Title: To George Washington from Lafayette, 5 September 1798
From: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de
To: Washington, George

My dear General
Witmold-Holstein [Germany]September the 5th 1798

I Have Had some time Ago the pleasure to write you a letter the duplicate of which shall Accompany this—The intelligence Has Since Come to Us of your Having Accepted the Command of the Armies—But you will Not be the less pleased to hear of the dispositions to a fair Reconciliation on the part of the French directory which I Hope will be Reciprocated By the American Governement—To what I took the liberty to Say in my last Letter, I must Add that my private informations from Paris Confirm me in the belief there in expressed—I am also Acquainted that Besides the direct Communications, the Batavian directory Have Resolved to propose their Mediation and a Letter to that purpose was to Have been sent to America—Among the Motives I Have to Hope for the Restoration of Harmony Between the two Countries, I was glad to Hear this very day a gentleman Say that the same opinion Had been lately expressed in Hamburgh by Governor Morris—Under those promising Circumstances, I am Happy to find You are more than ever in a Situation to Improve them, and in a way Becoming the Honour and Interest of the United States, to Make up this Unhappy Quarell, the actual termination of which, on proper terms,

altho’ it may Blast the Boasting Hopes of a foreign Governement, Will Leave America increased in Her national Character and political Consequence.
Notwistanding the Intrigues of the British Cabinet, the Courts of Sweden, Danemark, and Berlin persist in their Determination to Keep their Neutrality and to protect the tranquillity of Northern Germany—The Neapolitan Ladies Have More Success at Vienna—The Renewal of an Austrian war, and of Course the down fall of the throne of Naples are probable—Every Account Assures that Bonaparte Has Arrived in Alexandria, and that He Has not Been Interrupted on his Voyage. The interior Situation of France and the Neighbouring Republics is the Same, Nor is there Any Appearance of Alteration in the Civil Measures—Holland, However, is an Exception—The jacobines Had on the 21st January Overset the patriots—these Have Regained ground, and the new Elections Are much Approuved—it is this New Governement whose Interest in the Reconciliation will be Expressed to you—A private Circumstance May lead you to form a judgement on them—When I got out of prison, the then Batavian Governement Had intended to invite me there—this idea Has Been Again taken Up By those who Have lately Come in—Nothing on my part is yet determined altho’ my Being Nearer my family during their Stay of a few months in France Might forward the Business upon which My wife is now Employed—I Have Had the Satisfaction to Hear She Has well Borne the journey—She says Her Accounts on the public treasure shall be settled in a month—the Arrangements Relative to Landed property will Require Some time more—She promises to Me in a fortnight Long letters by a friend—By the last Opportunity, my dear General, I informed You that Mde de Vaublanc and Her daughter married to General Pinkney’s Nephew was to Embark for America and intended to Land in Virginia—They are ladies of Great personal merit—My friend Vaublanc is an Honour to his Country and to Our Cause—He Acted a most Conspicuous part in the legislative Assembly of 92—two days Before the 10th of August he Stood my defender in a most Eloquent Speech—He was almost miraculously Saved to display in the Council of cinq cent the Same Enlightened, Energetic, Upright Character—He is Such a man as does above all please You—Now He is one of the wandering Victims of the 18th fructidor, But is not for ever lost to His Country—Give me leave, My dear General, to Recommend the two Ladies to

Your Benevolent Attentions—The Same Request I take the liberty to present to Mrs Washington and Miss Eleanor—I know the Value they Set by the pleasure and Honour of Your Acquaintance—I am Sure it will prove very Satisfactory to You, and am Happy in the Opportunity to show to them my gratitude and Respect—When you write to Mr Pinkney or in Case you See him will you have the Goodness to Express to that Excellent Man the Sense I Have of the obligations that for Ever Bind me to Him—I Know that You have Been very Kind to Doctor Bollman—Gratitude to the Heroic young Huger may make me Appear partial—But His Noble Character, Independant of personal Concerns, Has made on my Heart an impression which No words Can Express, and to it I know no Adequate price But the Esteem and friendship of General Washington—Georges who writes By another Vessel Requests His Best and most grateful Respects to be presented to You, My Beloved General, and to Mrs Washington—the Ambition of His life shall Ever be to deserve the testimonies of parental Goodness with which You Have penetrated His Heart—He Begs also to Be Respectfully Remembered to Miss Eleanor—my affectionate Compliments wait Upon Her—I Beg leave to offer a filial tribute of Attachement and Respect to Mrs Washington—Georges makes me Happy in the Expressions of Her Kindness to me—We Both pay our Compliments to Mr Custis—Adieu, My dear General, the Adoptive father of the whole family, with Every Sentiment of Affection and Respect I shall to the last Moment of My life be Your filial friend

Lafayette


Title: To George Washington from Bryan Fairfax, 7 July 1798
From: Fairfax, Bryan
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
York Septr the 7th 1798.

I wrote to You another long Letter from London which I put into the Post Office to go by the next Packet to New-York, since which I have taken a Journey to this City, and having delivered your kind Letter of introduction to Mr Strictland, have been very civilly treated by him—He desired me to present his respects to You—He remembers meeting me three years ago between George town and Alexandria. He looks remarkably well for his Age. He was however telling a Gentleman yesterday that you would be thought young of your Age even in England. I have found some of my old Acquaintance alive here and in the neighbourhood, but have as yet made no Enquiry that has proved satisfactory with respect to what I mentioned in my Letter from London. Mr Erskine has put me into the way which I have not been able to avail myself of from not having seen the Gentleman he advised me to apply to.
How exceeding fluctuating is my health! Last night I began to flatter myself I should miss or get rid of my Cholic for this Spell, not having had a Fit to speak of for six days, tho’ in the last week I had it four days running, owing in the Journey to the not excluding the Air from the Chaise as much as was necessary, for when I did so the third day I escaped & continued to be clear, except the great depressions thro’ the want of Opium, till last night when I had it for some hours, and to Day it is returned; owing to nothing I can think of unless it was stopping in the Street Yesterday & going into a House when I was warm from walking, which for two days I had ventured upon. But this custom of stopping I had long avoided at Home. I have also been civilly treated by Mr Thos L. Fairfax Son of John who once lived at Liverpool & who sent me over those fine Hounds I imported. But he & his Lady now live at Bath & near Mrs

Fx of Virginia. Colo. Cary sent me a Message to his Sister which I am afraid I delivered rather aukwardly. I never knew all my Life what to do of a sudden, which at different times caused many improprieties which I reflected on with concern, some with respect to yourself which you were great eno. to overlook.
I have not heard one single article of news since I have been in york which has been near a week, nor have read a Paper. My State in general is too disconsolate at present for any thing—I found the Ride down of Service & seemingly very great after I got out of the way of being injured. Yesterday I engaged a clever Horse to ride every day that I may take as much Exercise as I can before the cold weather sets in. I am to give 9/ a week for the Hire, preferring that to a Purchase as I should be sure to lose in the Sale again when I make an Attempt to return next Summer. Hoping that I shall live to see You again & Mrs Washington to whom I desire my respectful Regards & kind remembrance to Miss Custis & the Family I remain Dr Sir with unabated Esteem Yr obliged & Obedt Servt

Fairfax


Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 7 September 1798
From: McHenry, James
To: Washington, George

My Dear Sir
Trenton [N.J.] 7th Sepr 1798

I received yesterday evening your letter of the 3d inst. I had understood by the public prints you were indisposed, and am truely & sincerely rejoiced to learn from yourself that you have recovered. I think it will be proper you should intermit for some time your attention to business, and avoid the early morning and evening air, as well as much exposure to the hot sun.
The President is determined to place Hamilton last and Knox first. I have endeavoured all in my power to preserve your arrangement, but without effect. You shall be informed, in a short time of

the course of the business. I know not how it will be received by Hamilton, and can only hope, that he will not refuse to serve. I shall however soon know, and will instantly acquaint you. Your sincere & affectionate

James McHenry


Title: From George Washington to Citizens of Greene County, Tennessee, 8 September 1798
From: Washington, George
To: Citizens of Greene County, Tennessee

Gentlemen,
Mount Vernon 8th Septr 1798

Having once more engaged in the arduous duties of public life, (after I had retired therefrom with the most ardent wishes and pleasing hopes that no circumstances would occur to call me from my peaceful abode during the few remaining years of my life) I cannot be insensible to the approbation of my fellow Citizens. And, while I thank you, Gentlemen, for your warm & friendly Address, permit me to observe, that I can take no merit to myself for any personal sacrifices I may make in accepting the arduous and important trust with which I have been honored; for, when the Property of our Citizens has been despoiled—our Sovereignty encroached upon—our constituted Authorities treated with contempt—and our Independence threatned, can that man be deserving the Appellation of an American Citizen, who would suffer any motives of personal consideration to withhold his exertions at such an eventful crisis.
It certainly appears, Gentlemen, as you observe, that the mild and pacific policy of America has been mistaken for Cowardice, and a base desertion of our Rights. But I trust that the injured spirit of our Country will now be roused, and that we shall shew to the world that we can and will support our Rights and the Government of our choice against all aggressions, and that we will yield our Independence only with our lives.
To do this requires a spirit of unanimity which, I presume, will shortly prevail in every part of the United States, & that every virtuous

Citizen will see the necessity of his exertions to preserve the invaluable blessings which we have yet in our power.

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from William Russell, 8 September 1798
From: Russell, William
To: Washington, George

Much respected Sir
Middletown in Connecticut8 September 1798

As my custom is to keep my Ram’s seperate from my Flock untill the middle of the month of October I had fixed the first week in September for forwarding a Ram reserved in consequence of what passed when I had the pleasure of paying my respects to you at Mount Vernon, but an interruption of our usual intercourse with New York occasion’d by the alarming sickness that prevails there, unavoidably prevents me from executing my purpose of shipping the Sheep with the Chaff Engine which is just compleated—I regret the delay & am sure you will also join me in lamenting the cause of it, but I thought it right to apprize you of the circumstance in order that during its’ unavoidable protraction you may order such Ewes to be reserved for the use of this Ram as you chuse to put to him—I shall send him by the very first Vessell from New York which has suitable accommodations for him, consigned to Mr Thomas Porter in Alexandria with a request that he will forward him to Mount Vernon—I shall be obliged by your acceptance of him—It is a Yearling rear’d in this place, & in two Years time is likely to be a valuable Sheep—He is in my Judgment superior to any I have seen upon the Continent, one only excepted which is now in my Flock, but which it is my intention to ask your

acceptance whenever I leave the Continent, if I do not breed a better, a ⟨point⟩ I am & shall endeavor after every year—A Friend in England has recently wrote me to procure him some early wheat for seed—if it will be agreable to you to order to Mr Porter, any quantity that may fill 5 or 6 flour barrell’s, or any other Cask’s your Store may aford more suitable for the purpose of containing 10 to 15 Bushell, I shall desire Mr Porter to account with you for it. The Chaff Engine Cost 30£—I beg to make my best acknowledgments to yourself Sir & to your good Lady for your Hospitality, Politeness and Condescension during the visit I had the honor of making at Mount Vernon, & to assure you that I rejoice your health & capacities for extensive usefulness are continued; & most devoutly wish they may long remain to gratify the hope’s, & enrapture the feelings of American’s, whom I now with pleasure contemplate, as taking their rank among the Nations, and entitling themselves to the esteem and respect of the World—That every good may attend you here, & for ever, is devoutly wishd by Sir Your sincere & obedient Servt

Willm Russell


Title: To George Washington from Alexander White, 8 September 1798
From: White, Alexander
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Washington [D.C.] 8th September 1798

I was prevented from paying attention to your request as soon as you might expect, by circumstances unnecessary to recite, but on thursday afternoon I went with the Surveyor and examined all the public property near the Capitol Square I have caused a plan of that square with the adjacent grounds to be made, with four lots which I thought best adapted to your purpose designated thereon, and their respective contents and distances from the Capitol noted—The Lots on Square 634 stand on high ground fronting on North Capitol Street, and continue nearly level perhaps two thirds of

their depth, and then fall off towards the low grounds of the Tiber with a pretty rapid descent. they command a fine prospect, and are by far the most elegant situations among those designated. No. 16 is the best of the two We sold the adjacent lot No. 17 at 15 Cents the square foot—No. 2 in square 731 is on Pennsylvania Avenue, a sufficient proportion of it for the site of a house is level, it then falls off in an easy descent towards Lot No. 1 which is likewise public property and ends in a hollow—Lot No. 23 in square 728 is on good ground a little more remote from the Capitol than the others, but is more in view of Travellers being near the Post Road and Post-office a building there might attract public notice more than on either of the other lots, and it seems sufficiently near the Capitol for any kind of business—When the Board meet I will ask their opinion as to the prices of the several lots and annex them to the foot of this letter. I am with Sentiments of the highest respect, and most sincere regard Dear Sir Your most Obt Servt

Alex. White


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Peter, 10 September 1798
From: Peter, Thomas
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
George Town 10th Sept. 1798

Your Letter of the 4th I received Yesterday on my return from Marlborough—I desired my Father in my absence to obpen your Letter for me (should there be any) & act agreeable to your request, which I find he did, your four Hhds at George Town Warehouses are shipt, the light one that weighed 763 now weighs 1001—Mr Carleton has sent to Nanjemoy for some Tobacco he has there & order’d your two hhds to be brought round with it, as soon as they are on board he will give me a Bill of Loading for your Tobacco. The Firm of his House is Findlay Bannatine & Co. they have given some very good accounts Sales of Tobacco & from the High prices in London I expect yours will nett you a large sum for the Quantity. Mr Carleton has order’d the same insurance on yours as his

own, which is to recover twenty Guineas pr hhd clear of all loss—Mrs Law has entirely recover’d, I expect they will Dine with us to day—we are as usual, & Happy to find you have almost recoverd—Our best respects to Mrs Washington, yourself, Nelly & Washn & am Dear sir your Affectionate

Thomas Peter


Title: To George Washington from David Stuart, 10 September 1798
From: Stuart, David
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir,
Hope Park—10th Sepr [17]98.

I have at length recieved a letter from Mr King dated the 26th Augt informing me that a vessell of Mr Chamberlayne’s was then landed and ready to sail with 246 barrells of corn for you—I presume she must be arrived before this—More would have been sent, if the vessell could have brought it—If you wish another load you will be pleased to inform Mr King of it—I hope you feel yourself perfectly recovered—I am with perfect respect Your Affecte & Obt Serv.

Dd Stuart


Title: To George Washington from Alexander Spotswood, 11 September 1798
From: Spotswood, Alexander
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Newpost—Septr 11 1798.

Myself and family Felt much happiness, on being informed that Mr B. Washington had on his way through Fredericksburg last week reported you on the recovery—and we hope by this, that you begin to feel a rapid return to your former health.
My last informed you that my Sons overseer on account of his health declines engageing in business and that my overseer will engage with you for fifty pounds a year and your usual allowance of provision—his faults I made you acquainted with—he is a man very capable of Business—and I am inclined to think under the eye of a Steawrd will do well.
My principal reason for not keeping him—is the many connections he has in this neighborhood—who on there way to, and from town—call on, & keep him from his duty.
Richard Rhodes, the man I recommended for yr house overseer, I wrote to last week—I have not yet had his answer, I shall write again to morrow—and as I know he will Suit you—I could wish you to keep the place Vacant for a few weeks to come.
Respecting Carter the Joiner—I wrote to a Mr Wm Richards a man much to be relied on to know of Carter if he would live with you—and what his Terms would be—and should Carter decline, to look out for a young man that he personally knew—and could recommend—his answer was, that he had seen carter—who had declined the Joiners Busseness—and was then engaged with a mill wright—at which bussiness he intended to continue—but would see me in a few days.
he was down yesterday and brought with him a young man by the name of Brookes—who Says he will engage with you for £45 pr year, Mr Richards tels me he has known him from his infancy, that he is a compleet Joiner—a young man of fine moral Character—very industrious—and much to be depended on—This young man, as well as my overseer—wishes to know as early as possible your determination as to them.
Since my return home I have recd a letter from Mr B. Feild in the green river country—he acknowledges the rect of my letter—incloseing instructions &c. as to the lands, that lay opposite yours on Rough creek—and assures me, if in his power, your wishes shall be complied with—Mrs Spotswood & family desires to be

presented in the most respectful & affectionate manner to you, Mrs Washington & Miss Custis as well as dr sr yr Most Ot & affect. Hb.St

A. Spotswood


Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 13 September 1798
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Washington, George

(private)
SirTrenton [N.J.] Sept. 13 1798.
I have this moment received your favour of the 9th. Since mine of the 1st the Secretary of War has received from the President a letter deciding the ranks of the three first General Officers in question—that they shall stand, Knox—Pinckney—Hamilton. This decisive act is the more surprizing, seeing but a fortnight before the President had written to McHenry, that in his opinion Genl Knox had the legal right to rank first, and that “if General Washington is of the same opinion and consents to it” let the Commissions be so made out. I quote the above words from memory, but believe them exact; I know that the matter was put on your “opinion” and “consent.” This precipitate decision has made us all very uneasy; and I proposed that we should address the President, stating respectfully, but plainly, the erroneous opinion he had formed upon Genl Knox’s claim, and the mischievous consequences that must inevitably follow his decision, if carried into execution. I made a draught which is under consideration. I should have written before now, but that I wished, if we agreed in an address to the President,

to send a copy of it to you. One mischief already appears—Colo. Hamilton will not serve in the place to which the President would now degrade him. The fact is, that the President has an extreme aversion to Colo. Hamilton—a personal resentment—and if he followed his own wishes and feelings alone, would scarcely have given him the rank of a brigadier. But a single circumstance will give you a clearer idea of the President’s sentiments toward Colonel Hamilton than a volume of other details. Not imagining that you would ever again be interrupted in your tranquil retirement, after having toiled in public services for more than forty years; and not knowing that the President had contemplated pressing you into a new & probably uncommonly active war: Upon being asked by the President (and this was, tho’ I was utterly ignorant of it, on the very day, and about an hour after he had actually nominated you to the Senate) “Whom shall we appoint Commander in Chief?” I answered, “Colonel Hamilton.” Oh! No! said the President: it is not his turn by a great deal: “I would sooner appoint Gates, or Lincoln, or Morgan.” Tho astonished at this declaration, I instantly replied “Morgan is an excellent soldier, and has a capacity for a small command; but not exceeding a brigade. He however has now a broken constitution, and is utterly incapable of taking the field. As for Gates, he is now an old woman: and Lincoln is always asleep.”
This anecdote will, as one instance, illustrate and apologize for the remark made in my last, that I could not respect “errors, prejudices or passions.”
The president had never intimated to Mr Wolcott or me his intention of naming you Commander in Chief: I do not know that he had to Mr McHenry.
I presume Colo. Hamilton may have written you since the President’s decision was expressed. It is a decision which ought not to stand: I hope in God the President may be prevailed on to reverse it: we have taken it upon ourselves to delay its execution. If there be such precipitation in measures of high importance, public affairs will be plunged into irretrievable ruin. I have neither talents nor weight of character to produce much effect; but what I have shall be exerted without the smallest regard to personal consequences.
When we shall have decided about the address, I will do myself

the honor again to write you. I have seized a few minutes before the closing of the mail to give this hasty scrawl. I am most respectfully yours

Timothy Pickering


Title: To George Washington from William Fitzhugh, 15 September 1798
From: Fitzhugh, William
To: Washington, George

My dear Sir
Ravensworth 15th Sepr 1798

I have been three Days in Alexandria, where I was in Hopes of meeting with Mr Joseph Lewis, but something I suppose has happen’d to prevent his being there at the appointed Time—I am sorry it was not in my Power to have spent a Day with you—If Mr Lewis shoud come down, he will certainly send his Horse to you but I beg you to remember that I have not purchased him, & that there is not the least necessity for your taking him, unless he is perfectly to your liking—I fear the Horse you have lately bought, will not answer your Purpose—He has very great Teeth which I am persuaded Genl Spotswood knew nothing of—With good Wishes for yourself, & Family, I am dear Sir your Aff. & Ob. Sert

Wm Fitzhugh


Title: To George Washington from John Francis, 15 September 1798
From: Francis, John
To: Washington, George

Sir
City of Washington Sept. 15th 1798

Having been obliged to leave Philadelphia during the continuance of the present calamity, I have travelled to this city; partly with a view of looking round for a situation suitable for my business; to which I might remove by the time the seat of Government shall be fixed here; and having fallen in company with Mr Law, he informed me that you had, very lately written to have two houses begun immediately, which you intend for the accomodation of the public.
I judged it not improbable but that if informed of my intention you might be willing to erect such a building, as would suit for a

boarding house, capable of accomodating, about thirty members of Congress.
It is unnecessary, at this time to particularize, but if the proposition meets your approbation, & you will favor me with a line addressed to the post office in this city, or under cover to Mr Law, it shall be duly attended to by Sir Your most obt Hble Sevt

John Francis (of the Hotel 4th Street Philaa)

I presume it is unnecessary to remind you, that it is at my house, Mr Adams has lodged these years past.


Title: From George Washington to Oliver Evans, 20 July 1798
From: Washington, George
To: Evans, Oliver

Sir
Mount Vernon, July 20, 1798.

Finding more difficulty than I apprehended in getting a Miller from Northward, I have again engaged my present one, on the terms he was before, rather than delay the matter any longer. I make this communication to prevent further inquiries on your part, on my behalf; and that I may thank you for the trouble you have taken in this affair to procure one for me. I am etc.


Title: From George Washington to James Anderson, 16 September 1798
From: Washington, George
To: Anderson, James

Mr Anderson,
Mt Vernon 16th Septr 1798 at Night

I am too much hurried and perplexed by the variety, and importance of the correspondence which I am thrown into, by recent & unexpected events, to find time to be answering long letters of complaint & remonstrances, at my expressing a sentiment at any time, respecting matters in which my interest is deeply concerned; when a personal conversation of five minutes would, at any time, in the Morning, at any of the Farms—or on the Road, answer the purpose equally, or better. I ever have, and I ever will, deliver my opinion in matters which relate to myself or my business: and it is needless to be repeating over, and over again, the favorable opinion I have so often expressed in writing, of your Industry, zeal & honesty. And once for all I tell you that I do not like to have it so often insinuated that I do, or direct, matters, contrary to your Judgment; or contrary at least to your acquiescence & declared approbation: relate if you can, a single instance wherein I have suggested a thing, and you have assigned reasons to shew the inutility of it, that I have persevered, and whether I have not an hundred times, if possible, requested that you would never be backward, but at all times, & upon all occasions, suggest fully, freely, & without reserve any measure, that from your experience, or belief, you conceive would be advantageous.
It is true I have expressed ⟨a⟩ wish often & often, that the lower part of Union Farm Meadow & the lower part of Dogue run meadow (both by Manley’s bridge) should be got in complete order, & sown with grass seeds as soon as this was accomplished; but was it not your own proposal in the Spring to execute it in the Fall? and did I ever direct any grass seeds to be sown in the Spring after you had declared it would not answer? I do not recollect ever to have heard such a declaration from you, until within these few days. I no doubt have, and probably often may, suggest many things which I wish to have done; but if ⟨reasonably⟩ opposed to ⟨illegible⟩ which I often have desired, & it is your duty to do, when they are ⟨cogent⟩; I am as ready to relinquish as I was to suggest them; for instance I as readily gave up, as I was to ⟨propose⟩ sowing the Banks of Union Farm meadow with grass seeds when Oats were put in. It will be recollected that I have repeatedly expressed a wish, that the high grds in the Lots that were about to be seperated

from the large meadows at Union & Dogue Run Farms might be well manured; and admitting this was done, I never expected any great yield from them but being on the public road, & for the benefit of mowing, I was desirous of laying them smooth, & making them look well.
As to the profits of the Distillery, it is very probable I shall say nothing more about it until the close of the year; when—according to the proverb—the proof of the pudding will be in the eating.
The reason why I want to confine your Acts to the Mill, Distillery & Fishery (while I am at home) I have given you, frankly & ⟨truly⟩. It is to ⟨illegible⟩ the complexity of Cash Accts—not that I have the smallest suspicion of unfairness from the manner in which you keep yours—If I had, I should be as free to tell you of that, as of any thing else, as my nature is open & candid, in all my transactions, and because I want them to be un⟨mixed⟩ simple & clear ⟨in all cases⟩—I approve therefore of your collecting & stating all accounts for & against me before the end of the Quarter; & thereafter to pay none yourself, but receive & transmit ⟨to me all⟩ (that are offered) except such as are of your own contracting, for one or the other of the above object ⟨illegible⟩ to enable you to do this, the produce of the Distillery may be applied, and you shall be furnished with money on account, when required, to be settled Quarterly.
I approve of your buying Doctr Mortons Wheat, & any other at, and on the best terms you can; but conceive the safest way, is not to be too fast in large purchases; but to let the Sales of flour be commensurate to the purchase of Wheat. you have an example before you of loss, in the purchase of Corn, & fall in the price of Whisky. Corn that I gave 17 & 18/ a barrel for about Xmas, might afterwards have been purchased for much less. I attach no blame to you on this account, & only mention it to show that one may be too fast, as well as too slow.
I have in a very hasty and indigested manner given you these sentiments; because it will not be in my power, nor shall I attempt to go into such a correspondence hereafter, when I see you almost every day, & matters can be so easily explained.
It is not my wish to hurt yours or the feelings of any man, but in ⟨truth⟩ I can scarcely ask an Overseer when I am on the ⟨farm⟩, & the object is before my eyes, any question respecting it but what your

sensibility is affected. This, & not being able to open my lips upon subjects very interesting to my pecuniary concerns by way of explaining my situation in ⟨illegible⟩ too feeling a manner, without receiving a long letter by way of repremand for Scolding, & constant intimations, if I am not satisfied with your services you are ready to quit my employ upon due notice, is carrying sensibility too far, to an unreasonable and improper length. I certainly may see things, which in my judgment, may require a change, and speak of them without meaning to wound your feelings; or that could be construed into a disapprobation of your ⟨illegible⟩ conduct; or ⟨illegible⟩ desire of parting with you.
It must be obvious to yourself, that it is by my Rents, and the Sales of my lands that I have been enabled to get along; & to support the expence of this house. The Farms do little more than support themselves, and those who overlook them. It is not to be wondered at then (especially after being often told that money would be coming in) that I now and then express myself strongly ⟨when⟩ I am called upon for the payment ⟨of⟩ almost every article ⟨that is⟩ bought, of magnitude. Yet, seeing that you struggle hard to put these farms in a more profitable ⟨illegible⟩, I believe I have said as little relative to the calls upon me for money, as most men in my situation would have done.
I will, once for all, Mr Anderson, say (and I never profess what I do not feel) that I have an esteem, regard & friendship for you; but I shall re⟨peat⟩ that this will never prevent me from expressing my mind fully and freely in all matters relative to my business. I never have, to your face or behind your back, insinuated any thing that could, by the most forced construction, imp⟨ugn⟩ your honesty, integrity, industry, sobriety or zeal; but the contrary: I see no cause therefore for such a display of sensibility when at any time I may speak feelingly to you on matters relative to my own concerns, when none of these are ⟨arraigned⟩.
Your Sons intention to leave my employ is as unexpected by me as the determination seems sudden ⟨by him⟩; and I am sorry for it: but as I have had no other concern with the distillery than to provide what was asked, all I can say concerning it, is, that you must, against the ⟨illegible⟩ concern, supply his place in the best manner you can. With esteem & regard I am Your friend &ca

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Alexander Spotswood, 16 September 1798
From: Spotswood, Alexander
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Sunday Newpost Septr 16. 1798

your favour of the 14th was forwarded to me last evening by Mr Park—and which I now proceed to answer—tho not so Fully as you or myself wish.
My overseer Roger Farril accepts your Terms—and will be with you Soon after christmas—but Says, should Richard Rhodes decline your Bussiness—he shall give the preference to the Farm at £45 pr year &c.
From Rhodes I have received no Answer to my letters; I shall write again to day—and on Monday week will write you again—I shall also write this day to Mr Richards—and desire him to Send

the young man who engages as a Joiner to my house to receive a letter from me; and proceed on immediately to Mount Vernon—Mr Richards is much to be depended on—and from the appearance, & deportment of this Young man who is Single I Flatter myself he will please you.
I Feel much Flattered, by your confidence; in a repetition of your request—that I would put on Paper Such officers, with there grades that served in the Revolutionary war with Celebrity—I recollect Speaking to you much in the praise of a gentleman who Served in my Regiment. but at that time I could say nothing of his political Sentiments—Since, I have Seen a peice published in the papers with his Signature—which denote him no Freind to goverment—therefore, Valluable as I look on him as an officer. I shall pass him over—& begin with Colonels Edwd Carrington & Wm Heth—these are Sensible, genteel men—and who acted in there Stations last war with great Credit—and would be in my opinion an ornament, as well as a great acquisition to the Army—these gentlemen have famylies—and held very lucrative posts under goverment—the former Superviser, the latter Collector at Bermuda Hundred—and as I have reason to beleive, there other property is not great—particularly that of the latter—it is doubtful whether they would Relinquish there present profitable Situations, for a post in the Army.
Mr Hoard—this gentleman left the army at the close of the war with the Rank of Captain—he was in Bufords defeat—and I have understood that many of the officers should Say had he commanded; the Tables would have been turned on Tarlton—who contrary to all good faith—so soon as the men had laid down there arms on certain stipulated Conditions, he let his horse loose on them; & began his usual masacre—when this gentleman with his Company alone, flew to there arms—and fought most gallantly—until overpowered, he Taken prissoner, and covered with wounds the marks of which he carries now in his face.
This gentleman lived near me for three years—he is a man of good Sense, very independant in His property, possesses a fine Temper—and I think a respectable man—and altho I cannot Say any thing within my Knowledge, of his millitary Talents—yet certain I am—from his Activity, & Industry—and being well acquainted with Bussiness—that he would be a valluable acquisition in the Staff department—he holds I think the rank of majr in the

80,000 Malitia, that has been drafted as the first requisitiond and he assures me his determination is, to end his days in the Army. if he can get an appointment—and to render his country every Service in his power.
Mr Francis Thornton the Son of Mr F. Thornton of the fall Hill—he possesses a clear & independant Fortune—a gentleman of good Sense & pleasing manners—and fine moral character—he wishes a company—& assures me, as I believe he can raise it very quick.
These four gentlemen I am well acquainted with—I Know they are all much attached to you—and have been uniformly from the begining warm Freinds to Goverment & good order—Mr Green The Younger Son of Colo. John green, now 23 years of age—and in a pretty line of Bussiness in Fredericksburg—he wishes much to get into the army—I can say nothing of this gentleman of my own Knowledge—Farther, than he has a most wining Countenance—appears to be a Sensible Active man, and possesses genteel & easy manners—The gentlemen of Respectability here that I know to be frds to goverment Speak of him in the Highest Terms—not only as a Moral man, but one who has been a uniform and Steady freind to goverment—which he himself has assured me is the case—and with his life he will ever Support—the measures of goverment—If What I have here Said should incline you to promote this gentleman—certain I am—was you to see him—you would recommend—or appt him to a Company without hesitation.
The other Valluable feild officrs that I remember—are all removed to the western Country—those that remain; I can Say nothing for—and certain I am—that if appointments are confined to those alone who Served dureing the war—that the regiment to be raised in this State, will never be officered to your wishes.
If you desire, I will look about & with the assistance of some of my freinds, who are as warm freinds to goverment as myself—endeavour to make out a list of young gentlemen from 17 to 23 years of age who are of genteel & respectable famylies—and of good moral characters, and send you a list of the Same, Speaking of Such as I know myself—and of others agreable to Such information as I get from my freinds—The times are really perrilous—and I well know the Utmost Caution ought & will be observed, in the Military appointments.

for the Jaccobins I am assured, & beleive, are playing Another game—more Serious than any of there past acts.
All of a Sudden they have in these parts become calm—not a Sentance of pollitics—& I am assured; & beleive that vast Numbers of them through the country are new applicants for commissions—and will leave no Stone unturned to get into the army and there make there last effort to sow & rear the Seeds of Sedition.
with my family you are congratulated on yr return of health—which we most devoutly wish, may be of long duration.
Mrs Spotswood &c. unite in there best regards to you Mr[s] Washington, Miss Custis & Washington as well as Sir Yr Sincerely & affect. Hb. st

Alexr Spotwood

P.S. My Son John arrived the last of August at Baltimore from Jamaica—and is now comeing up our river—he has been very fortunate to Steer so often as he has done—clear of a Fraternal Hug.
The only service mr Thornton ever Saw was at the head of his Company agt the insurgents.


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Stoddert, 16 September 1798
From: Stoddert, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

Sir
Trenton [N.J.] 16. Septr 1798.

You will I know, pardon me for trespassing on your time, my object being the Public good.
If we are to create such a navy, as will make our Commerce respected, and this I cannot doubt, will be the policy of our Country, one Navy yard at least must be established for building Ships. This subject will probably engage the attention of Congress at the ensuing Session, and it will be my Duty, to lay before them the best information in my power to obtain.
The place marked out on the plan of the City of Washington, for the Marine Hospital, has always appeared to me, to be among the most eligible situations in the United States for a Navy yard. The result of all the enquiries I have been able to make, since I have been in office, serves but to confirm me more strongly in this opinion. No place further south, will admit of the same degree of Security against an Enemy—no place to the Northward or Eastward will afford Timber so good, so cheap, or in such abundance. I might add, all other materials for Building & arming of Ships. The Springs in the Neighbourhood, at least 40 feet higher than the Surface of the River water—or Goose Creek or Rock Creek, any of them would afford water to fill locks, to prevent the difficult & sometimes dangerous operation of launching—and Ships by means of such locks, could be repaired without the tedious operations of discharging & heaving down. It is perhaps desireable that the principal navy yard should be under the Eye of Government. It is certainly Just that it should be in the centre of the Union, if it can be so placed with equal advantages to the whole Community.
Nothing of consequence to the Welfare of the Country escapes your penetration. Will you Sir permit me the liberty of soliciting your opinion on this very important subject? The depth of Water in every part of the Channel of the River is a consideration of great magnitude. It has been suggested that about Maryland point the Water is too shallow to admit the passage of Ships of the line—drawing, fully armed, & provisioned, 24 feet.

Joining in the universal prayer for the preservation of a life of inestimable value to the Country—I have the honor to be with the highest respect & esteem sir Yr most Obed. Servt

Ben. Stoddert


Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 18 September 1798
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Washington, George

 (confidential)Sir,
Trenton [N.J.] Sept. 18 1798.

I wrote you a hasty letter on the 13th—Upon further consideration, we have judged it most advisable that a letter should be written by Mr Wolcott alone; in order that the strong point of view in which the facts and arguments in the case may be placed, may be presented by Reason only, to which the mind yields more willingly than to formal advice, in the semblance of official authority. This is particularly the more eligible, seeing Mr Wolcott cannot be suspected of intermeddling in the primary arrangements; having been absent in Connecticut from a day or two after your own nomination, until the Senate had adjourned; and may therefore be well supposed to step forward with an unbiassed mind. Accordingly Mr Wolcott has written to the President, & the letter was dispatched by yesterday’s mail. To-day the Secretary of War transmits to the President the commissions for Generals Hamilton, Pinckney & Knox, to be arranged as he shall finally think proper. However, the arguments in support of the orignal arrangement (Hamilton, Pinckney, Knox) are irrefragable, and I trust will prove irresistable.
In a former letter I mentioned that Genl Knox appealed to a rule adopted for the regulation of rank in the army of our revolution. This rule, I suppose (for I can find no other to which he can

refer) is the resolve of Congress of the 24th of November 1778 in the printed journals⟨.⟩ But an examination of it will show that it does not support his pretensions; being made to apply to the army and state of things then existing. Besides, it cannot now have any binding force; all those old resolves of Congress being at this time but the records of the temporary laws or regulations for conducting the revolutionary war: except only as to transactions begun at that period and remaining unfinished. If, however, we admit them as legally obligatory at this moment, then we appeal to another Resolve—that of the 4th of January 1776, in these words—“In all elections of officers by Congress, where more than one are elected on the same day, to commands of the same rank, they shall take rank of each other according to their election, and the entry of their names in the minutes, and their commissions shall be numbered to shew their priority.” This is a resolution of general and universal application, to all elections of officers by Congress, under the former government, and in its principle precisely to the case in question: whereas the Resolve to which General Knox appeals is confined, expressly, to officers appointed under the authority of Congress, by virtue of their resolution of the 16th of September 1776, or of any subsequent resolution prior to the 5th of January 1777. This is a complete refutation of Genl Knox’s claim under former rules. If we lay them aside, and recur to simple principles, his claim will likewise be without support. We must then consider the comparative merits of the competitors—your opinion of them (who have had the best opportunities of knowing them, as well in military as civil life)—that opinion, after it was requested, announced to the President—the President’s nomination of the candidates to the Senate, and their approbation, in the order of nomination founded on your recommendation. To these considerations may be added, the public voice, concurring with yours, in designating Mr Hamilton for the second place in the armies of the United States. But between the President and yourself, the force of your opinion does not rest merely on the order in which you arranged the names of the three gentlemen: your private letter of July 9th (I think that was the date) to Colo. Hamilton, which you left open, and permitted the Secy of War to take a copy, but of which the original was submitted to the President’s perusal, explicitly declares, that “as to your friend General Knox, whom you love and esteem, you have ranked him below both the others, Hamilton & Pinckney.” This,

in Mr Wolcott’s letter, is presented to the President’s recollection, and the wound it must give your feelings, if your opinion formally requested & so explicitly and forcibly given, should be disregarded; and when too you had in the same private letter, and otherwise, said you had consented to take the field with the reservation of having officers about you, in the most important stations, in whom you could confide: and consequently that the persons whom you specially recommended for such confidential and important posts, should be arranged in the order you judged would insure to you their assistance, and prove most advantageous to the public service.
The letter contains many other strong and persuasive arguments and motives for adhering to your arrangement: and I shall be astonished beyond measure, if that arrangement does not finally prevail. I have the honour to be with great respect, sir, your most obt servt

Timothy Pickering


Title: To George Washington from John Trumbull, 18 September 1798
From: Trumbull, John
To: Washington, George

Sir
London Septr 18th 1798

By the Ship Nancy, Captain Davidson bound to Alexandria, I have sent a small Box, addressed to you, and containing the Four Pair of Prints for which you did me the honour to subscribe so long since, and two Volumes which I was requested by my friend Mr West to forward to you with his best Respects: the prints are the finest impressions and, for security are rolled, and enclosed in a Tin Case. I hope they will come safely to your hands, and meet your approbation.
I hope also that the pair which I had the Honour to send to you by the Suffolk, Capt. Lovell to Alexandria, in March last, came safe.

In common with my Countrymen and the World, I am happy to see you again the Defender and Guardian of our Country; and I earnestly hope that the result of the Task which you now assume will prove as beneficial to mankind, and as glorious to yourself as was your former Command. I beg my best Respects to Mrs Washington, and Am, with the highest Respect, sir Your most obedient and Obliged Servant

Jno. Trumbull


Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 19 September 1798
From: McHenry, James
To: Washington, George

(Confidential)My dear General.
Trenton [N.J.] 19 Sepr 1798

I received your letter of the 14th instant yesterday evening.
Be assured I regret and lament from the bottom of my soul the delays, and heart distressing obstructions which have prevented the nomination of the field and other officers for the 12 additional regiments and cavalry. It is not however (whatever the public opinion may be) to me that any of them can be ascribed; for whatever depended upon me, to propose, or to do, has been proposed or done.
It is best, I beleive, to give you a brief statement of facts, and the circumstances that have embarrassed and delayed the public service. I reckon among these. 1st The rejection of the Presidents nomination of Colo. Smith as adjutant General. 2 His considering General Knox intitled to priority of rank to either Generals Hamilton or Pinckney, and 3d His present distance from the seat of government. I shall say a few words respecting each of these causes.

Immediately upon my return to Philadelp⟨hia⟩ from Mount Vernon, I made the President acquainted with the result of my mission, with which he appeared very well pleased, particularly with your letter. He was then at breakfast, and I had not seen my own family. After having visited them, I laid before him the paper signed by yourself, containing the names of the persons you had selected for the General officers and General Staff; and informed him, that the three first in particular, vz. Hamilton Pinckney & Knox, were expected, by you to rank in the order they were arranged in your list.
As the Congress had adjourned before my return, and the Senate were detained by the President, to receive his nominations, in consequence of my mission, it was his intention to have offered them the day on which I arrived. He accordingly wrote a message, in which he inserted the names of Generals Hamilton Pinckney & Knox in the order in which they were arranged by you, and also General Dayton for adjutant general and Col. Smith for one of the three Brigadiers. Previously to his thus writing their names down, he observed that in his opinion, Col. Hamilton, former rank considered, was not intitled to stand so high, and that he did not know, what were the merits which gave General Pinckney preference to Knox. I mentioned to him your opinions, and to prevent any misunderstanding of what you desired, or the motives by which you had been actuated to the arrangement you had proposed, I thought it adviseable and proper to communicate to him, immediately, the private letter you had written to Col. Hamilton on the subject, and given to me open with permission to take a copy of it. It appeared to me, at the time, that it settled the arrangement, as he made no further observations, and was only prevented from sending in the nominations as arranged in his message and your list, by Mr Pickerings coming in and informing him that the senate had adjourned ’till next day.
I waited upon the President the day following and found that something or other, of which I was ignorant, had caused a very great change in his mind. He now said he could not think of placing Hamilton before Knox, that Knox for various reasons, (among others his former rank in the army) was clearly intitled to rank next to General Washington: he finally however agreed to follow your arrangement upon my admitting that any of the parties, if dissatisfied with the order of arrangement might have their claim

discussed and settled by a board of officers or the commander in chief.
I thought the business now finally arranged. He was writing down in a fresh message (the first being blotted) the names of the Generals, when Mr Pickering came in. Some conversation ensued, when Mr Pickering made an observation which seemed to place General Dayton’s military talents above Col. Smiths. This gave offence to the President⟨;⟩ he grew warm in Col. Smiths praise; Mr Pickering was silent, and no more was said on the subject, except by the President, who added, I will nominate him for adjutant General and Dayton for Brigadier. Till then I had expected he would have nominated General Dayton for Adjutant General, as had been fixed upon the day before, and I still think he would, but for the observations made by Mr Pickering whose objections to Smith I was not apprised of at that time.
Mr Pickering now mentioned Governor Sevier for a Provisional army Brigadier. I considered him an unprincipled man; but as it was only an appointment which might always remain nominal, and as giving it to him, might have a good effect in Tenessee, I waved my objections and it was acceeded to. White had been pressed upon the President by strong and influential characters, was expected to command the Cavalry, and assigned to the Provisional list, on their account, and to preserve the cavalry for a better officer.
But wherefore was any of the General officers or staff for the Provisional army appointed? The act for raising a provisional army makes the concurrence of the Senate indispensable to the appointment of the Major and Brigadier Generals. As these then, could not be appointed in the recess, and as it was possible the service of some of them might be wanted before the next meeting of Congress in course, the President considered it to be his duty to appoint them It was besides holding out to the world a determination to prepare our whole military force for action; at least, that we were in earnest to raise the Provisional troops, by omitting no arrangement necessary thereto.
It was not till these points had been decided upon, that it was mentioned to me, that Smiths nomination would not be concurred in; that he was a swindler in fact, and a disorganizer—that he had betrayed a moneyed trust, and that the Eastern States could have no confidence in government, was such a person to be appointed adjutant general of the army. This information was

given to me by Mr Pickering. I told him he ought to have mentioned it sooner; that he had said to the President in my presence, before my going down to Mount Vernon, that Smith would be proper to take command of a regiment; that neither General Washington nor I had any knowledge or information that suspicions of fraud attached to Smiths character. It may be proper also to remark that I spoke with Hamilton about an appointment for Smith before seeing you and that he concurred in its propriety. The fact was Mr Pickering being persuaded of the truth of those suspicions, thought it to be his duty to take an active part with the Senators to defeat his appointment, and most of the Senators entertaining the same opinions, Smith was rejected nearly by an unanimous vote. The President who judged more favourably of Smith, and it may be more justly, from a more intimate knowledge of facts, was exceedingly irritated by the rejection and felt much anger, especially against Mr Pickering. He said he was certain there had been intriguing to produce it, that it could not have been accomplished otherwise; for if his son in law was in debt and embarrassed, so were Lee and Knox who therefore ought to have met the same fate—That his son in law had called his creditors together to submit to them a full view of his affairs, and he beleived would be able to procure from them proofs of their being satisfied of his intergrity and that he was no disorganizer. His anger which was very great seemed to be directed chiefly against Mr Pickering whom he considered as the chief instrument in his rejection.
I advocated Mr Pickering as a man of the strictest integrity, who would not I was persuaded do any act which was the least contrary to his duty. I then proposed that Mr Dayton might be nominated. No: he would give them an adjutant general; he would immediately nominate Col. North. I said I questioned whether North would serve, and that others could be found better qualified. He might refuse if he pleased, that was none of his affair; he would nominate no other.
The nomination of North was instantly made and concurred in, and he has accepted of his appointment.
A few days after these transactions the President suddenly left Philadelphia for Quincy, without apprising either Mr Pickering or me with the day of his intended departure. Mr Wolcott was absent in Connecticut.
You will perceive that I consider the impression made upon the

Presidents mind by his disappointment respecting Smith as having influenced it upon other subjects.
With respect to the 2d cause. viz. his considering General Knox in titled to priority of rank to Generals Hamilton or Pinckney.
This has operated very powerfully as an obstructor to all the army arrangement.
Upon contemplating the details for organizing the 12 regiments of Infantry, I found I could not execute them, with a dispatch proportioned to the emergency and to the public expectation, while the President remained at Quincy, unless I adopted a course arising out of that situation. It appeared to me that if I was first to concenter information in this department from all quarters of the United States, there to digest an arrangement to communicate it to the President for his determination, to receive back that determination, and then to transmit the result to the parties, a great and incalculable portion of time must be consumed.
I therefore submitted in a letter to the President under date of the 4th of August ulto what may be resolved into the following propositions.
1st. That the arrangement for the four Eastern States and Vermont should be made out under his immediate direction, commanding the aid if necessary of Major General Knox and Brigadier General Brooks, who reside within these States.
2. That the arrangement for New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware & Maryland should be prepared by myself with the aid of the general officers within these States for his final determination.
3. That the arrangement for the Southern States (including the cavalry) should be made by General Washington, with the like aid of the general officers in that Quarter, subject in like manner to his determination.
4. That four of the 12 regiments should be raised within the States of New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island Connecticut and Vermont & Four within the States of New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania Delaware & Maryland: and four within the States of Virginia, N. Carolina, Tenessee, South Carolina & Georgia.
5. That to facilitate the arrangement I inclosed him a list of all the officers of the late army, in the lines of the five States first mentioned, and also of all the applications for military appointments, by persons within those States which had come to this office.

6. That I submitted as the result of conferences with the Commander in chief and Inspector General, united with my personal knowledge of some of the characters, the following gentlemen of the late army as worthy of consideration for the command of regiments vz. Lemuel Trescot, David Cobb, & William Hall of Massachusetts: Jeremiah Olney, Henry Sherburne & Wm Peck of Rhode Island: Henry Dearborne and Nicholas Gilman of New Hamphire: also Col. Talmadge for adjutant General in the event of the non acceptance of Col. North & Elijah Waldsworth of Litchfield for Major.
7. That he should permit me to call to my aid, the Inspector General, and likewise General Knox, and to charge them with the management of particular branches of the service.
8 That General Washington should be permitted to appoint a Secretary.
The President acknowledges the receipt of this letter of the 4th of August on the 14th of same month.
He signified that its contents are of much importance. Desires that General Washington may consider himself in the public service and authorised to appoint aids and secretaries. Thinks that calling any other general officers into service at the present, will be attended with difficulty unless their rank were first settled. That in his opinion General Knox, is legally intitled to rank next to General Washington, and that no other arrangement will give Satisfaction. That if general Washington is of this opinion, and will consent to it, I may call General Knox and Hamilton into service; and that I might depend upon it the five New England States will not patiently submit to the humiliation that has been meditated for them.
To this I immediately answered on the 22d Augt.
“That after what has passed with, and the conceptions of General Washington respecting the relative grades of Generals Hamilton Pinckney and Knox; the order observed by the President in presenting their names to the Senate and by the Senate in advising to their appointments, I could not help apprehending some disagreeable consequences to the public service should a different relative grade be now known to be decisively contemplated. That in submitting this suggestion to his judgement, it was indispensable I should observe, that as well the choice of these gentlemen, as their relative military rank, proceeded originally & exclusively

from General Washington, and that I had had no agency direct or indirect, before or while at Mount Vernon, in deciding his mind, either to the choice or the arrangement of the rank of those he had selected. That I had informed him, General Washington made the right to name the general officers and general Staff a condition of his acceptance, and had presented accordingly the Generals list to him on my return. That when the General communicated his choice to me I was aware it might be objected to; but having had difficulties to encounter, and certain impressions to remove, resulting from his not being consulted previously to his nomination, I did not think it prudent to loose the ground he had conceded, or indeed, that I should gain any thing by any effort of mine to persuade him out of his opinions. That I only therefore mentioned to him, what I afterwards found incorporated in his letter to Col. Hamilton vz. that I concurred in his selection of officers; but whatever respected the persons named by him, and their relative rank must finally rest with the President. That the circumstances detailed seemed to require that I should submit to his serious deliberation, whether it was proper or expedient to attempt an alteration in the rank of the gentlemen in question, and if so, whether it would not be better to transfer the decision to others than undertake to determine it himself.”
The President on the 29th of August replied. “That my proposition for settling the relative rank of the gentlemen in question was not approved of. That his opinion was, and always had been, that as the law now stands, the order of the nomination or of recording has no weight or effect; but that officers appointed on the same day, in whatever order, have a right to rank according to antecedent services. That he made the nomination according to the list presented to him by me, from General Washington, in hopes that rank might be settled among them by agreement, or acquiescence, beleiving at the same time and expressing to you that belief, that the nomination and appointment would give Hamilton no command at all, nor any rank before any Major General. That this was still his opinion. That he was willing to settle all decisively at present by dating the commissions: Knox on the 1st day, Pinckney on the 2d, and Hamilton on the 3d.[”]
“You speak to me, he adds, of the expediency of attempting an alteration of the rank of the gentlemen in question. You know, Sir,

that no rank has ever been settled by me. You know my opinion has always been as it is now, that the order of the names in the nomination and record was of no consequence.”
“General Washington has through the whole conducted [himself] with perfect honour and consistency. I said and I say now, if I could resign him the office of President I would do it immediately, and with the highest pleasure; but I never said I would hold the office, and be responsible for its exercise, while he should execute it. He has always said in all his letters, that these points must ultimately depend upon the President.”
“The power and authority is in the President. I am willing to exert this authority at this moment & to be responsable for the exercise of it. All difficulties will in this way be avoided. But if it is to be refered to General Washington, or to mutual and amicable accommodation among the gentlemen themselves I foresee it will come to me at last, after much altercation and exasperation of passions, and I shall then determine it exactly as I should now, Knox Pinckney & Hamilton.”
“There has been too much intrigue in this business both with General Washington and me. If I shall ultimately be the dupe of it I am much mistaken in myself.”
To this letter (a part of which being personal, and unmerited, not a little wounded my feelings) I replied on the same day I received it vz. the 6th of Sepr inst.
“I had the honour to receive by this mornings mail your letter dated Quincy Augt 29th ulto.[”]
“In making out the commissions for generals Knox, Pinckney & Hamilton I shall follow the order you prescribe and date General Knox’s on the first day, General Pinckney’s on the 2d & General Hamiltons on the 3d.”
“You observe to me ’There has been too much intrigue in this business, both with General Washington and me. If I shall ultimately be the dupe of it I am much mistaken in myself.[’]”
“Will you excuse the liberty I take in expressing how much I feel affected at this observation, lest you should attach in your mind, any portion of the intrigues, if any have been employed, to me. It will, Sir, be a relief to me, to be ascertained of your opinion in this particular, because I flatter myself I can convince you, that abhorring indirect practices, I never even contemplated any; or should

you not be convinced, I can immediately retire from a situation which demands a perfect and mutual confidence, between the President and the person filling it.”
I received yesterday the following answer to this letter dated Quincy 13th inst.
“I have received your favour of the sixth and approve of your determination to make out the commissions in the order of Knox on the first day, Pinckney on the second, and Hamilton on the third. This being done you may call Generals Knox & Hamilton into service as soon as you please.[”]
“Your request to be informed, whether I attach any portion of the intrigues, which I alluded to, if any have been employed, to you, is reasonable: and I have no scruple to acknowledge, that your conduct through the whole, towards me, has been candid: I have suspected however, that extraordinary pains were taken with you, to impress upon your mind, that the public opinion, and the unanimous wish of the federalists, was that General Hamilton might be first and even commander in chief: that you might express this opinion to General Washington more forcibly than I should have done, and that this determined him to make the arrangement as he did. If this suspicion was well founded I doubt not you made the representation with integrity. I am not and never was of the opinion, that the public opinion demanded General Hamilton for the first, and I am now clear that it never expected or demanded any such thing.[”]
“The question being now settled, the responsability for which I take upon myself I have no hard thoughts concerning your conduct in this business, and hope you will make your mind easy concerning it.”
[“]I have the honour &c.[”]
Conceiving the whole of this business of a very serious nature, and intimately connected with the public interest, I communicated the letters from the President to me, as they were received, to Mr Wolcott Mr Pickering & Mr Stoddert, as also my answers to him. The services of General Hamilton being considered too important and consequential to be easily parted with, it was proposed, that they should join in a respectful representation to the President. After however a good deal of deliberation the idea of a joint address was relinquished for a representation from Mr Wolcott alone, who did not appear to be implicated in his suspicions

of intrigue. This has been accordingly drawn up and forwarded. It contains the grounds upon which you were induced to expect your arrangement would be adopted, and reasons resulting from the relative talents of the Generals and public opinion.
Thus have the arrangements, for officering the army been delayed and my public duties and private hours embittered and perplexed.
It may be that the President has conceived certain prejudices unfavourable to General Hamilton that has influenced him in the present case; and yet I cannot doubt of his beleiving the public opinion to be what he states it, altho’ I have the strongest reasons and proofs to think of it other wise than he does.
Respecting the third cause of delay⟨,⟩ vz. the distance of the President from the seat of Government I need make few or no observations. It has paralized every matter measure and thing appertaining to the new army. It is embarrassing to me and my operations beyond description.
You will perceive that of all the propositions made to the President in my letter of the 4th of Augt ulto he has only signified his concurrence in the one which enabled you to appoint a Secretary, and to my calling in the aid of Generals Hamilton & Knox upon the condition of general Knox being placed first and general Hamilton last in the order of rank; consequently that I am left to conclude, my propositions relative to the mode of ascertaining the fittest characters to be drawn into the army from the different divisions I have described and the proportion of troops to be raised in each division is still under consideration; or from his silence that it is meant I should pursue the accustomed course, and select and forward for his correction & approbation a list for the whole, with all the recommendations for examination.
I do not imagine the latter to be intended, and expect, as soon as the question relative to Hamilton & Knox is finally settled, that I shall receive his orders to proceed agreeable to my first propositions. I may be disappointed. Be this however as it may, I should think it proper, that you should prepare the list of officers for the 4 regiments for the Southern division, and for the 6 additional companies of cavalry, that no time may be lost when his determination is manifested, to obtain his consent to their being commissioned, and to commence the recruiting business.
The annexed copy of a letter to Samuel Hodgdon superintendent

of military Stores dated the 25th of Augt will shew you that I have early attended to your request to learn the state of our magazines.
It will also be perceived from the inclosed copy of a letter from the Secry of the treasury to Rufus King what articles we may expect from abroad in all this year. vz. muskets with Bayonets complete to the amount of 35,686£ Stg. From cannon for the naval service to the amount of 6,000£ Stg & even cannon for the land service equal to 4,000£ Stg.
Besides this provision Mr Wolcott has power to contract for the fabrication within the United States of 40,000 stands of arms, and has already closed for about half the number.
In addition, I expect the two arsenals of Springfield and Shanondoah will turn out in the course of next year near 7,000 stands of good muskets.
It is now necessary I should mention to you a difficulty I have to overcome, in which you may assist me, by a strong question to Mr Pickering expressive of your surprise that no steps appear to have been taken to obtain so indispensable an article as clothing for the new army.
Mr Wolcott is of opinion, that the first thing that requires to be attended to, is to fill our magazines with whatever will be necessary and indispensable to the prosecution of a vigorous war. In this I fully agree with him. He thinks also that to raise the army, or any part of it at this time will be to incur an expence without any adequate advantage. That the enemy knowing our magazines to be filled with every thing necessary to carry on war, will produce upon them, for a time at least the same effect, as if we were to add to our stores an army ready disciplined for military operations. Further that the appointment of the officers, and putting them in a situation to commence inlistments upon as it were a given signal, will be all that the present situation of things absolutely requires. That by following this course we shall husband our means and keep them up for emergencies.
I consider all this, except what respects filling our magazines with munitions of war as idle theory. I have before observed that I hold it proper we should exert ourselves to fill our magazines with the most essential military articles to the extent of our means: but as neither officers nor soldiers can be created in a day, I hold it to be no less necessary, threatened as we are, to prepare an army,

by discipline, to meet such an enemy as we are likely to have to encounter. I should have no confidence in troops suddenly assembled, and cannot think it good policy to depend upon a militia to meet the first operations of an enemy enured to war, and having no better support than such raw troops. We ought not, I beleive, in case of an invasion to the Southward, calculate upon drawing militia from the Eastern States to assist in subduing it; but we may avail ourselves of the regular troops raised there, for that service. If therefore our army is not to be inlisted, until the approach of an enemy, or that we received certain information from Europe of preparations for the embarkation of one, the defence of the Southern States may be left intirely to its own militia, and half the Country be overrun and plundered before any thing like a regular force can be collected and disciplined for action. But it is needles to mention such reasons to you. These and many others are too much impressed on your mind by past experience to require any commentary.
Mr Wolcott, I suspect, is somewhat alarmed about the means, and may think it safe to trust a good deal to the chapter of chances than hazard any serious draughts upon the latter to pay and support an army that may never be wanted. In order to give him a distinct view of the extent of the calls of my department, I made out at his instance the inclosed table which I communicated to him. I beleive it contains a tolerably correct exhibit of the sums I may want besides shewing the objects for, and the periods at which, the money will be wanted. I add also to this table a copy of my letter which accompanied it. What impression will result I know not.
These things my dear and revered Sir, are mentioned, to satisfy your solemn and affecting inquiries. You will now see, (altho’ I may not have apprised you of all my proceedings) the reasons, in the very nature of the transactions just detailed, which have prevented me from making to you certain communications until they became unavoidable and necessary as well for your information as my justification. You will also be sensible, that I have not been idle nor inattentive to the importance of the objects which interest our country, and has drawn you into your present situation. with the most ardent and affectionate regards I am my dear General ever yours

James McHenry


Title: To George Washington from John C. Ogden, 20 September 1798
From: Ogden, John C.
To: Washington, George

Sir
Septr 20th 1798

More than ten years have elapsed, since from time to time, I have most respectfully and circumstantially, stated the doings of Calvinists in The United States, in their concerted endeavors to defeat that liberty, toleration and protection in religion, which our laws establish, and upon which our national honor, happiness and safety depend.
The moderation, caution, prudence, polite & respectful attention paid by you, and other leaders of every faith (except the Calvinists) to our religious rights, have been abused and perverted by this party, to the purposes of sacrilege, infidelity and sedition.
These assertions are serious and true. The Church in every part of The States, has been pillaged. Laws exist in the northern and eastern States, which subvert universal toleration and safety.

Colleges endowed, founded, and supported by all denominations and from public money, are seized upon, for the private purposes of ambitious men.
Prejudices are circulated from Colleges and pulpits, which constantly excite feuds, and perpetuate usurpations.
Concerts of prayer, missions, and projects to urge on the millenium, are improved and abused, by ecclesiastical tyrants.
To obtain this system, the Calvinists opposed Great Britain, thirty years ago. To secure it since our establishing of independence, the late peace, and a new government, all the artillery of prejudice, misrepresentation—pulpits, colleges and confederations of Calvinists have been directed.
The world will look to all conscientious christians and churchmen to decide whether these things are proper. Printed statements have been circulated, which may be confirmed by public records.
As a professor of Christianity, and a churchman, Your Excellency can decide, whether you embarked in the revolution to give undue power to any body of men, over the consciences of your self or others. Whether you expected or can justify the plunderings of the church, the usurpations of the colleges and the injuries done from thence, to the community to which you belong, or the families of these whose fathers, brothers, & sons fell in the late war.
During life, and after death, your contemporaries and our posterity will seek for General Washingtons opinions and procedure, after these wrongs. In them are contained perpetual sources for feuds and confusions.
It is not decent for us to solicit your opinion. It would however gratify the church and your countrymen to have it. In civil office, your influence and safety would have been in danger. But at the head of a new army, or as a private man, the opportunity now presents for you to speak.
Death and the world where justice reigns are fast approaching. No duty can be more worthy of your attention than this, while heaven lengthens out your valuable life. Copies of this letter will be forwarded without delay to Presidents Adams & Jefferson, to the Governors of the States, and heads of literary, ecclesiastical and other departments.
Those who have been honored by you in war and in civil stations, with proofs of distinguished politeness, confidence, and partiality,

have been the chief agents in these nefarious procedures. These usurpations and their abettors are too publicly known to be forgotten, and too many in every part of the States, are selecting every ⟨occurence⟩ for the records of historians, for us to expect that such transactions will pass into oblivion, or such practices be viewed as harmless and inoffensive. With the highest veneration for my country’s guardian and friend I have the honor to be your devoted servant

John C. Ogden


Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 21 September 1798
From: McHenry, James
To: Washington, George

(Confidential)
My dear SirTrenton [N.J.] 21 Sepr 1798
I received your letter of the 16 inst. yesterday evening. I thought it of consequence to make another effort, and acquaint the President

with a part of its contents, in aid of the representation signed by Mr Wolcott, and to lose no time in conveying it to him. Inclosed is the copy of what I have which you will be pleased to return. I rejected on consideration that part which is crossed. 1st because it was only a repetition and elucidation of my proposition before submitted to him and rejected and 2d because I am of opinion he ought decisively to support your arrangement against General Knox’s pretensions.
I began yesterday a long letter which I do not believe I shall be able to finish to day. It will explain the causes which have delayed the public service, and contain the particulars required by your letter of the 14th inst.
I shall also send you with this detail a copy of the letter written by me to the President from Mount Vernon, and copy of his instruction⟨s⟩ to me.
With respect to the representation to the President. It was concluded, as the President had expressed suspicions which might affect either Mr Pickering or myself or both, that it would have a better effect, coming from Mr Wolcott alone, who had been absent from the seat of government part of the time to which the suspicion of intrigue could apply. It was accordingly signed by him.
Will it be amiss to send me in a distinct letter that part of yours of the 16th inst. which I have quoted?
I still count upon the Presidents acting wisely and yielding. He has shewn great obstinacy but I think he cannot resist the display of facts which have been laid before him in the representation aided as they will be by your letter. Mr Pickering I beleive intends to transmit to you its substance. If he does not I shall obtain a copy and forward it. Yours ever and affectionately

James McHenry


Title: To George Washington from Bushrod Washington, 21 September 1798
From: Washington, Bushrod
To: Washington, George

My dear Uncle
Richmond Septr 21 1798

I have lately recieved a letter from Mr Thomas Turner of King George, in which he expresses an ardent desire to enter into the service of his Country in the military line, and requests that I would mention him to you. This I do with much pleasure, because a long and intimate acquaintance with him assures me that there are few candidates who can possess more worth than he does. Warmly and I believe sincerely attached to the Government, he feels all that indignation which an American ought to feel against the unjust & unprovoked aggressions of our enemy. He possesses an extremely good understanding, and in point of bravery, I believe few, if any exceed him. He was one of those who marched to the westward against the insurgents; upon the termination of that service, he recieved a commission from the Commander in chief, and annexed himself to the fœderal army where he did duty for twelve months. Since that time, he has recieved a Commission from the Governor of this state. In the different stations in which he has been placed, I have always understood that his conduct has been unexceptionable. His wish is to be appointed a Captain in the Cavalry, or major in the infantry, of the 10.000 establishment. I am informed, that he will be highly recommended to you by others.
Permit me now my dear Uncle, to remind you of Capt. Blackburne’s application about which something was said when I was at Mount Vernon. At his request I had taken the liberty of mentioning his wishes to Mr Chs Lee, who was kind enough to communicate them to the Secretary at War. His motive for desiring an appointment in the infantry is, that he may have it in his power to render more essentiel services to his Country than he could do in the artillery, and where he might at the same time have an opportunity of discharging his duty with more credit to himself. In his present station, a Scientific knowledge of engineering is essentiel; in the service he solicits, he supposes himself competent to the discharge of the duties annexed to it. Another thing is, that a bilious habit which he unfortunately possesses is badly suited to the unhealthy air of Norfolk. Intimately acquainted with the many good qualities which he possesses believing that he will make a

valuable officer, I shall be very happy if you should deem it proper to grant his request.
I am happy to inform you that Genl Marshall has declared himself for this district and that his prospects at this time are as flattering as we would wish; I mean as to the principal County about which any apprehensions were entertained. So far as we have heard from the more distant Counties, we have no reason to fear for his success. I am my dear Uncle Yr Affect. Nephew

Bushrod Washington


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Law, 22 September 1798
From: Law, Thomas
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir—
[22 September 1798]

Unless you are irrevocably fix’d, as the Lots are so nearly equal in respect to prospect & nature of the ground permit me to observe that a House in the South Lot will rent better & promote the object you have in view more—Vizt the encouragemt of accomodations for Congress, as it will be forming an Avenue by cooperating in building & all the digging will be for public improvement—If you purchase Mr Carrolls Lot of 52 by 100 at 8 Cents it

will amt to
$ 416

and the Commsrs at 10 to
520

Dollars
$ 936

now the rent of mine will be 30$ Dollars ⅌ annum you being liable for taxes &ca.
Pardon this intrusion which I make that by Houses being together Society may be promoted & others encouraged to join—If upon my honor I was not convinc’d that the S[ou]th is more valuable than the other & that your House would rent better there—I would not write this altho’ my desires are strongly in favor of your fixing in the ⟨N.⟩J. Avenue. Persons doing business on the E. Branch may Lodge in the House on the S[ou]th Lot but not on the N[or]th Lot—a neighborhood raises the value of property, & it is an object to build where a neighborhood will soonest be & pavement lights &ca & to fill up between the Harbor & Capitol. With every apology I remain with sincere esteem & affec. yr mo. obt

T. Law


Title: To George Washington from Alexander Spotswood, 23 September 1798
From: Spotswood, Alexander
To: Washington, George

dear Sir
Newpost Setpr 23d 1798.

My last—dated I think on the 16—informed you, that my overseer had accepted your Terms—but that he Should Take the farm in preference to the home house—should Rhodes decline Takeing yr bussiness—From Whoom I have recd no answer to my Several letters, the first of which I am certain was lodged at his house—Consequently you had better look out—but should Rhodes come to my house, or write me after to day; and incline to go into your employ—I will then engage him Conditionally, provided you are not Supplied—and write you—Thomas Brooks the Joiner was with me yesterday—I gave him a letter—and you may expect him at Mt Vernon, on the 3d of October.
Since my last—I have recollected a Mr Stith who Served in the

revolutionary war—at the end of which I beleive he retired with the Rank of Majr. However, yr list will tell his grade—I know Nothing of his Military Talents—but have heard him Spoken of well as an officer—I am equally a Stranger to his political Sentiments—but Mr Lawrance Washington of choptank, who I know is, and has been a steady goverment man—assures me that Mr Stith has been uniformly, a constant & Steady frd to goverment—he is now I think about 42 yrs of age—& a Sensible genteel Man. My family are all in Orange & well—I hope your health Continues. Present me Sr Respectfully to Mrs Washington Miss Custis &c. and belive me very devotedly yr sincere & afft. obt st

A. Spotswood


Title: From George Washington to Alexander Hamilton, 24 September 1798
From: Washington, George
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Private
My dear Sir,Mount Vernon 24th Sep. 1798.
I have seen the correspondence between the President of the United States & Secretary of War, on the subject of the relative rank of the three Major Generals first appointed. But as it was given in confidence, unaccompanied with an Official letter, I had no ground on which I could proceed, without betraying that confidence. I have therefore written for an official account of the President’s determination, as the foundation of the representation I propose to offer him, on this occasion.
Until the result of this is known, I hope you will suspend a final decision, and let matters remain in Statu quo till you hear again from Your Affectionate

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Alexander Spotswood, 24 September 1798
From: Washington, George
To: Spotswood, Alexander

Dear Sir
Mount Vernon 24th Sep. 1798.

As the Season is far advanced for good Overseers to be disengaged, and as you had heard nothing from Richard Rhodes at the date of your last—Septr the 16th—and a Man in your neighbourhood one —— Garrett Overseer for a Mr Fontain Murray at a ⟨place⟩ called White Plains near Fredericksburgh, has been strongly recommended to me by Mr Betton & others, & who was willing to come to me, but informed I was supplied. Now, to avoid further delay I have desired Mr Anderson to write to Garrett, which letter is enclosed, and left open for your perusal; to be sent to him or not, according to the advice you may have received from Rhodes. If the latter declines coming, or requires higher Wages than I mentioned in my last, in that case, you will oblige me by sending Anderson’s letter to Garrett—On the other hand, if Rhodes positively accepts, on the terms mentioned, Mr Andersons letter may be destroyed, or returned to me: My object you will readily perceive is to be placed upon a certainty; and as soon as it can be done.
I shall depend upon your Overseer, Roger Farril, for my Mansion house concern; and Brookes the Joiner, to overlook my Carpenters—If you have heard from the latter, since my acceding to his terms, be so good as to let me know at what time I may expect him to be here; as his services, as a Joiner, are immediately necessary. What age do you take him to be?
I thank you for the information you have been so kind as to give me respecting the characters of the Officers in the revolutionary Army; and shall do the same for your characters of the young Gentlemen who have never been in Service & are desirous of it; as it is my wish to see Corps formed of the best materials, but it wd be useless to begin with Gentlemen under age, as I believe it is a rule at the War Office, to Commission none below that—knowingly.
Believing, as I firmly do, that the opposers of Government will stick at nothing to injure it; I can readily conceive the probability of the Plan you have suggested; but I hope, & trust, they will be disappointed in that as they have been in all their other nefarious schemes.
I thank you, and the rest of the family at New Post, for your kind

congratulations on my perfect recovery; and we offer ours on the safe arrival of yr Son John, who has so often escaped the fraternal squeezes of our magnanimous friends—Our best regards are presented to you all—and I am Dear Sir Your Obedt & affecte and obedeient Servt

Go: Washington

P.S. Since writing the aforegoing letter, I have received your favour of the 23d Instt from the Post Office: but the contents thereof rendering no alteration necessary, I send it as it is, with a request, that as you have not heard from Rhodes, that you would be so good, instead of sending the letter of Mr Anderson to Garrett, that you wd send for the latter to come to you, and deliver it yourself—this will enable you to know Garretts determination; without which you would be ignorant, and consequently more at a loss for an answer to Rhodes, if he should come to you after Andersons letter goes to Garrett. Whereas, if the latter accepts the offer made him by the former, the matter is finished as it respects Rhodes. On the contrary a conditional agreement with Rhodes & speedy advice thereof to me will bring the affair at once to a point with him. Yours as before. Go: W.