Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 8 October 1796
From: McHenry, James
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            War Office. October 8th, 1796.

                        The situation of the Garrison at West Point has for some time past attracted a
                            considerable share of my attention. I had scarcely entered upon the duties of my Office,
                            before I discovered those materials that soon after gave occasion to the Court of Inquiry
                            upon the Commandant, and produced the Resignation of Capt. Wadsworth (a very valuable
                            Officer) which followed that event. You will perceive, in the annexed letters, from and to
                            that Gentleman and Colonel Rochefontaine, an evidence of the anxiety which I have
                            experienced, and the mild means that I have employed to conciliate parties and restore
                            harmony to the Corps.
                        It may be said, that, generally speaking, the Officers at West Point are of
                            opinion, that the Commandant does not possess a sufficiency of scientific or practical
                            knowledge in his profession, to enable him to be of much use to them as an Instructor. This
                            is a painful insinuation that I am unwilling to admit. I have however so far regarded it, as
                            to send Colo. Mentges to inspect and muster the Men, and report the actual state of
                            discipline and improvement: and I am sorry to add that there is but too much correspondence
                            between his opinion and theirs.
                        Ought this coincidence in opinion to fix the charge of ignorance in his
                            profession, upon the Commandant? May not his Officers have viewed him through the medium of
                            an inveterate prejudice; and Col. Mentges formed his judgment upon too slight observations?
                            perhaps too, it ought not to be expected, that the head of a Corps should act the part of a
                            Professor, or give lectures to his Officers on the principles of Gunnery and Fortification.
                            Be this however as it may, it is at least to be regretted, that he has not been happy enough
                            to satisfy them or the Inspector, that he understands the practical part of the Artillerist.
                        What can be done in this situation of things, that may restore to the
                            Commandant, the confidence of the Officers, which he has lost; and at the same time, not
                            retard their improvement?
                        To separate the Corps into parts, or to detach from West Point, Companies, to
                            garrison the most important forts on the sea-board is perhaps the most likely expedient to
                            accomplish both purposes.
                        By an arrangement of this kind the principal School might still be at West
                            Point, from which place, an instructed Company could be sent to relieve a Company less
                            instructed, till the whole by that means, were brought to the same level of improvement. Agreeably also to this plan the Corps might be united at
                            particular times, either to acquire or to practice, what could not be so well practised or
                            acquired in a state of disjunction.
                        One objection to such an arrangement as this, is the expence the public would
                            incur in making these exchanges. I would submit however, whether this expence of
                            transportation will not be more than countervailed by the immediate satisfaction it would
                            produce in the Corps; and the saving to be derived from the Detachments improving or keeping
                            those works in repair which have drawn considerable Sums from the United States to erect,
                            and which if neglected, must fall into ruin. Further, this would put our most important
                            harbours more out of the reach of insult than they are at present.
                        But to give a certain degree of perfection to the Corps; or to enable the
                            Officers to become skilful Artillerists and Engineers, it may be necessary, in addition to
                            furnishing them with proper Masters, that rules should be laid down, relative to their
                            instruction in the Theory and practice. As yet there is no system for either, and of course,
                            every thing must tend to confusion. The hours for teaching the Theory, as well as what is to
                            be taught; the hours for teaching the practice, as well as what shall be the practice,
                            should be detailed and the observance of the rules strictly enjoined. If the regulations—
                            that have been established in the Artillery Schools in France,
                            under the monarchy, the utility of which has been so sensibly experienced by the Republic,
                            were to be taken for a model; or such of them adopted as would apply to the circumstances
                            and situation of the Corps, I should expect from such a measure, the happiest effects. These
                            regulations, abstracted from the police of the institutions, are divided into two parts, the
                            one, comprehending all that respects the Theory; the other
                            whatever regards the practice. The first, is peculiar to the
                            Officers; the second, or the practice, concerns both Officers and Soldiers. Were similar
                            regulations to be digested, printed, and prescribed to the Corps by the President, and
                            proper Masters provided to execute them, there can be no doubt as to its success. Every
                            Officer would then know, what he had to learn himself, and what it was his duty to teach to
                            others. I cannot presume that I am qualified to form such a System as ought to meet your
                            mature approbation; but it strikes me, that even an imperfect one is preferable to none. I
                            shall therefore, should you be of opinion, that rules and regulations for the instruction of
                            the Officers in the Theory, and for the instruction of both them and the Soldiers in the
                            practice, should be formed, make the attempt with such lights and helps as I have or can
                            acquire.
                        In the mean while & till the proposed code can be completed; I would submit the
                            following arrangement to your consideration.
                        1. To augment the Garrisons at Governor’s Island, Mud Island, Baltimore,
                            Norfolk, and Charlestown to about one Company at each place. 2. To send to West Point a
                            person qualified to teach the Officers remaining there, Mathematics; the elements of
                            Geometry; the fundamental principles of statical Mechanics; and designing. 3. To give the
                            several Detachments, taken from the Corps, an opportunity to enjoy in rotation, the same
                            means of instruction. 4. To require a written report from time to time relative to the
                            progress of instruction. 5. To have each Detachment, frequently inspected by a well informed
                            Officer, who should be specially charged to examine and give information of the state of the
                            works, the discipline of the Men, and improvement of the Officers. With the greatest respect
                            I have the honor to be Sir, Your most obedt servant

                            James McHenry


Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 10 October 1796
From: McHenry, James
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            War Office 10th October 1796.

                        In obedience to the Command of the President as conveyed in his letter to the
                            Secretary of War dated 1. July Ulto. requiring the opinion of the heads of departments upon
                            certain charges exhibited against General Wayne by Brigadier General Wilkinson, as relative
                            to  “the measures necessary to be pursued to do justice to the public, the accused, and the
                            accuser,” the Secretary of War submits the following observations.
                        Though the charges against General Wayne have not been all exhibited; and
                            according to late letters from Brigadier General Wilkinson, will not be concluded till after
                            his arrival in Philadelphia, the Secretary of War does not conceive that he should delay any
                            longer, on that account, the discussion of certain questions essential to the formation of a
                            just opinion on the case.
                        A primary question is, whether the Articles of War authorize the President, to
                            order General Wayne to be tried by a General Court Martial? And if they do not; or if the
                            right is doubtful; what steps will be proper to be pursued, “to do justice to the public, the
                            accused and the accuser.”
                        As to the first question.

                        1. It is very clear that the rules and articles of War passed the 27th of May
                            1777 and 31. of May 1786 can have no relation to troops raised after the establishment of the
                            present federal government; and therefore the law of the 30 of April 1790 and that of the 30
                            of May 1796 enact “that the Commissioned Officers &c.
                            shall be governed by the rules and articles of War which have been established by Congress,
                            as far as the same may be applicable to the constitution of the United States, or by such
                            Rules and articles as may hereafter by law be established.”
                        2d Agreeably to the law of the 3d March 1791. General Wayne was appointed a
                                Major General, and as such,
                            commanded all the troops in the Western Country.
                        3. The articles of War (passed 27. May 1777) contemplated a General or Commander in chief of the forces of the United States;
                            or of the American forces Sect. 2. Art. 2 pa. 3. and Sect. 18.
                            Art. 6. pa. 31 and Art. 7. passed 17. June 1777 pa. 32 Sect. 5. Art. 1. and 2 pa. 8 Sect. 13.
                            Art. 16. page 22.
                        4. The articles of war (passed 27 May 1777.) contemplated a
                                continental General commanding in a State Sect. 11. Art. 1. pa. 15 & Sect. 18. Art. 2 pa 29. 5
                        5. The articles of War (passed 17. June 1777.) also contemplated a general Officer commanding in a separate
                                department Sect. 18. Art. 7. pa 31. At this time the United States were divided by
                            resolves of Congress into three separate departments, called Eastern
                                Middle and Southern.
                        6. The articles of War passed 31. May 1786. contemplated the general or other Officer commanding the Troops. Art 2. pa 34. Art 6. pa 36. The General or Officer commanding the Army
                            Art 13 pa. 39 The commander in Chief Page 31 The same articles of 31. May 1786. also
                            recognise a commanding Officer of a department Art 13 pa 39. and Art 23 pa 41.

                        7. The 25. Art. of War (passed 31. May 1786.) pa 42 directs the conduct of a court of enquery when appointed by the General or commanding Officer.
                        8. The articles of war in many places mention Courts
                                martial as in pa 3. 4. 8. 9. 10. 11. 15 and 17 to 24. 35. 37. 38. 39. 40.
                        9. The articles of war in many places mention General
                                Courts Martial as in pag 7. Art 4. pa 9. Art. 2 pa 11. Art 4. pa 14. 16. 20.
                            21. 22. 29. 31. 34. 38. 41. and 42. But it is very evident that the same Court was meant by both descriptions; and that
                            only three kinds of Courts martial were established, to wit;
                            general Courts martial, regimental Courts martial and garrison Courts martial, the two last
                            having no jurisdiction of capital Offences or over commissioned Officers. Art 4. pa 35.
                        10. It appears that the General or Officer
                            commanding the Troops might order General
                                Courts Martial pa 34.
                        11. It also appears that the commanding Officer of a department might order
                            General Courts martial Art 23. pa 41 and pardon any Crimes though capital. Art 7. pa 31.
                        12. It further appears that a continental General
                            commanding in any of the States might appoint general courts
                            martial, and pardon Crimes not capital and suspend the punishment
                            of capital Offences, Sect. 18. Art 2. pa 29.

                        13. It would seem that whenever the expressions used are, The General or
                            Commander in Chief of the forces of the United States (as in Sect. 2. Art 2 pa. 3 and Sect.
                            5. Art 1. pa 8. and Sect. 13. Art. 16. pa 23) or the Commander in Chief of the American forces (as in Sect. 5. Art 2. pa 8) or the General and Commander in Chief (as in Sect. 18. Art 6. pa 31) or the Commander
                            in Chief as in Art 7. pa 32 or the General or Officer commanding the Troops as in Art 2 pa 34.) or the General or Officer commanding the Army (as in Art 6. pa 6) that only one and the same person is contemplated under all
                            these different descriptions.
                        14. From a view of the 25th Art. (pa 42) and the 26th Article (pa 43) and a
                            comparison of them with the different articles authorizing the appointment of Courts Martial
                            it appears that Courts of enquiry might be appointed not only by the General (or Commander
                            in Chief) but also by any commanding Officer.
                        15. General Wayne may be considered in one of three capacities. 1st As
                            Commander in Chief of the forces of the United States as described in the articles of War
                            pa 3. 31. 32. 34. 36. 39. 42. and 44. and which all mean one and the
                                same person; altho there is some little variation in the mode of expression. Or.
                            2d. As a general Officer commanding in a separate department. Or 3d As a Continental general commanding in a State. The
                            first is wholly inadmissible, because by the Constitution Art 2. Sect. 2. the President for
                            the time being is created Commander in Chief of the Army and Navy of the United States.
                            The second will not apply, because the Western Country was not
                            within either of the three departments created by Congress. The third character alone seems descriptive of his Command.

                        There results from this exposition of facts the following positions. 1. That if
                            General Wayne be considered as a general Officer commanding in a separate department, or as a Continental General
                            commanding in a state, and the President as the General (described
                            in Article 25 pa. 42) he may with his consent be brought before a
                                Court of Enquiry, if the President shall think proper to
                            order it. or 2d. That General Wayne, considered under the said description, may be tried by
                            a Court Martial, against his consent, if the President be
                            considered the General or Officer commanding the Troops, as
                            described in Art 2. page 34.
                        Upon these positions it may be observed, that there is a certain want of
                            explicitness in the articles of war relative to the whole subject, which must make it a
                            desirable thing to be relieved from the necessity of being obliged, to rely absolutely upon
                            them for the attainment of justice.
                        Is there any other mean which may be applied to, less subject to Criticism? The
                            President as Commander in Chief, has power, ex officio, to order
                            a general Court Martial; but the exercise of this power is no less liable to criticism. What
                            then is to be done? The President has aright to displace military Officers as holding their
                            Commissions during pleasure. In as much however as the delicacy of the military character,
                            as well as justice, requires that this power should be exercised with great caution and not
                            till after very full investigation; it occurs that a course of proceeding may be adopted,
                            bottomed upon this power, and at the same time conformable to the course indicated by the
                            articles of War.

                        Agreeably to this idea, the Secretary of War submits the following mode of
                            proceeding in the case. That as soon as all the Charges shall have been exhibited by General
                            Wilkinson, they shall be communicated to the General accused, who shall be called upon to
                            reply particularly to them. That if there should be facts to be proved, and by persons with
                            the Army, that it be suggested to him that they should be investigated by some Court, and
                            that circumstances render it adviseable, that he should demand the investigation.
                        As there can be no doubt but that he will require the facts to be investigated.
                            Let then (which will throw the affair into the form of a court of enquiry) three judicious
                            Officers with the aid of a Judge Advocate (and a Magistrate if to be had to administer
                            oaths) be charged to collect testimony for the information of the Department of War to be
                            laid before the President. Let the accuser and the accused be notified to attend the
                            examination of the Witnesses, to cross examine and interrogate, and let the testimony,
                            reduced to writing (Articles of War 25 page 42) by the Court or Referees, with the Judge
                            Advocate, and certified by them, with the observations of the accuser and the accused, be
                            transmitted to the War Office and laid before the President, who will act in the case
                            according to the nature of the Testimony.
                        This mode of proceeding appears to the Secretary of War the least liable to
                            exceptions; calculated to ascertain the truth or falsity of the charges; within the powers
                            vested in the President by the Constitution; and supported by the construction deducible
                            from the articles of war. All which is respectfully submitted.

                            James McHenry


Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 10 October 1796
From: McHenry, James
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            War Office 10th October 1796

                        Packet, No. 1. which is enclosed contains the last dispatches from General
                            Wayne. The private letter included therein, is a duplicate of one not yet come to hand,
                            which it would seem contains the papers to which it refers.
                        Packet, No. 2. The last letters from Tennessee.
                        Packet, No. 3. The proceedings of a Court Martial on a soldier who attempted to
                            desert. With the greatest respect I have the honor to be Your obedt Servant

                            James McHenry


Title: From George Washington to Timothy Pickering, 10 October 1796
From: Washington, George
To: Pickering, Timothy

                            Sir,
                            Mount Vernon 10th October 1796

                        Your letter of the 5th instant with its enclosure, came to hand by Friday’s
                            Post.
                        The extracts therein produced both pleasure & pain—the former at
                            hearing that our Citizens are at length released from their unfortunate confinement in
                            Algiers; the latter to find that others of them have fallen into a similar situation at
                            Tunis; contrary to the Truce, & to the arrangement made with Mr Donaldson.
                        ’Tis difficult to understand, precisely what the French government design,
                            relative to this Country, from the accounts given by Mr Monroe.
                        The enclosed letter respecting a judge for the District of Rhode Island, has
                            just been received; and as it is the most eligible choice I see a prospect of making, a
                            Commission may issue accordingly, appointing Benjamin Bourn to that Office: provided it is
                            the same Gentleman who represents that State in Congress; otherwise not, until further
                            enquiry and consideration are had on the subject.

                        A short time before I left Philadelphia last, a character was brought forward
                            and well recommended as Attorney for the District of Kentucky; and the Appointment met my
                            approbation, but whether a Commission issued in consequence of it or not, my recollection
                            does not serve me. His name I have forgot, but the letters of recommendation (from the
                            Attorney General of the United States and others) were, I think, put into Your hands with my
                            sentiments thereon.

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 11 October 1796
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            Department of State Octr 11-12 1796.

                        Last Saturday I received from Colo. Monroe a letter dated the 24th of July, in
                            which he refers to a former one, in which he transmitted copies of M. Delacroix letter to
                            him & his answer, on the question, Whether the House of Representatives of the
                            United States had passed a law to carry the British treaty into effect? At the same time Mr
                            Monroe expressed his opinion that this letter originated with M. Delacroix, without any
                            order from the Directory; because (as a prior letter had stated) a member of the Directory
                            had informed him that their complaints would not be renewed. However, his letter of the 24th
                            of July shows that he was mistaken, so far as their complaints respected the British treaty.
                            I will endeavour, in an abridgement, to lay before you the essence of the complaint
                            & the answer.

                        Mr Delacroix letter is dated the 7th of July. He begins by accounting for his
                            delay in answering Mr Monroe’s letter of the 25th Ventose (March 15) because he had been
                            daily hoping to see the departure of the new minister that the Executive Directory had
                            proposed to send to the U. States. Then referring to their former complaints against the
                            treaty between the U. States and Great Britain (for he is silent on all the other topics) he
                            says that time had sufficiently ripened all the points which were then in discussion, and
                            far from being weakened, "our complaints (says he) against the treaty of London, have, in
                            our view, acquired new force." He then says that the opinion of the Executive Directory on
                            this Subject has not changed. That it saw in that act, concluded in the midst of
                            hostilities, a derogation from the friendship which united the U. States & the
                            Republic; and in the stipulations which regarded the neutrality of the flag, an abandonment
                            of the tacit engagement on this point which existed between the two nations, since the treaty
                            of commerce of 1778. That the abandonment of principles consecrated by this treaty had made
                            the more forcible impression on their minds, seeing that all the other treaties of the
                            United States admit them; and that these principles are besides so generally acknowledged,
                            that they form, at this time, the public law of all civilized nations. That hence the
                            Executive Directory thinks itself authorized to regard the stipulations of the treaty of
                            1778, which concern the neutrality of the flag, as altered in their most essential parts,
                            and thereby suspended; and that it would deem itself wanting in its duty if it did not
                            modify a state of things which would not have been agreed to but on the condition of the
                            most strict reciprocity.

                        Mr Monroe in his answer to M. de la Croix observes, That this complaint is
                            founded on a supposed violation of the law of nations, and of our treaty with France,
                            because in one article of the treaty of London we have admitted that our bottoms do not give
                            protection to French goods. To prove that by this article we have neither violated the law
                            of nations nor the treaty with France, Mr Monroe remarks, that the most eminent writers on
                            the law of nations, and universal practice, where particular treaties do not stipulate the
                            contrary, show the indisputable right of the powers at war to take the goods of their
                            enemies in neutral ships; & asks, if such were not the acknowledged law of nations,
                            why particular nations have entered into stipulations to renounce, as it respects
                            themselves, the exercise of that right? "Is it presumable that any powers would form
                            treaties to establish what was already established? or was it thought, when our treaty of
                            1778 was formed, that in this respect it made no change, or in other words stipulated
                            nothing?"
                        Mr Monroe then denies that the law of nations on this point has undergone any
                            change; and asserts that the new rule is obligatory on those only who have bound themselves
                            by special treaties to observe it, in respect to one another; and that the reciprocity urged
                            by M. De la Croix, really was to be found in a change of circumstances, when the party now
                            at war should be at peace, and enjoy, in turn (the other being at war) the privilege of its
                            flag, in trading with the enemy of that other. Mr Monroe also remarks, that the French
                            Republic knew, thus in the last as well as in the present war, Great Britain uniformly
                            opposed the principle, that free ships make free goods; and that in the present war, all the
                            enemies of France had done the same, including some who were now its friends. Hence if it
                            were even admitted that a majority of the civilized nations had a right to bind the
                            minority, in this case, how was it to be done when the powers composing that majority had
                            changed sides, and were now marshalled against the principle?

                        Mr Monroe in his letter to me, observes that he thought it expedient to attempt
                            to divert the Directory from the Subject of its own complaints, "which it had uniformly
                            & vehemently pressed of late," by presenting to it a list of ours, which before he
                            had studiously avoided. He then mentions, that in violation of the treaty of 1778, as to
                            this very point in question, 50 American vessels had been brought into
                            French ports, and their cargoes taken from the proprietors, who yet remained unpaid. That
                            without any reason assigned upwards of eighty other vessels had been embargoed at Bordeaux,
                            for more than a year, for which the owners yet remained unpaid. That for supplies rendered
                            to the French Islands—for innumerable spoliations made & still making—and for
                            supplies furnished to the republic at home, immense sums were due to the American citizens;
                            by which deprivation many of them were ruined. That he had forborne hitherto to bring these
                            things into view, because it would have the appearance of recrimination, which he wished to
                            avoid; and because he was disposed to yield every possible accomodation, in the present
                            exigences of the Republic, which his duty would permit; and further, because he relied that
                            the republic would do all the justice in its power to those suffering individuals.

                        Mr Monroe expresses his wish that he could say this affair was ended, and that
                            we should never hear of it again: but "so deep founded has their discontent appeared to be
                            and so vehement their desire to give us some signal proof of it," that it was then
                            impossible to say what would be the result of their councils. At one time, he says, it was
                            whispered that they meant to claim all their property taken in our vessels by the British—at
                            another to suspend all payments to our citizens until satisfaction on their complaints was
                            made—and again, that they would suspend those articles of our treaty of 1778, which the
                            Minister said the Directory thought it their duty to modify. "But yet none of these things
                            are done, nor have I (says Mr M.) any particular reason to presume they will be done, other
                            than what appears from the general temper of the government;" and as both the government and
                            nation, independently of the points in discussion, is friendly to us, "the probability is, that no such measure will be taken."

                        I notice the last observation of Mr Monroe, on account of the alarm excited
                            among the merchants, by the publication from the London papers, of what is called an
                            Official Note from the Minister for foreign affairs to M. Barthelemy in Switzerland. I went
                            to see Mr Adet to-day: he has received no information concerning it. No letters have yet
                            come to hand from Mr King; nor have I any information from London about it. Yet I received
                            from Dr Edwards (whom you know) a letter dated there the 21st of August, in which he speaks
                            of the political affairs and projects of France which had been the subjects of conversation
                            in Paris; which he left the 7th of August. He says also that he has letters from Mr Monroe,
                            who told him they contained the correspondence between him & the French government
                            on the subject of some discontents, which he did not forward, because Mr M. desired him to
                            deliver them himself. But if they contained any account of such an order of the Directory as
                            the Official Note describes, I think Mr M. would have furnished him with duplicates
                            & triplicates to forward by the first vessels. I think also that Dr Edwards could
                            not have failed to mention, if it existed, an order so much more interesting than any thing
                            detailed in his letter. Yet we have this evening, in Brown’s paper, an extract of a letter
                            from Paris, dated August 2d (Dr E. was there till the 7th) in which the note to Barthelemy
                            is mentioned as printed in a Paris Newspaper: but it recites particulars not noticed at all in the Official Note;
                            and applies wholly to American vessels: Now it is not obvious to
                            conceive for what purpose an order respecting only the commerce
                            of the U. States should be transmitted
                            to M. Barthelemy in Switzerland.
                        I have thought that some information to quiet the minds, or to regulate the
                            conduct, of the merchants, on this state of things, would be proper; and will prepare
                            something accordingly, on which I will consult the other Secretaries.
                        Governor Blount read me a letter to a friend of his, from Montflorence (Mr
                            Skipwith’s chancellor) in which he says that M. Mangourit was to
                            succeed Mr Adet. M. Mangourit was Consul at Charleston during Mr Genet’s administration. Governor Blount delivered to me a letter to him from
                            Montflorence, who in case of a change in the consulate of the Paris department, begs the
                            Governor to recommend him for the appointment; this letter I have the honour to inclose, for
                            the sake of the other information it contains; altho’ it is in the spirit of the anonymous
                            letters from him to the Messrs Blounts, which you saw last spring.

                        I also inclose letters from several gentlemen in Rhode Island, concurring in
                            the recommendation of Benjamin Bourne Esqr. as the most suitable person in the state to
                            succeed Mr Marchant in the office of District Judge; by Mr Olney’s letter I conclude it is
                            to be understood that the office would be acceptable to Mr Bourne. He is eligible by the
                            Constitution; the increase of the Salary of the District Judge of Rhode-Island having been
                            made in the preceding Congress: but Mr Bradford cannot be constitutionally appointed. I
                            wrote to Governor Fenner on this occasion: but Mr Foster’s letter,
                            received this day, informs that the Governor was on a journey to Vermont.
                            From that state no information has yet been received relative to the office of District
                            Attorney. I have the honor to be, with the highest respect, Sir, your most obt servant

                            Timothy Pickering

                            Octr 12. Mr Wolcot just now informs me that Mr Ellery manifests his
                                opinion that Mr Bourne is entitled to the preference of all the candidates for the
                                office of District Judge.


Title: To George Washington from James Anderson, 12 October 1796
From: Anderson, James
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Salvington 12 Octr 1796

                        In case the Overseer who was uncertain; has not agreed to stay with You—I can
                            get one here, who is accustomed to the management of Negroes. And can come well recommended,
                            As to which would wish to hear from You.
                        In a few days I entend being at Marleborough when I will take a Measure of the
                            parts of Mr Mercers Thrashing Machine In Order to make preparations in
                            winter by cuting Timber for the Mounting of one for You, In case of Your approbation, I
                            suppose the cost might be made very low. by employing Your own Carpenters with the assistance
                            of one Mill Wright And with much respect I am Sir Your most Obedt Humble Servt

                            Jas Anderson


Title: To George Washington from Francis Deakins, 12 October 1796
From: Deakins, Francis
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Montgomery County 12th Octr 1796

                        I am Sorry I was from home when you called to See your Land—Since my return I
                            have wrote twice to Mr Jones—who now lives 16 miles from us—for A Statment of your Rents
                            for 1792 93 & 94 the years he has to Account for—he has just Sent me his Account—but
                            Such as wants a further explanation which I have requested of him, & will forward it
                            to you as Soon as it can be got.
                        It is expected youl. return through this County on your way to Philadelphia this
                            Fall—if so—I hope it may be Convenient for you to call on us, that more full Satisfaction
                            may be gave you respect’g the Quality of the Land. Rents &
                            Arrangments of the Tenants, which is now under the Superintendance of Mr Hezekiah Veatch—Mr
                            Jones not hav’g recd any rent for last year I a few Months ago got Mr Veatch to undertake
                            it—he has called on the Tenants who promise to Settle with him Soon for 1795 I am with due
                            Respect Sir your Obedt Servt

                            Francis Deakins


Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 13 October 1796
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Washington, George

                        Sir,

                             Department of State Octr 13. 1796.

                        To-day I was honoured with your letter of the 10th instant. A commission will
                            be made out for Mr Bourne as district judge of Rhode Island. The letters concerning him
                            which I transmitted to you yesterday will add to the satisfaction you have in conferring the
                            commission on him.
                        The gentleman who was recommended for district attorney for Kentuckey, was
                            William Clarke. His commission was forwarded to him about two weeks ago.
                        Yesterday I received a letter from Mr King, which I do myself the honour to
                            inclose. If ever Britain is very complaisant it may be expected in her present perilous
                            situation. If the official note to Barthelemi is authentic, as Ld Grenville supposed, it was
                            not intended probably for instant operation on the american commerce; at least to the extent
                            at first apprehended. I have to-day received verbal information of one of our ships directly
                            from London, and which left Gravesend about the 17th of August, that met two French frigates
                            in the British channel, who examined and politely dismissed her. If, however, they should
                            take British property on board our vessels, on the pretences urged to Mr Monroe by M. De la
                            Croix, I should not be surprized.

                        From the publication in the news-paper, of the information said to have been
                            received by our consul Vanderhost at Bristol, I conclude that the Boston vessel taken by the
                            Tunissians was soon released.
                        To-day I received letters from Colo. Humphreys, dated Augt 5 & 10.
                            Capt. OBrien sailed the fourth for Algiers, with 225,000 dollars. The arrival of the French
                            at Leghorn had, as was expected, interrupted the pecuniary negociations there: however, Mr
                            Bacri, brother to the one at Algiers, had undertaken to finish what the English House had
                            begun: so Colo. Humphreys concludes that business will end well.
                        Colo. Humphreys remarks, that he is much less apprehensive than some others of
                            a rupture between Spain & England. The portuguese were completing their infantry to
                            its establishment, and augmenting their cavalry: but the affair with Holland seemed to have
                            nearly or quite passed over. He says that "every thing does not appear to be perfectly on a
                            good understanding between portugal & Spain”: two ambassadors, one ordinary, the
                            other extraordinary, were appointed by the former to the latter. The Marquis of Pombal had
                            not then (Augt 10) sailed on his embassy to England. I have the honor to remain with the
                            highest respect, sir, your most obt servant

                            Timothy Pickering


Title: From George Washington to Bartholomew Dandridge, 14 October 1796
From: Washington, George
To: Dandridge, Bartholomew

                            Dear Sir,
                            Mount Vernon 14th Oct. 1796

                        We have not precisely fixed the day on which to commence our Journey for
                            Philadelphia, but I expect, if nothing unforeseen happens to prevent it, to be in that City
                            on, or about the first day of next month.
                        I request therefore that every thing necessary to be done in or about the house may be compleated before we
                            arrive: Painting especially. It is my wish to leave the tenement in good repair.
                        As soon as the time is resolved on for my setting out, and the Stages fixed, I
                            will write you again for the purpose of regulating my letters in the Post Office.
                        I caught a bad cold on my way home, from which I have not yet been thoroughly
                            relieved. Mrs Washington has one, at present, worse than mine; Mrs Stuart has been very ill,
                            but is some what better; Nelly & Washington are with her, at Hope Park—In short the
                            family have been more sickly than usual. I am Yours affectl.

                            Go. Washington


Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 14 October 1796
From: McHenry, James
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            War Office 14 Octbr 1796.

                        I have just I believe got finished in time for the mail. I read the enclosed
                            last night and here they are. Should I write three lines more you would not read the
                            contents till next mail. Yours most respectfully &
                            affectionately

                            James McHenry


Title: To George Washington from Gustavus Scott, 14 October 1796
From: Scott, Gustavus
To: Washington, George

                            sir.
                             City 14th Octr 1796

                        Mr Blagden waits on you for the purpose of examining your Stone Quarry. He is
                            generaly here consider’d as the best Judge of free Stone in the City and all the Contractors
                            for the public Works have submitted to his Opinions on the quality of the Stone deliverd. He
                            is himself now a Contractor & has lately past Sentence against his own Stone.
                        I am confident any Opinion he gives, you may safely rely on & that his
                            Judgmt on the subject is equal to any Mans in the U.S. Mr Blagden has no Idea of any
                            pecuniary Reward, and possibly wou’d rather be hurt by an Offer of that sort: if necessary
                            he may be Spared a few days with out Inconvenience. Mr Morris is laboring hard to rid us of
                            a part of our Bank debt, in which my Aid has & shall be readily given. Things are at present in a
                            good Train & We have Reason to expect success; but what may be the event when12 Directors
                            & a President are to determine I dare not say. I am with sentiments of perfect
                            Respect & Esteem sir Yr mo. obt servt

                            Gusts Scott


Title: To George Washington from David Campbell, 15 October 1796
From: Campbell, David
To: Washington, George

                            Honourable Sir
                            State of Tennessee Octr 15th 1796

                        The State of Tennessee is accepted as a member of the Fœderal Government. A
                            District Judge will be appointed. I offer my talents & experience to the United
                            States. I feel willing to act as District Judge if you will please to honor me with the
                            appointment. perhaps you recognize me. I had the honor of acting in the Judiciary under an
                            appointment from you. I believe it is understodd I discharged the Duties of that office with
                            strict attention & fidelity. I have the honor to be with very great Respect Your Obt
                            Servt

                            David Campbell


Title: To George Washington from Josiah Harmar, 15 October 1796
From: Harmar, Josiah
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Philadelphia October 15th 1796

                        By the eighth Section of the militia act of the State of pennsylvania, it is
                            the duty of the Adjutant General to lay before the president of the United States, a
                            duplicate of the General return of the Militia of the State—The said duplicate is now
                            enclosed. I have the honor to be with the highest esteem & respect Your Excellency’s
                            most hble & obedt Servt

                            Jos. Harmar
                            Adjt General of the Militia of Pennsylvania


Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 15 October 1796
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            Department of State Octr 15. 1796.

                        Yesterday I received another letter from Mr King—it is dated the 16th of
                            August, covering a duplicate of the former, and saying that he had heard nothing from Mr
                            Monroe respecting the letter from the Directory to Mr Barthelemy, so interesting to the
                            commerce of neutral powers: and this silence was the only circumstance that left him a hope
                            that the letter in question is not genuine.
                        At the same time I received a letter from Messrs Gore & Pinkney. They
                            had met the British Commissioners, Dr Nichol & Mr Anstey; and not agreeing on the
                            choice either of a Briton or an American, they respectively made lists from which each
                            selected one name. Our Commissioners took the name of Dr Swabey (an
                            eminent Civilian) and the British Commissioners selected the name of John Trumbull Esqr. The
                            two names being put into the urn, one was drawn, which was Colo. Trumbull’s. He was then in
                            London, and has accepted the appointment. On the 26th of August the whole were sworn before
                            the Lord Mayor.
                        Thus far we have been fortunate in the choice of the odd Commissioners for
                            adjusting our disputes with Britain; and therefore whatever may be the decisions of the
                            respective boards, we may presume that our own citizens will be satisfied.

                        Yesterday I received letters from our Consul at Cadiz (who is a very
                            intelligent man) dated the 20th & 25th of August; in that of the 20th he says they
                            are very apprehensive of a rupture with England. On the 4th of that month (Admiral Mann
                            having retired on the 1st) the Spanish admirals Langara & Socorro, with 20 ships, 8
                            frigates, 4 corvettes & 2 brigs, sailed as a convoy to Admiral Richery till they
                            were near Cape St Vincents, when Richery (on the 5th at 5 P.M.) took leave, &
                            steered towards Brest: his certain destination not known. On the 6th, 4 ships & 3
                            frigates seperated from the Division under the command of Admiral Socorro, destined to
                            different ports in America, with troops & artillery under the orders of rear admiral
                            Apodaca, with orders to join Admiral Aristizabel, in the West Indies, after having landed
                            their cargoes. All the rest of the fleet returned to Cadiz on the 12th—No armaments were
                            carrying on at Cadiz on the 20th, nor any other war-like preparations: but if necessary, Mr
                            Yznardi thinks that in six weeks 36 ships of the line might be put to sea.

                        On the 25th of August the scene was changed. On that day, in consequence of
                            orders from Court, all the English vessels in that harbour were embargoed; the rudders
                            taken out & conveyed to the inward part of the bay. The number in the port happened
                            to be only five: the crews were left on board. Mr Y. supposes similar orders were executed
                            in all the ports. This unexpected event he says greatly damped the spirits of the people:
                            all was confusion: not a single negociation in that great commercial city. Government notes,
                            which on the 20th were at 11 ⅌Ct discount, rose to 18 ⅌Ct loss. The motives to this new
                            measure were unknown: but among the reports in circulation, the most probable was, that the
                            English had not given satisfaction to the repeated remonstrances of the Spanish Court, on
                            many infringements of the law of nations & existing treaties, highly prejudicial to
                            the interests & derogatory to the dignity of the Spanish nation.
                        A letter recd yesterday from our Consul at Marseilles advised of the arrival
                            there of the American captives from Algiers, in number 89, one having died on the passage;
                            and all the rest (the plague being considered as on board the ship) must perform the tedious
                            quarantine of 60 days. This letter is dated the 22d & 24th of July; the captives
                            arrived the 20th. He adds, that if one should die at the place, the reckoning of the
                            quarantine must begin anew. By the same letter it appears that the Boston brig capt. Graves,
                            which was carried into Tunis, had been released.
                        I am informed that the French at Guadaloupe have condemned one vessel of this
                            port, wholly American property; and their proceedings at Hispaniola, as detailed in the
                            newspapers, indicate the like result. Yet the hesitation of General Rigaud to direct final proceedings respecting the American vessels carried into
                            Aux Cayes, induce me to think the captures there were made by orders only of the Colonial
                            administration. I have the honor to be with the highest respect sir your most obt servant

                            Timothy Pickering


Title: To George Washington from William Pearce, 16 October 1796
From: Pearce, William
To: Washington, George

                                16-22 October 1796

                        A Meteorological Account of the weather kept at Mt VernonOctober
                        16 In the Morning65W. Raining69SW Clear67NW Clear17th63NW Clear67NW Clear64N Clear18th55NW Clear67NW Clear60NW Clear19th55N Foggy59NE Cloudy59NE Cloudy20th54NE foggy58NE Cloudy58NE Clear21st58E foggy62SE Clear61SE clear22nd59SW Cloudy64SW Cloudy62SW Clear

                        October 22nd 1796
                        DaysDr. Mansion House for the work of 11 hands amt. pr Week to66Cr. By Waggon at Alexa With hay 2 days haulg Wood to the oystear Shell Landing 1 day
  haulg Coopers stuff 2 days hauling hay
  to Stock 1 day}6By Cart at town with turnips 1 day hauling Wood & oats to M. House 4 days At Mill 1 day}6By Single horse cart attending Brick layers 6 days6By Attending the Brick layers 9 days9By Mowing & tending hay 18 days18By Working on the Mill race 1 day1By Going with the waggon2By Peter in Care of Stables &c.6By Sickness Sam 6 dy Frank 6 dy12Total66

Recd from Mill 24 3/4 Bus of Meal Stock 1 Stud horse 3 Covering Jacks 3 young
Jacks 9 Jinnies 2 young ditto 1 year old horse colt 9 work Mules 12 Mules 3 Brood Mares 1
young Mare 1 Work Mare 2 horses 11 Cows 8 Calves.

                        Dr. Ditchers for the Work of sillin Men amt. pr Week to24 DsCr. By Cuting wood 7 ds attend B. Layers 6 days13By Nowg 10 ds Stackg hay 1 day11

                        Dr. Union Farm for the Work of 23 hands amt. pr week to132Cr. By Hauling Manure 12 days By haulg Wood to the oystear shell landing
  6 days}18By treading Wheat 40 days40By threshing Wheat & oats 34 days34By Cuting CCord wood 15 days15By Cleaning a ditch 14 days By Mendg Water fence 17By tending hay 4 days 4By Sickness Neiler 4 ds Flora 6 ds 10Total132

                        Sent to Mill 19 Bus of Corn Recd 15 1/2 Bus of Meal
Stock 1 horses 5 Mules 65 Cattle 11 Calves 127 Sheep Fed to stock 16 bars of Corn Ditto to
the Ferry of 2 1/2 Bus of Oats for W. P.’s horses. Sent to M. House 52 Bus
of Oats SEIded 6 Bus of Barley.

Dr. Dogue Run for the Work of 16 hands amt. pr week to96Cr. By hauling Manure 5 days in  haulg Wood to oystear shell landing 8 days}13By tending hay 18 days18By Cuting Cord wood 4 days By claning Wheat 4 Ds8By Claning out the Ditch 34 days34By S &c. working with M. House Land 6 ds6By Sickness Long Jack 4 ds Lucy 4 D. Sal 3 ds Hanah 2 ds Juda 4 ds}17Total96

                        Sent to Mill 12 1/2 Bus of Corn Recd 12 1/4 Bus of Meal
Stock 5 Horses 9 Mules 56 Cattle 12 Calves 149 Sheep.
Dr. Muddy Hole for the Work of 14 hands amt.l pr Week to84Cr. By Cart at Mill 1 day haulg Manure 5 D.6By Cuting Wood 5 days By Cuting & Mauling Rails 7 ds12By treading Wheat 15 days15By heaping Manure 51 days51Total84Sent to Mill 8 1/2 Bus of Corn Recd 8 1/2 Bus of Meal Stock 7 horses 4 Mules 31
Cattle 4 Calves 57 Sheep Decrease 1 Mule Killed himself jumping over the fence & 1
Veal to M. House.
Dr. River Farm for the Work of 21 hands amt. prWeek to162Cr. By hauling turnips to Town 2 days2By tending B. Wheat 2 ds By haulg Corn to Mill 1 Ds3By Cuting & Mauling rails 24 days By Working in the Brick yard 2 days}26By treading Wheat & diging Potatoes 119 days119By Attending to Stock 6 ds Peg in Child Bed 6 ds 12Total162
                        Sent to Mill 18 Bus of Corn
                        Recd 13 Bus of Meal

                        Stock 11 horses 11 Mules 2 Colts 76 Cattle 10 Calves 215 Sheep—Fed to Stock 2
Bus of Corn Sent to Alexa 14 Bus of turnips & 30 Bus of Potatoes
Dr. Mill for SundrysCornContra    Cr.S. Fine FlourMidlingsMeallb.To M. House 11 1/211 1/2Bus
By M. House1969324 3/4" U. Farm19 1/2"  U. Farm10 1/2" River Farm18"  River Farm13" Dogue Run12 1/2"  Dogue Run12 1/2" Muddy Hole8 1/2"  Muddy Hole8 1/2"  W. Stuart1"  John Neile1"  John Ehlers251"  John Vilett251" Wm Pearce25Toll this Week2"  Cooper & Miller & Bays1Corn Ground71Meal Delivered78 1/4

                        Dr. Cooper & Miller for the Work of 2 Men amt. pr Week to12
                            DsCr. By Dressing Stuff in the Shop 5 1/2 Ds5 1/2By packing & Heading up 2 Bar. of fish1/2By Working With M. House hands 6Total12
                        October the 22nd day 1796
Dr. Carpenters & brick layrs for The work of Ten Men pr week amounts to Sixty days.Cr.By Giting of Boards and Shingles 7 Men 6 days42By Esaac Repairing of dogue Run farm CartBy Do finishing of the Tumbler wheels 11By do Making of One Level and Gitting of 3 Cart 11Tongues &c &c Six Days 6Carpenters Total48By Tom Davis Diging of durt for to Make Bricks and Making of a Shelter to Secure
  them3By Moulding of bricks3By B. Muchlus Assisting to doe the above &c 6Mentiond work with Tom &c12The Carpenters & brick Layers Total60Given in by me                          John NoaB
October the 22th 1796
daysDr.Spinners Sewers & Knitters for the Works of 15 Women Amounting pr Week90
                            Cr.By Matilda spinning 6 pd of yarn6 daysBy Delia do         6 pd of do6By Anne do          6 pd of do6By Judit do         6 pd of do6By Delphie do       2 1/2 pd of do6By Lam Ally do      3 pd of do6By Kitty do         2 pd of Sowing thread6By Alsce Sowing 6 suit of Clothes6By Lucy Knitting 1 pear of Stocking6By Sall work in the Hous6By Charlotte do6By Caroline do6By Dolsey do6By Sieckness Doll 6 days Betty Davis 6 days12Total90 daysBy Sieckness Sam Peter 6 days
 October the 22th 1796daysDr.Gardens for the Work of 3 Men Amounting pr Week18 Cr.By Gatering Beans & Diegging for pleanting  Cabbage pleants9 daysBy Digging in the Viene yart for pleanting Apple trees 9desTotal18 days


Title: From George Washington to Landon Carter, 17 October 1796
From: Washington, George
To: Carter, Landon

                            Sir,
                            Mount Vernon 17th Oct. 1796

                        The letter with which you have favoured me, dated the 28th Ulto, came duly to
                            hand.
                        A few months more, will put an end to my political existence, and place me in
                            the shades of Mount Vernon under my Vine & Fig-tree; where, at all times, I should be
                            glad to see you.
                        It is true (as you have heard) that to be a cultivator of Land, has been my
                            favourite amusement; but it is equally true, that I have made very little proficiency in
                            acquiring knowledge either in the principles, or practice of Husbandry.
                        My employments, through life, have been so diversified, my absences from home
                            have been so frequent, and so long at a time, as to have prevented me from bestowing the
                            attention, and from making the experiments which are necessary to establish facts in the
                            Science of Agriculture. And now, though I may amuse myself in that way for the short time I
                            may remain on this Theatre, it is too late in the day for me to
                            commence a scientific course of Experiments.

                        Your thoughts on the mode of cultivating Indian corn, appear to me, to be
                            founded in reason; and a judicious management of the soil, for different purposes, is as
                            highly interesting to, as it has hitherto been neglected by, the People of this Country; to
                            the consequent destruction of much valuable land. How to restore it to its original
                            fruitfulness; and to increase the means by Stercoraries &ca to preserve it in that,
                            or an improving state; what rotation in crops is best adapted to soils, of different
                            qualities, in order to keep our fields in health and vigour, & at the sametime to
                            derive immediate profit from them, are the great desiderata of
                            the Husbandman. It is what the People of the interior parts of our country must come to
                            soon, or emigrate to the exterior parts of it for subsistence on more productive Soil.
                        Nothing has contributed, nor will any thing contribute more, to effect these
                            desirable purposes than the establishment of Agricultural Societies in this, as they have
                            been in other countries; that the Community may derive advantages from the experiments and
                            discoveries of the more intelligent; communicated through such channels.
                        Besides the numerous local Societies which are to be found in all parts of
                            Great Britain & Ireland, a National one is now established under the auspices of the
                            government of those countries; which will, I conceive, be found among the most useful
                            & beneficial institutions in them, if it is prosecuted with as much assiduity as it has
                            commenced, under Presidency of Sir Jno. Sinclair. I shall always feel my self obliged by your
                            communicating any useful discovery in Agriculture; and for the favourable sentiments you
                            have been pleased to express for me, I pray you to accept the thanks of Sir; Your most Obedt
                            and Very Hble Servant

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Edward Carrington, 17 October 1796
From: Washington, George
To: Carrington, Edward

                            Dear Sir,Mount Vernon 17th Oct. 1796.

                        Your favor of the 10th instant has been received. Since the Refusal by General Wood of the Office of Surveyor Genl, it has been offered to General Rufus Putnam, whom it is presumed will accept it.I do not recollect that Colo. Heths name was ever presented to me for this Office—If it had, and any assurance could have been given of his scientific qualifications, he would have been an eligible character in my estimation.As it has always been my aim to fill Offices with the most suitable characters I could obtain, the aid of my friends to accomplish this desirable object, has (where characters were unknown to me) always been required; and the opinion of no one has been more acceptable than yours. With very great esteem & regard I am—Dear Sir Yr obedt & Affecte Servt

                            G. Washington


Title: To George Washington from John Conrad Zollickoffer, 17 October 1796
From: Zollickoffer, John Conrad
To: Washington, George

                            May it please Your Excellence!Sir!
                            Baltimore Oct. 17th 1796

                        If my Family Business would permit my absance from home, I should have concured
                            to the wishes of my Cozen Mr Rd Valltravers; I should myself have do me the Honor to wait
                            upon Your Excellence with this Inclosed letter & Sundry other Papers, which (as he
                            maintion to me) are Copy’s of his Correspondance with You Sir, Mr Lear Your former
                            Secretary, Mr Jefferson presidt of the Philadelphia Aceademy of Arts & Siences, as
                            also to Mr Adam vice presidt.
                        He forward to me in Main time a New Work of his, Called the Universal House
                            Cathechisme for the Instruction of Mankind of All Denomination &ce to be Delivered
                            to your Excellence’s Examination et Patronage.
                        I know that my Cozen is a Strong Republican being a Helvetion, born in the
                            Canton of Bern in Schwizerland, and his utmost Embition was at any time, to be Useful to a
                            free, & Independent Nation, therefore wishes that his former, & repeated
                            Offers of Servises, in our Republic the remainder of his Life, in any
                            public Station, as Agent, as Consul in any part of the Globe would be accepted; he must
                            certainly be well acquaint’d of any of these Carracters having been during 14 years as
                            public Resident & Counsollar of Ambasy for the Courts of Manheim, Munich, &
                            Florence, & being a Member of Mostly all the Aecademy of Siences in Europe.

                        I should look upon it as the most particular favour, if your Excellency would
                            be pleased to Order to his Secretary, to acquaint me of the recept of the Inclos’d papers,
                            as also Your Opinion upon his new House Catechisme, & should Your Excellency not
                            accept of him, or think it unworthy of Publication to return him to my Direction, that I may
                            forward him to my Cozen again with Your Excellancy reflection thereof.
                        Should I know when Your Excellancy passes traugh this Town, I should be happy
                            to wait upon, & to learn from Your Excellency ownself, what Expectation my Cozen may
                            have for his further Exertion. I have the honour to be. Your Excellency, Most faitful
                            Subject, & Devoted humble Servt

                            John Conrad Zollickoffer


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Peter, 19 October 1796
From: Peter, Thomas
To: Washington, George

                            Dear Sir
                            Hope Park 19th Octr 1796

                        I expected to havehad the Pleasure of being at Mount Vernon long before this,
                            but business calling me up the Potowmack, & Mrs Stuarts illness to Hope Park, has
                            prevented it.
                        The day after you left the City I mentioned my opinion frequently, to a number
                            of Persons the propriety of appointg a Comity to inquire who were materially injured by the
                            fire, but none were appointed; A subscription paper was put about & no Subscriber
                            exceeded more then five dollars excepting my subscription for
                            you, which was ten dollars, & in a Little time the money raised was much more
                            then the person lost—Inclosed is the Balance of the One Hundred Dollars, which, you left
                            with me, & if I have not acted as you could wish you will be plased
                            to inform me & I will with the utmost pleasure make such
                            alterations as you may direct—make my best respects to Mrs Washington, Mr Fresten & La Fayette & I remain Dear Sir with much Exteem Your obt Servt

                            Thomas Peter


Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 19 October 1796
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            Department of State Octr 19. 1796.

                        The news-papers which will go by this post, will present you with a letter from
                            Mr King to Mr Johnson, the consul of the United States at London, containing the agreeable
                            information that such a decree of the Directory as the note from Delacroix to Barthelemy
                            imported, had not passed, nor would be issued, unless Britain set the example. Mr King’s
                            letter as published is doubtless authentic: but I have no further advice from him on the
                            subject than I have already had the honour to lay before you. With the highest respect I am
                            sir your obt servt

                            Timothy Pickering


Title: To George Washington from Gabriel Christie, 20 October 1796
From: Christie, Gabriel
To: Washington, George

                            Dear Sir
                            Havre de Grace Octr 20th 1796

                        I am inform’d that you have some intention of disposing of part of your Negroes
                            for a term of years I want to purchase about 10 or 12 boys from 13 to 15 years of age to put
                            into a Nail Factory which I have lately established at this place should you be inclined to
                            sell any of them I will if the price is sutable purchase that Number and will engage that
                            they shall learn a trade wherby they may get a good living after there time of servitude
                            expires you would greately oblige me by letting me hear from you on this subject and I
                            will send my manager down to look at them and to fix the price. I am respectfully Dear sir
                            your Ob. servt

                            G. Christie


Title: To George Washington from Denis-Jean-Florimond Langlois de Montheville, marquis Du Bouchet, 20 October 1796
From: Du Bouchet, Denis-Jean-Florimond Langlois de Montheville, marquis
To: Washington, George

                            Mon Général20 8bre 1796 Merton Grove, Surry, Near
                                    London.

                            C’est au plus grand des hommes, c’est à la rare equité qui le distingue que
                                j’ose adresser le cri de la Douleur!
                            Depuis 4 ans, j’ai perdû ma Patrie et je crois l’avoir perduê â jamais,
                                puisqu’il ne m’y reste plus ni parents, ni amis, ni Asile j’en cherche un au Sein de la
                                paix et de la vigueur des loix.
                            j’ai Sur les bras une epouse et des Enfants, Sans autre ressource que
                                l’espoir en vôtre Généreuses bontés; j’ai dû croire que pour l’interesser il me Suffisoit
                                d’etre honnette homme et malheureux.
                            je puis aussi vous rapeller; Mon Général, que je fus l’un des premiers
                                chargés de Depeches de la part du Roi, Sous les ordres de feu Mr le Cte de Vergennes,
                                ce fut â vous même que j’eus l’honneur de les remettre; j’eus celui,
                                à mon retour d’etre le premier capitaine nommé par Mr L’Ambassadeur
                                francklin; chargé d’ordres de Sa part, je fus fait prisonnier aux
                                atterrages de Boston, Sur le vaisseau l’Aimable
                                therese et conduit à Plymouth en Angleterre,, oû je fus envoyé deux
                                fois par Mr de Vergennes touchant les interets des Etats Unis ensuite
                                j’eus l’honneur de recevoir la croix de Cincinnatus..
                            Sous vos Ordres, Mon General, Sous vôtre protection, je croirois encore au
                                Bonheur—laissés parler vôtre coeur et je vole embrasse vos genoux.
                            je Suis avec Respect Mon Général

                            Vótre trés humble et trés obeissant
                                    Serviteur
                                Le Cte Fenis de La Prâde,
                                ancien Colonel de Dragons;
                                Chevalier des ordres
                                Militaires de St Louis et de

                                    Cincinnatus.

                        Translation
                            generalMorton grove, Surrey, near London october the 20th 1796it is to the greatest of men, it is to the uncommon equity, which
                                distinguishes him, that I dare entrust my grief.
                            since four years I lost my country and I believe I have lost it for ever,
                                since I have no relations, no friends, no asylum left there. I wish to find one in a
                                country where peace florishes and where laws are in vigour.
                            I have a wife and children to take care of, without any other resource,
                                than a hope in your generosity: I ought to believe that to excite it in my favour, it
                                was sufficient to be an honest man, and unhappy.
                            I can recall to your memory, general, that I was one of the first charged
                                with dispaches from the King of france, under the orders of the late count of Vergennes,
                                I had the honor of delivering them into your own hands; I was, at my return, the first
                                captain appointed by Mr franklin, American ambassador: charged with orders from him; I
                                was made prisoner near the Coasts of Boston on the ship L’aimable therèse, and carried
                                to Plymouth in England, where I was twice sent by Mr le Vergennes for the interests of
                                the United States. afterwards was honoured with the Cincinnatus’s order.
                            under your orders, general: under your protection, I would still hope for
                                happiness, obey to the dictates of Your heart, and I will go immediately to implore your
                                assistance. I am With respect general Your Most humble and obedient

                                Count denis de la Prâde,
                                former colonel of Dragoons,
                                Knights of the Military orders
                                of St Lewis and Cincinnatus


Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 20 October 1796
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            Department of State Octr 20. 1796.

                        Doctor Edwards delivered to me to-day letters from Mr Monroe and Mr King. The
                            Doctor arrived in the ship which had but nineteen days passage. Mr King’s letter of the 10th
                            of September authenticates the one of the same date published in the news-papers, shewing,
                            from Mr Monroe’s letter to him of August 28, that on the appearance of the letter from the
                            minister of foreign affairs to M. Barthelemy, he applied for information whether orders for
                            seizing neutral vessels had been issued, and was answered, "that no such order had been
                            issued, and that none would be issued, in case the British did not seize our vessels."
                        The letters from Mr Monroe are dated Augt 4. & 6th the latter referring
                            to his accounts of some expenditure. In that of the 4th he mentions that within a few days
                            Mr Mangourit, formerly consul at Charleston, and now secretary of embassy in Spain, had been
                            appointed with the rank of Chargé des Affaires, to succeed Mr Adet, in the U. States. On the
                            morning of the 4th he visited the minister of foreign affairs, "and remonstrated earnestly
                            against the mission of Mr Mangourit to the U.S. as a person who having given offense to our
                            government upon a former occasion, could not be well received by it on the present one." The
                            minister replied in terms sufficiently respectful, but in a manner that showed, if any
                            change were made, it would not be with his consent. He observed however, that if Mr Monroe
                            would write him a short note on the subject, he would lay it before the Directory. Mr Monroe
                            promised to write accordingly.
                        In this same letter of the 4th of August, Mr Monroe mentions the minister’s
                            letter to Bartholemi as authentic; and that on his speaking to him upon it, the minister’s
                            answer corresponded much in sentiment with the note to Bartholemi. I suppose therefore that
                            when Mr Monroe wrote to Mr King on the 28th of August, he had received further &
                            more explicit information from the French government.
                        He also mentions the report of a treaty of alliance
                            offensive & defensive between France & Spain as in great forwardness,
                            whereby the latter cedes to the former, Louisiana & perhaps the Floridas: but adds,
                            that he had no authentic information of this; altho’ the source from whence it came, was of
                            a nature to merit attention.
                        I have the honor to inclose two letters which were received this day; and to be
                            with the highest respect, sir, your most obt servant

                            Timothy Pickering.


Title: To George Washington from Ralph Eddowes, 21 October 1796
From: Eddowes, Ralph
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            No. 67 North Third Street Philadelphia 21 Octo. 1796

                        Tho’ I know nothing more of the inclosed sealed packet directed to you than is
                            communicated by the letter addressed to me, yet from my knowledge of Mr Rushton and my
                            intimacy with Mr Rathbone, who is one of the most respectable characters in Liverpool, I am
                            confident that I am committing no impropriety in transmitting them to you. Had you been in
                            Philadelphia I would have done myself the honor of delivering them to you in person
                            & am most respectfully sir yr obedt Servt

                            Ra. Eddowes


Title: To George Washington from James Hill, 21 October 1796
From: Hill, James
To: Washington, George

                            Respected Friend
                            Baltimore Octr the 21. 1796

                        Being informd by a Young man from that quarter that
                                thee intended to rent thy mill for a terms of Years. I therefore
                            take the liberty to inform the that it is my intentesion to rent A Mill in that state, if
                            the has not rented thine and would let it on reasonable terms, if the Could make it
                            convenient to inform me of the perticulrs I would call and see thee—I having another in
                            View wich obliges me to give an answer in a month From thiss date. but being rather inclind
                            to think That thine will suit me better from the information of Chs Gwin who has seen it and
                            is to be consernd If I take it, I therefore wish the to inform me Amediately for what time
                            the proposes to lease it The Very probablely may wish some information Respecting my
                                Carracter if so I must refer the To jery brown of little britain
                            lancaster County who introdusd me to the as a miller in may last or
                            levy Hollingworth of philadelphia. I Am Respectfully Yors

                            James Hill

                            N.B. If the rites Direct to me per tapsico or to Chs Gwin baltimore


Title: From George Washington to Timothy Pickering, 21 October 1796
From: Washington, George
To: Pickering, Timothy

                            Dear Sir,
                            Mount Vernon 21 Oct. 1796

                        Your letter of the 15th came duly to hand.
                        Fortune seems to have declared for us, hitherto, in the Election, of more
                            properly Selection & ballotting, for the odd Commissioner, under the Treaty with
                            G.B.—But something must be done, & I presume immediately, to supply Mr Trumbull’s
                            place as Agent in the other business, to which he was appointed.
                        I wish most ardently that the flames of war were extinguished instead of
                            kindling anew, as is too probable between Great Britain & Spain; in which it is not
                            unlikely Portugal may be involved.
                        The fates, some how or another, seems to have been adverse to our unfortunate
                            captives by the Algerines, in all our attempts to relieve them, hitherto, and the
                            probability is, it will continue to be so as the chances of renewed Quarantine by the death
                            of one of them in 60 days is much against them. I am Your affectionate

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Robert Nesbitt, 22 October 1796
From: Nesbitt, Robert
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            Harford, Maryland. 22d October 1796.

                        When Britain oblidged America to take up Arms, I was in Ireland, having sailed
                            from New York when the Tea was destroyed in Boston. My Father had been often in this
                            Country. In his family, He prayed twice every day, & I cannot recollect that he ever
                            finished his Devotions (after hearing of your being appointed Commander in Chief) that He
                            did not pray for your Success.
                        In 1779 I returned to America & Exerted myself in the Cause of Liberty.
                            Taught to Reverence you, I wished by some means, to give you a proof of my Attachment, in
                            1783, I went from New Windsor to Philadelphia, where I purchased a Hat & Cockade.
                            Those I sent to you, on St Patrick’s day, to Newburgh. Your letter, refusing the former but,
                            kindly, accepting the latter, is now before me, & has been my constant companion,
                            thro’ many distressing Scenes.
                        Four days ago I got a Newspaper containing your Address to
                            the PEOPLE. A sentimental Patriotic friend told me that I would be affected when reading
                            it. He spoke Truth. Neither my Tongue nor my Pen can express my Sensations. Excuse me,
                            Beloved Sir, for addressing you, I cannot help it.
                        May the God of Hosts, preserve & keep you, happy long Happy Here
                            & that opposite to Your Name. Bliss in Eternum may be written opposite to your name
                            in the Heavenly Mansions & in the MOST conspicuous characters, long has been & is now & will be  dum memor ipse mei the Ardent Prayer of, Your
                            Faithful Servant

                            Robert Nesbitt


Title: To George Washington from John William Bronaugh, 24 October 1796
From: Bronaugh, John William
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Loudoun 24th Octor 1796

                        I find on conversing a second time with my Father, that I have not informed you
                            right with respect to the conveyance he made of the 2000 acres of Land on the great
                                Kanhawa he has conveyed the Land to Colo. Powell instead of Mr Muse
                            this was done by Muse’s instructions, I have enclosed you a copy of your letter to my Father
                            in 1775. on the subject of the exchange you made with Mr Muse, and have also enclosed you a
                            copy of the Deed from my Father to Colo. Powell with the certificate of the Clerk of the
                            General Court of its having been recorded—I have requested Colo. Powell to inform you that
                            the Land conveyed in the enclosed Deed is the same Land for which you have my Fathers bond
                            for conveyance—After you satisfy yourself that the condition of my Father’s bond has been
                            complyed with, will be greatly obliged to you to enclose the bond to me, to be lodged in the
                            post office at Dumfries—I am Sir Yr mo. obt Servt

                            John W. Bronaugh


Title: To George Washington from Matthew McAllister, 25 October 1796
From: McAllister, Matthew
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            Savannah October 25th 1796.

                        I have to return you many thanks for the confidence reposed in me, when you
                            were pleased to nominate me to the Office of Attorney for this district at the organization
                            of our happy Government: permit me Sir, to assure you, that nothing could give me greater
                            pain, than that it should in any degree be diminished with the President for whose character
                            I have ever had, the highest respect.
                        If a particular transaction out of the line of my official duty—I mean, Sir,
                            the purchase of a part of the Western territory within the limits of this State was taken
                            into consideration in making the election of a successor, to the late Judge of this
                            district—the Gentleman lately appointed to that office, was originally concerned as well as
                            myself. this circumstance I have reason to beleive, was not clearly understood, at the time
                            the appointment took place.

                        Genl Gunn, Mr Walker and myself signed a paper to him, purporting that he held a
                            certain portion of that territory in the Georgia Company. which was paid for—the paper
                            transferred—a valuable consideration received for it, and the certificate is now in the
                            hands of the Gentleman who purchased it. Besides, Sir, I have had too good an opinion of Mr
                            Clay to suppose he would deny, that he also held several shares in another Company, of which
                            one of his Brothers in law was a grantee. another considerably interested and his partner in
                            the law, Mr Woodruff a young Gentleman who lived with him the secretary of the Company, and
                            who was also concerned in the purchase. I do not by any means feel sorry in vindication of
                            the truth, to make these remarks however unpleasant they may be nor am I at all apprehensive
                            of contradiction.
                        I flatter myself, Sir, there can be no impropriety in mentioning these
                            circumstances immediately to yourself—for, from the very nature and texture of our
                            Government, the avenue to a correct understanding of things ought in my opinion, to be as
                            easy and open as possible, particularly to an officer however inferior, who is accountable
                            for his conduct. besides, the relative situation of this state to the center of the public
                            business of the union, as well as the unfortunately distracted condition of the public mind,
                            renders it the more difficult to procure accurate information in regard to men and measures, so
                            as to be able to detect, or correct misrepresentations, whether intentional or otherwise.
                        Were I satisfied it had been distinctly understood that Mr Clay was a party to
                            that contract, as I was, and I really beleive Judge Stephens was the only one of the four
                            persons whose names were laid before you who was not concerned in it. then indeed to trouble
                            the President with these observations, might justly be considered the result of
                            indiscretion, or a mark of discontent at the regular exercise of the constitutional powers
                            of the Executive on that occasion. Strong reasons however impel me and every other person I
                            have heard speak of the circumstance to beleive there must have been some erroneous or
                            uncandid representations.

                        It would give me pleasure to learn this was not the case; and that the fact of
                            Mr Clay’s being originally engaged and of his declaring himself to be so, immediately after
                            the sale, was candidly and honorably admitted. any subsequent disposition he may have made
                            of his interest, may probably afford a subject of speculative consideration.
                        I owe it, Sir, not only to myself and my friends, but I conceive myself bound
                            to the President who may in some measure be considered responsible for the conduct of
                            officers, appointed during his pleasure to endeaver to remove any improper or unequal
                            impressions. and to give truth an oppertunity to assume her empire, in case her Altar has
                            been assailed.
                        I have to beg, Sir, that it may not be inferred from any part of this letter,
                            that I consider myself particularly injured—the Gentlemen whose names mine accompanied, are
                            too respectable for me to feel it peculiarly, besides the principle long since adopted in
                            respect to appointments, is perfectly in unison with my own sentiments; and in reality was
                            wisely engendered in the constitution of our Government, and is coeval with the principles of
                            every free one. All I mean is that misrepresentations ought to be noticed and
                            discountenanced, and where there is a probability of their existence—it becomes the duty of
                            every good citizen to unravel and detect them so far as he may have it in his power.

                        In justice to my Sentiments, I now feel myself bound to declare, that, I was
                            not prompted to a resignation of my commission as Attorney for this district (which was
                            transmitted to the Secretary of State two posts ago) from any dislike of the Government of
                            our common Country—or to the general Administration of it—nor from any disrespect to the
                            President, for whom I beg leave to repeat I entertain the contrary in the highest degree.
                            but from a conviction that I could not consistently continue any longer in the appointment.
                            I have the honor to be, Sir, with all possible consideration—Your most obedient Servant

                            Matt. McAllister.


Title: From George Washington to Timothy Pickering, 25 October 1796
From: Washington, George
To: Pickering, Timothy

                            Dear Sir
                            Mount Vernon 25th Oct. 1796

                        The enclosed letter came under cover to me from the Sister of General Pinckney.
                        Not knowing whether he had Sailed or not, she took this method of forwarding of
                            it to him—and I request you to do this by the first good conveyance. I am Yours affectly

                            Go: Washington

                            P.S. I shall commence my journey for Philadelphia this afternoon—but
                                business with detain me one day at least in the Federal City.


Title: From George Washington to William Pearce, 26 October 1796
From: Washington, George
To: Pearce, William

                            Mr Pearce,
                            Federal City 26th Oct. 1796

                        Cyrus was obliged to come on to this place, in order to take the horses back,
                            which Mr Frestal & Mr La Fayette rode, which is the cause of his delay.
                        Mrs Washington desires me to in form you that there was some Butter left in the
                            Cellar, and some Beef in a Tub which (after supplying James) may be applied to any uses you
                            think proper.
                        Let my Study be cleaned out, & the Room afterwards locked up. Do not
                            miss the opportunity of getting our Baggage, & James, round by the first Vessel to
                            Philada—taking a Bill of Lading for the several parcels, and sending it in a letter, that we
                            may know when we get them All.
                        When your family quit the house they are now in, and you remove to the Mansion,
                            let Sinah & the other girl join the Mansion house people & Mrs Washington
                            may, afterwards, chuse either for a Washer woman.
                        Have the Earth removed from the stone quarry where I shewed you—that Mr Blagden
                            may be able to examine it when he calls there.
                        Let all the Saddles and Bridles that I have left at home be cleaned &
                            locked up—or they will be hacked about, injured, & perhaps lost.
                        The Mules for my Carriage—the two Colts from the Chariot Mares—& the
                            one from the Augusta Mare must be well kept and attended to, till I come home. I shall write
                            you more fully as soon as I get to Philadelphia in the mean while I remain your friend
                            &ca

                            Go: Washington