Title: From George Washington to Charles Hall, 22 February 1797
From: Washington, George
To: Hall, Charles

                            To Wm Wilson, John Macpherson, Thos Strawbridge, Daniel Smith, and Charles Hall, Esquires.Gentlemen,
                            United States 22d Feby 1797

                        I have received with much pleasure the address which you transmitted to me on
                            behalf of a respectable meeting of the citizens of Northumberland County.
                        In retiring from public to private life, my highest gratification will be, to
                            carry with me testimonies of the approbation of my conduct by my fellow citizens; & the
                            unequivocal manner in which you have manifested this approbation, deserves my particular
                            thanks. As my constant exertions have been intended for the advancement of the peace &
                            prosperity of my country, nothing can deprive me of the consolation which the reflection
                            affords of having served my country faithfully & to the best of my abilities.
                        I request you, gentlemen, to present to the Citizens of Northumberland my
                            grateful acknowledgments for the favorable opinion they are pleased to entertain of me; &
                            to assure them of my hearty reciprocation of the domestic ease & happiness which they wish
                            me in my intended retirement.

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Mifflin, 22 February 1797
From: Washington, George
To: Mifflin, Thomas

                            Gentlemen,
                            United States 22d Feb. ‘97.

                        Your congratulations, & the expression of your attachment & approbation of
                            my public services, are received with gratitude & reciprocated with sincerity.
                        Endeared to me by every consideration of public & private worth, I shall
                            carry into that retirement, which you are pleased to mention in terms so flattering, an
                            invariable affection & esteem towards the faithful comrades of my military career; & my
                            best prayers will be offered for their present and future happiness.

                            G. W.


Title: From George Washington to James Irvine, 22 February 1797
From: Washington, George
To: Irvine, James

                            Gentlemen,
                            Philadelphia c.22 February 1797

                        I receive, as I ought, with great sensibility, the congratulations on this day
                            of so respectable a body as the officers of the Militia of the City & County of Philada.
                        Your favorable sentiments of my exertions to promote the prosperity and
                            happiness of our Country, cannot but be pleasing to me; for be assured the approving voice
                            of my Country men is the most grateful reward which can be offered.
                        The patriotism, uprightness and abilities of him who is to succeed to the
                            station I now have the honor to hold, will leave you no room to regret my retirement.
                        For your affectionate farewell, & supplications for my future peace & happiness accept, gentlemen, my warmest thanks: and I sincerely pray that you may collectively
                            & individually enjoy uninterrupted honor, prosperity & felicity.

                            Go. W.


Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 22 February 1797
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Feby 22. 1797.

                        I beg leave to inform you, that Major Allen McLane whose merit and fidelity as
                            a military officer are so well known, & who is now marshal of Delaware State, an
                            office of more burden than profit, is desirous of succeeding Mr Stockton in the loan office,
                            in case the latter should be appointed Collector at Wilmington. Major McLane understands
                            that his name is on the list of candidates for the Collectors Office: but he frankly owns Mr
                            Stockton’s superior fitness.
                        I intended to have waited on you to mention it: but have not been able to leave
                            my office. I am most respectfully sir your obt servt

                            T. Pickering


Title: To George Washington from Matthias Slough, 22 February 1797
From: Slough, Matthias
To: Washington, George

                        My Dear & most Honoured Sir

                            Lancaster 22d February 1797

                        Your Highly & most Esteemed favour of the 18th Currant Duely reached me
                            by the last evenings Post and in reply I have the Honour to mention to your Excellency
                            George Root who will have the Honour of handing this is the man from whom I purchased the
                            two bay mares of which I had the Honour of giving you a full discription in my letter in
                            reply to your Original request and which my hope is will prove Sattisfactory, and as the man
                            has to take a boy to Lead them, I wishing not to have either of them rode I send the Gelding
                            which I mentioned in my last That you may View and Try him in Harness, as I think he nearly
                            comes up to the discription you have done me the Honour to give of the Kind of horse you Wish
                            to have, Should he however not please, It will as I had the Honour to mention to you in my
                            last Be no disapointment to me, because the man who takes down the Mares will ride him back
                            and I now make Imediate use of him here, If I have the Proper Idea of the discription you
                            give of the Gelding you wish for Nothing but his legs being Probably too thick will be in
                            the Way of which your Excellency will Judge and determine accordingly, I beg leave further
                            to mention to your Excellency That the Inhabitants of this Town are Extreamly anxious to
                            Know If they will have the Honour of Seeing your Excellency Pass through this Town it on
                            your way to Mount Vernon, and Numbers have been with me to make Inquiry, To which I could
                            make no other reply Than that my hope is that the Turnpike road will Probably be an
                            inducement to their having that Honour, I therefore Omit Transmitting an account of my
                            Transactions in your Excellencys behalf untill I have the Honour of being informd, and Know
                            if the Gelding I send will please or not Imediately after which should we not have the
                            Honour of Seeing you here I will Transmit the account, As I hope for the Honour of addressing
                            your Excellency again before your departure from this State Permit me Sir onely to add That
                            this being the Anniversary of your Exalted Birth which will be Cellebrated by all good men
                            In which those of Lancaster will have a Distinguished Share, That my most fervant prayers
                            are and will Continue to be That your Excellency will yet See many returns of it That your
                            Enemys altho few may sinck into oblivian, That the Evening of your days may be Tranquil and
                            happy, and That you Will do me the Honour of believing That I am & ever will remain
                            Your Excellencys most obediant and most Humble Servant

                            Matthias Slough


Title: From George Washington to John Armstrong, 23 February 1797
From: Washington, George
To: Armstrong, John

                            Sir,
                            Philadelphia, Feb. 23d 1797

                        Believing that there may be times and occasions, on which my opinions of the
                            anonymous letters and their author, as delivered to the army in 1783, may be turned to some
                            personal and malignant purpose. I do hereby declare, that I did not, at the time of writing
                            my address, regard you as the author of the said letters; and farther, that I have since had
                            sufficient reason for believing, that the object of the author was just, honorable,
                            & friendly to the country, though the means suggested by him were certainly liable
                            to much misunderstanding and abuse. I am, Sir, with great regard, your most obt sert

                            Geo. Washington


Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 23 February 1797
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Washington, George

                             Feby 23. 1797.

                        The Secretary of State has the honor to lay before the President of the United
                            States three letters this day received from Mr J.Q. Adams. The note in French inclosed in
                            his No. 88. is directed to the Committee for foreign affairs, to inform them that he was
                            authorized to confer & prepare arrangements for ameliorations of the commercial
                            treaty between the two republics, and desired to be informed what ameliorations they
                            contemplated. This direction to Mr Adams being the consequence of overtures made to the
                            Government of the U.S. by Mr Van Polanen.
                        The Secretary also lays before the President the letter recd from Colo.
                            Humphreys the 21st inst.

                            T. Pickering


Title: From George Washington to Theodore Sedgwick, 24 February 1797
From: Washington, George
To: Sedgwick, Theodore,Goodhue, Benjamin

                            Gentlemen,

                                24 February 1797

                        The sentiments expressed in the address you have delivered to me from the
                            Senate and House of Representatives of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, sentiments as
                            honorable to them as to me, have excited the most grateful emotions. Whatever services I
                            have rendered to my country, in its general approbation I have received an ample reward.
                            Having nothing in view but to vindicate its rights, secure its liberty, and promote its
                            happiness, I might expect the most efficient aid and support in the exertions of able and
                            upright men, and in the general spirit of my fellow citizens. All this I have experienced;
                            and our united efforts have resulted in our independence, peace and prosperity. And I
                            entertain the pleasing hope, that the intelligence and superior information of my fellow
                            citizens, enabling them to discern their true interests, will lead them to the successive
                            choice of wise and virtuous men to watch over, protect and promote them, who while they
                            pursue those maxims of moderation, equity and prudence, which will entitle our country to
                            perpetual peace, will cultivate that fortitude and dignity of sentiment which are essential
                            to the maintainance of our liberty and independence.

                        Should it please God, according to the prayers of your constituents, to grant
                            me health & long life, my greatest enjoyment will be to behold the prosperity of my
                            country; and the affection and attachment of my fellow citizens, through the whole period of
                            my public employments, will be the subject of my most agreeable recollections: while the
                            belief, which the affecting sentiments of the people of Massachusetts, expressed by their
                            Senate and House of Representatives with those of my fellow citizens in general, have
                            inspired, that I have been the happy instrument of much good to my country and to mankind,
                            will be a source of unceasing gratitude to Heaven.


Title: To George Washington from Richard Bassett, 25 February 1797
From: Bassett, Richard
To: Washington, George

                            Sir.
                            New Castle Feb. 25th 1797

                        At the request of the Marshall of the Delaware State Mr Allen McLane, I take the
                            Liberty to inform you, that I think him an Active good Officer, and that in my Opinion he is
                            well Qualified, to execute the Office of Collector of the Port of Wilmington in the state of
                            Delaware, and in case the Appointment should be Conferred on him, Apprehend he will
                            discharge the duties thereof to the entire Satisfaction of the Government.
                        I have lamented the Situation I have been placed in by Official Ingagements,
                            which has prevented me from paying my respects to you And Mrs Washington before you retire,
                            and leave the Seat of Government, and have only to Console myself with the hopes at some
                            future Period, of having the pleasure of waiting on you at your Seat at Mount Vernon, where
                            it is my Most Ardent prayer I may see you, in the full enjoyment of ease, health and
                            Happiness. My best wishes to Mrs Washington. I am Sir with the greatest Respect yr Obedt
                            Humbl. Servt

                            Richard Bassett


Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 25 February 1797
From: McHenry, James
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            War Office, February 25. 1797

                        The following facts and results are respectfully suggested for consideration.
                        1. The military establishment is deficient in its
                            complement of men. Besides,
                        2d There are 806 Soldiers whose times of service will
                            expire in the course of the year 1797 and who must be replaced by inlistments.
                        3. The two Companies of Dragoons consist of One hundred
                            and twenty six non commissioned Officers and privates.
                        4. Of these dragoons the period of inlistment of Ten
                            only will expire during the present Year.
                        5. Agreeably to the contract of inlistment and existing
                            law, these dragoons when not wanted as such, are obliged to serve as foot.
                        6. According to the Bill entitled "A Bill to alter and
                            amend an Act intituled ‘An Act to ascertain and fix the military establishment of the United
                            States’" the Men composing these two companies will be out of service or discharged the
                            moment it shall pass into a law.
                        7. By thus discharging them, the United States will lose
                            their services for the residue of their terms of inlistment and two thousand and sixteen
                            dollars the amount of the bounty which it will require to inlist an equal number of men.
                        8. It is not provided in the Bill that they shall
                            receive pay after the time assigned for their discharge; of course, as it may be two months
                            before they can receive orders to disband, they must be deprived of pay for the period
                            between the passing of the law and their discharge unless Congress shall authorize it by a
                            future act.
                        These facts would appear to indicate the propriety of a revision of the Bill
                            for the purpose at least of altering it so, as to enable the President to incorporate the
                            dragoons with the Infantry on the dismission of their Officers and that the United States
                            may not be deprived of the time they have yet to serve.
                        But there are other facts deserving of attention.
                        The frontier of Georgia bordering on the Creeks, requires for its protection in
                            times of peace two or three Companies of cavalry or mounted militia: at least such has been
                            the opinion of successive Governors of that State and such the pressure of information upon
                            the Executive as have obliged it to authorize this species of defence. See the annexed
                            letters from Governors of Georgia of the dates 19. February—April 1. and August 5. 1794.
                            January 30. April 16. and August 15 1795. March 14 and 23 September 1796 and extract of a
                            letter from the late Major General Wayne dated the 29 August 1796.
                        The expence of the militia horse which have been authorized and employed on the
                            Georgia Indian frontier from June 1794 to September 1796. averages forty seven thousand six
                            hundred and fifty two dollars per annum, a sum exceeding the cost of two companies of
                            dragoons for the same period of time.
                        The expence of a troop of Militia horse as will appear by the annexed estimate,
                            is twenty three thousand and fifty five dollars per Annum, that of a company of Dragoons on
                            the establishment twenty two thousand two hundred and twelve dollars.
                        Should the two Companies of Dragoons answer the same purposes as the Militia
                            horse heretofore employed (and there can be no doubt but that they will answer an infinitely
                            better) there would be a saving to the United States of three thousand two hundred and twenty
                            eight dollars ⅌ annum, by substituting them in their place.
                        The Creeks commit thefts on the frontier settlers, or make their predatory
                            irruptions on horseback, consequently cannot be pursued to advantage by other than horsemen,
                            or their approach announced to the Inhabitants or garrisons speedily as by horsemen.
                        The troops in Garrisons or forts may overawe the Creek nation generally, and
                            thus preserve a kind of peace; but the intervals between posts in that comparatively open
                            Country can be guarded from their banditti by horsemen only.
                        Exclusive of these permanent occasions for horse, there are particular reasons
                            why they should not be disbanded at this juncture.
                        The Commissioners who are to run the boundary lines between the United States
                            and the Creek, Cherokee and Chickasaw Nations cannot proceed without an escort of horse. A
                            Company of Dragoons now serving on the frontiers of Georgia have in consequence been ordered
                            upon that duty. If these are to be disbanded, that work must be dropt or suspended till
                            Militia Cavalry can be substituted.
                        But the dragoons are necessary on another account. Some parts of the frontiers
                            of Georgia and Tennessee are in a very irritable state, and the number of Intruders on
                            Indian land daily increasing for want of a proper force to prevent it. The intruders on the
                            Cherokee lands alone are estimated at five hundred families. Militia horsemen drawn from the
                            frontiers are not the best adopted to obviate further intrusions, or concur efficaciously in
                            operations to dissipate present settlements.
                        Whether any or all of these considerations are of sufficient weight to render
                            it proper to return the Bill for revision is respectfully submitted.
                        Should it be returned the annexed form of a Message has been prepared for
                            deliberation.

                            James McHenry


Title: From George Washington to Rufus Putnam, 25 February 1797
From: Washington, George
To: Putnam, Rufus

                            Philadelphia 25th Feby 1797

                        The printed notification (enclosed) gives a general description of the lands
                            held by the subscriber on the Rivers Ohio & Kanhawa. For one more in detail, it is
                            presumed the purchaser would choose to rely more on his own investigation, or on the report
                            of an Agent, than on that of the Seller, and therefore it will not be attempted.
                        The price has been rising, and at present is eight dollars pr acre, (which has
                            been refused for one of the advertised tracts on the Ohio river, not better, it is presumed,
                            in quality). The terms of payment are made known in the printed Paper herewith.

                            Go: Washington

                            A Plat of the contemplated tract is enclosed.


Title: To George Washington from Enos Hitchcock, 25 February 1797
From: Hitchcock, Enos,Olney, Jeremiah
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            Providence February 25th 1797.

                        In looking forward to the period which is intended to terminate the career of
                            your public life, our feelings will not permit us to suspend the deep acknowledgments of
                            that debt of gratitude, which is your due from a Country to whose Independance and Happiness
                            you have so essentially contributed. The interesting scene of your intended retirement
                            revives in the minds of our fellow Citizens in general the many proofs of eminent wisdom and
                            unshaken patriotism displayed in the field, the glory of which can be eclipsed only by the
                            innumerable evidences of your firm, enlightened and uniform attachment to republican and
                            constitutional principles displayed in your political transactions.
                        While testimonies of respectful affection and grateful attachment are arising
                            to you from every part of the union, a similar attention from a Society of Citizens who “have
                            laid down in peace Arms assumed for public defence," cannot be unacceptable on this
                            occasion.
                        By this address we do not think of adding any thing to the lustre of a
                            Character composed of an assemblage of the most eminent public and private virtues, A
                            Character which like bodies highly polished, may attract, but as readily eludes the
                            envenomed shafts of envy; and which the virtuous can only admire.
                        We do but attempt to express the honest feelings of every member of the Society,
                            in whose behalf we address you, when we say that we extremely regret the occasion of a
                            retirement dictated by reasons which must silence every objection to the measure. In that
                            retirement may you meet all that tranquility and happiness you so ardently desire, and
                            enjoy all the blessings of private and domestic life; There may you still live to receive
                            the rich harvest of your labors and services in the peace and prosperity of your Country, in
                            the fervent affection of your fellow Citizens, the applauses of an admiring World, and the
                            higher Pleasures of an approving conscience. May your lengthening days still extend your
                            usefulness and your setting Sun shine with undiminished lustre till a reward more than Man
                            can give shall be yours.
                        Impressed with these sentiments, and actuated by the pleasing sensibility of
                            personal affection and gratitude, Respected Sir, we bid you Adieu.

                            CommitteeEnos Hitchcock
                            Jereh Olney
                            Jno. S. Dexter
                            William Allen
                            Ephraim Bowen Junr
                            Thomas Smart
                            Danl S. Dexter
                            Saml Snow


Title: From George Washington to Landon Carter, 27 February 1797
From: Washington, George
To: Carter, Landon

                            Sir
                            Philadelphia 27th Feb. 1797

                        Your favor of the 14th instt came duly to hand; and I hope, as the season is
                            approaching fast when the ground should be prepared for it, that you have informed Mr James
                            Anderson (my Manager) in a letter directed to the care of the Postmaster in Alexandria, at
                            what time he may send for the Peas you were so obliging as to promise me.
                        Having informed Mr Anderson of my expectation of Peas from you, he suggested
                            (and I thought it a good expedient) that instead of sending my own Waggon along the heavy
                            road between Mount Vernon & Stafford Court House, that one should be hired by you to
                            transport them to some landg on the Potomack; at which my Boat at an appointed time, might
                            meet them. As the roads, I am told, were never worse than at present; and as no road in the
                            world can be deeper, or more distressing for horses to plunge through than one from Occoquan
                            to Stafford Court house; the expedient beforementioned has, in a manner, become essential:
                            and I will cheerfully add the cost of Waggonage to the price of the Peas, and pay the whole
                            to your order; or remit it in Bank notes as soon as the amount is made known to me.

                        As delay, or uncertainty in any respect, may prove injurious, I have put this
                            letter (open) under cover to Mr Anderson, with a request that he may also write to you on
                            the Subject, for the purpose of having a time & place fixed, that my Boat may not be
                            disappointed when it arrives. The matter therefore now rests between you, & him.
                            With great esteem I am—Sir Your Obedient Hble Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to George Washington Parke Custis, 27 February 1797
From: Washington, George
To: Custis, George Washington Parke

                            Dear Washington,
                            Philadelphia 27th Feby 1797

                        Your letter of the 22d inst., as also one of the first, have been duly
                            received. The affectionate sentiments contained in them, are highly pleasing to me. But that
                            which affords a still higher gratification, is to hear that you are not only attentive to
                            your studies, but pleased with them also. Hence, I draw the most agreeable presages, that
                            you will reward my cares & anxieties to see you a polished scholar, & a
                            useful member of society, by persevering with assiduity & steadiness in the course
                            you are now in. It will be the source, through life, from whence your most pleasing
                            & happy reflexions will flow; and when the results are compared with the conduct of the
                            idle, & dissipated youth, of whom too many examples are to be seen, they will afford
                            you abundant cause for heart felt rejoicings.
                        I am unacquainted with the design, or tendency of the Whig Society, of which you
                            say you have become a member; of course I can express no opinion thereon; but as youth
                            always require the experience of age, my advice to you is to enter into no Societiy while
                            you are at college that is not sanctioned by the Professors; and in a particular manner by
                            the President thereof; whom I would wish you to consider always
                            in the light of a friend, as well as a Preceptor.

                        I have confidence that your expences will always be reasonable, &
                            proper; & when that is the case, they will never be disputed. The amount of Doctr
                            Smiths account is, or immediately will be paid to his order; and as you will want the means
                            of transporting yourself to Mt Vernon during the vacation, get that Gentleman to form an
                            estimate of them, that the money may be sent to you before I leave this City. Your Grand
                            Mamma will be attentive to the articles you left here.
                        As the Curtain of my Political life is about to drop, I am, as you may suppose,
                            a good deal hurried in the closing scenes of it;  if no other evidences of it could be given,
                            the hurry with which this letter is written, & the many interlineations which are to
                            be found therein, would ascertain the fact. As early in next week as I can possibly prepare
                            for it, my journey for Mount Vernon will commence: Where we shall expect to see you
                            immediately after the Vacation, that you may remain with your friends there as long as the
                            time allowed for it, will permit. Your Grand Mamma, Sister & the rest of the family
                            are all well—so are Mr Law & Mr Lear, both of whom are now in this City. I wish you
                            a continuance of health and am Very affectionately Yours always

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Gustavus Scott, 27 February 1797
From: Scott, Gustavus,Thornton, William
To: Washington, George

                            SirWashington, 27th February 1797

                        Your favor of the 20th would have been sooner attended to, but the mails have lately come in, very irregularly, & always late at night. Mr Davidson’s will be taken up as soon as we have a full board which will be the last of this or beginning of next week—what Mr Davidson alludes to in his memorial, where he says, deviations have been made since the publication of the engraved plan, we know not—That plan required the doing of many acts to carry it into effect; such as the laying out & bounding a water-Street, on the waters which surround the City, Playing out Squares, where vacant spaces, in-appropriated, were left, in several parts of the City—Acts of this kind, have no doubt, from time to time, been done, & with the full consent of all interested—we enclose a copy of a Letter, lately received from Messrs Willink; it holds out no very encouraging prospects—There is at present, no intention of engaging any additional Stone-carvers—What was done by Mr Hadfield, was at the request of the board, but on further investigation, before the receipt of your Letter, it had been determined to engage no additional carvers—We have the honor to be, & c.

                            G. ScottW. Thornton


Title: To George Washington from Alexander Howard, 27 February 1797
From: Howard, Alexander
To: Washington, George

                            Please your Excellency
                            New York prison Feby 27th 1797

                        I in behalf of a Numbers of prisoners at present Confined in the Goal of this
                            City who have at Different Courts within a year past Received Sentence of Confinement for
                            Life to hard Labour and Solitude the Charges or Indictments are all one or two Excepted that
                            of Forgery, Numbers for that of Uttering Bank Paper which was said to be
                            Counterfeit and I believe from the Conversation I have had with them as fellow prisoners
                            that some know not whether the sd Notes were Counterfeits or not. A hard Case that in a free
                            Country Innocence should Suffer, but the Arbitrary power which Invests the Breasts of some
                            of the Officers in this State is unequalled in any Government an Instance has Come to public
                            enquiry in the Case of Richard Varick Mayor of this City, whereas he has been the
                            instigation of unlawful punishment and publicly Arraigned for the Same, the prayer of us all
                            is as we are Young men who with the Assistance of God will become good members of Society,
                            if liberated from this Cruel Confinement, and as your Excellencys presidency will soon be
                            resigned to the great Grief of many, that you will think proper to remember us unfortunate
                            Sufferers as many of us bled in the late war wherein We laboured for freedom.
                        A proclamation or other Order for our liberty would never be forgot with the
                            Ardent prayers of many. I remn yr Excellency most Obt humble and Devoted Servant, but
                            unfortunate Sufferer

                            Alexander Howard In behalf
                            of 17 Convicts
                            for Life to hard
                            Labour and Solitude, with
                            many others for a stipulated
                            time


Title: From George Washington to Allan McLane, 27 February 1797
From: Washington, George
To: McLane, Allan

                            Dr Sir
                            Philadelphia Feby 27th 1797

                        I have the pleasure to inform you are Appointed with the Advice of the Senate
                            of the United States Collector of the Customs for the District of Delaware.
                        I have Selected you from a Conviction that you will fill the Important Office
                            with Honour to yourself and Advantage to your Country. And Sincerely wish you may find it
                            your Intrest to Abandon your Other pursuites for the Support of your familly,
                        Wilmington will be your place of Residence Setled by Law. which I apprehend you
                            will find a more healthy Situation than you have resided Since the peace. I am your Most Obt
                            Sert

                            Geo. Washington


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Hodgdon, 27 February 1797
From: Hodgdon, Samuel
To: Washington, George

                                27 February 1797

                        Whilst, at the approach of your official separation from the Government of the
                            United States, you are greeted from every part of the Union, with the most ardent
                            expressions of gratitude and regret, permit the Common Council of Philadelphia, to join
                            their tribute, to the general voice. From your long residence among us, we feel a peculiar
                            interest in your happiness, and a peculiar pride in your character. Whether we view your
                            private deportment as a citizen, or pursue the splendid track of your public career, we
                            still find you the same object of admiration, the same example of virtue. At the close of
                            the arduous struggle, which established the independence of America, and gave her a
                            distinguished rank among nations, we have beheld you superior to the temptations of ambition,
                            and the allurements of power, descending from the high rank to which you had been appointed,
                            and retiring to a private life, from the view of an admiring world—What language can we find
                            sufficiently expressive of the applause due to your disinterested patriotic conduct? Your
                            retirement, tho’ happy to yourself, and sincerely sought, was not impenetrable to the voice
                            of your country. Private happiness and repose was once more to be sacrificed to public
                            service, and you obeyed the unanimous voice that called you to the administration of the
                            government of United America—Here we have seen you unshaken amidst the tempests of
                            contending parties—overawing the venality of corruption with stern integrity, and
                            repulsing the bold attempts of faction with determined firmness. We are gratified in
                            embracing opportunity of avowing in the most explicit terms our entire approbation of your
                            happy, wise and patriotic administration. We cannot then anticipate the loss of such talents,
                            and such worth, with common emotions of regret. Yet while we share and feel the general loss, we
                            must acknowledge you have given enough of your life to your country. May you in retirement
                            be as happy as our wishes would have you and your virtues deserve. You will be taken from
                            our eyes, but can never be withdrawn from our hearts. Even when the hand of death shall
                            impress upon you the great seal of mortality, you shall not become the prey of
                            forgetfulness, while the voice of History is just, and gratitude known among the virtues of
                            America.

                            Samuel Hodgdon
                            President of the Common Council


Title: From George Washington to Samuel Hodgdon, 27 February 1797
From: Washington, George
To: Hodgdon, Samuel

                            Gentlemen

                                c.27 February 1797

                        I have recd your affectionate Address with that pleasure & satisfaction
                            wch has always accompanied the expression of approbation of my conduct in public life, by
                            my fellow Citizens.
                        For your kind wishes offered for my welfare & happiness, receive my most
                            grateful acknowledgements; & I pray you to be assured that I feel a deep interest in
                            the happiness & prosperity of those, among whom I have resided so many years, &
                            from whom I have received every attention that could render my situation agreeable. In my
                            retirement from public life, I shall not cease to implore for you, from the Supreme Ruler of
                            the Universe, a continuance of those blessings which may render you permanently happy.


Title: To George Washington from Francis Gurney, 27 February 1797
From: Gurney, Francis
To: Washington, George

                                27 February 1797

                        The Select Council of the City of Philadelphia, deeply impressed with gratitude
                            for the distinguished Services you have rendered your Country, beg leave to express their
                            entire approbation of your Administration, their regret at your retirement from the station of
                            Chief Magistrate, and their wishes for your future happiness.
                        We cannot describe the emotions which a review of your public and private Life
                            excite in the breasts of your fellow Citizens—We therefore forbear the attempt—May the
                            great example it has furnished be imitated, and may the excellent advice you have lately
                            imparted be observed; under their influence the first wish of your heart will be
                            accomplished and these United States long continue a free, enlightened and happy nation.

                            Frans Gurney President


Title: From George Washington to Francis Gurney, 27 February 1797
From: Washington, George
To: Gurney, Francis

                            Gentlemen,

                                c.27 February 1797

                        Your approbation of my public Conduct & wishes for my future happiness have
                            excited in my mind emotions of pleasure and Gratitude.
                        Should my example in public or private life, or any sentiments which I have
                            imparted, tend to the happiness or prosperity of my fellow-Citizens, I shall feel amply
                            rewarded for the time which I have devoted to their service. As it has ever been the first
                            wish of my heart, so will it ever be my earnest prayer & constant hope to see the United
                            States continue a free, enlightened and happy Nation.

                            Go: W.


Title: From George Washington to Matthias Slough, 27 February 1797
From: Washington, George
To: Slough, Matthias

                            Dear Sir
                            Philadelphia 27th Feb. 1797.

                        Your letter of the 22d instt was delivered to me yesterday morning by Mr Root,
                            who also delivered the Mares & horse. The latter being too clumsy about the head
                            & legs to suit my Carriage horses, and too high in price for a common plough horse,
                            I return him, since, as you say, no inconvenience will attend it. I must now, as I expect to
                            leave this in ten days, depend upon purchasing a horse or Mare in this City or
                            Neighbourhood. You will please therefore to take the price of the Mares, and whatever
                            incidental expenses have been incurred in getting them and the horse here, out of the Six
                            hundred Dollars sent you. I have paid Mr Root nothing, as you did not mention, in your
                            letter, on what terms he was to bring them down, whatever you do in this case will be
                            satisfactory to me.
                        I am very sensible of the polite attentions of the Inhabitants of Lancaster, as
                            expressed by you; but as I am anxious to get home, and should have almost as far to it from
                            that Borough as from hence, and the Road after quitting the Turnpike very little better, I
                            shall pursue the most direct & usual rout to obtain the end. For the good wishes you
                            have expressed for me, on the anniversary of my birth, I pray you to accept the best thanks
                            of Dear Sir Your Obedt Hble Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from William Barton, 28 February 1797
From: Barton, William
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            Arch-Street, No. 223 Feb. 28. 1797.

                        The near approach of the period of your leaving this city, suggests the
                            propriety of my making a request, previous to Your departure, which I hope You will find no
                            difficulty in granting—It is, Sir, that You will do me the favor of directing Your
                                Secretary to return to me sundry Testimonials in my behalf, which I
                            deposited in your hands, soon after the Commencement of the Government. With a sincere wish
                            for Your Happiness, I have the honor to be, Sir, Yr mo. obedt sevet

                            W. Barton


Title: From George Washington to George Clinton, 28 February 1797
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, George

                            My dear Sir,
                            Philadelphia 28th Feb. 1797.

                        Your favour of the 14th instt with a Postscript of the 24th came to my hands
                            yesterday: and I hereby acknowledge the receipt of Mr Wilkes’s draught on the Cashier of the
                            Bank of Pennsylvania for the sum of two thousand five hundred dollars on account of our
                            joint concern in the lotts in Coxburgh—and which, as appears by the items of an account
                            enclosed overpays my dividend of the receipts £26.0.1—1/2 York Currency.
                        Whenever it shall suit your convenience I would thank you for informing me what
                            lotts remain unsold, and at what price you think it probable they will sell, &
                            when—No injury, I am persuaded, has been sustained hitherto, but the contrary by delay in
                            the Sale; but whether a further postponement will be advantageous, or not, your means
                            (greater than mine) will enable you to decide.
                        Future payments may be made by draughts on the Bank of Alexandria or Columbia;
                            in Post notes; or (which is less desirable because more hazardous) in Bank notes of the
                            United States by the Mail.

                        I have been constant in my enquiries after your health and with sincere
                            pleasure heard, latterly, that it was well restored. As early in next week as I can make
                            arrangements for it, my journey for Mount Vernon will commence—Twenty miles from which I
                            think it is not likely I shall ever be again. But if business, inclination, or any other
                            cause should ever induce you to visit that hemisphere, I can assure you with much truth,
                            that I shall be extremely happy to see you under the shade of vine & figtree, Mrs
                            Washington unites cordially with me in every good wish for you, Mrs Clinton &
                            family—and with sincere esteem and affectionate regard I am—My dear Sir Your Obedient
                            Servant

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Cornplanter, 28 February 1797
From: Cornplanter
To: Washington, George

                            Father:
                            Washington Philadelphia 28th Feby 97

                        I thank the great spirit for protecting us through the Various paths which we
                            have trod since I was last at this place—As I am told you are about to retire from public
                            business, I have come to pay my last address to you as the great Chief of the fifteen fires,
                            and am happy to find that I have arriv’d here in time to address you once more as Father, and
                            to advise with you on the business of our Nation. you have always told us that the land
                            which we live upon is our own; and that we may make such use of it as we think most
                            conducive to our own comfort and the happiness of prosperity.
                        “Father: I wish whilst I am able to do business to provide for the rising
                            generation—Our Forefathers thought that their posterity would pursue their tracks, and
                            support themselves by their hunts, as they did, in the extensive Forrests given them by the
                            Great Spirit, and by them transmitted to us. But the great revolution amongst the White
                            people in this Country has extended it’s influence to the people of my Colour: turn our
                            faces which way we will, we find the white people cultivating the ground which our
                            forefathers hunted over, and the forrests which furnish’d them with plenty now afford but a
                                Scarcely subsistance for us, and our Young men are not safe in
                            pursuing it—If a few Years have made such a change, what will be the Situation of our
                            Children when those Calamities increase?

                        “Father To those points I wish to draw your attention, and once more to have
                            your candid and friendly Advice, on what will be best for the present race, and how we can
                            best provide for posterity. Your people have a different mode of living from our’s; they have
                            Trades, and they have education which inables them to take different pursuits—by which means
                            they maintain themselves, provide for their Children, and help each other.
                        “Father I am also told that your people have a strong place for their mony where
                            it’s not only safe, but that it produces them each and every  year an increase without
                            lessening the Stock, If we Should dispose of part of our Country and put our mony with
                            Yours in that Strong place, will it be safe? Will it yield to our Children the Same
                            advantages after our heads are laid down as it will at present produce to us? Will it be out
                            of the reach of our foolish young men so that they cannot drink it up to the prejudice of
                            our Children?
                        “Father: You know that some of our people are too fond of Strong drink and I am
                            Sorry to observe that your people are too Apt to lay that temptation before them.

                        “Father: the last time I was here I mentioned to you that my mind was uneasy in
                            regard to Mr Oliver Phelps’s purchase, to which you desir’d me to make my mind easy and said
                            that you woud enquire into the business—On my return I met Mr Phelps at  when he promis’d to give me a piece of Land and to build me a
                            House, and give me Some Cattle. With this I was satisfied till I saw him again some time
                            after, when he, to my surprise had almost forgot it—but when I put him in mind of it he gave
                            me a Horse & two Cattle but refus’d the House and Land because Land had raised so
                            much in Value.
                        “Father: To one thing more I wish your Attention: When I was returning home the
                            last time I was here, I was plunder’d by some of your unruly people, of Several things,
                            amongst which was a paper given me by Genl Parsons, entitling me to one mile Square of Land
                            at Muskingum, which I have never been able to recover, and without your friendly Assistance
                            must loose the Land.
                        “Father: I congratulate you on your intended repose from the
                            Fatigues and anxiety of mind which are constantly attendants in high public Stations—and
                            hope that the same good Spirit which has So long guided Your Stips as a father to a great
                            Nation, wish Still continue to protect you, and make your private reflections as pleasant to
                            yourself, as your public measures have been useful to your people.


Title: From George Washington to James McHenry, 28 February 1797
From: Washington, George
To: McHenry, James

                            Dear Sir
                            Tuesday Morning 28th Feb. 1797

                        Let me entreat you to attend early this morning to a fit character as a Comr
                            to attend the proposed Treaty with the Indians, by Mr Morris; and on this head, and on the
                            message proper to accompany the nomination, I wish you would advise with Colo. Pickering;
                            who has had more to do in Indian Affairs than any other Officer now in the Government, and
                            perhaps may more readily think of a proper person to be entrusted.
                        As it is several days since the application was made, I wish to make the
                            nomination without further delay. If a Gentleman from New Jersey, Delaware, or Maryland
                            could be obtained—it wd be desirable; or from Connecticut; and I believe Mr Learned is in
                            Town—So is Mr Dexter both good characters—Something must also be done with the Military
                            Bill, this day. Yours always

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to United States House of Representatives, 28 February 1797
From: Washington, George
To: United States House of Representatives

                        Gentlemen of the House of
                                Representatives United States 28th February 1797.

                        Having maturely considered the Bill to alter and amend an Act intitled an Act
                            to ascertain and fix the military establishment of the United States which was presented to
                            me on the twenty second day of this Month I now return it to the House of Representatives,
                            in which it originated with my objections.
                        First. If the Bill passes into a law the two Companies of light dragoons will
                            be from that moment legally out of service, though they will afterwards continue actually
                            in service, and for their services during this interval, namely from the time of legal to
                            the time of actual discharge, it will not be lawful to pay them, unless some future
                            provision be made by law. Though they may be discharged at the pleasure of Congress, in
                            justice they ought to receive their pay not only to the time of passing the law, but at
                            least to the time of their actual discharge.
                        Secondly. It will be inconvenient and injurious to the public to dismiss the
                            light Dragoons as soon as notice of the law can be conveyed to them; one of the Companies
                            having been lately destined to a necessary and important service.

                        Thirdly. The Companies of Light Dragoons consist of one hundred and twenty six
                            non commissioned Officers and privates, who are bound to serve as dismounted Dragoons, when
                            ordered so to do; they have received in bounties about two thousand dollars; one of them is
                            completely equipped, and above half of the non commissioned Officers and privates have yet
                            to serve more than one third the term of their inlistment; and besides there will in the
                            course of the year be a considerable deficiency in the complement of infantry intended to be
                            continued. Under these circumstances, to discharge the Dragoons does not seem to comport
                            with œconomy.
                        Fourthly. It is generally agreed that some Cavalry either Militia or regular
                            will be necessary and according to the best information I have been able to obtain, it is my
                            opinion, that the latter will be less expensive and more useful than the former, in
                            preserving peace between the frontier settlers, and the Indians and therefore a part of the
                            Military establishment should consist of Cavalry.

                            Go: Washington


Title: Inventory of Goods in President’s House, February 1797
From: Washington, George
To:

                                February 1797

                        Articles in the Green drawing Room which will be sold.cost 1ALustre of 8 lights perfect, & in no
                            respect injd by use£76130 53Green silk Window Curtains rock flower sattin  Drapery &ca7800102Brackets & oval Mirrors highly Ornamented19 61Sopha of Green floured damask with two  Chushions30712Arm Chairs      Do       Do770086Small Do        Do       Do24096DoDo  added Do       Do241592Round Stools    Do       Do552Carved & gilt flower for lustre153Two Tassels for   do154Chain for Do & gilding11311Carpet9280

                        Articles in the above Room which may be purchased although the sale of them is not desired

                        12 large looking glasses very cheap at what they cost exactly such from enquiry I cannot get for    less then 300 dollars}92002 la. brackets & oval Mirrors highly Ornamented}191pr of Lustres two lights each}20004 Mirrors & Pictures suspended to them for Lamps 70/}14002pair Patent Lamps for Ditto pr Jos Anthony’s acct 100 Drs371002 Landscapes—1 Representing a view of the Passage    of the Potok thro’ the blew mountain, at the
    confluence of that River with the Shanh the
    other at the F. City—cost me with the frames
    30 Guineas}52100

                        Household furnitureFurnished by the U: States                    Purchased by G.W.
        PlatePlate2Punch Urns£143.4.68Skewers£16.3.82Bread Baskets47.18.52Waiters110.5.72 Setts 5 glass Casters24.0.01Tea Tray 84 oz.
                                18 In.}118.6.64pair Salts—blueglass19.4.01dodo 86 oz. 18 In.1 do do4.10.02Bottle rollers99.10.3 polished Mustard spoons.17.06Table Spoons}F.
                            Wn8.6.62 Fish knives10.10.06TeaDo  4 Tureen Ladles16.19.91Ditto Pot }Virginia33.7.93Pair butter ladles9.1Slop bowl 4dozn Table Spoons58.9.72Bottle labels1.10.04 dozn desert Do33.7.12 Bottle stands12.16.02beaded punch Servrs6.12.08Labels5.8.01 Tea pot20.7.02 Sugar cups26.10.82Cream pots21.8.02 Spoons for do1.8.02pr Tea tongs2.14.04 dozn Tea Spoons17.18.12 Flower pots25.0.03 pair Mounted Snuffers6.0.0

                        PublicPrivatePlated-WarePlated-Ware1 Oval silver frame£15.0.07Plateaux—G. Morris,1 large Oval Waiter7.9.4cost in Fr: 378 Livres1Do round Do6.18.42Addl ones 108 Do2Small Do5.4la. Wine coolers2 Do Do6.0.0Sterling cost £96.0.02Do Do4.0.08Small do for Two} 84. 0.01 Bread basket8.0.bottles ea.2fluted dish crosses16.16.14Tureens Argds} 36.15.2Tankards11.0.Patt Lamps 52/62pint do6.6.8   Plated lamps}4.10.02pair gilt Tumblers9.12.0Jos. Cooke2Do Do7.4.02pr Do Do J.os. }100 Dollrs37.10.04Do Do4.8.0Anthony2 Bottle stands5.6.01pr Do Do6022.10.04 doz. Salt Spoons2.8.01 pair do Do12.4 Do la: Candlesticks22.8.02 Oval top branches13.4.02 Spangle top Do12.10.02plain Do11.0.2Small Do8.0.03 pr flat candlestks8.5.03 Snuffer Stands3.14.02 pr Snuffers1 Coffee Urn—with a heater8.10.01 Do Do—without7.5.1 Tea Urn16.16.01 large Tea pot8.1 Tea Cady5.1 Do Shell .5.

                        PublicPrivateJapan-WareJapan-Ware2Tea Trays 3.2.03la. Oval Waiters }14.8.02  Plate warmers 5.8.0 with landscapesIndia Tea Tray 4.10.02Small Do Do6.8.06Do Do Do3.2.2Do Do Do1.12.01Do.10.2Do.16.1Do.4.

                        PublicPrivateLooking-GlassesLooking-glasses1la: and elegant£29.0.01pair Ct de Moutier£92.0.01pr do Do53.14.1  la. elegant-glass29.1pr do Oval do36.1Japan dressg Do8.1pr Sqr. do28.15.1Toilet do do McElwee7.15.1Square do10.2dressing do8.5.1Chimney glass12.1Do Do 3.1Toilet Do4.1Do Do2.5. Dressing boxes5.12.1Do Do1.14.1Glass2.0.Alooking glass plate1.10.2Do Do4.8.

                        PublicPrivateKnives & ForksKnives & Forks4pr Carvers Silvr mountd3.4.0From M: Roberts 91
                                Dollrs6dble dozn Table K. & F.30.0.01 Carving
                                Knife 0.18.03dozn Ivory Dest do9.12.0Desert Do & Fks
                                3.14.81Doz. do Silvr 2.16.0Michl Roberts41.10.62best carving K. & F.18.04 dozn Knives
                                & Fks 1.10.02dozn Table do do1.6.03 Do Do do1.4.0

                        PublicPrivateAndironsAndirons1pair from Barry & R.8.0.01pr ditto 1.3.1do brass globe Leaded J.B.8.0.01pr Kitchen do
                                20 dollars1do do grape vine8.0.01pr of Dogs 1.16.02do do Urn Leaded16.1Ditto for the Office1do do face Leaded8.1do do Engraved7.1do do R. Hunter6.15.1do do delivd Mr Franklin4.

                        PublicPrivateFendersFenders2Wire Ditto B. & R.3.12.02Brass Do
                                Barry & R. 8.6.02Brass Do Do9.12.01Ditto Do Do 2.4.02Ditto DoJ. Baily9.12.01 Wire Do Do 1.2.0

                        PublicPrivateShovels & TongsShovels & Tongs4pr Ditto & Do5.12.02pr Do Do2.4.01pr Ditto Do1.6.01Sett Shovls tongs & Poker}1.6.0for Kitchen1pr Shovls & Tongs for do1.0.0

                        PublicPrivateClockClock On the Stairs30.0On the ChimneyPublicPrivateUpholstryUpholstry1large & best bed Bolster}16.0.01 Mattrass Jno. B.3.15.& Pillows1Bed, Bolster
                                & Pillows14.0.04Ditto Ditto do £14 ea.56.0.0Crimson damask to}2Ditto Do do 8 ea.16.0.0enlarg Windw Curtains 4
                                 Ditto Do do 7.1030.18 Dollars3 Bed cases check2Yellow Moreen
                                window}1 large hair Mattrass11.10.Curtains 32.63 Dollars2 Ditto do20.Blue furniture for front}1Ditto do6.drawg Room1 Suit Chintz & green}31.18.615.40 DollarsCurtains complete Damask for Ditto 20
                                Dollarswith window Curtains1large Mattrass—Barteau1Suit Chintz Do with}18.9.0☞This went to Virginiawindow Curtns 2Awning for the Presidts
                                Study1 Suit for a field Bed7.15.01 Suit white dimoty &}3.16.2 window Curtains Crimson Sattin W. Curtns}large Dining Room2Blue damask window}Curtns small dining Room2 Yellow damask windowCurtains for the frontdrawg Room—Mentionedunder the article Cabinet4Venetian Windw blinds10.0.0

                        PublicPrivateCounterpainsCounterpains3Mersailles J. Cumgs24.0.01 elegant bed spread}14.0.Needlework1 Muslin Ditto3.4.02 best Counterpns a 62/6.4.03 Do Do 52/7.16.310/4 Cotton Do 45/6.15.

                        PublicPrivateRugs and Blankts.Rugs and
                            Blankets8 Green Rugs 42/16.16.029/4 green Rugs3.15.01 pr 10/4 Blankets3.4.02Do Do &}28.83 Dollrs6pr Do19.4.03pr of Blankets8 Ditto Do20.1pr 10/4 Blankets2.16.36Ditto Do16.10.2pr best 9/4 Rose4.5.1Ditto Do2.18.5 Blankets9.5.

                        PublicPrivateLustresLustres2 pair glass Barry & R.9.12.01eight
                                armed-McComb76.13.01 pair Do Do14.18.8cord & Tassel2.0.01pr Barry & Rogers20.1pr Gerandoles16.0.0

                        PublicPrivateGerandolesGerandoles
 2 pair Roosevelt9.10.01Do5.15.01Do4.15.01Do4.0.04 Do a 70/14.

                        PublicPrivateSconcesSconces
 1 pair2.8.02pair2.10.01Ditto14.2 pr dble branches6.0.0

                        PublicPrivateLampsLamps3 large & compt Barry14.8.12Oval Japan
                                lookg2 do tower Leaded8.0.glass sent by Govr2 Japan Staircase5.Morris 25/ Sterg each5 Common guilt3.15.3 Patent Lamps W.B. 5. 8.03 Copper2.5.2Lamps and glasses3.12.01 large5.0.5Ditto common2.5.2pr dble branches}6.query—What are these?

                        PublicPrivateCabinet WorkCabinet Work3 Yellow silk Sophas1Writing desk T.B. £98.13.42 Do do Windw Curtn1Table Mrs W. 3.10.A Sett la. dining Tables25.0.0Tables Thoms
                                Burlg 7.10.02 end Tables for do4.0.02Armed Chrs yellow}7.0.02 Mahogany ding Tables9.10.0drawing room 1Inlaid breakfast Do5.15.01Circular Chair7.0.01Plain Do do3.1Bedstead2.18.0 1 Do Do do 2.15.3Pine
                                dining Tables 1Inlaid Tea Table6.0.0Bought from the2Do Card do12.0.0Count de MoustierA  pair Dodo7.1Sopha fld green silk}30.0.02  Circular side boards38.0.0with 2 cushions 3
                                Toilet tables pine1.10.12arm Chairs Do77.0.010 Chairs covd with yellow6Small Do Do24.damask1Chair
                                & stool called}9.0.024 Mahogany Ditto42.0.0a Shepherdess12 Do Do21.Green silk windw Curtns78.0.010Do carved do21.1Writing desk Madm de}18.0.0 8 Do plain Do14.16.Brahms2  Do Do Arm Do5.10.1Dressg Table Ct de Mr 19.8Do Do13.4.AChair for a Model3.0.02  Do arm Do4.14.3Chimney boards4.0.0 6plain Do9.12.1la: Fire Skreen3. 1
                                Easy chair2.15.2fixed side boards9.10.0 1 Mahogany Cabinet13.0.02Presses for linnn12.0.01Ditto Bookcase21.0.01Cloaths press6.1  Ditto Cloaths Press21.0.03Ditto do at £412.1  Ditto Do Do21.0.02Do Do Small 1 large Do9.1Larder in Cellar9. 1do7.18.06Chairs and two Stools}32.11.0 1
                                Mahogany Bureau6.10.added to the Green 1 la: Mahogany Bedstead}8.10.0furniturecarvedSundries for Mrs Fanny 1do Do plain7.10.Washington49.18.0 1Do DoDo6.10.1Do DoDo6.10.1Do DoDo6.1Do low posts4. 3Sacking bottoms10.10.0 1
                                boarded Do 1.5.1  Mahy Wash stand4.10. 1DoDoDo4.10. 3
                                Do plain Do 32/4.10.2  Mahy cases for Kt &c.8.3Do Do9.12.0 4Do knife boxes2.0.01Night stool6.2.01Do Do2.2.01  Voidure1.10. 2large Coolers8.10.2  Sophas £12. 2 Ditto10.2la. Mahy Window blinds5.

                        PublicPrivateStovesStoves1Ditto from Mr Otto6.0.01Ditto10.0.01Ditto8.0.01Ditto & funnel7.0.01Plate Stove Mrs W.7.10.1Cast DoDo4.10.1Franklin Do for Office4.10.2Ditto fire places 9.01Douglass Franklin4.10.1Open Stove4.10.91Ship Stove4.0.2Stoves Coach Ho.4.0.06Tinn. Do Ding Room1.16.06

                        ☞Nothing herein has been said relatively to the Table Linnen, Sheeting,
                                China and Glass-ware which was furnished at the expence of the United States; because
                                they have been worn out, broken, stolen and replaced (at private expence) over &
                                over again.Nor has any account been taken of the Kitchen furniture, as that also,
                                except a few of the most durable articles, (which will be left) has been broke, burnt
                                out, & otherwise reduced as above—The Carpets also are entirely worn out. All
                                on the floors, at present, have been purchased on private account.

                        Prints purchased—and at what pricesSterlg cost  sold for35  32£0.0.£0.5.    3 Architecture & Ornaments 57 215.08.Nymphs bathing, & storm 58710.67.Fox hunting 7821.1.01.16.0Cupids Pastime24424.04.6Landscapes by Lambert249210.612.6Morning & Evening250210.612.6Sun-rising & Setting251 210.614.0The Cottage—& Herdsman252 210.614.0The Flight—& Young Herdsman253 28.8.0by Smith of Chichester273310.614.6Country Girl—Diana—&ca274410.614.6Venus attired—Judgmt of Paris &ca43421.10.02.18.0Death of Wolf—Penns treaty—Framed3252  1. 1.01. 10.0 Whale fisheries334 215.01.12.0Paul Jones—& Capn Farmer33742.   2.0 2.11.0 Defence of Gibralter343215.01.10.0Storm with thunder & Lightning345215.01.10.Moon light & Storm35522.   2.0 1.18.0 Hobinas Village—Gainsboroughs forest367412.02.2.0Gentlemens Seats368216.61.1.0Hunting piece—Portraits of Dogs375 2 1.10. 2. 0.0 Diana decd by Venus—Adonis carrd of by ditto393315.18.Cupid stung—Britania—Clytie416 4 1. 1. 2. 0.0 Design—Compsn—Inventn—Colouring4552  2. 2. 2.14.0Alfred—Ditto dividing the loaf 27Watts6.6.5.5.0Sett—Wattss views—bound 30 Paintg10.619.Painters Assistt—half bound 21 2Framed8.0.0Musical Sheperdess—Dancg Shepherds 222Do9.Landscapes—Morning & Evening 242Do   9.15.0Views of the Po—Constantines
                                Arch64.13.9

                        Size of the Impression2749 1/4by7In.2749 1/47In.274 Judgment of Paris7 1/210}In colour 274 Venus attired7 1/210392 Britania9 3/49273 Country girl12 1/29 1/4273 Girl and dog1011273 Diana & Nymphs1011392Clytie1210392 Cupid Stung1210 57Storm1519 57 Nymphs1519249 Morning1519249 Evening1519250 Sunrising1519250 Sunsetting1519251 Cottage1519251The Herdsman1519252Young Herdsman1519252 The flight1519 78 Cupids Pastime14 1/216 1/2 78 Ditto Ditto14 1/216 1/2253Landscape16 1/220253 Ditto16 1/220244Ditto19 1/216 1/2244Ditto19 1/216 1/2455Alfred1924455Ditto—dividing the loaf1924368 Hunting piece1924368 Portraits of Dogs19 3/424367 4 Viewseach1825375Adonis carried off by Venus1927375 Diana deceived by Venus1927355 Hobima’s Village21 1/227355Gainsboroughs Forest21 1/227334 Paul Jones19 1/2by24334 Captn Farmer19 1/224325Whale fisheries Greenland1727325 Ditto Ditto Davis’s Streights
                                1727343 Thunder storm1927343Storm with lightning1927346 Moonlight1927346Storm after a Pictr of Vanderhagens1927337 Defence of Gibralter2027337 Ditto Ditto2027337 Ditto Ditto2027337 Ditto Ditto202721Musical Sheperdess1924}in Frame 21Dancing Shepherd1924 22Landscape Morning1924 22 Ditto Evening1924 24 View of the River Po192424  DoConstantines Arch19 24

                        Size Within the impressionNoheightbreadth274 }9 1/4by7}2749 1/47274 Judgment of Paris7 1/210274 Venus attired7 1/210273Country Girl12 1/29 1/4392 Britania9 3/49273Girl & dog1011273Diana & Nymphs1011392Clytie1210392 Cupid stung1210249Morning1519249Evening1519250 Sunrising1519250Sunsetting1519251 Cottage1519251The Herdsman1519252Young Herdsman1519252 The flight1519 57 Storm1519 57Nymphs bathing151978  Cupids Pastime14 1/2 16 1/278  Ditto Do14 1/216 1/2253 Landscape16 3/820253 Ditto16 3/820244 Ditto19 1/216 1/2244Ditto19 1/216 1/2334 Paul Jones2419 1/2334Captn Farmer2419 1/2455Alfred2419455 Ditto dividing the loaf2419368 Hunting piece2419368 Portrait Dogs2419 3/4367 4 Viewseach2518325 Greenland Whale fisheries2717325Do Do Davis’s Streights375Adonis carrd off by Venus2719375 Diana deceived by Venus2719343 Thunder Storm19by27343Storm with lightning1927346Moon light1927346Storm after a Picture of Vanderhagen1927337 4 Defence of Gibraltereach2027355 Hobima’s Village21 1/227355Gainsborough’s Forest21 1/227


Title: To George Washington from Paul Joseph Guérard [de] Nancrède, February 1797
From: Nancrède, Paul Joseph Guérard [de]
To: Washington, George

                        TO GEORGE WASHINGTON PRESIDENT of the UNITED STATES.Sir,
                            Boston, February, 1797.

                        The EDITOR of the STUDIES OF NATURE, indulges the idea that in dedicating to you the AMERICAN Edition of a work, so much esteemed, he does not take a disrespectful or unwelcome license. As a member of the human family, he finds a superior gratification, in testifying his respect for a character, equally known and revered among mankind. As an AMERICAN CITIZEN, he feels a sweet satisfaction in paying the tribute of gratitude and veneration, in his power, to the MAN, whom his country delights to honour and to bless, as having eminently contributed to establish her independence, by his military command; to insure her peace and prosperity, by his civil administration; and to enhance her glory, by his public and private virtues. But however congenial it is with his sentiments and feelings, he considers it unauthorised by propriety, for him to address to you declarations of this nature, but as he appears in the character of Editor of a work, which he wishes to obtain, and conceives to deserve, your favorable acceptance. The belief that the general intention and execution, if not all the peculiar sentiments of the STUDIES OF NATURE will coincide with your views, encourages him to offer them to your attention. Such a belief is the natural consequence of his opinion that the work is calculated to interest the Philosopher, by presenting ingenious and useful speculation......the Philanthropist, by exciting “A WARMER INTEREST IN FAVOUR OF SUFFERING HUMANITY”........the Friend of Religion and Morals, by illustrating the being and providence of DEITY.....and the Lover of Nature, by displaying the harmony and proportion, the beauty and utility that mark her productions.

                            JOSEPH NANCREDE.


Title: To George Washington from George Ball, 1 March 1797
From: Ball, George
To: Washington, George

                            Dr Sr
                            Fredericksburg March 1st 1797

                        I receiv’d your favour this day in answer to mine wrote in January last—from
                            its not having arrived sooner (owing to mine being dated from Lancaster) I wrote you one
                            other some time in Febuary, which I suppose before this you have received—The terms which
                            you mention I think would suit me, and I shall make it my endeavour to be at your Seat
                            (mount Vernon) by the twentieth of march—or at any rate by the last of that month untill
                            which time I hope you will consider (as I shall consider and be influenced by it in my
                            affairs) the contract as Obligatory. Sir I am with respect Your Humble st

                            Geo: Ball


Title: From Bartholomew Dandridge to William Barton, 1 March 1797
From: Dandridge, Bartholomew
To: Barton, William

                            sir,
                            Philada March 1st 1797.

                        By direction of the President of the U.S. & in conformity to the
                            request in your letter of yesterday to the President, I now return to you sundry
                            testimonials and letters in your behalf, which have from time to time been presented to the
                            President. I am Sir, Yr Obt Servt

                            B.D.


Title: From George Washington to United States Senate, 1 March 1797
From: Washington, George
To: United States Senate

                            United States March 1st 1797

                        The President of the United States to  Senator for the State of .
                        It appearing to me proper that the Senate of the United States should be
                            convened on Saturday the fourth day of March instant; You are desired to attend in the
                            Chamber of the Senate on that day at eleven OClock in the forenoon to receive any
                            communications which the President of the United States may then have to lay before You,
                            touching their interests.

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Batavian Republic National Assembly, 2 March 1797
From: Washington, George
To: Batavian Republic National Assembly

                        Great and good Friends,
                             2 March 1797
                        To maintain the friendship and harmony so happily subsisting between our
                            Republics, I have appointed William Vans Murray, one of our distinguished citizens to be
                            Minister Resident of the United States of America, near you. From my confidence in virtues
                            and talents I assure myself that he will embrace every occasion to fulfil those very
                            interesting objects of his mission. I beseech you, therefore, to give entire credence to
                            whatever he shall say to you on the part of the United States; and particularly when he
                            shall represent to you the sincerity of our friendship, and our wishes for your prosperity
                            and I pray God to have you, Great and good friends, in his holy keeping. Written at
                            Philadelphia the second day of March 1797.

                            Go: Washington
                            By the President of the United States of Am.
                            Timothy Pickering
                            Secretary of State


Title: From George Washington to John Mackall Gantt, 2 March 1797
From: Washington, George
To: Gantt, John Mackall,Beall, Thomas

To Thomas Beall of George & John M. Gantt
                                2 March 1797

                        You are hereby requested to convey all the streets in the City of Washington as
                            they are laid out and delineated in the plan of the said City hereto annexed; and also the
                            several squares, parcels and Lots of ground following to wit.

                        First—The public appropriation beginning at the intersection of the South side
                            of North H street and at the west side of a street of ninety feet in width drawn parallel to
                            the west side of square numbered two hundred and twenty one, and running due south with the
                            west side of said street until it intersects the south side of an East and West street drawn
                            parrallel to the south front of said square numbered two hundred and twenty one being ninety
                            feet wide; then East with the south side of said street until it intersects the west side of
                            fifteenth street west; then south with the west side of fifteenth street west until it
                            intersects the north side of Canal street, thence westerly with the north side of Canal
                            street until it intersects the East side of seventeenth street west, thence north with the
                            East side of seventeenth street west until it intersects the south side of an East and west
                            street of ninety feet wide from the south side of square numbered One hundred and sixty
                            seven, thence East with the south side of said street until it intersects the East side of a
                            north and south street of ninety feet wide from the East side of square numbered One hundred
                            and sixty seven aforesaid thence north with the East side of said street until it intersects
                            the south side of north H Street, thence East with the South side of said Street to the
                            Beginning.

                        Second—The public appropriation beginning at the intersection of the north side
                            of an East and west street of ninety feet wide from the north front of square numbered six
                            hundred and eighty eight and the west side of first street east, thence west along the north
                            side of said street until it intersects the west side of a north and south street drawn at
                            the distance of ninety feet from the west front of square numbered six hundred and eighty
                            eight, thence south with the west side of said street until it intersects the north side of
                            South B street; thence west with the north side of south B street until it intersects the
                            East side of first street west, thence north with the East side of first street west until
                            it intersects the north side of Maryland Avenue, thence south westerly with the north side
                            of Maryland Avenue until it intersects the north side of south B s, thence west with
                            the north side of south B Street until it intersects the East side of fifteenth street west,
                            thence north with the East side of fifteenth street west until it intersects the south side
                            of Canal street drawn at the distance of eighty feet on the south side of said Canal—thence
                            East with the South side of said street until it intersects the south side of Pennsylvania
                            Avenue, thence with the south side of Pennsylvania Avenue until it intersects the East side
                            of first street west, thence north with the East side of first street west until it
                            intersects the South side of north B street, thence East with the south side of north B
                            street until it intersects the west side of a north and south street of ninety feet wide
                            drawn parallel to the west front of square numbered six hundred and Eighty seven, thence
                            south with the west side of Said street until it intersects the south side of an East
                            & west street ninety feet wide from the South front of Square numbered Six hundred
                            and Eighty Seven, thence East with the south side of said street until it intersects the west
                            side of first street East, thence south with the west side of said street to the Beginning.
                        Third. The public Appropriation beginning at the intersection of the south side
                            of Canal street drawn on the south side of the Canal, and the west side of fifteenth street
                            west, thence south with the west side of fifteenth street west until it intersects the
                            Potomack river, thence north westerly until it intersects the Canal thence Easterly with the
                            Canal to the Beginning.
                        Fourth—The Public appropriation bounded on the north by the south side of North
                            E street, on the East by the west side of twenty third street west, On the West by the East
                            side of twenty fifth street west, and on the south by the Potomak river.
                        Fifth. The public Appropriation bounded on the north by south F street, On the
                            East by Canal street, on the south by the Eastern branch, or Annacostia river, and on the
                            west by the Potomak River.
                        Sixth. The public appropriation bounded on the north by North B street, on the
                            west by twenty first street west, On the East by twentieth street west, and on the South by
                            Potomak river.
                        Seventh. The public Appropriation beginning at the intersection of the north
                            side of Canal street, and the East side of ninth street west, thence north to the south side
                            of an Avenue drawn in front of square numbered three hundred and eighty two, thence north
                            Easterly with the south side of said Avenue until it intersects the south side of
                            Pennsylvania Avenue, thence with the south side of said Avenue until it intersects the west
                            side of seventh street west, thence with the west side of said street until intersects Canal
                            street, thence west with the north side of Canal street to the Beginning.

                        Eighth. The public Appropriation beginning at the intersection of the East side
                            of ninth street west, and the north side of an East and west street of One hundred feet wide
                            from the north fronts of squares numbered four hundred and six & four hundred
                            & thirty, thence north with the East side of said ninth street until it intersects
                            the south side of an East & west street of ninety feet wide from the south fronts of
                            squares numbered four hundred and five, and four hundred and twenty nine, thence East with
                            the south side of said street until it intersects the west side of seventh street west,
                            thence south with the west side of said seventh street until intersects the north side of
                            the East and west street first mentioned, thence west with the north side of said street to
                            the Beginning.
                        Ninth. The Appropriation Beginning at the intersection of the East side of
                            fifth street west, and the south side of North G street thence East with the south side of
                            said G street until it intersects the west side of fourth street west thence south with the west side of fourth street west until it intersects
                            the north side of an Avenue, thence westerly parallel with the north fronts of squares
                            numbered five hundred and thirty three, and four hundred and ninety until it intersects the
                            east side of fifth street west leaving the street equally wide, thence with the East side of
                            fifth street west to the beginning.
                        Tenth. The appropriation beginning at the intersection of the East side of four
                            and a half street west and south side of north C street, thence East with the south side of
                            said C street until it intersects the west side of third street west, thence south with the
                            west side of the said third street west until it intersects the north side of North B
                            street, thence west until it intersects the north side of Pennsylvania Avenue, thence with
                            the north side of said Avenue until it intersects the East side of four and a half street
                            west thence north with the East side of four and a half street west to the Beginning.

                        Eleventh. The Appropriation beginning at the intersection of the East side of
                            third street west, and south side of north C street thence East with the south side of said
                            C street until it intersects the west side of second street west thence south with the west
                            side of second street west until it intersects the north side of north B street thence west
                            with the north side of north B street until it intersects the East side of third street
                            west, thence north with the East side of said street to the Beginning.
                        Twelfth. The Appropriation bounded on the north by B street north, on the south
                            west by Pennsylvania Avenue, on the East by second street west and on the West by third
                            street west.
                        Thirteenth—The Appropriation bounded on the north by the south side of south B
                            street, On the west by the East side of nineteenth street East, on the south by the north
                            side of South G street, and on the East by the Eastern branch or Annakostia river.
                        Fourteenth—The Appropriation bounded on the west by the East side of seventh
                            street east, on the north west by the South side of Georgia Avenue, on the north by the South
                            side of M street south, On the East by the west side of ninth street East, and on the south
                            by the Eastern branch or Annakostia river.
                        Fifteenth. The public Appropriation bounded on the north by South K street, on
                            the south by South L. street, on the East by sixth street East, and on the west by fifth
                            street East.

                        Sixteenth—The public Appropriation bounded on the north by K street south, On
                            the South by L street south on the west by sixth street East, and on the East by an Alley of
                            sixty feet wide bounding square numbered Eight hundred and eighty One.

                        Seventeenth—The Appropriation beginning at the intersection of the west side of
                            first street East & the south side of south E street, thence south with the west
                            side of said first street East until it intersects the south side of an East and west street
                            one hundred feet in width from the south front of square numbered seven hundred and thirty
                            six—thence East with the south side of said street until it intersects the west side of
                            third street East, thence south with the west side of third street East until it intersects
                            the north side of an East and West street One hundred feet in width from the north front of
                            square numbered seven hundred and thirty seven, thence west with the north side of said
                            street until it intersects the west side of a north and south street ninety feet in width
                            from the west front of square numbered Seven hundred and thirty Seven, thence south with the
                            west side of said street until it intersects the north side of Canal street, thence with the
                            north side of said Canal street until it intersects the south side of south E street thence
                            East with the south side of said street to the beginning, as the same are also laid out and
                            delineated in the said plan to Gustavus Scott William Thornton and Alexander White
                            Commissioners appointed under the Act of Congress entitled "An Act for establishing the
                            temporary and permanent seat of the Government of the United States"—To Hold to the said
                            Gustavus Scott William Thornton and Alexander White and their successors in Office as
                            Commissioners aforesaid to the use of the United States forever
                            according to the tenor of the Act of Congress aforesaid—Given under my Hand and the Seal of
                            the United states this second day of March in the year One thousand seven hundred and ninety
                            seven.

                            signed Go. WashingtonBy the PresidentTimothy Pickeringsecretary of State


Title: From George Washington to Henry Knox, 2 March 1797
From: Washington, George
To: Knox, Henry

                            My dear Sir,
                            Philadelphia 2d March 1797

                        Amongst the last Aacts of my political life, and before I go hence into
                            retirement, profound, will be the acknowledgment of your kind and
                            affectionate letter from Boston—dated the 15th of January.
                        From the friendship I have always borne you—and from the interest I have ever
                            taken in whatever relates to your prosperity & happiness, I participated in the
                            sorrows which I knoew you must have felt for your late heavy losses. But it is not for man to
                            scan the wisdom of Providence. The best he can do, is to submit to its decrees. Reason, Religion & Philosophy teaches us to do this, but ’tis
                            time alone that can ameliorate the pangs of humanity, & soften its woes.

                        To the wearied traveller who sees a resting place, and is bending his body to
                            lean thereon, I now compare my self; but to be suffered to do this
                            in peace, is I perceive too much, to be endured by some. To
                            misrepresent my motives; to reprobate my politics; and to weaken the confidence which has
                            been reposed in my administration—are objects which cannot be relinquished by those who,
                            will be satisfied with nothing short of a change in our political System. The consolation
                            however, which results from conscious rectitude, and the approving voice of my
                            Country—unequivocally expressed by its Representatives—deprives their sting of its poison,
                            and places in the same point of view both the weakness, and malignity of their efforts.
                        Although the prospect of retirement is most grateful to my soul, and I have not
                            a wish to mix again in the great world, or to partake in its politics, yet, I am not without
                            my regrets at parting with (perhaps never more to meet) the few intimates whom I love, among
                            these, be assured you are one.
                        The account given by Mr Bingham and others, of your agreeable Situation, and
                            prospects at St George’s gave me infinite pleasure; and no one wishes more sincerely than I
                            do, that they may increase with your years. The remainder of my life (which in the course of
                            nature cannot be long) will be occupied in rural amusements, and though I shall seclude
                            my self as much as possible from the noisy and bustling crowd, none more than my self, would
                            be regaled by the company of those I esteem, at Mount Vernon: more than 20 miles from which, after I arrive there, it is not likely I ever shall be. As early in next week as I can make arrangements for it, I shall commence my journey for Mount Vernon. To morrow, at dinner, I shall as a servant of the public, take my leave of the
                            President Elect, of the foreign characters, heads of Departments, &ca. —And the day
                            following, with pleasure, I shall witness the inauguration of my Successor to the Chair of
                            government.
                        On the Subject of Politics I shall say nothing; you will have an opportunity of
                            seeing & conversing with many of the Legislators; from whom, so far as it relates to
                            the proceedings of their own body, thay can give you the details. The Gazettes will furnish
                            the rest. Mrs Washington unites with me in every good wish for you, Mrs Knox &
                            family, and with unfeigned truth, I am Yours always, & affectionately

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Henry Lee, 2 March 1797
From: Washington, George
To: Lee, Henry

                            sir,
                             March 2nd 1797.

                        In answer to your enquiry Concerning the Land I Sold to you, last year, I can
                            inform you from my own Knowledge.
                        It is part of the great dismal Swamp, about  Miles from Norfolk Convenient to the Canal now Cutting, its
                            soil extremely rich Covered with Cypress & Juniper, the under growth Cane
                            &c. I am sir Yrs &c.

                            Go: Washington