian incursions.
Contrary to my expectations yesterday I received a letter from General Brooks declining his appointment.
I have not received any answer from General Hull to the invitation given him to repair to this City in case of Brooks non acceptance. Indeed as he lives out of Town, it could not be well expected until tuesday next. I Shall again write him by Tomorrows post.
The Quartermaster Genl and Genl Putnam will not be in readiness to set out until tuesday or Wednesday, and General Wayne by thursday or friday.
The recruits by returns, and estimation amount probably to about 850. I have the honor with perfect respect to be sir Your most obedient Servant

H. Knox


Title: From George Washington to James Madison, 20 May 1792
From: Washington, George
To: Madison, James

My dear Sir,
Mount Vernon May 20th 1792.

As there is a possibility if not a probability, that I shall not see you on your return home; or, if I should see you, that it may be on the Road and under circumstances which will prevent my speaking to you on the subject we last conversed upon; I take

the liberty of committing to paper the following thoughts, & requests.
I have not been unmindful of the sentiments expressed by you in the conversations just alluded to: on the contrary I have again, and again revolved them, with thoughtful anxiety; but without being able to dispose my mind to a longer continuation in the Office I have now the honor to hold. I therefore still look forward to the fulfilment of my fondest and most ardent wishes to spend the remainder of my days (which I can not expect will be many) in ease & tranquility.
Nothing short of conviction that my deriliction of the Chair of Government (if it should be the desire of the people to continue me in it) would involve the Country in serious disputes respecting the chief Magestrate, & the disagreeable consequences which might result therefrom in the floating, & divided opinions which seem to prevail at present, could, in any wise, induce me to relinquish the determination I have formed: and of this I do not see how any evidence can be obtained previous to the Election. My vanity, I am sure, is not of that cast as to allow me to view the subject in this light.
Under these impressions then, permit me to reiterate the request I made to you at our last meeting—namely—to think of the proper time, and the best mode of anouncing the intention; and that you would prepare the latter. In revolving this subject myself, my judgment has always been embarrassed. On the one hand, a previous declaration to retire, not only carries with it the appearance of vanity & self importance, but it may be construed into a Manœuvre to be invited to remain. And on the other hand, to say nothing, implys consent; or, at any rate, would leave the matter in doubt; and to decline afterwards might be deemed as bad, & uncandid.
I would fain carry my request to you farther than is asked above, although I am sensible that your compliance with it must add to your trouble; but as the recess may afford you leizure, and I flatter myself you have dispositions to oblige me, I will, without apology desire (if the measure in itself should strike you as proper, & likely to produce public good, or private honor) that you would turn your thoughts to a Valadictory address from me to the public; expressing in plain & modest terms—that having been honored with the Presidential Chair, and to the best of my

abilities contributed to the Organization & Administration of the government—that having arrived at a period of life when the private Walks of it, in the shade of retirement, becomes necessary, and will be most pleasing to me; and the spirit of the government may render a rotation in the Elective Officers of it more congenial with their ideas of liberty & safety, that I take my leave of them as a public man; and in bidding them adieu (retaining no other concern than such as will arise from fervent wishes for the prosperity of my Country) I take the liberty at my departure from civil, as I formerly did at my military exit, to invoke a continuation of the blessings of Providence upon it—and upon all those who are the supporters of its interests, and the promoters of harmony, order & good government.
That to impress these things it might, among other things be observed, that we are all the Children of the same country—A Country great & rich in itself—capable, & promising to be, as prosperous & as happy as any the Annals of history have ever brought to our view—That our interest, however deversified in local & smaller matters, is the same in all the great & essential concerns of the Nation. That the extent of our Country—the diversity of our climate & soil—and the various productions of the States consequent of both, are such as to make one part not only convenient, but perhaps indispensably necessary to the other part; and may render the whole (at no distant period) one of the most independant in the world. That the established government being the work of our own hands, with the seeds of amendment engrafted in the Constitution, may by wisdom, good dispositions, and mutual allowances; aided by experience, bring it as near to perfection as any human institution ever aproximated; and therefore, the only strife among us ought to be, who should be foremost in facilitating & finally accomplishing such great & desirable objects; by giving every possible support, & cement to the Union. That however necessary it may be to keep a watchful eye over public servants, & public measures, yet there ought to be limits to it; for suspicions unfounded, and jealousies too lively, are irritating to honest feelings; and oftentimes are productive of more evil than good.
To enumerate the various subjects which might be introduced into such an Address would require thought; and to mention them to you would be unnecessary, as your own judgment will

comprehend all that will be proper; whether to touch, specifically, any of the exceptionable parts of the Constitu[t]ion may be doubted. All I shall add therefore at present, is, to beg the favor of you to consider—1st the propriety of such an Address. 2d if approved, the several matters which ought to be contained in it—and 3d the time it should appear: that is, whether at the declaration of my intention to withdraw from the service of the public—or to let it be the closing Act of my Administration—which, will end with the next Session of Congress (the probability being that that body will continue sitting until March,) when the House of Representatives will also dissolve.
’Though I do not wish to hurry you (the cases not pressing) in the execution of either of the publications beforementioned, yet I should be glad to hear from you generally on both—and to receive them in time, if you should not come to Philadelphia until the Session commences, in the form they are finally to take. I beg leave to draw your attention also to such things as you shall conceive fit subjects for Communication on that occasion; and, noting them as they occur, that you would be so good as to furnish me with them in time to be prepared, and engrafted with others for the opening of the Session. With very sincere and Affectionate regard I am—ever Yours

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Alexander Hamilton, 21 May 1792
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Philadelphia May 21st 1792.

I returned here yesterday from New Ark, & find that nothing material has occurred in my absence.
There is nothing new except what is contained in the papers, and what I doubt not has been announced to you from the War Department—the Convention between Hamtramck and certain Tribes on the Wabash. With the most perfect respect and truest attachment, I have the honor to be &c.

Alexr Hamilton.


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Jefferson, 21 May 1792
From: Washington, George
To: Jefferson, Thomas

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon, May 21st 1792.

I have had the pleasure to receive your letter of the 16t[h] inst. I sincerely hope that the intelligence which has been communicated to you of a War between France and Spain being inevitable, is not founded in truth.
It is my intention to commence my Journey to Philadelphia on Thursday next. I shall stop in George Town one day, and proceed on from thence without further delay, unless my horses should require rest, some of which got foundered and lame on the journey to this place. With very sincere regard, I am, Dear Sir, Your affecte & Obedt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Henry Knox, 21 May 1792
From: Washington, George
To: Knox, Henry

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon, May 21st 1792.

I have received your letters of the 12th & 15th insts. with their enclosures. From the tenor of Mr Seagrove’s letter I am in hopes that the business of running the line &c. will be amicably accomplished, notwithstanding the unfavorable curcumstances which have occurred. When I passed through George Town, Mr Ellicot informed me that a letter from his brother, dated at the Rock Landing the 19th of April, gave unfavourable intelligence of the business—that two Indians having been detected in Stealing horses at Green Court-House, one was killed, and the other so severely whipped as to have died in consequence of it—that a party of the Cowettas (to whose tribe these Indians belonged) had taken revenge by killing two white men—that the Chiefs of the Nation had sent Orders to the Rock landing for such of the Indians as might have assembled there to return home, and that a party which had arrived at that place had actually gone back—and further observd, that from the appearance of things he did not beleive the line would be run.
The letter from Mr Seagrove being dated two days after that from Ellicot and giving a more favorable complexion to the matter than his, I am in hopes that our affairs in that quarter will yet come to an amicable & mutually agreeable conclusion.
I am pleased with the intelligence contained in your letter of the 15th with respect to the information received from Governor Blount and from Major Hamtramck. I trust that the arrival of the Bloody fellow & other Cherokees in their nation will have been attended with good effects towards the interest of the United States.
I most sincerely hope that the communications from Major Hamtramck may be a prelude to a general peace with the hostile Indians, and I cannot help thinking that it carries with it that appearance.

I intend setting out for Philadelphia on Thursday next—shall stop one day in George Town, and proceed on from thence as expeditiously as my horses (some of which got foundered & lame on the journey to this place & have not yet recovered) will permit me to do. With sincere regard I am Dear Sir Your Affect. & Obet St.


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Jefferson, 23 May 1792
From: Jefferson, Thomas
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Philadelphia May 23. 1792.

I have determined to make the subject of a letter, what, for some time past, has been a subject of inquietude to my mind without having found a good occasion of disburthening itself to

you in conversation, during the busy scenes which occupied you here. perhaps too you may be able, in your present situation, or on the road, to give it more time & reflection than you could do here at any moment.
When you first mentioned to me your purpose of retiring from the government, tho’ I felt all the magnitude of the event, I was in a considerable degree silent. I knew that, to such a mind as yours, persuasion was idle & impertinent: that before forming your decision, you had weighed all the reasons for & against the measure, had made up your mind on full view of them, & that there could be little hope of changing the result. pursuing my reflections too I knew we were some day to try to walk alone, and if the essay should be made while you should be alive & looking on, we should derive confidence from that circumstance, & resource if it failed. the public mind too was then calm & confident, and therefore in a favorable state for making the experiment. had no change of circumstances supervened, I should not, with any hope of success, have now ventured to propose to you a change of purpose. but the public mind is no longer so confident and serene; and that from causes in which you are no ways personally mixed. Tho these causes have been hackneyed in the public papers in detail, it may not be amiss, in order to calculate the effect they are capable of producing, to take a view of them in the mass, giving to each the form, real or imaginary, under which they have been presented.
It has been urged then that a public debt, greater than we can possibly pay before other causes of adding new debt to it will occur, has been artificially created, by adding together the whole amount of the debtor & creditor sides of accounts, instead of taking only their balances, which could have been paid off in a short time: That this accumulation of debt has taken for ever out of our power those easy sources of revenue, which, applied to the ordinary necessities & exigencies of government, would have answered them habitually, and covered us from habitual murmurings against taxes & tax-gatherers, reserving extraordinary calls, for those extraordinary occasions which would animate the people to meet them: That though the calls for money have been no greater than we must generally expect, for the same or equivalent exigencies, yet we are already obliged to strain the impost till it produces clamour, and will produce evasion, & war

on our own citizens to collect it and even to resort to an Excise law, of odious character with the people, partial in it’s operation, unproductive unless enforced by arbitrary & vexatious means, and committing the authority of the government in parts where resistance is most probable, & coercion least practicable. They cite propositions in Congress and suspect other projects on foot still to increase the mass of debt. They say that by borrowing at ⅔ of the interest, we might have paid off the principal in ⅔ of the time: but that from this we are precluded by it’s being made irredeemable but in small portions & long terms: That this irredeemable quality was given it for the avowed purpose of inviting it’s transfer to foreign countries. They predict that this transfer of the principal, when compleated, will occasion an exportation of 3. millions of dollars annually for the interest, a drain of coin, of which as there has been no example, no calculation can be made of it’s consequences: That the banishment of our coin will be compleated by the creation of 10. millions of paper money, in the form of bank bills, now issuing into circulation. They think the 10. or 12. percent annual profit paid to the lenders of this paper medium are taken out of the pockets of the people, who would have had without interest the coin it is banishing: That all the capital employed in paper speculation is barren & useless, producing, like that on a gaming table, no accession to itself, and is withdrawn from commerce & agriculture where it would have produced addition to the common mass: That it nourishes in our citizens habits of vice & idleness instead of industry & morality: That it has furnished effectual means of corrupting such a portion of the legislature, as turns the balance between the honest voters which ever way it is directed: That this corrupt squadron, deciding the voice of the legislature, have manifested their dispositions to get rid of the limitations imposed by the constitution on the general legislature, limitations, on the faith of which, the states acceded to that instrument: That the ultimate object of all this is to prepare the way for a change, from the present republican form of government, to that of a monarchy of which the English constitution is to be the model. that this was contemplated in the Convention, is no secret, because it’s partisans have made none of it. to effect it then was impracticable; but they are still eager after their object, and are predisposing every thing for it’s ultimate attainment. so many of them

have got into the legislature that, aided by the corrupt squadron of paper dealers, who are at their devotion, they make a majority in both houses. the republican party, who wish to preserve the government in it’s present form, are fewer in number. they are fewer even when joined by the two, three, or half dozen antifederalists, who, tho they dare not avow it, are still opposed to any general government: but being less so to a republican than a monarchical one, they naturally join those whom they think pursuing the lesser evil.
Of all the mischiefs objected to the system of measures beforementioned, none is so afflicting, and fatal to every honest hope, as the corruption of the legislature. as it was the earliest of these measures it became the instrument for producing the rest, & will be the instrument for producing in future a king, lords & commons, or whatever else those who direct it may chuse. withdrawn such a distance from the eye of their constituents, and these so dispersed as to be inaccessible to public information, & particularly to that of the conduct of their own representatives, they will form the most corrupt government on earth, if the means of their corruption be not prevented. the only hope of safety hangs now on the numerous representation which is to come forward the ensuing year. some of the new members will probably be either in principle or interest, with the present majority. but it is expected that the great mass will form an accession to the republican party. they will not be able to undo all which the two preceding legislatures, & especially the first have done. public faith & right will oppose this. but some parts of the system may be rightfully reformed; a liberation from the rest unremittingly pursued as fast as right will permit, & the door shut in future against similar commitments of the nation. Should the next legislature take this course, it will draw upon them the whole monarchical & paper interest. but the latter I think will not go all lengths with the former, because creditors will never, of their own accord, fly off entirely from their debtors. therefore this is the alternative least likely to produce convulsion. But should the majority of the new members be still in the same principles with the present & shew that we have nothing to expect but a continuance of the same practices, it is not easy to conjecture what would be the result, nor what means would be resorted to for correction of the evil. true wisdom would direct that they should be temperate

& peaceable. but the division of sentiment & interest happens unfortunately to be so geographical, that no mortal can say that what is most wise & temperate would prevail against what is more easy & obvious? I can scarcely contemplate a more incalculable evil than the breaking of the union into two or more parts. yet when we review the mass which opposed the original coalescence, when we consider that it lay chiefly in the Southern quarter, that the legislature have availed themselves of no occasion of allaying it, but on the contrary whenever Northern & Southern prejudices have come into conflict, the latter have been sacrificed & the former soothed; that the owers of the debt are in the Southern & the holders of it in the Northern division; that the Antifederal champions are now strengthened in argument by the fulfilment of their predictions; that this has been brought about by the Monarchical federalists themselves, who, having been for the new government merely as a stepping stone to monarchy, have themselves adopted the very constructions of the constitution, of which, when advocating it’s acceptance before the tribunal of the people, they declared it insusceptible; that the republican federalists, who espoused the same government for it’s intrinsic merits, are disarmed of their weapons, that which they denied as prophecy being now become true history: who can be sure that these things may not proselyte the small number which was wanting to place the majority on the other side? and this is the event at which I tremble, & to prevent which I consider your continuance at the head of affairs as of the last importance. the confidence of the whole union is centered in you. your being at the helm, will be more than an answer to every argument which can be used to alarm & lead the people in any quarter into violence or secession. North & South will hang together, if they have you to hang on: and, if the first corrective of a numerous representation should fail in it’s effect, your presence will give time for trying others not inconsistent with the union & peace of the states.
I am perfectly aware of the oppression under which your present office lays your mind, & of the ardor with which you pant for retirement to domestic life. but there is sometimes an eminence of character on which society have such peculiar claims as to controul the predilection of the individual for a particular walk

of happiness, & restrain him to that alone arising from the present & future benedictions of mankind. this seems to be your condition, & the law imposed on you by providence in forming your character, & fashioning the events on which it was to operate: and it is to motives like these, & not to personal anxieties of mine or others who have no right to call on you for sacrifices, that I appeal from your former determination & urge a revisal of it, on the ground of change in the aspect of things. should an honest majority result from the new & enlarged representation; should those acquiesce whose principles or interests they may controul, your wishes for retirement would be gratified with less danger, as soon as that shall be manifest, without awaiting the completion of the second period of four years. one or two sessions will determine the crisis: and I cannot but hope that you can resolve to add one or two more to the many years you have already sacrificed to the good of mankind.
The fear of suspicion that any selfish motive of continuance in office may enter into this sollicitation on my part obliges me to declare that no such motive exists. it is a thing of mere indifference to the public whether I retain or relinquish my purpose of closing my tour with the first periodical renovation of the government. I know my own measure too well to suppose that my services contribute any thing to the public confidence, or the public utility. multitudes can fill the office in which you have been pleased to place me, as much to their advantage & satisfaction. I, therefore, have no motive to consult but my own inclination, which is bent irresistably on the tranquil enjoyment of my family, my farm, & my books. I should repose among them it is true, in far greater security, if I were to know that you remained at the watch, and I hope it will be so. to the inducements urged from a view of our domestic affairs, I will add a bare mention, of what indeed need only be mentioned, that weighty motives for your continuance are to be found in our foreign affairs. I think it probable that both the Spanish & English negociations, if not completed before your purpose is known, will be suspended from the moment it is known; & that the latter nation will then use double diligence in fomenting the Indian war. With my wishes for the future, I shall at the same time express my gratitude for the past, at least my portion in it; & beg permission to

follow you whether in public or private life with those sentiments of sincere attachment & respect, with which I am unalterably, Dear Sir, Your affectionate friend & humble servant

Th: Jefferson


Title: To George Washington from William Davies Shipley, 23 May 1792
From: Shipley, William Davies
To: Washington, George

Sir
Llanerch Park near St Asaph [Wales] May 23d 1792

I hope you will forgive the Liberty I take in transmitting to you my late Father’s works, which I have been induced lately to publish.
The high Esteem & Veneration I well know the Author entertained for both your private & public Character, added to the near Relation which much of the Contents bears to that glorious Cause which had ever his warmest Wishes, And which he lived to see so nobly vindicated (principally thro’ your Exertions) will I trust excuse my Presumption.
That you may long enjoy the Fruits of your honorable & honest Labours, & live to see your Country attain that complete State of National Prosperity & Happiness to which she seems so rapidly approaching, is the sincere Wish of, Sir, Your most faithful & Obedt humble Servt

W. D. Shipley

P.S: I am sorry to observe the Printing is shamefully incorrect—but the mistakes are in general so glaring that the Reader will immediately rectify them.


Title: To George Washington from B. Francis, 25 May 1792
From: Francis, B.
To: Washington, George

Sir
Boston, May 25. 1792.

A person who has been sometime in America, takes the liberty to address you on the subject of Metals.
The want of Metals in a country inhabited by an ingenious and diligent people, must greatly retard their progress in manufactures, and operate as a check upon their population. The enquiry after the existence of the ores of the useful metals, in the United States has not, to my knowledge, ever been prosecuted in such a manner, and by such means, as to prove that they are, or are not, to be met with, in situations convenient for working to effect, and in such quantity as to promote their production.
If the analogy which is found to prevail throughout the greater parts of Nature holds good in the Continent of North-America, we may reasonably expect from its great extent; its mountains, vallies, springs of water impregnated with minerals, and the metals which without much seeking for are already found, that not only the useful metals, but fossils that are the basis of several extensive manufactures, or of so much service to agriculture, or use in medicine, maybe discovered of almost equal benefit to the States as a view of Silver or Gold. By analogy in this case, I do not mean that, because the continent of Europe produces the useful fossils, the same precisely maybe expected from the bowells of America, but I mean that the uniformity discovered to predominate in the arrangement of the strata throughout the continent

of Europe, and on other parts of the Globe where they have been dug into, qualifies us to presume, that a similar arrangement prevails over all parts of the Earth.
The most natural position of the strata of our Globe, is that which the Solid parts of any mixture would take if left to subside viz. Horisontal: But the following representation will convey my idea much better. This drawing represents a section of the surface of the Earth, to the depth of five strata, their natural position; they are generally found of various thickness, and may also be distinguished by their productions. This position seldom occurs, and when it does it is not of much extent; most commonly they lie in directions similar to the following.
In this section the strata have been thrown out of their natural position by some immense force from beneath: this we presume, because the stratums on the opposite sides of the valley A B correspond. At C is the section of a river.
This section maybe considered a continuation from B in the foregoing. At D is an interruption, and the chasm is filled up with rubble: At E the strata are thrown into a position almost perpendicular. By comparing these representations with the rocks and mountains of any country, or with accurate engravings of such prospects, it will appear that the recognition of any particular stratum will be no difficult matter to a mineralist. It will hence also appear, That an acquaintance with the construction and arrangement of the external parts of the Globe, is indispensably necessary in all extensive subterraneous researches.
Metals seem to have an origin very different to the rocks in which they are found. This appears, not only from their greater specific gravity, but also from their not being imbedded in their substance but in their fissures, or between their laminæ.
Did my circumstances qualify me to gratify an inquisitive disposition, I should with great pleasure commence an enquiry into the arrangement, construction & produce of the strata in the United States. I am persuaded such a research would not only open a ⟨illegible⟩ of new Ideas, but if properly conducted would enable the country to judge of its subterranean resources, would be a good foundation for its natural History, would promote Industry, the study of chymistry, and the prosecution of Manufactures. But as the restraints I labour under will deny my attempting it while they exist, I have presumed to address this to you,

Sir, with a tender of my services, in case Such an enquiry should appear to merit your patronage & encouragement; & am, Your most obedt Servt

B. Francis.

P.S. My Business will occasion my going to New-York in about fourteen days, where I shall continue sometime, and where a Letter addressed to me at the Post-Office will be sure to come into my hands.