Title: To George Washington from William Smith, 25 February 1793
From: Smith, William
To: Washington, George

Sir
Philadelphia February 25th 1793

With an Exultation of Heart, too ardent for the Powers of Language to express, I observe that your Excellency’s Message, of the 19th instant, to the Legislature of the United States, announces a Prospect of Peace with the Hostile Tribes, North-West of the Ohio; and that a Treaty is soon to be held for that Purpose. May a gracious Providence render it sucessful; and may it become one Gem more (and one of the brightest) to adorn that Diadem of Honour, which the Voice of your Fellow-Citizens is daily weaving to crown your Labours in the Service of your Country! To a gracious Providence, in this Case, we may devoutly look up, when we offer ourselves as humble Instruments, toward the Accomplishment of its own eternal Purposes, in Making Wars to cease, turning “Swords into Plow-shares,” and extending Civilization, Humanity, and all the Blessings of rational Liberty, good Government, and Gospel-Light, to the utmost Ends of America; and binding its various Inhabitants & Tribes, of every Nation and Colour, into one Brotherhood, cemented by the indissoluble Ties of mutual Interest and Mutual Justice!
These Sentiments, and Prospects of future America, and of our Nation as its most conspicuous Part, are not new to You. At an early Period of my Life, and an earlier one of yours, (more than 36 Years ago) I found them congenial to your Own. I am now become almost Enthusiast in them, from the Countenance which your public Conduct has given to all who have been concerned

in the Propagation of them, and to myself among others, during the various Vicissitudes in the Fortune of our Country.
Your Magnanimity, which has inspired and directed the Councils of our Nation (however divided in local Views & Interests with Respect to Western Territory, or the Wrongs endured from hostile and Savage Tribes) to hold forth to them the Calumet of Peace in one Hand, although well strengthen’d with the Sword in the other (and this under Circumstances which would have provoked the more ambitious, or less enlightened Policy of other Nations to hold forth the Sword only), must be approved in the Sight of God, and all good Men; and, in the Issue, it may be hoped, will either reconcile those Tribes to perpetual Amity; or justify and even sanctify War as the necessary Means of a just Accomodation. I trust the former will be the Case; and when that happy Day shall dawn, which will secure such a Peace, upon the Terms which your Excellency will direct, it may be recorded in our Annals, as another Birth-Day of all that is auspicious to the United States, and the Sword be eternally sheath’d, or “beat into a Plow-share” thro’ every Part of our extensive Territory.
Concerning that Territory, it would be equally needless and officious in Me to suggest, what is so well understood by your Excellency—That it is amply sufficient to answer all the Purposes of the most rapid Population of the United States, for a Number of Years, without leaving the Shadow of Cause for Quarrel, or straitning those Tribes too much in their Grounds, according to their present Habits and Manner of Life, till, by the Introduction of new Habits and Civilization among them, they will be contented, and even solicitous, as Occasion may require, to part with their superfluous Lands, for the means of cultivating the Remainder, as a civilized People, subject to the Laws & Government of the Union. This happy Change can only be effected, by providing, with their own Consent, for the Instruction of their Youth especially, in the Arts of Agriculture and civil Life, with such a Measure of Gospel-Knowlege, in its primitive Simplicity, untainted by the Dogmas of Sects or Parties, as may be suitable to their Circumstances.
The ensuing Treaty, at which the United States, by their Commissioners and Deputies, will appear as Angels of Light, come to offer to those long bewildered Tribes, Peace, Safety, and the Means of Temporal, as well as Everlasting, Happiness, will furnish a glorious

Occasion (nay it will be the very Crisis and Æra which seems pr⟨e⟩ordained by Providence) for commencing and carrying on this great Work of Civilization, till it shall become finally productive of all that Glory and Felicity to America which has been attempted (although but weakly) to be described, in the former Part of this Letter.
I am charmed with the Idea, and rapturously anticipate the Success to be hoped for! Neither the Weight of Years, which begin to bear upon Me, nor the Distance of the Place of Negociation deter me from soliciting such Part of the Appointments your are to make for conducting the Treaty, as you may judge me capable to sustain. Commissioners, acquainted with the History of those numerous Tribes, and of their Connexions and Treaties, whether with the French or British Governments, prior to the Revolution, and with the Geography & Situation of their Country, for a clear and unequivocal Description of the Lands to be ceded, and the Boundaries to be agreed upon, who may have the Weight of public Character, joined to their other Qualifications, and no Interest, as they will have no Power, to depart from your Excellency’s Instructions—Such as these may be already in your View; whose Qualifications in all those Respects are superior to mine, and also a Secretary to record their Proceedings. But whatever Appointment you may think me worthy to sustain (if any), whether of a higher of lower Grade, my best Assistance shall be given to the great Work upon the purest Principles; and especially in digesting such a Plan for the future Instruction and Civilization of those Tribes, as your Excellency shall judge proper; to which a few practical Sermons on the fundamental Principles of the Christian Religion properly address’d, and well interpreted, will add Weight, not to be diminished by the Gravity of Age, and the long Experience of a public Instructor.
The Emoluments of an Appointment, beyond a Provision for my personal Expences out of the public Stock, is no Object with me, in the present Case. If my Services should appear to deserve any Thing farther, your Excellency will be the true Judge.
Some public Business allotted to my Care, under the Government of Pennsylvania, will lead me to Presqu’ Isle on Lake Erie, early next Summer, if Hostilities cease, & Peace ensues; and an Attendance at the Treaty would be easily compatible with the other Duty, either in going out or returning Home. Added to

this, I have long desired, and can never expect another favorable Opportunity for procuring, Materials respecting the Country on the Lakes, & the Tribes inhabiting there, as a Part of the History which I have in Hand, under your Excellency’s Auspices.
I rely on your Excellency’s Goodness to pardon the Trouble and Trespass on your Time, which this long Letter may Occasion. If what I have solicited be proper for you to grant, the bare Statement of my Wishes, to yourself alone, will be sufficient, without adding to that Trouble the further Solicitation of Friends; to none of whom have I communicated my Ideas, on the Matters submitted to You; leaving myself wholly at your own Disposal in that Respect. In what is Right, you need no Sollic[i]tations; in What is otherwise, of which you are the best Judge, all Sollicitations, however sanctioned by Custom, (especially if persevered in) are indelicate & Wrong; the Guilt of which, I trust, you will never have Occasion to ascribe to One, who is, with the most perfect Attachment and Esteem—Your Excellency’s obedient & humble Servant

William Smith


Title: Alexander Hamilton to Tobias Lear, 26 February 1793
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Lear, Tobias

Sir,
Trea: Depart. 26th feby 1793.

I have the honor to enclose to you a small account against the United States, for a Seal for the use of the District Court of the State of Vermont.
As this article forms a charge against the Fund appropriated for the contingent charges of Government, I will thank you to obtain the President’s permission for paying it out of the said fund. I am, etc:

Alexandr Hamilton


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Jefferson, 26 February 1793
From: Washington, George
To: Jefferson, Thomas

Sir,
Philadelphia Feb: 26th 1793.

The minister of France may, as soon as he pleases, make arrangements with the Secretary of the Treasury for the payment of Three million of Livres on account of the debt due from the U: States to France (including the one hundred thousand dollars already ordered, in part) agreeably to the requisition of M. Le Brun Minister for Foreign Affairs in that Country, & In such manner as will comport with the state of the Treasury.

Go: Washington


Title: Tobias Lear to Thomas Jefferson, 26 February 1793
From: Lear, Tobias
To: Jefferson, Thomas

[Philadelphia] February 26th 1793

By the President’s command T. Lear has the honor to send to the Secretary of State a Copy of the proceedings to the Executive Department of the Government of the North Western Territory—and a copy ⟨of⟩ the laws passed there from the 1st day of July to the 31st of december 1792, which the President requests the Secretary to look over, and to report to him any thing that may therein appe[a]r to require the agency of the President, or that may be necessary to be known to him.
The President wishes to know whether Judge Turner has gone to the Territory or not. And if he should not be gone, that he may be pressed to go immediately.
The President likewise wishes to know when Governor St Clair intends to go to his Government, as he conceives it highly proper that he should repair thither without delay.

Tobias LearSecretary to the President of the United States.


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Jefferson, 26 February 1793
From: Jefferson, Thomas
To: Washington, George

[Philadelphia] Feb. 26. 1793.

Th: Jefferson has the honor to inclose to the President the Decypher of a Note from Mr Barclay expressed in Cypher.


Title: From George Washington to the Cabinet, 27 February 1793
From: Washington, George
To: Cabinet

Sir
[Philadelphia] Wednesday 27th Feby 1793

As the day is near at hand, when the President-elect is to take the oath of qualification, and no mode is pointed out by the constitution or law; I could wish that you, Mr Jef. Gen. K. and Mr R., could meet to-morrow morning, at any place, which you may fix between yourselves; and communicate to me to the result of your opinions as to the time, place and manner of qualification.

G. W——n

P.S. Mr Jefferson & Mr Randolph have suggested the idea of meeting at the War Office at nine oclock tomorrow morng. If this

is conven[i]ent & agreeable to you, You will be there accordingly—If otherwise, you will be so good as to let me know.


Title: To George Washington from John Gibbons, 27 February 1793
From: Gibbons, John
To: Washington, George

Philadelphia, 27 Feb. 1793. Asks “leave to approach Your benevolence . . . I am the Son of a respectable Merchan⟨t⟩, who lived many Years in Dublin . . . And in consequence of the insinuations of a certain publication which appeared there, of an Asylum to be found here for redressing the grievances of reduced Irishmen and their families, under the denomination of the Hibernian Society, which proves itself to be a great deception, by its inducing many to come a long distance in pursuit of that relief they cannot find.” He came “from Dublin last April, in hopes being encouraged as a School-master . . . Which Indeed was all the means left me (after having unfortunately lost one of my Legs a few Years ago) . . . But to my vexation and regret, cannot find an opportunity of getting into any business, Tho’ I can produce good recommendations both from Dublin and from worthy Characters in this City.” He is “without a shilling, friends or employmt; after disposing of my Watch and Clothes for the necessary means of Life! A Situation pitiably aggaravating And as You are a Gentleman blessed with affluence, and iminent for act⟨illegible⟩ Philantrophy &c., it is therefore from the distresses I am exposed to, th⟨at⟩ I humbly venture to fly to Your Excellency for protection.” Below his signature Gibbons added: “N.B. If I am so happy as to be noticed by Your Excellency, any commands addressed to me at Mr John Barrys School-master in Union Street between 2nd and 3rd, will be most respectfully Reced with Gratitude.”


Title: To George Washington from John Hewson, 27 February 1793
From: Hewson, John
To: Washington, George

A Citizen
Kensington [Pa.]—February 27th 1793.

Presents to the Consort of our most worthy President; a piece of elegant Chintz, the fabrick of which was imported from India, in an American bottom: and printed by the subscriber in his manufactory at Kensington, adjoining the Glass-house. It is presumed if the worthy person here address’d, would honor the manufacture of our own country so far as to wear a dress made of the piece accompanying this; it might be a great means of introducing the like amongst the more affluent of our fellow citizens, and would help to remove the prejudice, that at present too much prevails, against American manufactures.
The subscriber is willing to risque his Reputation on the piece herewith presented, as the best performance ever exhibited on this Continent to the present day. The wholesale price is Nine Shillings Pr yd and upon strict enquiry, it will be found that no importer in this City can present a piece of equal fabrick and workmanship, from any part of the world at a less price.
If any thing appears improper in the freedom here taken, it is hoped that candor will cast a veil over it. From Citizen

John Hewson

P.S. The person who delivered this letter with the piece of Chintz will call for an Answer on saturday next.

J.H.


Title: To George Washington from Anthony Whitting, 27 February 1793 [letter not found]
From: Whitting, Anthony
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Anthony Whitting, 27 Feb. 1793. In his letter to Whitting of 3 Mar., GW acknowledged “receipt of” a letter dated the “27th of last month.”


Title: Cabinet Opinion on the Administration of the Presidential Oath, 28 February 1793
From: Cabinet
To: Washington, George

[Philadelphia, 28 February 1793]

If the qualification is to be in private, T.J, A.H H.K and E.R, are of opinion, that Mr Cushing should administer the oath to the President at his own house, where such officers, or others, as He may notify, will attend. T.J. and A.H. think, that it ought to be in private.
H.K. and E.R. on the other hand think, that the qualification ought to be in public: and that the Marshal of the district should prepare the house of Representatives for the purpose where Mr Cushing shall administer the oath. The Prest to go without form, accompanied with such gentlemen, as he thinks proper, and return preceded by the Marshall.
Monday, 12 o’clock, is presumed to be the best time. But as the mode will be considered by the public, as originating with the President, it is submitted to him for his decision.


Title: Memorandum from Thomas Jefferson, 28 February 1793
From: Jefferson, Thomas
To: Washington, George

[Philadelphia] ⟨Feb. 28. 1793⟩

Demarara.
Samuel Cooper Johonnet of Massachusets to be Consul for the U.S. at the port of Demarara and for all parts under the same allegiance in America as shall be nearer to the said port than to the residence of any other Consul or Vice Consul of the U.S. within the same allegiance.
Malaga.   to be Consul for the U.S. at the port of Malaga in the kingdom of Spain, and for such other parts of the said kingdom as shall be nearer to the said port than to the residence of any other Consul or Vice-Consul of the U.S. within the same allegiance.
the Candidates are
Michael Murphy (of Ireland). see letters of mister Viar mister Leamy.
Wm Kirkpatrick (of Scotland) see letter of mister Cabot
Wm Douglas Brodie see letter of Willing Morris & Swanwick
The President will be pleased to decide between the three above candidates for Malaga.


Title: From George Washington to Henry Knox, 28 February 1793
From: Washington, George
To: Knox, Henry

(Private)
Dr Sir.[Philadelphia] Thursday Morning Feby 28th 1793
It is much to be regretted that the subject of Rations (encreased) had not been thought of and considered at an earlier period! It is to be feared a proposition at this time would be received with an ill grace. probably no attention paid to it. At the meeting you are about to have it might be well to mention the matter and know what the Gentlemen there would think of bringing the matter forward at a time so Mal a propos. Yrs

Go. Washington


Title: Henry Knox to Tobias Lear, 28 February 1793
From: Knox, Henry
To: Lear, Tobias

Dear Sir.
[Philadelphia] Feby 28th 1793.

I enclose you a copy of the President’s Note of this morning, and also two letters from Governor Blount—one dated the 24th of January, and the other the 1st of February, and also a letter from General Sevier of the 6th of February 1793. I am, Dear Sir, Your very humble Servt

H. Knoxsecy of War.


Title: To George Washington from Henry Lee, 28 February 1793
From: Lee, Henry
To: Washington, George

28th Feby 93

I return my dear General the papers you gave me having laid the foundation of a future sale if agreable then to you.
The previous requisites are the possession of the other shares

of the company and a law authorizing foreigners to hold real property in Virginia—Both these can be effected in the course of the year.
I would have called & taken leave of you & Mrs Washington, but did not like to interrupt your time by a regard to mere form. To her be so good as to present the most respectful homage of my heart & accept my best wishes for your health and happiness.
This is the prayer of my soul and can never forsake me but with life.
Should you think proper to pursue any plan respecting Mr H. the sooner you write to me the better, as I am more desirous of getting to France since I saw Col. Smith than ever. with all respect & attachment I am ever yours

H: Lee


Title: From George Washington to Edmund Randolph, 28 February 1793 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Randolph, Edmund

Letter not found: to Edmund Randolph, 28 Feb. 1793. In his letter to GW of 28 Feb., Randolph wrote that he “did not receive the letter, with which you honored me this morning, until my return from the Statehouse at 4 O’clock this afternoon.”


Title: To George Washington from Edmund Randolph, 28 February 1793
From: Randolph, Edmund
To: Washington, George

Sir
Philadelphia Feby 28 1793

I did not receive the letter, with which you honored me this morning, until my return from the Statehouse at 4 O’clock this afternoon. I determined last night, not to communicate with Mr H——s; because I suspected his own opinion to have a wrong tendency; and I have not been always satisfied, that his conduct has not savoured of management or perhaps cunning.

Mr Madison, who knows the other gentleman well, describes him, as of moderate parts, questionable character liable to be caught by an address to his vanity, and easily moved to extreme measures by a passionateness of temper. Nor can I by any inquiry discover him to possess those qualities which attract public confidence.
Mr Brown, of Kentucky, means to go to Sandusky; and expressed a wish, that General Wilkinson and General Wood might be commissioned. I made no reply; as I remembered the principle, which would operate to the exclusion of the former, and doubted, whether you would nominate the latter, or he would accept the appointment, and vacate his seat in the Virginia council. Brown added, that a commissioner from Kentucky would be very pleasing to the people there, and that Colo. Benja. Logan would undoubtedly serve. I have the honor, sir, to be, with the highest respect Yr mo. ob. serv.

Edm: Randolph


Title: Cabinet Opinion on the Administration of the Presidential Oath, 1 March 1793
From: Cabinet
To: Washington, George

[Philadelphia] March 1. 1793.

It is our opinion,

1. that the President ought to take the oath in public.
2. that the time be on Monday next at 12 o’clock in the forenoon.
3. that the place be the Senate chamber.
4. that the Marshal of the district inform the Vice-President, that the Senate-chamber, being the usual place of the president’s public acts, is supposed to be the best place for taking the oath; and that it is wished, that the chamber be open.
5. that it may be informally notified to the Vice President governor and foreign ministers, that the oath is to be taken at the time and place abovementioned.
6. that Mr Cushing be requested to attend; and administer the oath.
7. that the President go without form attended by such gentlemen, as he may choose, and return without form, except that he be preceded by the Marshal.

H. Knox
Edm: Randolph

My opinion given yesterday was founded on prudential considerations of the moment; though I think it right in the abstract to give publicity to the Act in question. If this is to be done on

the present occasion, I see no objection to the above form. I am not, however, satisfied that prudential considerations are not equally ballanced.

A. Hamilton


Title: Circular to the United States Senators, 1 March 1793
From: Washington, George
To: United States Senators

(Circular)[Philadelphia] March 1st 1793.
The President of the United States to  Senator for the State of .
Certain matters touching the public good, requiring that the Senate shall be convened on Monday the 4th instant, you are desired to attend at the Senate Chamber in Philadelphia on that day, then & there to receive & deliberate on such communications as shall be made to you on my part.

George Washington


Title: To George Washington from Alexander Hamilton, 1 March 1793
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

[Philadelphia] March 1st 1793

The Secretary of the Treasury presents his respects to The President, and has the honor to transmit a communication this morning received from Colo. Smith: another from Mister Ternant; concerning both of which he will wait upon the President tomorrow.


Title: From George Washington to the United States Senate, 1 March 1793
From: Washington, George
To: United States Senate

United States [Philadelphia], 1 Mar. 1793. Nominates “Samuel Cooper Johonnet, of Massachusetts, to be Consul for the United States at the Port of Demarara . . . Michael Murphy of Malaga in the Kingdom of Spain to be Consul for the United States at the said Port of Malaga . . . [and] James Greenleaf of Massachusetts to be Consul for the United States at Amsterdam in the United Netherlands.”

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Harwood, 2 March 1793
From: Washington, George
To: Harwood, Thomas

Sir,
Philada March 2d 1793

Be pleased to pay to Thomas Johnson, David Stuart & Daniel Carroll Esqr. Commiss[ioner]s of the Federal District, or to their Order, or to the Order of any two of them, Twenty four thousand dollars, being the third Instalment of the sum given by the Assembly of Maryland towards defraying the expenses of the public Buildings within that District.

Go. Washington.


Title: From George Washington to the Commissioners for the District of Columbia, 3 March 1793
From: Washington, George
To: Commissioners for the District of Columbia

Gentlemen,
Philadelphia March 3d 1793.

This will be handed to you by Doctor Thornton of this City, who goes forward to lay before you a plan which he has prepared for the Capitol proposed to be built in the federal City.
Grandeur, Simplicity and Convenience appear to be so well combined in this plan of Doctor Thornton’s, that I have no doubt of its meeting with that approbation from you, which I have given it upon an attentive inspection, and which it has received from all those who have seen it and are considered as judges of such things.
How far the expense of such a building, as is exhibited by the plan, will comport with the funds of the City, you will be the best judges, after having made an estimate of the quantity of materials and labour to be employed in executing it. And to obviate objections that may be raised on this head, it should be considered, that the external of the building will be the only immediate expense to be incurred. The internal work—and many of the ornamental parts without, may be finished gradually, as the means will permit, and still the whole be completed within the time contemplated by law for the use of the building. With very great esteem, I am, Gentlemen, Your most Obedt Servant

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to the Commissioners for the District of Columbia, 3 March 1793
From: Washington, George
To: Commissioners for the District of Columbia

Gentlemen,
Philadelphia March 3rd 1793.

I have to acknowledge the receipt of your letters of the 5th of January and 8th of february. The former enclosing a List of the squares actually divided &c.—copies of two letters from Majr Ellicott; and a statement of your certain funds & probable expenditures for the year 1793.
Altho’ I have written to you since the receipt of your first Letter, yet, I have not ’till this moment had time to touch upon the several points therein mentioned, which seemed to require a particular answer.
As it is of importance that the squares should be divided & finished as soon as circumstances will admit, I trust that no time will be lost in obtaining a suitable & well qualified person to complete that business, if the services of Majr Ellicott cannot be counted upon to finish it.
I think with you that the expence of surveying & marking the lines of the District should, & I have no doubt will be defrayed by the United States; but it was not thought best to lay the matter before Congress at this Session. In justice, the expence of surveying the City should be refunded from the same source, but on this point a question would be more likely to arise than on the former.
The Proprietor’s claim of payment for a quantity of Land in the squares intersected by the two cross Streets &ca is a subject on which I am not qualified to give an opinion; but I should suppose a reference to the terms of agreement with those Gentlemen would decide the matter. If it should not, the mode which you mention of leaving it to proper & impartial Judges appears to be the best.
When it was suggested to increase the dimensions of the President’s House, one fifth, I had no idea that it would carry the expence of that building to any thing like the sum of £77,900 Sterling, which is estimated by mister Hoben. And if that should be the case, I an decidedly of opinion that it would be best to take the plan on it’s original scale as you mention. It was always my idea (and if I am not mistaken, mister Hoben coincided in the propriety & practicability of it) that the building should be so arranged that only a part of it should be erected at present; but

upon such a plan as to make the part so erected an entire building—and to admit of an addition in future, as circumstances might render proper; without hurting, but rather adding to the beauty and magnificence of the whole as an original plan. I was led to this idea by considering that a house which would be very proper for a President of the United States for some years to come, might not be considered as corresponding with other circumstances at a more distant period: and therefore, to avoid the inconvenience which might arise here after on that subject, I wished the building to be upon the plan I have mentioned. But I confess, that I cannot see how so great an increase of expence would arise from the small encrease of dimensions proposed; & am much mistaken indeed, if it does not far exceed any ideas he let out at the time his plan was adopted. However, as I do not profess to be an accurate Judge of these matters, I cannot undertake to say that the additional expence is inconsistent.
In order that no means in our power for raising a fund commensurate with the objects in view for the ensuing season, may be left untried, I enclose you a draft on the Maryland Treasury for the third instalment of that State, agreeably to the request in your letter of the 8th of february.
In looking over your statement of the ‘certain funds’ for the year 1793, I observe that after mentioning the sum “now in the Treasurer’s hands”, you say, “his advances on account, as money has been wanted, not covered by warrants” &c.—it struck me on reading this, that it might be possible that some inconvenience might arise from having money paid without a special warrant. While the present Gentleman, who acts as your Treasurer, continues in that office, there can be no apprehension of any evil arising from having money paid without being covered by a warrant; but in the event of his death, or the death or withdrawing of the present Commissioners, might not some difficulty arise on that head? I merely suggest this for your consideration, as it struck me, without any intention of viewing the matter in a reprehensible light. I do not mean by special warrants, that the Treasurer should have a warrant for every trifling payment that may be made; but as you will probably have before you at stated periods, estimates of monies that may be wanted before the next meeting, a general warrant might be given to the Treasurer for the amot of the sum, accompanied with a copy of the estimate,

under cover of which he could make the payments. You will, however, consider this as a mere suggestion to guard against inconveniencies that might happen; but not intended by any means to dictate to you the mode of transacting your business. With great esteem, I am Gentlemen, Your mo: Obt Servt

Go: Washington

P.S. I enclose a small pamphlet which was handed to me by mister Jefferson, who observes that it contains some ideas which may merit attention, in due time, at the Federal City.

G. W——n


Title: From George Washington to Anthony Whitting, 3 March 1793
From: Washington, George
To: Whitting, Anthony

Mr Whiting,
Philadelphia March 3d 1793.

I have now two letters of yours before me to acknowledge the receipt of—viz.—the 20th & 27th of last month.
The price of lime in Alexandria is so extremely high, that every practicable attempt ought to be made to procure shells—one of which may be, by hiring a vessel by the day, and sending it to my Nephew Colo. Washington’s in Westmoreland, near Mattox Creek with the enclosed letter. I persuade myself if this be done

he will not only furnish the Shells, but aid in loading the Vessel. It is left open for your perusal, to be sent, or not, as occasion may require—Seal before sending it if it be forwarded at all.
I am in sentiment with you that, such Bricks as my people make will never shew a thin, neat, & regular morter joint; and that the uneveness of the yard is one cause of it; and that another cause is—not beating & tempering the Clay sufficiently: remedies for both these are simple, and easy; & I hope in the Bricks that are to be made, they will be applied. Make more bricks than are immediately wanting for the Barn; because they may be wanted for some other purpose, & because there must be a certain number to form the kiln for burning.
I informed you in my last, that unless Mrs. F. Washington desired the building to be carried on, that my opinion was, it ought to be stopped: of course as she has also requested the discontinuance of the work, it must be no longer prosecuted. Let all the work that has been done, and the materials which have been provided for carrying it on, be preserved in security for further decision on this matter. And let the two Carpenters (Gabriel & Reuben) belonging to that Estate, if not otherwise disposed of by the orders of their Mistress, join mine under Green; and an account taken of the time it happens, that the said Estate may be paid for the hire of them.
I am as apprehensive as you can be, that Green never will overcome his propensity to drink; that it is this which occasions his frequent sicknesses; absences from work, and poverty. And I am convinced, moreover, that it answers no purpose to admonish him. But if the work in hand cannot be carried on without a head to execute it—and no other presents in whom confidence can be placed, there is no alternative but to keep him; unless he should get too bad to be longer borne with; and even then, a house so framed as the Dogue run Barn is intended to be ought not to be en⟨t⟩rusted to my Negro Carpenters or any other bungler.
I hope all your Gates will be fixed before I come home, provided the ground is in such a state as to admit of being well rammed, but not otherwise; for it would be lost labour, & a continual plague if the posts should yield to the weight of the gate, or work loose in any other manner, if the earth around them is not dry enough to bear very hard ramming.
Have you got the second Visto so much opened as to be able

to form any opinion of the view, & how it will appear from the House?
Hampsons account must be paid as soon as you are in Cash from the sales of your Ship stuff &ca.
Has the last spell of freezing weather (—the ground being uncovered, and very wet—) hurt the Wheat? If it escaped damage then, I hope there is no great danger to be apprehended from frosts after this. I see no account yet of Ice being stored: Snow well rammed would have been better than letting the house go empty.
I am very sorry to hear that so likely a young fellow as Matildas Ben should addict himself to such courses as he is pursuing. If he should be guilty of any attrocious crime, that would affect his life he might be given up to the Civil authority for tryal; but for such offences as most of his colour are guilty of, you had better try further correction; accompanied with admonition and advice. The two latter sometimes succeed when the first has failed. He, his father & mother (who I dare Say are his receivers) may be told in explicit language that if a stop is not put to his rogueries, & other villainies by fair means & shortly; that I will ship him off (as I did Waggoner Jack) for the West Indias, where he will have no opportunity of playing such pranks as he is at present engaged in.
The first time you see Mr Hartshorn, ask if there now is, or soon will be, any thing due from me to the Potomac Company; and request him to send the acct of it to me. I remain Your friend and well wisher

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Burwell Bassett, Jr., 4 March 1793
From: Washington, George
To: Bassett, Burwell Jr.

(Copy)
Dear Sir,Philadelphia March 4th 1793.
Your letter of the 18th Ulto, & its enclosure, came duly to hand.
Expected as the death of my departed relation and friend was, I could not but feel sensibly when the news of it arrived. And I take the present occasion to offer you my condolence on the death of your father & my friend, Colo. Bassett, for whom, when alive, I had the sincerest regard.
I wish some other more competent & active person than my situation will enable me to be, had been named as an Executor to the Will of my deceased Nephew. All the aid I can give by advice in the management of the Estate, & whatever else may respect it, would have been afforded without being appointed an Executor. More cannot be done by me from that appointment, if my situation wd allow me to qualify as one: which in fact it does not; or to incur responsiblity in the management of the Estate.
The time for proving the Will, and qualifying as an Executrix, must depend upon your Sister.
I expect to be at Mount Vernon about the first week in April,

and will make a point of it—(if public duties does not forbid it)—to be in the County on the Court day of that Month, which I believe happens on the 15th; provided she chuses to be up then, either permanently, or temporarily; and with much pleasure & satisfaction to myself will give her every aid in my power, to arrange the business of the Estate.
My second visit to that place will depend upon circumstances which are not always under my controul; and probably will not admit it befor July or August.
With these things be pleased to bring Fanny acquainted. Offer my love to her and the Children; my respects & good wishes to Mrs Bassett; and be assured of the esteem & regard with which I am—&ca &ca

Go: W——n


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Jefferson, 4 March 1793
From: Jefferson, Thomas
To: Washington, George

[Philadelphia] Mar. 4. 93.

Th: Jefferson, with his respects to the President, incloses him a letter from the Van Staphorsts & Hubbard quieting our apprehensions for the fate of the first dispatches sent to mister Short

relative to our negociations with Spain. also another letter from mister Thatcher on the subject of the Marshal of Maine.


Title: To George Washington from Mirabeau, 4 March 1793
From: Mirabeau (pseudonym)
To: Washington, George

Sir,
March 4th, 1793.

You are again called to execute the high and dignified trust of a first magistrate of a free people, and that by unanimous consent. This is the greatest homage that ⟨ca⟩n be paid by freemen, and is the most flattering distinction which can be offered in a land of liberty.—As the friend of freedom you were resorted to, and placed in a sphere which must communicate the most exquisite gratification to a mind that sympathizes in the happiness of man—Participating in the general blessings which your services, aided by the exertions of the patriots of America, have dispensed, you have an opportunity of giving a zest to your portion of enjoyment by a rigid exercise of the duties which are annexed to your station, and an attentive guardianship over the privileges that the Revolution has bestowed—your duties are important, your station is delicate, and your example of infinite consequence—Americans have done ample justice to your merits and to your virtues; they have rewarded them with their affections, and have given you the first place among freemen; their affections and their gratitude will call forth the liveliest feelings to their interests and to their wishes, and preclude every exercise of superiority which can give disturbance to their confidence or tranquility—Equality is the soul, & simplicity the ornament of a

republican government; whatever has a tendency to affect the living principle or to deck it with false or fantastic ornament, must excite abhorrence in the man of the people. We have made an experiment in politics which is a phenomenon in the history of human nature, let us perfect our system and banish the fabric as well as the substance of governments founded on inequality, and give a lesson to the world of rulers and ruled being of one family, having one wish and one interest; and having no hostility but for the enemies of their country—you have this day given a specimen of republicanism which will chase away every jealousy if persisted in, and as I have been the first to comment upon the assumption of distinction, in justice to you and to my own feelings, I will be the first to approve—let not the freedom of the stile in which I address you be construed into presumption, it is the language of liberty, and cannot offend a freemen—The soft accents of flattery belong to the eunuchs of a court, the republican mind knows not to cull the flowers from the green house of monarchy—Tho’ I disdain to flatter, it is a relief to my mind to give merit and virtue their due, after having arraigned their weaknesses at a bar not less scrupulous than that of Rhadamanthus, the bar of republicanism; and as I conceive it human to err, I should consider it as the error of a great mind if the specimen of this day should manifest itself in actions of another kind, and the beginning of your second administration should prove the end of every royal custom.—Pomp, parade and fastidious distance are the ensigns of royalty to cover weakness, and very often vice; the mind fortified by virtue & dignified by intellect, needs not the trappings of a butterfly to command respect or administration; true worth encreases our respect and esteem the nearer we approach it, and the more we are familiarized to it: fictitious qualities alone should retreat behind ceremony and reserve, as a shelter from disgrace and contempt—your fame can acquire no addition, your character no increase; already have they received their tribute even from the enemies of our country; nothing is therefore wanting to your glory, nothing is requisite to make you live in every American heart, but a deportment in unison with the principles of our government—your conduct on this day has impressed me with this anticipation, that the simplicity which has heretofore marked your character will again manifest itself, and every jealous republican spirit will be hushed

into peace, by this accommodation to their feelings—the splendour of a court suits not the meridian of the United States, and suits not the meridian of your mind, which delights in simplicity and tranquility—Americans have emancipated themselves from the trammels of monarchical fashion, as well as from the trammels of monarchical government, and they would be inclined to suppose that every attempt to introduce the one, would be but as the harbinger of the other; they are therefore alarmed at every appearance of inequality—In you, sir, their hopes, their affections, and their confidence center, and they feel a persuasion, that your heart will keep pace with their wishes, and your actions with their feelings.

MIRABEAU.


Title: From George Washington to David Stuart, 4 March 1793
From: Washington, George
To: Stuart, David

Dear Sir,
Phila. March 4th 1793

Since writing my letter of yesterday, I have recd the enclosed from Mr Jefferson, w[hic]h I send to you just as I recd it. I am Dr Sir &c.

G. W——

Note the enclosed was the copies of 2 letters writte[n] by Mr Jefferson to Mr Ellicott, w[hic]h he says is all that he has written to him in the years of 1792 & 93.


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Jefferson, 5 March 1793
From: Jefferson, Thomas
To: Washington, George

[Philadelphia] Mar. 5. 93.

Th: Jefferson ⟨w⟩ith his respects to the President is sorry to inclose him an account of mister Barclay’s death in a letter to a mister Callahan of this place from his brother in Lisbon.


Title: John Stagg, Jr., to Tobias Lear, 5 March 1793
From: Stagg, John Jr.
To: Lear, Tobias

Sir.
War-department, March 5. 1793.

The Secretary of War requests the favor that you will please to submit to the President of the United States, the enclosed draft of a letter, intended to be forwarded this day to major general Wayne. I am Sir, Most respectfully, Your obedt Servt

John Stagg JunrChf Clk


Title: To George Washington from James Craik, 6 March 1793 [letter not found]
From: Craik, James Sr.
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from James Craik, Sr., 6 Mar. 1793. In his letter of 17 Mar. to Frances Bassett Washington, GW mentioned “a letter which I received from Doctr Craik—dated the 6th inst.”


Title: From George Washington to Bryan Fairfax, 6 March 1793
From: Washington, George
To: Fairfax, Bryan

Dear Sir,
Philadelphia 6th March 1793.

I have been favored with your Letter of the 17th Inst: & beg you to be assured that nothing was ever farther from my thoughts than taking amiss your not coming to the road to see me the day I passed by your House on my return to this City; as an unequivocal proof of this fact, I have only to assure you that I should not have been found there, had you come out to it; for it was not until I was opposite to your House, that I sent the Servant in, without making any halt myself, being in a hurry to meet & do some business with the Commissioners of the Federal District, at George Town, before Mrs Washington should come up, that we might proceed some miles on our journey (which we accordingly did) that afternoon. Motives of friendship & respect was all I had in view by sending in to know how you did as I was about to leave the Country and had it not in my power, for the reason just mentioned, to call upon you myself for that purpose.
I thank you for your kind condolence on the Death of my Nephew. It is a loss I sincerely regret; but as it is the will of Heaven, whose decrees are always just & wise, I submit to it without a murmer.
Before I conclude, permit me to ask if any thing is done, or likely to be done in the Case of Savage. I am extremely anxious to see all matters in which I have had any agency, brought to a close, altho’ the issue therof should be unfavorable, before I quit the stage of Life.
My best respects in which mistress Washington unites, are presented to mistress Fairfax, and your family; and, I am, with much esteem & regard, Dear sir, Your mot obt & affecte

G: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Henry Dufouer, 7 March 1793
From: Dufouer, Henry
To: Washington, George

Sir
New York 7 March 1793

Having been informed that a supervisor for the District of New York is not at present fixed on I take the liberty of addressing you for that appointment.
The Secretary of the Treasury is acquainted with my conduct character & abilities in that line, to whom I beg leave to refer you. I have the honor to be sir Your most Obedt Servant

Henry Dufouer.


Title: To George Washington from Jacob Johnson, 7 March 1793
From: Johnson, Jacob
To: Washington, George

Sir
Wyoming [Pa.] March 7th 1793

I am one of the Sufferers—In the late Wars—Living on the Waters of the Susquehannah—Exposd to the Invasion of the Western Enemies—A Party of Indians and Tories under the Command of the (Indn Colo.) John Butler to the No. of Seven or Eight hundred came down upon us—At which Time my House was burnt & all in it consumed—My flocks & herds killd or carried off—all my Labor’s lost—The whole Loss (at The lowest computation) more than Five hundred Pounds Pennsylvania currency—My Selfe Wife & Family driv’n away in a manner naked and Starving for a number of Days—Nothing to Support me for two going on Three years but continental Bills which depreciated in my hands almost to nothing—And when I came on again to these Waters on the Susquehannah—My horses were Stole by the Enemy and carried off to Niagara—My cows Swine &c. kill’d—House plunderd—All Supports of Life taken away—My two Sons carried off by the Enemy—One of them from under the Doctors Care In the month of march a Cold & rainy Season—Waded the Rivers Lay on the wet ground—nothing to eat for 48 hours—And then but a poor allowance for a Sick man Which threw Him into Such a disorderd State of body—That He has never had a Well Day Since—And never like to recover his health in this World Tho’ much has been expended on Doctors & means but to no purpose—Add to all this my mony to the amount of Several Thousand Dollers I put into the Loan Office

to carry on the Wars Sunk down almost to nothing—And finally I lost more than a Thousand Dollers.
Now Sir for all these Sufferings & Losses (and much more not nam’d) I have received no Consideration—not to Say Compensation—Altho’ I have expended almost as much as any man in these States in carrying on the Late Wars—And Sufferd & lost more than any one I know of on these Frontiers—I do therefore prefer this Letter in way of Memorial to your Excellency to Lay before Congress—Petitioning at least a Consideration if not a full Compensation for my Sufferings & Losses—and that of my Sons &c. I am Sir with due Defference And great Respect Your Excellencys Sincere and most assured Friend &c.

Jacob JohnsonThe First Ordaind Ministerat Wilkesbarre on the Susquehannah

N.B. The Revd James Sprout D.D. one of my Correspondents in Philadelphia—And whom I have desird to wait upon your Excellency with this Letter can Inform & certefy of my Character & Sufferings—If there be need of it.
As also Abraham Bradly Esq. (Judge of the quarter Sessions in the County of Luzern)—now at Philadelphia at Col. T. Pickerin[g’s] office.
And also Col. Mats Hollenbeck—(if yet in Philadelphia) can certify my Character & Sufferings—For He was one of the Sufferers at the Same Time.
The above named with many more can attest to the Truth of my Sufferings and Losses if my Letter to your Excellency and memorial & Petition to Congress be not Sufficiently Satisfactory.


Title: To George Washington from James Keith, 7 March 1793
From: Keith, James
To: Washington, George

Sir
Alexandria [Va.] March 7th 1793

A few days ago Colo. Hooe delivered me your Excellencys letter, which had been sent under Cover to him. Since the Receipt of it, I have made Enquiry, whether the Defendants have taken any Steps to procure an Injunction: I cannot learn that any thing has been done in that way as yet. When the Actions were tried at the May District Court, the Defendants again brought forward the plea formerly used by them when the Business was under Reference, that among the papers and Documents sent by them to Britain, at the Commencement of the American Troubles, some Vouchers might be found to prove the payment of these two protested Bills of Exchange, which had not been charged in the general Settlement made with Semples Trustees, for the Recovery of which one of the Actions had been commenced. Tho this protest had been formerly made Use of, and procured suficient time for making the necessary Enquiries, it was still likely to procure a new Indulgence. Under these Circumstances, it was thought more adviseable to let the Actions go to a Jury, with a promise of staying Execution till the first of April, than to suffer

a Continuance of the Actions untill the next term. This accordingly was done. The Events which have since taken place justify the measure, Mr Montgomery and Colo. Mason both died before the succeeding term, the Actions woud of course have abated as to them. The time is now nearly arrived when the Executions may issue, if not prevented by an Injunction, I shall be glad to have your Excellency’s directions upon that head. The Fees which have accrued upon the Actions are two Fees apiece to Mr Lee and Colo. Simms, they were both employed, the Common Fees Two demanded by the Lawyers at the District Court I understand is an half Joe. In the Account transmitted you by Colo. Hooe he not only stated Mr Bennetts Claim as a Legatee of Colo. Thomas Colvill, but also his Claims, under the Will of Lord Tankerville, to the Ballance of the money arising from the Sale of the merryland Tract of Land, after discharging the Debts of Colo. John Colville. The Colo. has committed Some Errors with respect to the Interest, the Statement is otherwise right. Shoud things continue without an Injunction to alter the State of them, I expect early in the Summer to close the Settlement of the two Estates. I am with great Respect Your Excellency’s Most Obedeint humble Servt

Ja. Keith


Title: From George Washington to Robert Lewis, 7 March 1793
From: Washington, George
To: Lewis, Robert

Dear Sir,
Philadelphia March 7th 1793.

I have received your letters of the 4th & 9th of Jany in answer to mine of the 23d of Decr.
I would not have you seek—at least apparently—Major Harrison; but if you should, or could conveniently fall in with him soon, and without forcing the conversation, talk to him again on the Subject of his land adjoining me, & extract any thing farther from him on the subject thereof that might be useful to me I should be glad to know it. The enclosed letter to Mr Whiting from Mr Chichester—the only person except Thomson Mason his Son in law (who also has poor tenanted land adjoining Harrisons should become so) that can, in my opinion step forward as a competetor, Shews his ideas of the value of it: but altho’ this may be the intrinsic worth, yet, circumstances considered, I would give more for it, if it is unincumbered with leases than what is there mentioned, or, I would give, by way of exchange, Lands in Ketucky for it.
I expect to be at Mount Vernon before the 5th of April—& shall, probably, take Fairfax Court (which I believe is on the 15th of that month) on my way back to this City. Between these dates, if Mr Harrison wd call upon me—at Mount Vernon with his papers—the bargain, if made at all, might soon be concluded.
I cannot as I expect to take the meeting of the Commissioners of the Federal District at George Town (about the first of April) well be at home before the 5th of that month; nor will public business allow me to stay there longer than the 15th. The last being necessary on acct of the Will of my deceased Nephew Majr Washington; which, I expect, will be proved at that time. The first on the business of the New City. I shall come home alone, merely for the purposes abovementi[on]ed and to look into some matters of my own which Require attention.
My best wishes attend Mrs Lewis in which your Aunt joins me—and I am—Your sincere friend and Affectionate Uncle

Go: Washington

P.S. Return the enclosed Letter to me.


Title: Tobias Lear to Thomas Lowrey and Abraham Hunt, 7 March 1793
From: Lear, Tobias
To: Lowrey, Thomas,Hunt, Abraham

Sir,
Philadelphia 7th March 1793.

The President wishes to procure a Studhorse, to put to such mares as may not prove with foal by the Jacks—& to try Mares with that may be brought to the Jacks; as well as to ascertain, after they have been put, whether they are satisfied or not—for it some times happens that they will refuse the Jack, when they will not a Horse. Conceiving that you may know of, or have an opportunity of meeting with such an one as would answer his purposes—and believing in your readiness to oblige him in this instance, he has directed me to apply to you on the occasion.
He wishes him to be at least 15½ or 16 hands high—well formed—of a handsome carriage—not exceeding Eight years

of age. a bay would be preferred. His Pedigree will not be considered as an object of much consequence, if it should be the means of greatly enhancing the price of such an horse; but at the same time the President would prefer one of some blood, if he cou’d be obtained upon terms nearly equal to one destitute of that quality, but equal in other respects.
From the above description you will see that the President is not disposed to give an extraordinary price for the Horse he wants; and relying upon your knowledge of & judgment in those animals, he thinks it unnecessary to be more particular in the description.
If such an Horse can be obtained for the President he must be here by the 22d or 23d of this Month, as the President intends going to Mount Vernon about that time, & will have him taken down there at the same time. You will therefore be so good as to let the President know as soon as possible, if you can get such an Horse as is mentioned, with his price & a description of him—and the President will inform you immediately whether he shall be purchased or not. I am Sir, &c. &c.

Tobs Lear.


Title: John Stagg, Jr., to Tobias Lear, 7 March 1793
From: Stagg, John Jr.
To: Lear, Tobias

Dear Sir.
War-Office, 7th March 1793.

Please to submit to the President of the United States, the enclosed letter from Capt: Wm Buchanan dated 6th instant, offering his resignation. Yours most respectfully.

John Stagg JunrChf Clk


Title: From George Washington to Frances Bassett Washington, 7 March 1793 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Washington, Frances Bassett

Letter not found: to Frances Bassett Washington, 7 Mar. 1793. Frances Bassett Washington wrote GW on 28 Mar., “I have had the happiness to receive your favors of the 7th & 11th instants.”


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Jefferson, 8 March 1793
From: Washington, George
To: Jefferson, Thomas

Sir,
United States [Philadelphia] March 8th 1793

Being desireous of having a full and accurate knowledge of such things as are required to be done by or through the President of the United States, by the laws passed during the late Session of Congress, and which are deposited among the Rolls in your Office—I have to request, that the said laws may be examined for this purpose, and that you will furnish me with extracts of such parts or clauses of them as relate to, or require the immediate or special agency of the President of the United States.

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Bowen, 9 March 1793 [letter not found]
From: Bowen, Thomas
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Thomas Bowen, c.9 Mar. 1793. Tobias Lear wrote Albert Gallatin on 11 Mar., that “On Saturday last the President recd a letter, wh. was enclosed in one to you from Mr Thos Bowen.”


Title: From George Washington to Alexander Hamilton, Thomas Jefferson, and Henry Knox, 9 March 1793
From: Washington, George
To: Hamilton, Alexander,Jefferson, Thomas,Knox, Henry

Sir,
United States [Philadelphia] March 9th 1793

Expecting that my private Affairs will call me to Virginia on or before the 25th of this month, I have to request that you will lay before me, previous to that time, such matters within your department as may require my attention or agency before I set out; as well as those which might be necessary for me to know or act upon during my absence from the Seat of Government (which will be about four weeks) so far as such may come to your knowledge before my departure.

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Jefferson, 9 March 1793
From: Washington, George
To: Jefferson, Thomas

Dear Sir,
Philada March 9th 1793.

The enclosed from Messrs Johnson & Carroll have this instant come to hand. Along with them you will receive the letter (this

day read) from Doctr Stuart, that the sentiments of all three of the Commrs may appear at one view.
I pray you, before Mr Madison leaves town, to lay all three before him and the Attorney Genl; and give me a written Memo. of the measures which you, & they, shall think most advisable for me to pursue—provisionally, or other wise, in this business.
You will all recollect the points that were touched upon today; I shall not, therefore, repeat them. I am always Yours

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Jefferson, 9 March 1793
From: Jefferson, Thomas
To: Washington, George

[Philadelphia] Mar. 9. 93.

Th: Jefferson presents his respects to the President & sends him a letter put into his hands by Govr St Clair. he also sends him Govr Clinton’s answer, this moment received. he does not say how it happened that Th: J’s letter of Feb. 17. did not get to him till Feb. 28. it was certainly put into the Post office here on the morning of Feb. 18. it must be presumed the Govr has been absent from New York.


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Jefferson, 10 March 1793
From: Jefferson, Thomas
To: Washington, George

[Philadelphia] Mar. 10. 1793.

The Secretary of state, according to instructions received from the President of the U.S., Reports That, for the information of the Commissioners appointed to treat with the Western Indians, he has examined the several treaties entered into with them, subsequent to the declaration of Independance, & relating to the lands between the Ohio & lake⟨s⟩; & also the extent of the grants, reservations, & appropriations of the same lands, made either by the United States, or by individual states, within the same period, & finds that the lands obtained by the said treaties & not so granted, reserved, or appropriated, are bounded by the following lines, to wit.
Northwardly. by a line running, from the fork of the Tuscarora’s branch of the Muskingum, at the crossing place above Fort Lawrence, Westwardly (towards the portage of the Big Miami) to the main branch of that river, then down the Miami to the fork of that river next below the old fort which was taken by the French in 1752. thence due West to the river de la Panse, & down that river to the Wabash: which lines were established with the Wiandots, Delawares, Chippawas, & Ottawas by the treaty of fort McIntosh, & with the Shawanese by that of the Great Miami.
Westwardly, by the bounds of the Wabash Indians:
Eastwardly, by the Million of acres appropriated to Military claimants by the resolution of Congress of Oct. 22. 1787. and lying in the angle between the VIIth range of townships counted Westwardly from the Pensylvania boundary, and the Xth range counted from the Ohio Northwardly along the said VIIth which Million of acres may perhaps extend Westwardly so as to comprehend the XIIth range of townships, counted in that direction from the Pensylvania boundary: under which view, the said XIIth range may be assumed for the Eastern boundary of the territory now under consideration, from the said Xth range to the Indian line.

Southwardly. by the Northern boundary of the said Xth range of townships to the Sioto river, and along the said river to what shall be the Northern limit of the appropriations for the Virginia line: (which two last lines are those of the lands granted to the Sioto company): thence along what shall be the Northern limit of the said appropriations of the Virginia line to the Little Miami, and along the same to what shall be the Northern limit of one million of acres of land purchased by John C. Symmes: thence due West along the said Northern limit of the said John C. Symmes to the Great Miami, & down the same to it’s mouth: then along the Ohio to General Clarke’s lands, & round the said lands to the Ohio again, & down the same to the Wabash or the lands of the Indians inhabiting it. Which several lines are delineated in the copy of Hutchins’s map accompanying this report; the dotted parts of the delineation denoting that they are conjectural. and it is further necessary to apprize the Commissioners that, tho’ the points at which these several lines touch the Ohio are taken from actual surveys, yet the country included by the said lines, not being laid down from actual survey, their lengths & intersections with each other & with the watercourses, as appearing in the map, are not at all to be relied on. No notice is here taken of the lands at the mouth of the Ohio appropriated for military bounties by the same resolution of Congress of Oct. 22. 1787. nor of the settlements of Cahokia, Kaskaskia, Post Vincennes &c. because these can concern no Indians but those of the Illinois & Wabash, whose interests should be transacted with themselves separately, and not be permitted to be placed under the patronage of the Western Indians.

Th: Jefferson


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Jefferson, 10 March 1793
From: Jefferson, Thomas
To: Washington, George

[Philadelphia] Mar. 10. 1793.

The Secretary of state, according to the requisition of the President of the US. of the 8th instant has examined the laws passed during the late session of Congress and Reports That none of those laws relate to, or require the immediate or special agency of the President, except the “Act regulating foreign coins & for other purposes,” (a copy of which is hereto annexed) whereupon it would be proper to give in charge to the Director of the Mint to take measures for collecting samples of foreign coins, issued in the year 1792, of the species which usually circulate within the United States, to examine by assays at the Mint whether the same are conformable to the respective standards

required, & to report the result, that the same may be made known by proclamation.

Th: Jefferson


Title: From George Washington to Anthony Whitting, 10 March 1793
From: Washington, George
To: Whitting, Anthony

Mr Whiting,
Philadelphia March 10th 1793.

I was very sorry to find by a letter which I received from Doctr Craik yesterday, that your old complaint had returned upon you again. I sincerely wish that it may go off easily, and that you may have no more returns. One means of preventing which, is to take care of yourself. That is, to attempt no more than the Doctor thinks you can accomplish without injury to your health; for you may be perfectly assured, that I not only do not desire you to attempt more than you can execute with ease and safety, but that it is my particular and earnest request that you would not; both on your own account and mine. A little nursing, with gentle exercise, may restore you to a good state of health. To attempt more may destroy it altogether, and place my business in a very unfavorable situation.
By this time you must have seen enough into Mr Butlers character,

to determine whether, or not, he possesses skill, industry & integrity. If your impressions of him are favorable, throw a good deal of your own duties upon him; and in case they are not, save yourself notwithstanding, by making the Overseers come to you for, instead of your going to them with, orders respecting the Farms. Although you may not be able to see to the execution of matters, knowing what ought to be done, you can direct the Overseers as well as if you were actually on the Farms; and this I should greatly prefer to your running any hazard by a premature exertion.
Having nothing particular to write upon, I shall only observe that on the 7th instant I put on board Captn Ellwood for Alexandria, addressed to the care of Mr Porter of that place 13 quarts of Honey locust seeds; of which I pray you to cause the best use to be made this Spring.
If at any time you should be too much indisposed to take the weekly Reports, & on the usual day to transmit them, let Mr Butler do it; as I am disappointed always when they do not come to hand. I wish you the perfect restoration of your health and am Your well wisher & friend

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from the Commissioners for the District of Columbia, 11–12 March 1793
From: Commissioners for the District of Columbia
To: Washington, George

Sir
George Town 11[–12]th March 1793

Doctor Thornton’s Plan for a Capitol has been laid before us; the rooms for the different Branches of Congress and the Conference

Room, are much to our satisfaction and its outward appearance we expect will be Striking, & pleasing On the whole it gains our preference tho. we cannot but fear that several of the Small Rooms, of which there seems to us, there are more than necessary will want Light, perhaps by lessening the number of them the Objection may in some Measure be obviated—We have no estimate Accompanying the Plan, nor can one be formed soon which could give much satisfaction: In our Idea the Capital ought in point of propriety to be on a grand Scale, and that a Republic especially ought not to be sparing of expences on an Edifice for such purposes, yet under the uncertain State of our funds depending altogether on opinion though the current Seems to be gaining Strength we cannot but feel a degree of anxiety for the Event of Expensive undertakings, when According to the Candor of the World our Charecters will be judged, not on present Circumstances but on efficiency or want of funds when the Fact is disclosed: However we are willing to Act on your and our Ideas of propriety Regarding the destined Use and Circumstances of the United States Risking in some measure the efficiency of the Funds. It has been our wish from the beginning that there sho[u]ld be an inspection of our management of the Money subject to our disposition at proper Periods, and that Desire is Strengthened by a late Attempt as we have heared, to get Commissioners appointed by an improper Authority—We wish Investigations whilest Facts and Circumstances are Recent, and you therefore, greatly oblige us by Appointing Gentlemen to examine this subject and thereby open an Opportunity to Objections, to establish their Charges, or to us to close their Mouths—The enclosed Copies of the Correspondence of the Commissioners at their last meeting with Major Ellicott, Manifest their dispos[it]ion and Intentions towards him the latter part of that sitting, he and Mr Briggs promised to be here agains the present meeting, but neither have yet come, and after being here a week we now (Monday) do not know whether to expect either of them to return again—The Slow progress of the work gave us uneasiness, but making ourselves sure of its Accuracy we had patience, we are undeceived, for led by Information, which we did not invite, we have ordered a few of the Squares to be remeasured, it has been done by the Instruments used by Major Ellicott, for the like purposes, and the enclosed returns show the Result—Mistakes of Distances might now and then happen accidentally,

but we can imagine nothing to excuse the certifying work as done, when it had not been done, when Confession and Embarrassment were so plainly to follow from it—We shall discharge Majr Ellicott, if he has not already discharged himself, and making as little Noise as we can avoid Run over a good deal of his work, which maybe speedily done, with a Chain sufficiently accurate to detect great errors, and we are led to think it the more necessary as we are told the Instances are not few where Division have been prepared, and taken place without any Actual Measurement, on the ground—We are truely sorry to find ourselves under a necessity to give you unpleasant Information so often but yet hope these errors may be set right without Remarking what has been marked out, for we are told that the Stakes appear to stand very well in the lines—Monday night Mr Blodget has arrived we hear nothing farther of Majr Ellicott or Mr Briggs. We are Sir, with great regard and true esteem, your most Ob. Hble Serts.

Th. Johnson
Dd. Stuart
Dan. Carrol

P.S. we expect the work will go on.
Con⟨’d⟩ Tuesday Evening 12th. Just as we were going to close the foregoing about 8 OClock Yesterday Evening Majr Ellicott his Brother Benjn and Mr Briggs arrived in a Stage—Anxious to get from here and determined to have an Intercourse with the Major in writing we wrote our letter to him enclosed, but before we could get it ready he had retired to Bed, tired we doubt [not] with his Journey, several letters, enc[l]osed passed between us to Day, on Receiving a Verbal message to the last of ours in effect that he agreed to every thing purposed, that he had not pen and Ink there, at Prout’s House , and it would be 10 OClock Tomorrow before he could for a certainty, give an Answer, we rode there and obtained possession of the large Plat, our Conver[sa]tion has ceased, and the Chief Business we have to do here at present, is to put the Surveyors Department on a Satisfactory Footing which we hope to do in the Morning—It is useless to trouble you with particulars of what past Verbally they cannot be collected to points.

Commissioners


Title: Memorandum from Thomas Jefferson, 11 March 1793
From: Jefferson, Thomas
To: Washington, George

[Philadelphia] Mar. 11. 1793.

Qu. 1? What sacrifice may be made to retain mister Johnson in the office of Commissioner for the federal territory?
Answ. for such an object it is worth while to give up the plan of an allowance per diem, to give, instead of that, a sum in gross, and to extend that sum to 500. Dollars per annum, and expences; the latter to be rendered in account.
If mister Johnson persists in resigning, as it is evident Dr Stewart will not continue even for the above allowance, & mister Carrol

does not appear to make any conditions, the President will be free as to mister Carrol & two new associates to adhere to the allowance per diem already proposed, or to substitute a sum in gross.
Qu. 2? May new commissioners be chosen in the town?
Answ. it is strongly desireable that the Commissioners should not be of the town, nor interested in it; and this objection is thought a counterpoise for a sensible difference in talents. but if persons of adequate talents & qualifications cannot be found in the country, it will be better to take them from the town, than to appoint men of inadequate talents from the country.
Qu. 3. How compensate them?
Answ. if they come from the country, the per diem allowance is thought best. if from the town, a sum in gross will be best, and this might be as far as 300. D. a year, & no allowance for expences: if partly from the town & partly from the country, then 300. Dol. a year to the former, and the same with an allowance of expences to the latter.
Mr Madison, mister Randolph & Th. Jefferson having consulted together on the preceding questions, with some shades of difference of opinion in the beginning, concurred ultimately & unanimously in the above answers.

Th: Jefferson


Title: Tobias Lear to Robert Pollard, 11 March 1793
From: Lear, Tobias
To: Pollard, Robert

Sir,
Philada 11th March 1793.

The President of the United States requests that you will transmit to him a statement of his accot with the James River Company, from it’s first institution; in order that he may be fully acquainted with the payments which have been made on his account, as well as with what may be due from him.
The President’s long absence from home, & the little attention that his public duties have permitted him to pay to his private Affairs, have prevented him from keeping so regular a statement of his Account with the Company as he could wish, and this is the cause of giving you this trouble. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, Sir, Your mo: obt Servt.

Tobias Lear.


Title: From George Washington to Frances Bassett Washington, 11 March 1793
From: Washington, George
To: Washington, Frances Bassett

My dear Fanny,
Philadelphia March 11th 1793.

On the otherside, you will find the copy of a letter writtin this day week to your Brother Burwell. Since which, your letter of the 26th of February to your Aunt, informing her that you were about to leave Eltham, has been received; and is the cause as you might not be in the way of knowing the contents of my letter to your Brother of my addressing a copy of it to you; and requesting

you would by a line to be lodged in the Post Office in Alexandria ’till called for, inform me whether you will be at Mount Vernon before Fairfax Court in April, or not; because, although I would make a point of it to remain in the County ’till that time, if I was sure of your being up before it; yet, it might not be convenient for me to stay there so long, if the case should be oth⟨er⟩wise. For this re⟨a⟩son I request to be informed of your determination respecting this matter. With sincere and affectionate regard for you, and the Children, I am always—Yours,

Go: Washington

P.S. If this letter should find you at Studley—Pray present your Aunts & my Compts to Mr & Mrs Lyons.


Title: To George Washington from Alexander Hamilton, 12 March 1793
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Treasury Departmt 12th Mar: 1793.

By an Act entitled “an Act providing for the payment of the first installment, due on a Loan made of the Bank of the U. States”—the President of the United States is authorised & empowered to apply two hundred thousand Dollars of the money which may have been borrowed, in pursuance of the 4th section

of the Act entitled, “an Act making provision for the reduction of the public debt,” in payment of the first installment due to the Bank of the United States, upon a Loan made of the said bank, in pursuance of the eleventh section of the Act for incorporating the subscribers to the said Bank.
As the installment above alluded to has been due for some time, I have to request your authority to issue a Warrant for the payment thereof, agreeably to the provision of the Law. I have the honor to be &c.

Alex: HamiltonSecy of the Treasury


Title: To George Washington from Henry Knox, 12 March 1793
From: Knox, Henry
To: Washington, George

Sir
War department March 12th 1793

The request made by the Indians of having some of “the friends” called Quakers to attend the treaty at Sandusky seems to deserve consideration. I presume that some of those Citizens would chearfully accompany the Commissioners, provided their expenses were borne, and perhaps a small compensation made for their time.
It might also conduce considerably to the success of the treaty were Mr John Heckewelder to accompany the Commissioners.

This amiable and intelligent Man is a teacher of the sect called Moravians, and for several Years resided with the Indians belonging to that sect of the Wyandot and Delaware Tribes, who inhabited the Waters of Muskingum he well understanding their language—The influence he will have with the said Tribes may be expected to be very considerable. He accompanied General Putnam who speaks highly in praise of his virtues and knowledge of Indian customs—While employed on this business, independent of his expences he has been allowed two and an half dollars ⅌ day as a compensation for his services.
I have thought it my duty to suggest this subject to your consideration, in order that I might learn and execute your directions thereon. I have the honor to be with the highest Respect Your most obedient servant

H. Knoxsecy of War


Title: To George Washington from the Marquise de Lafayette, 12 March 1793
From: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Chavanire near Brionde in the Departmt of the Upper Loire12th Ma[r]ch 1793

The Gazetts have announced to me that you are a second time chosen President of the U.S. and this good news a little revives my courage, which the silence of your nation put to a new & severe test.

For these six months that M. lafayette has been in the chains of the enemy, after the unheard of proscription which he experienced from his country, from which he was obliged to fly to prevent it from committing a crime, I have scarcely heard a word of any demonstrations of interest on the part of any americans.
I had the honor to write to you, Sir, on the 1st of Octr 1792, when I was myself detained a Captive in France, by order of the Committee which governed the faction, who, after commanding me to Paris about the time of the Massacres, granted, nevertheless, to the administration of the department where I dwelt, permission to guard me themselves, under the responsibility of the municipality of my village. It was from thence I had the consolation of writing to you; I dared not sign my letter, nor even write it with my own hand. A young English farmer (M. Désson) who had passed some time with us in our retreat—took charge of it, to address a copy of it to you, and to certify it. Has this letter reached you? Was it necessary to excite your interest? I cannot beleive it! But I confess to you, Sir, that your silence—and the abandonment of M. L. ft. & his family is perhaps of all our evils the most inexplicable to me. I hope it will not continue forever, and if I am ever to see his face again & to be reunited to him—the hope of accomplishing it still rests upon your goodness—and upon that of the U.S.
The public papers will have informed you that M. L. fte was transported from Wesel to Magdebourg about the latter part of december, with his unfortunate companions—since which they say he has been transferred to Spandau. These movements have given me better hopes—but nothing has confirmed them.
As to myself I am no longer a Captive to the municipality of my Village—the particular orders with respect to guarding me have been revoked; but I am bound by laws of a more tyrannic & severe Kind—One prevents emigration from the French territories—others pronounce confiscation, and give to that law a retroactive effect, which makes them the Creditors of all the debts, contracted since the 9th feby 1792 by those who have emigrated since that period & who shall emigrate hereafter (The 7 lines following this—T.L. cannot read correctly; but the purport of them seems to be, that she finds herself very much circumscribed in her circumstances in consequence of the fore mentioned laws).
But I can do nothing for him (M. Lafte) I can neither receive

a line from nor convey one to him; Such is the manner in which I am treated; but I shall take no step unworthy of him whom I love, nor of the cause of liberty to wh. he would have been faithful had not his fellow Citizens given proofs of their unworthy manner of defending it—unworthy, at least for a long time, of being served by virtuous men.
Be assured, Sir, that in the actual state of Europe & during the continuance of the war every thing is to be feared for M. Lafte. I shall add no more at present, but to repeat my confidence in M. Washington, in whom my whole hope is founded. I dare in offerg my homage of high esteem due to his Character & Virtues, yet promise that I shall preserve for him that of a tender respect with which I have the honor to be Sir, Your most humble & most Obedt Servt

Noailles lafayette


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Brooks, 13 March 1793
From: Brooks, Samuel
To: Washington, George

Sir
Philada March 13th 1793

Embolden’d by the fame of Your excelency’s complacent disposition, I have presum’d (tho a poor Widow’s son) to adress You with the utmost Respect, Yet without restraint.
The business upon which I have taken this liberty is, to beg that You may permit me to present a specimen of my abilities in Die sinking, which if found to contain suficient merit, and that my character with other requisites are Judg’d suitable to the office of engraver in the Mint; that You would be pleas’d to give my Aplication for it, a favorabl concideration. I have the honor to be with all dutifull respect Your most Obedient Humble Servant

Saml Brooks.


Title: To George Washington from the Commissioners for the District of Columbia, 13 March 1793
From: Commissioners for the District of Columbia
To: Washington, George

Sir
George Town 13th March 1793

This day has been Cheifly spent in writing letter to Major Ellicott. those and his as well as his hand bill we enclose you—We are vexed and tired by an Intercourse so triffling—It may be proper to inform you, that when we were at Prouts House last night with Major Ellicott, he offered us the Platt of the Territory telling us he had received it from you, with Orders to make additions, we refused to receive it telling him we wished him to execute any Orderes he had from you—We have nearly arranged the Surveying Business with Checks, and expect on trial it will produce dispatch—We are Very respectfully your most obdt hble Servts

Th. Johnson
Dd Stuart
Danl Carroll


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Jefferson, 13 March 1793
From: Washington, George
To: Jefferson, Thomas

Dear Sir,
Philadelphia 13th Mar. 1793

The returned draught of a letter to Mr Gouvr Morris accords with my sentiments. Taking it for granted, that the words “We suppose this will rather overpay the instalments & interest due on the loans of 18.6 & 10 Millions”—means all that could be demanded by the French Government to the close of last year. This being the idea I have entertained of the payments, & engagements to pay.
If it has not been done in a former letter, it would be very agreeable to me, that Mr Morris should be instructed to neglect no favorable opportunity of expressing informally the sentiments & wishes of this Country respecting M. de la Fayette. And I pray you to commit to paper—in answer to the enclosed letter from Madame de la Fayette to me—all the consolation I can with propriety give her consistent with my public character & the National policy; circumstanced as things are. My last, & only letter to her is herewith sent, that you may see what has been written heretofore. I am—always Yours

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Jefferson, 13 March 1793
From: Jefferson, Thomas
To: Washington, George

[Philadelphia] Mar. 13. 93.

Th: Jefferson has the honor to inclose to the President draughts of the instruments which he suggested as proper to be given formally to each tribe of Indians whose circumstances may call for such a manifestation of our views with respect to them. the first is a Letter of protection of the ordinary tenor, except that it declares a protection of the lands as well as the persons & other property, & would be signed by the President under the great seal. the second contains extracts from the late law of the U.S. and contains 1. those paragraphs which would shew to the Indians that our laws will punish injuries done them as if done to ourselves. 2. those paragraphs which may answer the purpose of directing those on the spot, when any injury is committed, how & where they are to proceed. if the furnishing such papers should be approved, it will be best to have them printed, on parchment, with the seal, and put into tin cases, so as to give them marks of solemnity which may strike those to whom they are given, or to whom they shall be shewn.


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Pinckney, 13 March 1793
From: Pinckney, Thomas
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
London 13 March 1793

M. de Noailles who is the bearer of this requires no introduction to you, his situation & services during the late War you witnessed, & are well acquainted with the subsequent events which have placed him in his present predicament. You will find him warmly participating in the anxiety we all feel for the welfare of our friend M. de la Fayette—on this subject I have only to say that I have done whatever I thought consistant with propriety in an unauthorized, unofficial manner to alleviate his misfortune; and that I shall esteem myself peculiarly happy if I can be instrumental in testifying the gratitude of my country to one who has rendered it such eminent services, in any way that may be deemed expedient. With sincere affection & true respect I remain Dear Sir Your faithful & obedient Servt

Thomas Pinckney.


Title: From George Washington to William Rawle, 13 March 1793
From: Washington, George
To: Rawle, William

[Philadelphia, 13 March 1793]

Whereas it appears to me, from the representation of several respectable persons, and from sundry affidavits, that William Kerr and Alexander Beer, who were lately indicted in the circuit-court of the United States, holden in the town of York, in the state of Pennsylvania, for a riot, were innocent of the offence, with which they stand charged; and they may be exposed to great trouble and expence in defending themselves, unless the indictment be discontinued: I have therefore thought fit, to instruct,

and I do hereby instruct you, forthwith to enter a nolle prosequi on the indictment aforesaid: and for so doing let this be filed, as your warrant. Given under my hand this 13t[h] day of March in the year of our lord 1793.

G. W——n


Title: To George Washington from Henry Knox, 14 March 1793
From: Knox, Henry
To: Washington, George

Sir,
War department March 14th 1793

I submit to your consideration a letter received from an Indian by the name of David Fowler who resides at Brotherton, near Oneida, who is at present in this City with his Son. This man has been introduced to me by Colonel Pickering and his request for the support of a School seems to deserve a favorable consideration. I beg leave therefore to submit the idea that fifty dollars ⅌ Year be allowed for the support of the said School provided the Agent for the Indian department in that quarter should be of opinion that it would conduce to the general object of the United States, the information and Civilization of the Indians.
And that a present be made to the said David Fowler and his Son of Thirty dollars to enable them to return home. I am Sir with respect Your humble servant

H. Knoxsecy of War


Title: From George Washington to James Wilkinson, 14 March 1793
From: Washington, George
To: Wilkinson, James

(private)
Sir,Phila. March 14th 1793
I had the pleasure to receive your polite letter of the 1st of Novr by the hands of Capt. Prior—and shortly after the two Kegs of fish therein mentioned came safe to hand. They were truly a novelty here—and if the Western Waters abound with such fine fish as these appear to be, it may be considered as no small addition to the many favours which nature has lavished upon that desireable Country.

This token of regard & attention is entitled to, and must receive the best thanks & acknowledgements of Sir Your most Obedt Servt.


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Jefferson, 15 March 1793
From: Jefferson, Thomas
To: Washington, George

[Philadelphia] Mar. 15. 1793.

Th: Jefferson with his respects to the President, sends him the draught of a letter to Madame de la Fayette, as also the draught of a letter to mister Morris. if this be approved, he proposes to write a like one to mister Pinckney.


Title: From George Washington to William Moultrie, 15 March 1793
From: Washington, George
To: Moultrie, William

(Private)
Dr Sir,Philada March 15th 1793
I was exceedingly pleased to learn from your letter of the 15th ultimo, that a spirit of improvemt in military knowledge was rapidly

taking place among the Militia of your State—and I should be happy to give a mark of my approbation of so laudable an emulation, by complying with your Excellency’s request, if it could be done with propriety. But applications of a similar nature having been heretofore made and refused, and it being thought proper to avoid complying with them, from a persuasion of the necessity of keeping the Artillery of the U.S. as much together as circumstances would permit, and from knowg that if the request was granted in one instance it could not be denied in any—I am therefore under the necessity of declining to comply with the wish of Your Excellency for the loan of some brass field pieces from the Arsenal of the U.S. for the use of the Voluntier Companies of Artilly in Charlest.—and I am persuaded you will see that my conduct in this respect is unavoidably the result of my duty to the public. I am Sir with very great regard Yr Excellency’s most Obed. Servt


Title: From George Washington to John Sinclair, 15 March 1793
From: Washington, George
To: Sinclair, John

Sir,
Philadelphia March 15th 1793

I hope you will have the goodness to excuse the delay which has taken place in transmitting Answers to your queries respecting the Sheep of this Country—agreeably to the promise I made you in a letter which I had the honor of writing to you the 20th of October last. The Session of Congress which commenced the 5th of Nov. and did not close until the 3d of this month, is offered as the principal cause of the delay.
The Paper herewith enclosed is from one of the most intelligent Gentlemen farmers of this State (Pennsylvania) living not more than five miles from the City. His details respecting the Sheep of this State will apply without much variation to those of other States in the Union—In the extremes, however, of which they are, I think, more indifferent—and in Virginia & Maryland best of all both for Wool & mutton; & easiest raised on acct of the temperature of the climate.

On my own Farms, near the head Of the tide water of Potomac (which River divides the States of Virga & Maryland) I keep more Sheep than is usual in this Country (from Six hundred to a thousand head) and whilst I resided thereon and could attend to the management of them myself their fleeces averaged full 5 lbs.; & the Mutton from 18 to 22 lbs. a quarter. But this was the effect of care, and of the choice of good Rams from the English breed wch we now & then get over notwithstanding yr prohibitary Laws, or Customs. Mr Arthur Young with whom I have been in the habit of Corrisponding for 8 or 10 years on Agricultural Subjects and matters relative thereto requested a lock of Wool from my Sheep which was accordingly sent in an entire fleece of average weight & quality; on which I received the Observations which are contained in the enclosed extract from his letter.
In looking over the Pamphlet which you were so obliging as to send me, entitled “an Analysis of the political State of Scotland,” which is a specimen of the useful information to be expected from your researches, I cannot but express myself highly pleased with the undertaking, and give my best wishes for its success: for I am fully persuaded, that when enlightened men will take the trouble to examine so minutely into the state of society as your enquiries seem to go, it must result in greatly ameliorating the condition of the people—promoting the interests of civil society—and the happiness of Mankind at large. These are objects truly worthy the attention of a great mind—and every friend to the human race must readily lend his aid towards their accomplishment.


Title: To George Washington from Rodolph Vall-travers, 15–29 March 1793
From: Vall-travers, Rodolph (Rodolf)
To: Washington, George

Rotterdam, Netherlands, 1[5–29] Mar. 1793. Vall-travers wrote that this letter is being sent by the Hope commanded by James Miller, “of and to Philadelphia . . . with Captn Benson Forster, Lieutt in your Navÿ & Chevr de Limoges, as Passengers, & Bearers of mÿ Letters.”
He reported that because of the recent expansion of the war in Europe “a general Embargo on all Ships within these united States has been laid, & continues ever since the 22d of Febry. Not less, than eight Ships of N. American Construction & Property, commanded by, & manned with Citizens of the united american Free states, having been likewise detained, against the eighth Article of the Treaty of Amity & commercial Intercourse, concluded between the two Sister Republiks . . . and there being, at this Moment no legal Representatif of Your united States resident in this Republic, (on Account of the temporary Call of Mr Short to the Court of Spain; & Mr Dumas, your good old Agent, unfortunately obnoxious to this Government, as a Natif of, & strongly attached to France, having never been accepted & acknowledged as such;) no Remonstrance could take Place, with due Energy, in the Name of Your Commonwealth, against this public Infraction of your reciprocal Engagement, nor an immediate Redress & Satisfaction obtained, otherwise than bÿ a dilatory, formal, & expensive Application for Justice, by & in the Name of your Several Captains concerned, impeded in their respective Callings, and injured by their Detension.”
Vall-travers reviewed his efforts to obtain the release of the American captains and their ships, including an audience with “Mr Fagel, the Secretary of State, at the Hague . . . [who] was pleased, to advise the American Captains: ‘to apply to a constituted Procurator, or Attorny general, to give, in their Name & Behalf, a Petition, in the Dutch Language, on stamped Paper, in the usual Form, with his Signature, addressed

to their Highmightinesses, the Lords of the general united free belgic States.’ ” Val-travers then drew up the required petition, “in English,” had it signed by all the captains, and “delivered it to Mr Van Son, the appointed public Attorney of the general united States.”
He wrote that “the final supreme Order for the American Captains free Departure was obstructed by the amiralty’s evasive Construction of the clear Words of the Treaty. To clear these up, I repaired again to the Hague, attended by Captain Benson Forster of Baltimore, as Deputy of his Brother-Captains, the 13th instant; where, after a personal Interview & Consultation with Mr Van Son, we obtained, thro’ his Recommendation a very amicable private Audience, from His Exccy Mr van der Spiegel, the Grand-Pensionary (High-Chancellor) of these 7. united States.” As a result, “Mr Van Son has delivered to me, in Consequence, under his Signature, & in due Form, with Duplicates to each Captain, the inclosed Leave, of the 14th instant, as soon as assented to & found adviseable bÿ the Boards of amiralty, to Sail when they please, when favored by Wind & Weather; but, without, as ÿet, removing the Embargo.”
A short postscript dated 29 Mar. reads, “Last Night I recd by an Express, Sent me by Mr Van Son, the Information, of their H. M. having resolved, to take off the Embargo from all foreign Vessels; after a Detention of 35. Daÿs.”


Title: From George Washington to Nicholas Van Staphorst, 15 March 1793
From: Washington, George
To: Van Staphorst, Nicholas

Sir,
Philada March 15t[h] 1793

By the Brig Betsey, I have the pleasure to transmit to you triplicates of my letters of the 30th & 31st of January, and the third Exchange for 2310 Guilders. and am, Sir, with due consideration Yr most Obedt Ser.


Title: From George Washington to William Washington, 15 March 1793
From: Washington, George
To: Washington, William

Dear Sir,
Philadelphia 15th March 1793.

As it is possible the Letter, of which the enclosed is a copy, may have met with some mis-chance, I send a duplicate thereof.
My Nephew (as I expected & intimated in my last letter to you) died about the first of February. With great regard, & best respects to your Lady, in which Mrs Washington joins me, I remain, Your Affecte humble Servant

George Washington.


Title: From George Washington to the Marquise de Lafayette, 16 March 1793
From: Washington, George
To: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de

Dear Madam
Phila. March 16th 1793.

I addressed a few lines to you on the 31st of January, in a state of entire uncertainty in what country or condition they might find you, as we had been sometimes told you were in England, sometimes in Holland, & at sometimes in France. your letter of Octob. 8. 1792. first relieved me from doubt, & gave me a hope that, being in France, & on your own estate, you are not as destitute, as I had feared, of the resources which that could furnish. but I have still to sympathize with you on the deprivation of the dearest of all your resources of happiness, in comparison with which, others vanish. I do it in all the sincerity of my friendship for him, and with ardent desires for his relief: in which sentiments I know that my fellow-citizens participate. the measures you were pleased to intimate in your letter are perhaps not exactly those which I could pursue, perhaps indeed not the most likely, under actual circumstances, to obtain our object. but be assured that I am not inattentive to his condition, nor contenting my self with inactive wishes for his liberation. my affection to his nation & to himself are unabated, & notwithstanding the line of separation which has been unfortunately drawn between

them, I am confident that both have been led on by a pure love of liberty & a desire to secure public happiness: and I shall deem that among the most consoling moments of my life which should see them reunited in the end, as they were in the beginning, of their virtuous enterprize. accept I pray you the same lively sentiments of interest and attachment to yourself & your dear Children, from, dear Madam, Your most Obedt & devoted Servt

G. W.


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Jefferson, 17 March 1793
From: Jefferson, Thomas
To: Washington, George

[Philadelphia] Mar. 17. 1793.

Th: Jefferson with his respectful compliments to the President returns him Colo. Humphrey’s letter & those from George town. the last are indeed disagreeable: yet there does not seem any room for the President’s interposition. should Dr Stewart and mister Johnson persist in their idea of retiring, it seems really desireable that they should do it separately, leaving such an interval between the two resignations as that the public mind may receive no unfavorable impression.