Title: Farm Reports, 16–22 April 1797
From: Anderson, James
To: Washington, George

[16–22 April 1797]

               A Meteoroligical Account of the Weather kept at Mount Vernon

                  1797 April

                  16 in the Morning
                  54 S.E. & Rainy
                  56 S.E. & rain
                  54 S.E. & rain

                  17
                  56 S.E. & clear
                  60 S.E. clear
                  57 S.E. & rainy

                  18
                  51 N.W. cloudy
                  53 N.W. cloudy
                  51 N.W. clear

                  19
                  45 N.W. cloudy
                  47 N.W. clear
                  45 N.W. cloudy

                  20
                  46 N.W. cloudy
                  48 N.W. clear
                  48 N.W. clear

                  21
                  54 N.W. clear
                  56 W. clear
                  56 S. clear

                  22
                  56 S. clear
                  59 S. clear
                  57 S. rain

                  Dr.
                  Mansion house for the Work of 8 hands Amot. ⅌ Week
                  48 days

                  Cr.
                  Waggon hauling 2 & plank 1 day & ⟨pea⟩ Brush 1 day
                   4

                      do hauling Oats 1 & Hay 1 day
                   2

                  3 Horse Cart hauling Wood 4 & plank 1, & at Town after Smiths Tools &ca 1 day
                   6

                  2 Horse Cart hauling Wood
                   1

                  Picking up Stones 4 Heaping dung 4 Curing fish 4 days
                  12

                  Anthony Attending the Stone Mason
                   6

                  cuting of Wood
                   6

                  Loading Hay, & Manure
                   3

                  Joe Curing of Fish
                   2

                  Hauling the Seine
                   6

                  48

                  Dr.
                  Ditchers for the Work of 4 Men Amounting to ⅌ W.
                  24

                  Cr.
                  By Hauling the Seine 12 cuting wood 4 & fencing 2
                  18

                     Sick Boson
                   6

                  24

Stock 1 Stud Horse 3 Stud Jacks 3 Young do, 7 Horses, 9 Working & 16 unbroke Mules, 10 Asses, 16 Cows & 3 Calves—12 Sheep 4 Lambs decreased one Wedder killed.

                  Dr.
                  River Farm for the work of 27 hands Amounting ⅌ Week
                  162

                  Cr.
                  By ploughing & planting of Corn
                   64

                   "  Hauling Corn to Mill 1 & Hauling Hay from Doguerun 1 day
                    2

                   "  Hauling Rails 3, Cuting, mauling & Hewing Rails 14 days
                   17

                   "  Marking, Casterating of Calves, Pigs, & Lambs
                    2

                   "  Heaping of Manure
                   24

                   "  Agnes gone to Doctor & attending to the Stock
                    2

                   "  Attending to Stock 6 & Easter Holydays 27 days
                   33

                   "  Fishing 12 & Peter in the Garden 6 days
                   18

                  162

Stock 12 Horses, & 12 Mules 83 Cattle & 14 Calves 195 Sheep and 82 Lambs. Decreased 1 Sheep Missing Increased 7 Lambs—of the Lambs there are 44 Ews & 38 Lambs, Marked & Casterated.

                  Corn
                  Sent to Mill
                  25½

                  do
                  fed to Stock
                  20

                  45½

                  Oats sent to Mansion
                    37 Bu.

                  Dr.
                  Mudy hole for the Work of 13 hands Amot. ⅌ Week
                  78

                  Cr.
                  By Carting Rails 4 And at Mill 1 day
                   5

                   "  Ploughing 20, Planting, & covering Corn 6 days
                  26

                   "  Repairing the Mill Race
                   8

                   "  fencing 4, Hauling the Seine 6 days
                  10

                   "  Easter Holy days 13 & Decreased Nathan in the House 6
                  19

                     Sick, Amie, & Letty in Child bed each 5 days
                  10

                  78

Stock 7 Horses & 4 Mules, 33 Cattle & 3 Calves 49 Sheep & 19 Lambs.

                  Corn
                  Sent to Mill
                  8½

                  do
                  fed to Stock
                  4

                   planted
                  2

                  14½

                  Dr.
                  Doguerun for the Work of 16 hands Amot. ⅌ Week
                  96 days

                  Cr.
                  By Easter Holy days 16 & ploughing 18 days
                  34

                   "  Working on the Mill Race 8, Planting Corn 14 days
                  22

                   "  Mending of the outline Post & Rail fence
                   1

                   "  Hauling Seine 5 & cleaning the Meadow 6 days
                  11

                   "  Puting up Post & Rail fences
                   4

                   "  Hoeing round the Stumps in new Ground
                   6

                   "  Shelling Corn 1 & Carting Wood, & Manure 5 days
                   6

                     Sick, Sall twine 3, & Sarah with Sore fingers 4 days
                   7

                     Sillar Attending her Sick Children
                   5

                  96

Stock 4 Horses 1 Colt & 9 Mules, one Mule Colt 67 Cattle & 7 Calves 134 Sheep & 41 Lambs Increase 1 Horse & one Mule Colt & 1 Calf Decreased 1 Sheep found dead.

                  Corn
                  Sent to mill
                  12 Bushels

                  do
                  fed to Stock
                   7½ do

                  19½ Bu.

                  Dr.
                  Union Farm for the work of 22 hands Amot. ⅌ Week
                  132

                  Cr.
                  By ploughing for Corn 32 working on the Old Mill Race 17 days
                   49

                   "  Easter Holy day
                   22

                   "  Planting of Corn 22, Cleaning of the Meadow 9 days
                   31

                   "  Hauling Manure, & Distillery Slope
                    6

                   "  Hauling of the Seine 10, & 2 Women carrying fish
                   14

                   "  Sick Moses 6, & Ciss 4 days
                   10

                  132

Stock 15 Horses 6 Mules 65 Cattle 2 Calves 111 Sheep & 33 Lambs.

                  Corn
                  sent to Mill
                  20 Bu.

                  do
                  fed to Stock
                  10

                  Planted
                  7½

                  37½ Bushels

                  Dr.
                  Carpenters for the Work of 6 Men Amot. ⅌ Week
                  36 days

                  Cr.
                  By Hewing Timber for the Wheat Machine
                   8

                   "  unloading of Plank & Stacking of do
                   7

                   "  Hauling of the Seine
                   6

                     Davie in the Coopers Shop &ca
                   3

                   "  Isacc fixing of the two Horse Cart & ploughs
                   3

                   "  Easter Holy day
                   6

                     Sick, Sambo
                   3

                  36

                  Dr.
                  Bricklayers for the work of 2 men Amot. ⅌ Week
                  12 days

                  Cr.
                  By Hauling of the Seine
                  12

                       John Neale Assisting, & Attending on the above work.

                  Dr. Mill
                  [Wheat]

                  To Mudy Hole
                   8.2

                   "  Doguerun
                  12.

                   "  Union Farm
                  20.

                   "  River Farm
                  25.2

                   "  Toll this week
                   6.

                  72.

                  Contra
                  I[ndian]M[eal]
                  Flour
                  H[ominy]
                  Sh[orts]B[ran]

                  By Mudy Hole
                   8.2

                  Doguern
                  12.

                  Union Farm
                  15.2

                  River Farm
                  13.2

                  1

                  Mansion house
                  19.2
                  mid. 196

                  1

                  Jas Anderson & Serts
                   1.3
                  fine 50

                  392 2 Blls

                  1½

                  Fishing landing
                  2.3

                  John Allison

                  2

                  Joseph Cash
                  1.

                  Wm Stewart
                   .2

                  Cooper Miller & Boys
                  1.2

                  Corn fed to Sows & pigs
                  1.2

                  78
                  fine 442
                  med. 196
                  5½

                  Ship Stuff Distilled 202½ lb.

                  Superfine flour as formerly 216 fine 68 Medlings
                  2

                  Off this to the house
                  1

                  1

                  Dr.
                  Coopers for the work of 3 hands Amot. ⅌ week to
                  18

                  Cr.
                  By Making Pails for the Mansion house
                   1

                   "  Making flour Barrels
                   9

                   "  Hauling of the Seine
                   5

                   "  Easter Holy day
                   3

                  18

                  Dr.
                  Miller Ben for the Work of 1 man ⅌ Week
                   6 days

                  Cr.
                  By Working on the Mill Race 1 & Holyday 1
                   2

                     Sick
                   4

                   6

                  Dr.
                  Gardeners for the Work of 4 Men Amot. ⅌ Week to
                  24 days

                  Cr.
                  By cuting of Bean ⟨Stuks⟩
                   4

                   "  clearing & planting in the Vineyard & Gardens
                  12

                   "  George, & Peter working at the house each 2 days
                   4

                   "  Easter Holydays
                   4

                  24

                  Dr.
                  Spinners Sewers & Kniters for the Work of 15 Women ⅌ week
                  90

                  Cr.
                  By Matilda spining 5 lb. Tow Yarn
                   5

                            "  Delia Spinning
                           5 lb. do

                            "  Annie Spinning
                           4 lb. do

                            "  Delphia
                           3 lb. do

                            "  Judith
                           3½ lb. Stocking Yarn

                            "  Kitty
                           1 lb. Sewing Thread

                   5

                   5

                   5

                   5

                   5

                   "  Betsey Davis Sewing 8 Shirts, And Alsey 8 Shirts 5 each
                  10

                   "  Lame Alley Knitting one pair Stockings
                   5

                   "  Lucey knitting one pair do
                   5

                   "  Sall winding of Yarn
                   5

                   "  Dolsey & Caroline Working in the House 5 days each
                  10

                   "  Charlotte in Child bed
                   5

                     Sick Doll
                   5

                     Keeping of the Holydays
                  15

                  90

                     Lame Peter Knitting 1 pair Stockings 5 days

               A General view of the whole Stock on Mount Vernon

                  Stud,
                  StudJacks,
                  Horses,
                  Asses,
                  Mules
                  Total

                  Mansion
                   1
                   6
                   7
                  10
                  25
                   49

                  River Farm

                  12

                  12
                   24

                  Mudyhole

                   7

                   4
                   11

                  Doguerun

                   5

                  10
                   15

                  Union Farm

                  15

                   6
                   21

                  James Anderson

                   2

                    2

                  Mill & Distillrey

                   1

                    1

                   1
                   6
                  49
                  10
                  57
                  123

                  Cattle,
                  Calves,
                  Total
                  Sheep
                  Lambs
                  Total

                  Mansion
                   16
                   3
                   19
                  12
                   4
                  16

                  River Farm
                   83
                  14
                   97
                  195
                  82
                  277

                  Mudyhole
                   33
                   3
                   36
                  49
                  19
                  68

                  Doguerun
                   67
                   7
                   74
                  134
                  41
                  175

                  Union Farm
                   65
                   2
                   67
                  111
                  33
                  144

                  James Anderson
                   15
                   9
                   24

                  Mill & Distillry
                    2
                   1
                    3

                  281
                  39
                  320
                  501
                  179
                  680


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 17 April 1797
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

Sir
Roxbury [Mass.] April 17th 1797

When you first ascended the highest seat in the Government of the United States, I could not but address you on an event so auspicious to our Country—Perhaps you might then think that I was pressing myself into notice or seeking for a place—But be assured my honorable Friend, that my heart is now as much attached to you on your retreat from Public Life, as when you Commenced a Career, which from experience I knew, would be advantageous to your Country.
The present situation of the United States is critical, and embarrassing, but it is presumed that the wisdom of her Government is Sufficient to extricate her, with the Blessing of Heaven, from her difficulties, without either the shedding of Blood, or the prostitution of honour.
I am now arrived at Threescore years of age, and I know that my glass is nearly run. I am looking back on those Scenes through which I have been called to pass, and frequently turn over the numerous orders which I had the honor to receive from you when under your immediate Command, and the manner in which they were Executed.
From the Commencement of the American war to this time, I have kept a daily Journal, now swelled to some thousand pages—from this Journal I am now writing memoirs containing Anecdotes, Details of skirmishes, Battles, and other military events during the war. This with the public, and private business incumbent on me engrosses my time.
Heaven only knows whether I shall ever have another opportunity, or the honour of again writing to you—be that as it may, my ardent wishes for your health and happiness, will follow you in your retirement, and be commensurate with my existance in life.
I pray you be pleased to present my best respects to your amiable Lady, with every wish a grateful heart can express, for her health and prosperity.
And now my great and honoured friend, may that kind Providence which has so often Shielded you when in danger, Still hold you in his holy Keeping—Guild the evening of your Days with every necessary comfort and consolation for many years to come and at last receive you to the everlasting reward of the faithful. I have

the honor to be with every Sentiment of respect Sir your most humble Servant

W. Heath


Title: To George Washington from Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 19 April 1797
From: Wolcott, Oliver Jr.
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir,
Philadelphia Apl 19th 1797

I intended to have availed myself before this time of the permission you was pleased to give me, at a moment which I shall never forget; but indisposition & an uncommon pressure of business have prevented.
The last accounts from France mention that General Pinckney had gone to Amsterdam in consequence of orders from the Directory. The treatment he recd was rude and insolent in the highest degree; the directory however continue to profess friendship for the American people.
The American stocks rose in England in consequence of the late disorder in the affairs of the Bank: this I consider as a bad omen for British Credit; indeed there is but little reason to doubt, that a national bankruptcy in some form or other is unavoidable.
Nothing new is observable in our domestic affairs, except that there is reason to believe that the aggressions of France will tend to unite the people—the last publications from the Department of State have been very useful.
The plan of measures to be recommended to Congress is not yet entirely settled, I presume however, that an increase of naval force for the protection of our coasts & Commerce, permission to the Merchants to arm for defence; the improvement of fortifications, the enrollment of a force with a view principally to the Blacks in the most Southern States, and the increase of Revenue, will be deemed adviseable.
There will I presume be no question about the expediency of keeping a Minister in Europe properly authorised to open negociations, whenever the consent of France can be obtained.

The times are indeed critical, & there is no doubt but France intends & expects to be able to establish a political influence in this Country. I trust however that they will find themselves mistaken, & that the kind providence which has hitherto protected this Country, will guard its liberty & independence. With the most sincere respects to Mrs Washington & cordial wishes for your happiness, I remain your most obedt & grateful servt

Oliv. Wolcott jr


Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 21 April 1797
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Philadelphia April 21. 1797

To-day a Jerseyman called on me to enquire whether I knew of any agent of yours in this city, who could receive money for you. He said Colo. Israel Shrieve had formerly purchased some land of you at Red-Stone, which the Colo. sold to the Enquirer’s brother, in whose behalf he had come to pay two hundred pounds.
Not knowing of any such agent, I told the man I would inform you of his application, and in about two weeks could give him an answer. You will be pleased to favour me with the requisite information. I am with great respect Sir your most obt servt

Timothy Pickering


Title: To George Washington from William Charles Cole Claiborne, 22 April 1797
From: Claiborne, William Charles Cole
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Knoxville, Tennessee, April 22d 1797

Permit an individual from a remote part of America, to address you, an individual little known in public Life, and whose personal Acquaintance with you is very confined: The freedom I thus take illy-becomes me; but when I recollect, that the Character I write to, is the great friend of Mankind, his Goodness to pardon an honest intention is my best excuse.
The object of this Letter, is to request of you Sir, a favour the granting of which, will high ten the obligations which in common with every Citizen of the United States, you have already laid me under. I presume it has not escaped your recollection, that communications

from several of my Friends in Virginia, were forwarded to you, soliciting for me, the Appointment of District Judge in this State—The honor however was reserved for another character, and here give me leave to remark, that your choice fell upon a person, whose private Life is amiable, and in whose public conduct, Wisdom, firmness and fidelity are conspicuous traits; I come now to mention the favour I have to ask; it is Sir, that you will forward the Letters I above alluded to, to your worthy Successor in office; they may aid me in attaint[ing] some other Appointment under the Federal Authority, which may hereafter be desirable. The Confidence reposed in me, by my Friends, gives rise to the most pleasing sensations, and cannot fail to excite my utmost emulation. The primary object of my Life is, to be useful to my Country. “Born Sir” at a period, when every American Breast palpitated for freedom, I became early attached to civil Liberty (which to you is so much indebted) and was instructed to lisp the Names of the Patriots of my Country with veneration and respect. Annimated by their example, I shall labour to acquire the esteem of the present, and of after Ages for good and virtuous Actions. The Federal Government which (under your wise Administration) has reflected prosperity over every part of this extensive Continent, I sincerely admire and that no encroachment may be made on its principles is among my greatest wishes: It gives me pleasure to add, that the great bulk of the people of this State, are attached to the Union, and that attachment your last friendly advice will perpetuate. The peace with the Indians, which previous to your retirement from office was so happily affected, still exists—I believe it is the wish of a great majority of the Citizens, to preserve it inviolate, and altho’ a few depredations have of late been committed on both sides, I trust an open rupture will be avoided. The Commissioners for extending the boundary Line between the United States, and the Cherokee Nation, have proceeded on their duty; some little discontent seems to prevail among the people, from a supposition, that on the extension of the Line, many will be found settled on Indian Lands, and that an immediate removal will ensue; But I hope and wish their Conduct may be marked with prudence.
I have given you this general statement of Politicks in this State, thinking it may be acceptable, as I am well assured, that the prosperity and Happiness of your Country, will be essential to the enjoyment of your remaining years. Should you think proper to

acknowledge the receipt of this Letter, the honor done me will be gratefully remembered.
I cannot conclude without expressing a fervent wish, that in the tranquil Scenes of retirement, your future Life may be one continued Scene of Felicity, and that your Successor in Office, by pursuing your virtuous example, may be the Dispenser of Peace and Happiness to the People. Accept Sir of my sincere and respectful attachment. I have the honor to be, Your mo: Obet & ve[r]y Humble Servt

William Charles Cole Claiborne


Title: From George Washington to Gustavus Scott, 22 April 1797
From: Washington, George
To: Scott, Gustavus

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 22nd Apl 1797

I should not have taken the liberty of giving you the trouble wch the enclosures must occasion, but for the request of Genl Lee who left this yesterday and is implicated in the business to which they relate.
Messrs Reed & Fords obligation, paid me by Genl Lee to discharge

in part a debt he owed me, the letter of the latter with Mr Lingans note (all of which are enclosed) will be sufficient I presume, to enable you to obtain the transfer promised by Messrs Lingan & Smith of 41 Shares; but it may not be amiss notwithstanding to add that as there seems to be delay & difficulty on the part of Messrs Reed & Ford in a matter where in my opinion none ought to exist, it excite suspicions not very favourable—for those Gentlemen, which makes me anxious to know what I have to depend upon, especially as I requested them immediately after the 28th of march to fulfil their Obligation without ever having reed an acknowledgment of my letter except in a verbal message (which I did not understand,) through Genl Lee; I will not however add more on this Subject at present, than to beg the favor of hearing from you relative to the transfer of the 41 Shares. With great Esteem & regard I am dear Sir Your Obedt Hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: Farm Reports, 23–29 April 1797
From: Anderson, James
To: Washington, George

[23–29 April 1797]

               A Meteorological Account of the Weather kept at Mount Vernon

                  1797 April

                  23d Morning
                  57 Thunder & Rain
                  59 W. Rain
                  57 W. cloudy

                  24
                  57 N.E. cloudy & rain
                  58 N.E. cloudy & showers
                  56 S. cloudy

                  25
                  57 S. & Rain
                  60 W. & clear
                  58 S. clear

                  26
                  60 W. clear
                  62 W. clear
                  60 W. clear

                  27
                  62 S.E. clear
                  64 E. clear
                  62 E. clear

                  28
                  66 S. clear
                  68 S. clear
                  67 S. clear

                  29
                  65 S. clear
                  68 S. clear
                  66 S. clear

                  Dr.
                  Mansionhouse for the Work of 8 hands Amot. ⅌ Week
                  48

                  Cr.
                  Waggon hauling Hay to Town 1 & do to Mansionhouse 2 days
                   3

                   "   Timber for Carpenters 1 & Rails 2 days
                   3

                  3 Horse Cart—Hauling Wood to Mansion 4 & Manure to C. lott 2
                   6

                  2 Horse Cart, hauling Manure to Clover Lott
                   4

                  At Mill 1 day & Hauling Salt to Fish house 1 day
                   2

                  Picking up Stones, 10 & Scattering Manure on Clover Lott 4
                  14

                  Joe curing of Fish
                   6

                  Hauling of the Seine 6 & cuting of Wood, Gunner 4
                  10

                  48

                  Dr.
                  Ditchers for the work of 4 Men Amot. ⅌ Week to
                  24 days

                  Cr.
                  By cuting Wood Dundey 4 & picking up Stones 2 days
                   6

                   "  Hauling of the Seine
                  18

                  24

Stock 1 Stud horse 3 do Jacks 3 do Young Jacks 10 Asses, 7 Horses 9 Working & 9 unbroken Mules, 15 Cows & 4 Calves 10 Sheep & 4 Lambs Decreased 7 Mules sent to Union Farm 1 Sheep killed for the House And one Ewe Killed by a Young Mule—Increase 1 Calf from one of the Cows.

                  Dr.
                  Union Farm for the Work of 22 hands Amot. ⅌ Week
                  132

                  Cr.
                  By ploughing for Corn 48 & cleaning Ditches 20 days
                   68

                   "  Planting of Corn 40 & Hauling of the Seine 12 days
                   52

                   "  Hauling Manure 4, & hauling Slope from Distillery 2 days
                    6

                   "  Lucretia curing of Fish at the Fish house
                    6

                  132

Stock 15 Horses 13 Mules 61 Cattle, Decrease 4 Cows & 4 Calves sent to Jas Andersons House—111 Sheep & 35 Lambs increase 2 Lambs And increased 2 Calves And 7 Mules from Mansion house.

                  Corn
                  sent to Mill
                  20 Bushels

                  do
                  fed to Horses
                   7½ do

                  Planted this Week
                   8

                  35½

                  Sent of do to Mansion
                  30

                  Dr.
                  River Farm for the Work of 27 hands ⅌ Week
                  162 days

                  Cr.
                  By ploughing 50 & planting Corn, & covering do 58 days
                  108

                   "  Hauling Corn to Mill 1 & Rails & posts 5 days
                    6

                   "  Making of Post & Rail fences 24 Peter in the Garden 6 days
                   30

                   "  Fishing 12 And Attending to Stock 6 days
                   18

                  162

Stock 11 Horses & 11 Mules 83 Cattle & 15 Calves 195 Sheep & 82 Lambs, And 2 Mule Colts Decreased 1 large black Mare one of the brood Mares died—Said to have done no duty for 16 Mos. past And Increased 1 Mule Colt.

                  Corn
                  sent to Mill
                  25½ Bush.

                  do
                  fed to Stock
                  15   do

                  40½ Bushels

                  Dr.
                  Mudy hole for the work of 13 hands ⅌ Week
                  78 days

                  Cr.
                  By Hauling Corn to Mill 1 & Rails 2 days
                   3

                   "  Ploughing 24, Planting & Covering Corn 30 days
                  54

                   "  Fishing 6 days & Sackey Shelling Corn 3 days
                   9

                     Sick Sackey 3 Amie in Childbed 6 Darcus in do 4 & Letty 2 days
                  12

                  78

Stock 7 Horses 4 Mules, 33 Cattle 3 Calves, 49 Sheep & 19 Lambs.

                  Corn
                  sent to Mill
                   8½ Bu.

                  do
                  fed to Stock
                   4   do

                  do
                  planted this week
                   4   do

                  16½

                  Dr.
                  Doguerun for the work of 16 hands ⅌ Week
                  96 days

                  Cr.
                  By Ploughing 22 days, Planting & Covering Corn 16 days
                  38

                   "  Hoeing round the Stumps in Corn field
                  16

                   "  Hauling Wood to Distillery 1 Hay to Stables 1 & Manure 4 days
                   6

                   "  Cuting a drain thro Corn field
                   6

                   "  Joe Hauling Seine 6, long Jack curing Fish 2 days
                   8

                   "  Planting pease 6 & cleaning Meadow 6 days
                  12

                     Sick Ben 3 Kitty 3 days & Sillar Nursing Her Sick Children 4 day
                  10

                  96

Stock 4 Horses, 9 Mules & 1 Mule Colt 67 Cattle & 7 Calves, 134 Sheep & 41 Lambs.

                  Corn
                  sent to Mill
                  12   Bushels

                  do
                  fed to Stock
                   7½ Bushels

                  19½ Bushels

                  planted this week

                  all the Corn planted on this Farm.

                  Dr.
                  Mill
                  Wheat
                  I[ndian]Corn

                  Mudyhole

                   8.2

                  Doguerun

                  12.

                  Union Farm

                  20.

                  River Farm

                  25.2

                  Toll this week
                  1
                   5.

                  1
                  70½

                  Contra
                  I. Meal
                  Flour
                  H[ominy]
                  Br[an]Sh[orts]

                  By
                  Mudyhole
                   8.2

                  Doguerun
                  12.

                  Union Farm
                  15.2

                  River Farm
                  13.2

                  Mansion house
                  19.2
                  15 Sup[er]

                  10.

                  Fishery
                   7.

                  John Neale
                   1.2

                  Jas Anderson & Serts
                   1.3

                  fed to Sows & pigs
                   2.

                  Cooper Miller & Boys
                   1.2

                  82.3
                  15.

                  10.

The reason why so small a quantity of flour is charged to the House is that one Barrel returned laked 15 lb. flour.

                  Flour on hand formerly packed this Week
                  Superfine
                  216
                  fine
                  68
                  Midlings
                  1

                    4

                  25

                  220

                  93

                  1

                  Ship Stuff to the Still 581½ lb.

                  Dr.
                  Cooper Tom & Boy for the Work of 2 Men Amot. ⅌ Week
                  12

                  Cr.
                  By cuting Hoop poles & coopering Tubs & Barrels at the Fish house & heading do
                  12

                  Dr.
                  Miller Ben for the Work of one Man ⅌ Week
                   6 days

                  Cr.
                  By Working in the Mill
                   5

                   Sick
                   1

                   6

                  Dr.
                  Gardiners for the Work of 4 Men Amot. ⅌ Week to
                  24 days

                  Cr.
                  By cleaning, & planting in the Garden, & Vineyard
                  19

                   "  Working at Sundries in, and about the House
                   5

                  24

                  Dr.
                  Spinners Sewers & Knitters for the work of 14 Women
                  84

                  Cr.

By Delia Spinning
6 lb. Tow Yarn

 "  Betsey Davis
5 lb. Flax Yarn

    "  Annie
5 lb. do

    "  Dolsey
5 lb. do

    "  Delphia
2½ lb. do

    "  Judith
4 lb. Stocking Yarn

    "  Kitty
4 lb. Shoemakers thread

 "  Lame Alley, knitting
    2 pairs of Stockings

 "  Lucey knitting
    1 pair of Do

                   6

                   6

                   6

                   6

                   6

                   6

                   6

                   6

                   6

                   "  Sall Winding Yarn
                   6

                   "  Caroline working in the House
                   6

                   "  Alsey working in the House
                   6

                     Sick Matilda 6 & Charlotte in Child bed 6 days
                  12

                  84

                  Lame Peter knitting 2 pairs stockings 6 days

                  Dr.
                  Bricklayers for the work of 2 men ⅌ week
                  12 days

                  Cr.
                  By Tom Davis & Muckles Hauling the Seine
                  12

                  Dr.
                  Carpenters for the Work of 6 Men Amot. ⅌ Week
                  36

                  Cr.
                  By Hewing of Timber for the Wheat Machine
                  16

                   "  Making 2 Posts & hanging a Gate thereto at Mudyhole
                   3

                   "  Taking to pieces Packing Boxes & taking out the Nails
                   3

                   "  Unloading a Schooner of Oyster Shells
                   3

                   "  Isacc, preparing Ploughing ⟨Sheft⟩ and assisting in making of a Cupboard to hold China & taking to p[i]eces Boxes
                   6

                   "  Davie at the Coopers Shop
                   5

                  36

John Neale attending & assisting in the above things—29 April 1796
John Neale says 6 Mos. of the time He ingaged for is Run.

               A View of the Whole Stock on the Estate of Mount Vernon

                  Stud
                  H. S. Jacks
                  Horses
                  Asses
                  Mules
                  Colts
                  Total

                  Mansion
                  1
                  6
                   7
                  10
                  18

                  42

                  Union

                  15

                  13

                  28

                  River

                  11

                  11
                   2
                  24

                  Mudyhole

                   7

                   4

                  11

                  Doguerun

                   4

                   9
                   1
                  14

                  J. Anderson

                   2

                   2

                  Distillery & Mill

                   1

                   1

                  1
                  6
                  47
                  10
                  55
                   3
                  122

                  Cattle
                  Calves
                  Total

                  Sheep
                  Lambs
                  Total

                  Mansion
                  15
                   4
                  19

                   10
                   4
                   14

                  Union
                  61

                  61

                  111
                  35
                  146

                  River
                  83
                  15
                  98

                  195
                  82
                  277

                  Mudyhole
                  33
                   3
                  36

                  149
                  19
                   68

                  Dogue run
                  67
                   7
                  74

                  134
                  41
                  175

                  J. Anderson
                  19
                  13
                  32

                  Distillery & Mill
                   2
                   1
                   3

                  280
                  43
                  323

                  499
                  181
                  680

The Calf which is now Stated to Mill & Distillery being Weaned, & at Union Farm shall be Stated to that ⟨a/c⟩ Calves.


Title: To George Washington from Gustavus Scott, 23 April 1797
From: Scott, Gustavus
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir.
Geo[rge] Town [Md.] 23d April 1797.

I have the Honor of your favor of the 22d Instt with the Inclosures. In this and in every other Instance within my small Powers it will give me infinite pleasure to obey your Commands.

I will wait on Messrs Lingham and Smith this day & if no unforeseen difficulties occur close the business tomorrow. & forward a Certificate of the Transfer by the earliest Mail after the Transfer is made. I have the honor to be with sentiments of perfect Respect dr sir Yr mo. obt servt

Gusts Scott

The servant having waited longer than I expected I have recd from Capt. Linghan an answer to my note which I enclose.


Title: To George Washington from George Ball, 24 April 1797
From: Ball, George
To: Washington, George

Dr Sr
April 24—1797—Lancaster Court-House

Upon considering the writing more attentively, which pass’d between us, respecting the land—I think a part of it meterially improper—and I am confident when I state some facts you will think with me—the writing says I shall pay six Pr centum upon the purchase money from 1789 untill the whole is discharged.
Your letter to Geo: Fitzhugh states that your terms are eight hundred pounds with interest from the time you purchased the land untill final payment—Your letter to me, that I should have it upon the same terms—The legal interest for money in this State allways was and still is five Pr centum, more by the laws of this cuntry is demed usury & subject the party receiving—to much penalty—the last Assembly pass’d a law making money worth six Pr centum—but the operation of that law is suspended untill the first day of May—Now as I thought when I wished to become a purchaser—and still think, considering the thing as you stated in your letters—that the interest should be legal—that is you should have 5 Pr centum from your purchase untill May 1797—and then as the law directs Six Pr c. untill final payment.
Not wishing to deviate from the Spirit of my contract and scorning to avail of any advantage arriseing from it—I submit What I have stated to your consideration—and however hard it may press

upon me in my strated circumstance—should you not apprehend the think as I do I shall patiently acquiese—a line by post  to ⟨the⟩ Lancaster Court House in answer to this will give satisfaction to your Most Obet, and very Humble st

Geo. Ball


Title: To George Washington from Joshua Humphreys, 24 April 1797
From: Humphreys, Joshua
To: Washington, George

Sir
Philadelphia Apl 24. 1797

Before you left this City you mentioned you wanted a pump for raising water about sixty feet, if you have not one provided and will please to give me the height the water must be raised, the quantity to be delivered, and also the use it is to be applied to, I will endeavour to find out and transmitt to you the best plan for having one made, and what the cost will be.
The Frigate U. States will be Launched either the last of this month or the begining of the next. I am with the greatest Esteem & Respect

Joshua Humphreys


Title: From George Washington to Paul Revere et al., 24 April 1797
From: Washington, George
To: Revere, Paul

Brothers,
Mount Vernon 24th April 1797

I am sorry that the enclosed answer to the Affectionate Address of the Grand lodge of Ancient, Free and accepted Masons, of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts—transmitted under your Signatures—should appear so much out of season; but from the lapse of time between the date & reception of the Address (from what cause I know not) it was not to be avoided, and is offered as an apology for the delay. With brotherly Affection I am always Yours

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Gustavus Scott, 25 April 1797
From: Scott, Gustavus
To: Washington, George

Dr sir,
Geo[rge] Town [Md.] 25th April 1797.

I have the pleasure of enclosing a Certificate of the Transfere of the 41 shares promised by Messrs Linghan & Smith; which is all the evidence necessary of your being the Holder of the Shares. Whilst at Bank I took an Opportunity of exam[in]ing the Stock book to see whether these Gentn held any more Stock than has been transfered to you: finding no Stock in their own Names I have investigated the fact whether they held in the Name of any other Person. the Result is most clearly that they do not, & that 20 of the 41 shares now transfered have been bought since the date of their Engagements to you.
Mr Smith Who is their Agent here is Treasurer of the Bridge Company, & consequently well known to me. I sent for him & have had Conversation with him on this subject. These Gentn have 3 or 4000 $ due them in this Place 12 Months hence and he has written to them to know whether he shall buy the Residue of the 70 shares out of these funds in his hands; to which Letter he expects an answer by this days mail.
I have indorsed on the Obligation that 41 shares have been transfered, & given to Mr Smith an Acknowledgment of this fact for his Justification. I retain this Obligation hoping through Smiths influence with them to be able to obtain the Residue of the shares for you in a short time. If I fail the Paper shall be forwarded or be delivered to Mr Lear as you may please to direct. I think it probable the Residue of the shares may be obtained in a Week or two as Smith seems anxious to support the honor of his Principals. I am with sentiments of perfect Respect Dr Sir Yr mo. obt Servt

Gusts Scott


Title: To George Washington from John Trumbull, 25 April 1797
From: Trumbull, John
To: Washington, George

Sir
29 Berner’s Street London, April 25th 1797

The Letter which you did me the Honour to write to me on the 12 th of January came to my hands some days ago, together with its enclosures: The Letter for Mr John Carey was conveyed to him as

soon as I could learn his place of residence. I beg leave to return my thanks to Mrs Washington, for the Honor of her Letter, and for the very flattering sentiments she has been pleased to express towards me.
For Her Happiness as well as your’s, I shall ever offer my most sincere Vows: and I earnestly hope that you may long enjoy in Health, that Domestic Ease, and calm tranquillity of retirement which must be so grateful to you, after so many years of anxiety and fatigue; and derive from the contemplation of the Happiness and Glory of your Country, the best reward of those toils which have so eminently contributed to their establishment. I have the Honor to be, with the highest Respect, sir, Your most obedient & Grateful Servant

Jno. Trumbull


Title: To George Washington from Rufus King, 26 April 1797
From: King, Rufus
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
London Apl 26, 1797

As I forward several copies of the news Paper that contained the advertisement concerning your suit in the Chancery of Virginia, though a Ship in which one of them was sent, has been carried into France I hope some others arrived safe and in Season —Every one is anxious to hear from Vienna, the latest accounts from which, leaving it uncertain whether we are to expect the news of a Great Battle, or of a sudden & separate peace between France and austria—England wants Peace, and seeks it with Sincerity—The

Country is weary with the war, and appears to despair of any advantage to be expected from its continuance—It is understood that Mr Hammond, who has been sent to Vienna to join in a negotiation for a General Peace, is authorised to give up points on which Lord Malmesbury firmly insisted: thence it is hoped, should not the Necessity of the Empero[r]s situation compel him to make a separat Peace, that the joint negotiation may produce a general one —General Pinckney is still at amsterdam and our intercourse and affairs with France remain in the embarrassed situation in which they have been for some months past—The late Arret of March will prove vexatious to our Commerce, if it is executed in all its provisions: there is some reason to hope that the most unreasonable of these Regulations may be reconsidered and rendered more just: Sir John Sinclair sent me a few Copies of the inclosed printed Paper, with a request that I would transmet one of them to you. With perfect Consideration I have the Honor to be Dear sir Yr ob. & faithful Servt

Rufus King


Title: To George Washington from Patrick McCarty, 26 April 1797
From: McCarty, Patrick
To: Washington, George

Sir,
City of Washington April 26th 1797

According to Your directions I have Enquired in George town about the Stoves but there is no Such things in it, when You Send for them be Particular in Getting the pipes to them, as they Seldom have any Made but Such as have an open flew behind to Go into the Chimney. I am Sir with the Greatest respect Your Obedt Servt

Patk McCarty


Title: To George Washington from George Gilpin, 27 April 1797
From: Gilpin, George
To: Washington, George

Dr Sir,
Alexandria April 27th 1797

A Servant of yours a few days ago request’d to be inform’d if there was any Vessell at Alexandria bound for Philadelphia there was no Vessell then at this Town bound to Philadelphia, but Capt. Ellwood is now here his packet will Sail for that plaece in a few days.
I made enquiry for a joiner as you desired I found Several that would have taken some 5 and others 6/ ⅌ day but on enquiry they had not a compleat Sett of tools and if employed must have been dependant on some person for them, I find that good men are hired here at 6 and 7/ and they find their board, I am Sir with great Esteem your most obedient, Hume Servt

George Gilpin


Title: To George Washington from Miles King, 27 April 1797
From: King, Miles
To: Washington, George

Worthy Sir
Hampton April 27th 1797

From my Early Acquaintance with you I have taken the liberty of Addressing you in an Appointment of Importance to my large and growing Family—having Spent Upwards of Twenty Years in the Service of my Country and Eighteen Years in the Assembly of Virginia Acquainted with business being all my life in the Merchantile line and knowing the Duty of the office which I Wish to gett, my Aid in Convention to Establish the Present Government and my Friendship for good Order & good Government will I hope plead in my favour[.] I have this Moment heard the Collector of Norfolk Cannot live many days and by his Death the Office will be Vacant, I must request the favour of you sir if Consistent with your Own Opinion of me that you will be pleased to Write to the President of the United States in my favour & Aid me and my Family in the Appointment when the Office becomes Vacant, My Friend Colo. Cary has been long Acquainted and Will be my Security for the faithfull discharge of the Dutys of the office, in Short I can gett a recommendation from every County in Virginia was it Necessary having an Extensive Acquaintance—One Word sir from you will do the business, if Mr Jefferson was at Philadelphia he would render me every Assistance as I am Well Acquainted with him, my Brother John King was Collector to the day of his Death and Executed the Dutys of that Office with great Satisfaction, As the Office is of great Importance I expect there will be many Applications for it. Your Aid Sir will Oblige an Old servant of the Public—I am with great respect Your Most Obedient Servant

Miles King

This is the first Appointment I ever Askd for—and Should not do it now if it was not for a large Family.


Title: From George Washington to Enoch Edwards, 1 May 1797
From: Washington, George
To: Edwards, Enoch

Sir,
Mount Vernon 1st May 1797

   No good opportunity ’till now, afforded by Mr Craik, has offered to return the Pamphlets you were so obliging as to send me by Mr Jefferson. I now do it with thanks for the perusal of them. and with compliments to Mrs Edwards am Sir Your Obedient Hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Mary White Morris, 1 May 1797
From: Washington, George
To: Morris, Mary White

My dear Madam,
Mount Vernon 1st May 1797.

The lustre which stood suspended in our large Drawing Room in Philadelphia, I pray you to accept from Mrs Washington and me, as a small testimony of our affectionate regard for you, Mr Morris & family.
To bring it from Philadelphia, and then to send it back, carries with it an appearance so singular, as to require explanation—the following, though uninteresting, & may appear tedious in detail, will give it.
It was intimated to me that, if the President took the house in which I lived, that he wou’d be glad (in case I was disposed to part with it) to take the Furniture of the two largest Rooms also. Part of both I had intended to sell; the residue, in my own mind, I had designated for other purposes; but to cull the best, and offer him the rest, I conceived would be indelicate, & therefore with the exception of the Pictures, all of which were fancy pieces of my own chusing, I made a tender of the whole; at such reduced prices as he, or any other, should adjudge them to be the worse for wear. The expectation of his taking them, and the pressure of many matters previous to my departure, caused me to leave the City without giving precise directions relative to the disposition of the furniture of these Rooms, beyond the offer that had been made of them to the President; of course, when in the last moment, he declined taking them, it rested on the judgment of Mr Lear & Mr Dandridge to dispose of them in the manner they conceived best; and the lustre was accordingly packed up to be sent to this place.
The moment the account of it reached me, I wrote to Mr Dandridge to stop the shipment, and to send it to your house as the harbinger of this letter; but the Vessel unluckily, had Sailed a day

or two before the order reached him. I hope however, from the external appearance of the package (for I have not opened it) it will be received without injury.
Mrs Washington unites with me in every good wish for you, Mr Morris and the family; and we beg to be presented in respectful terms to Bishop White and his family. Nelly Custis and her brother are in the Federal City, or they wd I am sure join us cordially in offering their best regards. With sentiments of the most perfect esteem and attachment, I have the honor to be My dear Madam Your most obliged, and affectionate Servt

Go: Washington

P.S. The case with the Lustre, will go on board Capt. Ellwood; who is, I am informed, now in the Port of Alexandria.


Title: To George Washington from William Herbert, 2 May 1797
From: Herbert, William
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Alexandria 2d May 1797

On looking over mr Lears Account in the Bank Books, this morning, I find that He has Drawn the Money for Smiths Note, & that he has only Ninety Eight Dollars, at this Time in Bank. I Am—With great respect & regard—Dr Sir—yr Most Hble Servt

Wm Herbert


Title: To George Washington from Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 2 May 1797
From: Wolcott, Oliver Jr.
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir,
Philadelphia May 2nd 1797

I embrace the earliest opportunity to transmit a Copy of the documents refered to in the Presidents Speech. We hear nothing further that is interesting.
It is remarkable that all the foreign Nations with whom we have public intercource bring forward their claims for Gratitude, even the Spaniard contends for his Share. With perfect respect & attachment I remain Dear Sir, your obedt servt

Oliv. Wolcott jr


Title: From George Washington to James McAlpin, 7 May 1797
From: Washington, George
To: McAlpin, James

Sir
Mount Vernon 7th May 1797

Mr Custis will present you with an order for Cloaths, &ca which please to have made according to his directions—and the amount of cost shall be paid on demand.
Finding I shall have occasion for an Agent to do such little matters as I shall want in Philadelphia, I shall soon appoint one, who will be instructed to pay your Account.
By depending on you to procure the dozen pieces of Nankeens I required, I have got none, nor a particle of trimmings for the

Cloth (except livery lace) altho’ you have charged, & recd at 5d., for 88 Scanes of Silk. I am Sir Your Hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Mary White Morris, 9 May 1797
From: Morris, Mary White
To: Washington, George

My Dear Sir
Philadelphia 9th May 1797

I do most Chearfully accept from your self and Mrs Washington, as a testimony of so valued a Regard for me, Mr Morris, & my family, the Lustre you have Presented me With, a gift in it Self so hansome will nevertheless to us all Derive its greatest merit as coming from such valued Friends, as an affectionate Remembrance, and give it in our Eyes Estimation, and value, very Superior to that of the artist Skill.
You have not, neither has Mrs Washington an Idea how much I miss your Removeall from hence, It has not only deprived me of the Sosiety of two most valued Friends, But that at a time too, the most Unfortunate to lose such neighbours, When I have less Inclination than Ever to go furthur from home.
I Participated with Mrs Washington In Her Happiness—to find in Master Custis such Improvement as we here Considered Him to have made when he favourd us with a call on his Way to Mount Vernon.
My brother & Mrs White most gratefully acknowledge yours and

Mrs Washingtons Remembrance and desire their Best wishes and Regards, may unite with those of Mine, Mr Morris, & my family, to your self, Mrs Washington, and Miss Custis—For Happiness Perpetuall. Adeiu My dear sir & beleive me With sentiments of the most affectionate Regard Sincerely Yours

Mary Morris


Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 14 May 1797
From: McHenry, James
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir.
Philadelphia 14 May 1797.

I think it probable that there will be a house of representatives to-morrow and perhaps a Senate on tuesday, the speech of course will be on Wednesday.
The speech will state the circumstances which have induced to the call of Congress; express a sincere desire that accommodation may take place; inform, that a fresh attempt will be made to endeavour to effectuate the object; recommend in the mean while, as indispensible to the immediate protection of our trade, and to guard against an unsuccessful issue, the equipment of the frigates and other vessels of war to serve as convoys, and a restricted permission for merchantmen to arm and act in their own defence who may sail without convoy; an increase of artillerists & Cavalry, and an arrangement for a provisional or incidental force. It then notices the principles which will govern his administration, with which if not altered you will be entirely satisfied.
I inclose you an abstract of the treatment of Mr Pinckney, since the date of which there has been a letter from him from Amsterdam refering to two which are yet to arrive. The letter from Amsterdam

contains the information, that he reced the written order for leaving France the day after the account of Buonaparte’s victory had reached Paris.
Mr Craik has informed me that you dined lately at the old Docters, and looked very well; indeed better than when here. God send that you may long look well and enjoy good health, and that nothing that is to happen may be of such a nature as to disturb your consoling privacy and retirement. France however is playing a great game, and has views perhaps little less extensive than those which opened upon the Roman Republic, and deluged so great a portion of the world with blood. She does not appoint pro consuls over the countries she conquers, but she does what is as effectual, she permits them to creat themselves into republics and governs them by their own passions, or she annexes them to her own territory and governs them in Paris. Adieu most sincerely & affecty

James McHenry


Title: To George Washington from James McAlpin, 15 May 1797
From: McAlpin, James
To: Washington, George

Sir
Philadelphia 15th May 1797

I received your much esteemed favor of the 7th Inst. ⅌ Mr Custis on Wednesday last—also an Order for Cloths &c. which was compleated on Saturday, and delivered to him.
In your letter you mention your depending on me for procuring one Dozn peices Nankeen & trimmings for the Cloths, this as well as the other part of the order which I received from Mr Dandridge, was punctualy executed by me, and pack’d up with my own Hands in two parsells and deliverd to him at your late Dwelling House in this City, ⟨as⟩ The Nankeens & trimmings with 2 peices ⟨mutilated⟩ fustin were in One parcell am led to ⟨mutilated⟩ must

not have been put in the Way Bill and Consequently lost, as Mr Dandridge was very particular about them and exemined them in my store before they were pack’d.
The remainder of the Lace which I have had made is now ready and which I will forward with the first opportunity. I am Sir, Your Most Obdt humle Servt

James McAlpin

N.B. I have to inform you that John Cline your old Servant is now in Town conciving it to be my duty to let you know this so that you may have an opportunity of acting as you think most proper.


Title: From George Washington to Stephen Milburn, 15 May 1797
From: Washington, George
To: Milburn, Stephen

Sir
Mount Vernon 15th May 1797

Having in a great measure given up the idea of Renting my Farms (from an apprehension that I could not dispose of the whole of them, & that unless I did this my objects wd not be answered) I was not as explicit as I might have been in my answers to some of the questions you asked on friday last.
Revolving on the matter since, & believing if I wait until an offer is made for the whole—I may not rent them at all, I have come to a determination to inform you, that if upon examining & approval of what is called my River Farm (shewn you from the front of my house) you may have it at the Rent I had fixed on the whole; to wit 1 1/2 bushels of Wheat pr Acre; provided we can settle the terms of the lease to mutual Satisfaction. In that case, you may obtain possession as soon as matters can be so arranged as to suit the convenience of us both. And as it would require a pretty considerable sum of money to stock so large a farm I could ease you of the advance by furnishing you with a part or the whole of the Stock & implements thereon at a reasonable valuation the agregate amt of which to be passed into a Bond well secured carrying interest until discharged. To be more explicit before you have seen & examined the farm would be unnecessary & therefore I shall only request, that you would let me know your determination as soon as it is

formed as consequent measures must be taken on my part if an agreement is likely to ensue. I am Sir Yr Hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 15 May 1797
From: Washington, George
To: Wolcott, Oliver Jr.

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon May 15th 1797

I thank you for the information contained in your letter of the 19th Ulto; and infer from it, with pleasure, that you must be better, if not quite recovered of the indisposition of which you complained, by your being enabled to write. To know this however would give me satisfaction as I entertain an affectionate regard for you.
Various conjectures have been formed relatively to the causes which have induced the President to convene the Congress at this season of the year; among others that of laying an Embargo, is supposed by some to be in contemplation—whether with, or without foundation, you who are acting on the great theatre have the best means of judging. For myself, having turned aside from the broad walks of political, into the narrow paths of private life I shall leave it with those whose duty it is, to consider subjects of this sort; and (as every good citizen ought to do) conform to whatsoever the ruling Powers shall decide. To make, & sell a little flour annually; to repair houses (going fast to ruin)—to build one for the security of my Papers of a public nature and to amuse myself in Agricultural and rural pursuits will constitute employment for the few years I have to remain on this terrestrial Globe. If to these I

could now & then meet the friends whom I esteem, it would fill the measure & add zest to my enjoyments but if ever this happens it must be under my own Vine & Fig tree, as I do not think it probable that I shall go beyond the radius of 20 miles from them.
To detail matters of private concern, would be as improper as it would be uninteresting, and therefore upon the principle I have adopted, it will never be in my power to make adequate returns for your kind communications; which I wish may be continued when you are at leisure, and at liberty; for there is so little dependence on News paper publications which take whatever complexion the Editors please to give them that persons at a distance, & who have no other means of information, are often times at a loss to form an opinion on the most important occurrances. Mrs Washington & Nelly Custis unite with me in cordial remembrance of Mrs Wolcott & yourself & with much sincerity I remain Affectly Yours

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 16 May 1797
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Philadelphia May 16. 1797.

I have made inquiry concerning Colo. Biddle. He is apparently wealthy, at this time, and is building a large house: but he has failed, I am told, three times, and once after paying away, in the course of a year, of the money of his honest creditors, about six thousand pounds to usurers, in enormous interest.
You doubtless take some Philadelphia papers: but lest at this interesting moment yours should be stopped, by eager curiosity, on their way, I do myself the pleasure to inclose the President’s Speech delivered this day to Congress: and am, with sincere respect your obt servt

Timothy Pickering


Title: To George Washington from Landon Carter, 18 May 1797
From: Carter, Landon
To: Washington, George

Sir
Cleve 18th May 1797

In pursuance to a conversation I had with you at Mt Vernon I have proceeded as near as I could your wish upon the occasion. I postponed the thing thus long because I thought a personal enquiery would be preferrable to an epistolary one. Upon a question to your Nephew George L. if he had any probable chance of accomodating you, he assured me that he had no prospect at all and advised me to engage that person I had in view.
I am yesterday returned from the Neighborhood of the Joiner I spoke to you about. I sent for him & took his terms down with his signature to the mem[orandu]m which I now inclose. The next day a Letter was han[d]ed me directed to you which I was told by the bearer was written by him. I therefore took the liberty to open

it with a view to discover what had induced the supernumerary statement which I perceive has arisen from mistake. I send it you with the aforesd mem[orandu]m.
When I recommended this man I had been favrd with report of his being a very good joiner & have still from those who say they know him the same report. But a low voice I have heard intimate that he is not an high rate joiner—One of my informants Mr Charles Carter son to the Worthy resident at Shirley —calls the man a tolerable house joiner equall to a single story house—make a good sash & lay a good floor. Upon interogating him on the word tolerable—Mr Carter said he meant that the tolerable joiner was one who worked unknowing the principles of Architecture.
Thus far I thought it fit I should particularise that the much esteemed Man I wished to serve might judge for himself on all the ground I could stretch out before him. There is a risque in employing these folks, we must run; and I confess it is one I would have risqu’d myself if I had not changed my arrangement: All concur to speak of him as a wellbehaved, sober, industrious, man. He lives at the Ferry opposite Hobshole if you should wish to send for him. At any rate I shall be obliged to you to write your determination that I may give him as early intimation as possible.
Your penetration will need no help to suppose a small tincture of the Coxcomb from the inclosed. He dresses, is smart &c. but you will be adequate to such things. I have the honor to be Sir with every degree of respect & high estimation your very obt & mo. hmle servt

Landon Carter


Title: To George Washington from Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 18 May 1797
From: Wolcott, Oliver Jr.
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir,
Phil[adelphi]a May 18. 1797

I have had the pleasure to receive your favour of May 15th—and while I rejoice that you enjoy that repose & tranquillity so richly earned by a life of services and benefits for mankind, the reflection, that he who so long directed public opinion, and whose council at this time would possess and deserve universal confidence, is a private Citizen, encites mixed emotions, which I am unable to describe. In what concerns public duties at this interesting crisis, all are satisfied, who are friends to our Country, that the principles of your administration must be supported. The Presidents speech to Congress which I enclose, will prove his conviction how important this principle is esteemed, and the measures which he deems necessary to be pursued.
I have just reed private Letters from London dated in March—Gold & Silver no longer have any general circulation in the British dominions, and the government as well as private Bankers, Manufacturers & projectors are throwing into circulation (among an ignorant people liable to be defrauded) all sorts of small paper Notes, under pretence of supplying the want of shillings & other small money.
The Bank of England, discounts for paper liberally, & its notes circulate in consequence of a general combination; a present relief is afforded by this delusive opiate—but there are symptoms of an incipient depreciation.
Genl Pinckny was ordered to leave Paris, the day after Buonaparte’s last victories were known, he was addressed by the style of Anglo American by which the Citizens of the United States are said to be now distinguished from the French Colonists—France has required of Hamburgh Bremen & Denmark to suspend all Commerce with Gr. Br.—these powers have made no treaties with England during the present War, though our Treaty is made the pretext

for the aggressions of France—The truth is France means to destroy Gr. Br. by assailing her Commerce with all Nations.
A Letter from Colo. John Trumbull to me, has these expressions, “The present is the most eventful period of human history, & Europe in my opinion is destined sooner probably than we are aware to be involved in one vast conflagration, what is past is but the burning of a single house.”
I forgot to mention, that Spain & Holland, have complained of our Treaty with England, the Dutch respect this Country, but neither the Dutch nor Spaniards have any political will.
But though the French are tremenduous in Europe, they would be to us, a contemptible foe, if we were but united & just to ourselves—what censure can be too severe upon those who have invited the assaults of a foreign power, & who foster internal divisions!!
The situation of those who have any concern with public affairs, is disagreable; a consciousness, of pure intentions, is indeed almost the whole reward now remaining.
Mrs Wolcott joins me in presenting to yourself Mrs Washington & Miss Custis, her cordial respects. For myself, duty & inclination concur in proferring expressions of the most lasting attachment From, Dear Sir, your most obedt servant

Oliv. Wolcott jr


Title: From George Washington to Reed & Forde, 19 May 1797
From: Washington, George
To: Reed & Forde

Gent[leme]n
Mount Vernon 19th May 1797

Your letter of the 20th Ult. came duly to hand, and through the medium of a friend in George Town to whom I sent it & who made application to Mr Walter Smith for the fulfilment of your obligations, I have obtaind followg result.
“I have seen Mr Smith and had conversation with him respecting Messrs Reed & Ford, and the probability of their producing the residue of the shares due to you. They intimate in their correspondence no idea of obtaining them any other way than by their

funds in this place due 11 or 12 months hence. How far their earlier necessities may compel them to part with these I know not; but Mercantile men who depend upon such distant resources for immediate purchases cannot I think be much in cash, or they have no just ideas of Mercantile punctuality.”
Let me hope Gentlemen, that the case is otherwise, in a word let me find that you do not mean to trifle with me, in this business. I had no idea that I was buying shares in the Bank of Columbia (contrary too to my wishes) of which you were not possessed, I have as I informed you in my former letter, sustained a loss by receiving these shares in payment of 490 dollars in the receipt of 2800 for the 70 you obligated yourself to transfer, a greater  cannot submit to willingly, nor to the withholding of the remaining 29 shares any longer.
Your answer  as soon as convenient, letting me know in decisive terms what I am to expect will oblige Gentlemen Your Obedt Hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to William Heath, 20 May 1797
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 20th May 1797.

Your kind and friendly letter of the 17th Ulto has been duly received, and I beg you to accept my sincere thanks for the affectionate sentiments you have been pleas’d to express for me, therein.
I can assure you, Sir, I never ascribed a motive to the letter you wrote me, on my Election to the Chair of Government, so unworthy of you as to suppose it was written with a view of: “Pressing yourself into notice, or seeking for a Place.” On the contrary, I was led to believe that domestic enjoyments in rural pursuits, had more charms for you, and were more congenial to your inclination, than could be found in any appointment that would draw you from home.
I hope, as you do, that notwithstanding our Political horison is

much overcast, the wisdom, temper and firmness of the Government (supported by the great mass of the People) will dispel the threatning clouds, and that all will end without shedding of Blood. To me, this is so demonstrable, that not a particle of doubt would dwell on my mind relative thereto if our Citizens would advocate their own cause instead of that of any other Nation under the Sun; that is, instead of being Frenchmen, or Englishmen in Politics—they would be Americans—indignant at every attempt of either of these—or any other Power to establish an influence in our Councils, or that should presume to sow the Seeds of distrust, or disunion among ourselves. No policy, in my opinion, can be more clearly demonstrated than that we should do justice to all but have no political connexion with any of the European Powers, beyond those which result from, and serve to regulate our Commerce with them. Our own experience soon will (if it has not done so already) convince us that disinterested favours, or friendship from any Nation whatsoever, is too novel to be calculated upon; and that there will always be found a wide difference between the words and actions of any of them.
It gives me great pleasure to hear from yourself, that you are writing Memoirs of those transactions which passed under your notice during the Revolutionary War. Having always understood that you were exact, & copious in noting occurrences at the time they happened; a work of this kind will, from the ability, and candour with which I am persuaded they were taken, be uncommonly correct, & interesting.
Whether you mean to publish them at your own expence, or by subscription, is not intimated in your letter: if the latter, I pray you to consider me as a Subscriber—and in any event, as a purchaser of your production. That you may enjoy health to complete the Work to your entire satisfaction, I ardently pray; and that you may live afterwards to hear it applauded (as I doubt not it will be) I as sincerely wish. If I should live to see it published I shall read it with great avidity.
Retired from noise myself, and the responsibility attached to public employments my hours will glide smoothly away—My best wishes however for the prosperity of our country, will always have the first place in my affections; while to repair buildings (gone much to ruin) and to cultivate my farms (which require close attention) will occupy the few years (perhaps days) I may be a sojourner

here, as I am now in the 66th year of my peregrination through life. Mrs Washington is very thankful for your kind remembrance of her, and joins cordially with me in a tender of best regards for you. With assurances of great esteem I remain Dear Sir Your most Obedient and Affectionate Servant

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from William Neil, 21 May 1797
From: Neil, William
To: Washington, George

Sir
Portsmouth New Hampshire 21 st May 1797.

Your Excellency will justly think this address a piece of presumption, the nature of the business will I hope, plead an apology. Born near Belfast in the North of Ireland and bred a manufacturer of Linen, at fifty years of age I embarked for America (through the advice of a Son of mine resident in Boston) & brought a large family with me. My fortune at that time, which was eighteen months ago, amounted to fifteen hundred pounds sterling. My original design upon my arrival was to settle in Hartford Connecticut, whither I went from Boston to look for a house & other accomodations. There I found Business very dull & little encouragement for strangers. I then by advice of my friends came to this place, & have resided here ever since. The property I brought with me was chiefly vested in Linens, the article I was most skilled in, those I opened for Sale here, but found little demand, this country being supplied principally with their own manufactures, altho very coarse & very mean indeed. Having a large family, I found it necessary to devise some means for their support & opened a Store for Sale of Groceries & West India Goods, in conducting which I am at present employed.
This being a business different from what I was bred to in Ireland, I do not feel so happy as when at my old business, which brings me to the request intended by this very bold epistle.
Should your Excellency think it an object worth your attention to encourage the Linen manufacture on any of your estates, I should think myself very much honoured by having an opportunity of attempting it under your Excellencys patronage by which I do not mean any pecuniary aid, but a suitable settlement of houses with a proportionate quantity of land in a place where Boys & Girls

could be employed at a moderate expence. Great towns or cities are unfavourable for manufacturing, provisions being always high. It will naturally occur to your Exy that I should make application to the Legislature of this State, the reason I have not done so is this, I see from the length & severity of the winters here that this country is not favourable for manufacturing & that Workmen must remain unemployed during 3 or 4 months in this year. Should this proposal strike your Exy as worth encouragement, it would be easy to bring over a number of Tradesmen in that line from Ireland, the civil commotions there having set a great many people idle. I did not choose to trouble your Exy sooner on this subject, (altho 18 months in the country) being convinced of the great impropriety of troubling you on so small a matter, while officially employed in presiding over the affairs of this vast continent. Should this epistle be noticed, I feel very confident of being able to give satisfaction in point of Character & experience. All this is submitted under the hope that your Excelly with your usual goodness will forgive the liberty taken by your Exys most obedt & very hble Servant

William Neil


Title: From George Washington to George Washington Parke Custis, 22 May 1797
From: Washington, George
To: Custis, George Washington Parke

Dear Washington
Mount Vernon 22d May 1797

Having heard nothing from you, or of you, since you left the Federal City, but hoping you got safe to Princeton, the sole intention

of this letter is to cover the enclosed. The one from your Sister will, I presume, detail the little occurences which have happened since you left us. and the other arrived after your departure—We are much in the same situation as when you left us.


Title: To George Washington from William Hartshorne, 24 May 1797
From: Hartshorne, William
To: Washington, George

Respected Friend
Alexandria 5th Mo. 24th 1797

The deed thou enclosed to me for 15 Shares in the Potomack Company has been recorded and is now enclosed for which thy account is charged one dollar. I am Respectfully Thy friend

Wm Hartshorne


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Dockery, 25 May 1797
From: Dockery, Thomas
To: Washington, George

Hond Sr
State of N. Carolina Richmond County25th May 1797

You may think strange to see the enclosed, but I beg your patience, to view what comes from my trembling hand, being in the 80th year of my age; and having a ⟨turn⟩ from my youth, to a Military

life, I made use of the first opportunity which offered in the year 1746 leaving a beloved wife, & dear young daughter to keep house, while I thought to distinguish my self before the walls of Quebec. But before two years ended, the war broke & I returned home empty of. . . &c. In the year 1755 (as it did not sute me to take the field) I became a recruiting officer impowered by Govr Sharpe. & during that war I sent a number of Men to differant places from Queen Anns County on the Eastern Shore of Maryland where I was born & then lived. By this means I got information from one Hendrix of the battle & the commander at the great Medows From which time a Spark of Love took place in my heart for the Great W——n, and has for more than 20 years past been blown up to a flame, tho never haveing had an opportunity of communicating of it, for I concluded that one in your station ought not to be hindered one moment from the great task you had taken either in the field or Cabinet! But as you are now returned to rest, I make free to inform you, that for some Months or years after Your Victory at York over his Lordship, I had it in contemplation to send you some of my baird to help to pad your Sadle, thinking my self would be much honored to have the Father of my liberty (under God) Mounted on my gray-hairs, ⟨mutilated⟩ the above reasons, I omitted the matter till now & as I presume you and ⟨mutilated⟩ prepare for greater matters, I mean, for removing from time to Eternity ⟨mutilated⟩ to send the enclosed to help to fill the Pillow that may be put under ⟨mutilated⟩ head after Death! Your acceptance thereof will be very Satisfactory, & that we may have a Joyfull resurrection & that word of promise in Pauls Epistle to the Phil. 3d Chap. 21 Ver. to be ⟨mad⟩ sure to us is the desire & shall be the prayer of Hond Sr yr unknown friend & unworthy Servt

Tho. Dockery

N.B. It would be endless to numerate my afflictions in the time of war, being three times taken prisoner & twice three times plundered! My Body, mind, & Estate all suffered: yet the ⟨illegible⟩ held me up Viz. that I was never one moment or hour in despair of liberty in the Enemy Bless the Lord o my Soul therefor!

T.D.


Title: From George Washington to Clement Biddle, 28 May 1797
From: Washington, George
To: Biddle, Clement

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 28th May 1797

The business I shall have to transact in Philadelphia will, more than probable, be of so piddling & trifling a nature, as to produce more trouble, than profit from the Commission, to whomsoever undertakes it. Notwithstanding (this being premised) as it has always been done by you, while I was not myself in Philadelphia as a Resident[,] I could not think of applying to another without first enquiring whether it would be agreeable to you to engage in it on the usual terms or not.
If you answer in the affirmative, the first thing I should require of you would be to receive the Interest of my certificates at the Treasury, or Bank of the United States; amounting to about one hundred dollars pr quarter; one of which became due the 31st of Mar. last, and the rest will be so in succession: and (as I am not acquainted with the form) that you would send a Power of Attorney for me to execute, thereby enabling you to do this. From this fund I would then ask you to send the things mentioned in the enclosed Memorandum. I am—Dear Sir Your Obedient Hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from George Washington Parke Custis, 29 May 1797
From: Custis, George Washington Parke
To: Washington, George

Dearest Sir
Nassau Hall[Princeton, N.J.] 29th May [1797]

Words cannot express my present sensations, a heart overflowing with joy at the success of conscience over disposition is all I

have to give—Dearest Sir did you but know the effect your letter has produced it would give you as consummate pleasure, as my former one did pain—My very soul tortured with the sting of conscience at length called reason to its aid and happy for me triumphed, the conflict was long doubtfull till at length I obtained the victory over myself and now return like the prodigal Son a sincere penitent—That I shall ever recompence you for the trouble I have occasioned is beyond my hope, however I will now make the grand exertion I will now shew all is not lost and that your Grandson shall once more deserve your favour, & Could you but see how happy I now am you would soon forget all that is past and let my future conduct prove the truth of my assertions—Good God how just your letter but alas we are poor weak creatures and never beleive till we feel Ah—could I but beleive this would again restore your peace of mind & my happiness would be compleat my time appears now to me full ⟨short⟩ I shall seize the present moment and may God grant I may be a pleasure to my friends, family, and self I cannot say too much on this subject. I wait for your letter which I can allmost read allready—That I have abused such goodness is shocking that I shall ever do it again I will risk my life and confiding dearest Sir in your equity and hither to kind affection I subscribe myself with the sincerest and most heartfelt joy

G. W. P. Custis


Title: From George Washington to James McHenry, 29 May 1797
From: Washington, George
To: McHenry, James

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 29th May 1797

I am indebted to you for several unacknowledged letters, but ne’er mind that; go on, as if you had them. You are at the source of information & can find many things to relate, while I have nothing to say that could either inform, or amuse a Secretary of War in Philadelphia.
To tell him that I begin my diurnal course with the Sun; that if my hirelings are not in their places at that time I send them messages

expressive of my sorrow for their indisposition—then having put these wheels in motion, I examine the state of things farther; and the more they are probed, the deeper I find the wounds are, which my buildings have sustained by an absence, and neglect of eight years. By the time I have accomplished these matters, breakfast (a little after seven oclock, about the time I presume you are taking leave of Mrs McHenry) is ready. This over, I mount my horse and ride round my farms, which employs me until it is time to dress for dinner; at which I rarely miss seeing strange faces—come, as they say, out of respect to me. Pray, would not the word curiosity answer as well? and how different this, from having a few social friends at a cheerful board? The usual time of sitting at Table—a walk—and Tea—brings me within the dawn of Candlelight; previous to which, if not prevented by company, I resolve, that as soon as the glimmering taper, supplies the place of the great luminary, I will retire to my writing Table and acknowledge the letters I have received; but when the lights are brought, I feel tired, and disinclined to engage in this work, conceiving that the next night will do as well; the next comes, and with it the same causes for postponement, & effect; and so on.
This will account for your letters remaining so long unacknowledged—and having given you the history of a day, it will serve for a year; and I am persuaded you will not require a second edition of it: but it may strike you, that in this detail no mention is made of any portion of time allotted for reading; the remark would be just, for I have not looked into ⟨a⟩ book since I came home, nor shall be able to do it until I have discharged my workmen; probably not before the nights grow longer; when, possibly, I may be looking in doomsday book.
On the score of the plated ware in your possession I will say something in a future letter. At present I shall only add that I am always and affectionately Yours

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 29 May 1797
From: Washington, George
To: Wolcott, Oliver Jr.

Dear Sir
Mount Vernon 29th May 1797

I have received your letter of the 18th instant with its enclosures, and thank you for both.
The President has, in my opinion, placed matters upon their true ground in his speech to Congress. The crisis calls for an unequivocal expression of the public mind, and the Speech will, mediately, or immediately, bring this about. Things ought not, indeed can not remain longer in their present state; and it is time the People should be thoroughly acquainted with the political situation of this country, and the causes which have produced it, that they may either give active & effectual support to those to whom they have entrusted the Administration of the government (if they approve the principles on which they have acted); or sanction the conduct of their opposers, who have endeavoured to bring about a change, by embarrassing all its measures—not even short of foreign means.
We are waiting with no small degree of solicitude for the answer of the House of Representatives, that an opinion may be formed from its complexion, of the temper of that body since its renovation.
Thus much for our own affairs, which, maugre the dessolating scenes of Europe, might continue in the most happy, flourishing & prosperous train, if the harmony of the Union was not endangered by the internal disturbers of its Peace. With respect to the Nations of Europe, their situation appears so awful, that nothing short of omnipotence can predict the issue, although every humane mind must feel for the miseries they endure. Our course is plain; those who run may read it. Theirs is so bewildered & dark, so entangled & embarrassed, and so obviously under the influence of Intrigue, that one would suppose, if any thing could open the eyes of our misled citizens, the deplorable situation of those people could not fail to accomplish it.
On the first of next month, there ought to be deposited in the Bank of Pennsylva. on my acct, for the land I sold to Colo. Matthew Ritchie, the sum of 3469 20/100 Dollars; and for other land sold Colo. Israel Shreve £720 Pennsa Curry. Of the latter sum £200 I presume is actually paid into that Bank, as Colo. Pickering was kind

enough to inform me that some Jersey man (who had bought part of the Land from Shreve) was enquiring of him, if I had any agent in Philada authorised to receive money; In answer, I requested he might be directed to deposit the same in the beforementioned Bank.
And now, my good Sir, let me ask, if these Sums should be lodged there, agreeably to contract, whether in the course of business you could make it convenient to the Treasury, to receive them at that Bank, and give me a draught on the Bank of Alexandria, or on the Collector of that Port for the amount thereof? If you answer in the affirmative, let me request the further favour of asking you for the form of such an order on the Bank of Pennsa as would enable you to effect this Exchange. With sincere & affecte regard I am always Yours

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to William Charles Cole Claiborne, 30 May 1797
From: Washington, George
To: Claiborne, William Charles Cole

Sir,
Mount Vernon 30th May 1797

Your letter of the 22d Ult. has been duly received, and I pray you to accept my thanks for the favourable sentiments you have been pleased to express for me, and of my Administration of the Government. If all our Citizens were actuated by the principles you profess, it would much promote the happiness and prosperity of our Country.
I have not unpacked the Papers yet, which I brought from Philadelphia; but I may venture before hand to pronounce, that the letters you enquire after were left with others of a similar nature for the information of my Successor; If, however, I should be mistaken in this, they shall, when found, be transmitted to you; as it is my determination not to interefere—directly or indirectly—in recommendation to Office


Title: From George Washington to St. George Tucker, 30 May 1797
From: Washington, George
To: Tucker, St. George

Sir,
Mount Vernon 30th May 1797.

Your favor of the 24th Ulto, from Winchester, came duly to hand; but presuming you were on a Circuit, I have allowed time for the completion, to offer you my acknowledgment of its receipt.
My Sollicitude for the establishment of a National University in this Country, has been great, and unceasing; but as the sentiments of the Legislature have not been in unison therewith, I had postponed the further consideration of the subject to a moment of more leizure (than has lately been my lot) to see if I could devise some Plan by which my wishes could be carried into effect.
In this situation your Essay found me, and as every aid, in a measure so interesting & important, will be thankfully received, your thoughts could not fail of being acceptable to Sir, Your Most Obedt and Very Hble Servant

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 31 May 1797
From: Wolcott, Oliver Jr.
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Philadelphia May 31 st 1797

I have the pleasure to acknowledge your favour by the Alexandria mail of May 26th. On applying to the Bank of Pensylvania I was told that no monies had been lodged on your account, by Colo. Shreve or any other person—on shewing your Letter to Mr James Ross, he paid me on account of Colo. Ritchie 3409 20/100 Dollars which I now remit in four Treasury drafts on Mr Fitzgerald endorsed in your favour. Mr Ross desires me to request your Receipt & Certificate that this sum has been endorsed on the bond remaining in your possession—if it is sent to me, I will deliver it to Mr Ross—In any future time I shall be happy to have it in my power to render similar services.
The House have not agreed on a reply to the Presidents speech—It is certain that there is a small majority favourably disposed to the measures of the government; the opposition are aiming to effect two points—1st an indirect disapprobation of past measures, & 2d an intimation that the operation of existing Treaties is unfavourable to France, it is not difficult to see, that the drift of the leading men, is to criminate this Country & justify France. From present appearances it is probable that Mr Dayton & some neutral characters will incorporate in the address an incorrect though perhaps not a very important amendment.
The Presidents speech is so far as I am informed generally approved—The Senate appears to be firm—all the matters recommended

are referred to Committees, except that respecting further Revenue.
We hear nothing from Europe since I wrote last, except that Cadiz is closely blockaded by a British fleet. With a respectful remembrance of Mrs Washington, I remain Dear Sir, your obedient servant

Oliv. Wolcott jr


Title: To George Washington from Charles Landon Carter, 2 June 1797
From: Carter, Charles Landon
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Fredericksb[ur]g June 2d 1797

With diffidence I now address you, in consequence of having failed, after my first Voyage from China, to return the two hundred Dollars you favored me with the Loan of—Be assured, Dr Sir, that I left goods unsold, at the time of my Departure from Philadelphia the second Voyage, & directed that the money arising therefrom should be paid to you, but, the Integrity of my Agent did not prove to be so uncorrupted as I had flattered myself—I have, at this late period, sent by Mr G. Lewis the sum of two hundred Dollars with interest thereon from the 18th March 1795 to the 1st June 1797. That sum has laid the foundation of a pretty fortune, for which I shall ever feel myself indebted to you.
To convince you, that I am gratefully impressed with a sense of your goodness, suffice it to say, that at the time I made application

to you, I had been refused a loan of the same sum by a very near Relation—My Mother joins me in thanks & good wishes for yr wellfare. I am with great respect Dr Sir Yr Obt Servant

Charles L. Carter


Title: To George Washington from Callohill Mennis, 2 June 1797
From: Mennis, Callohill
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Soldier’s-rest, Bedford county, 2d June 1797

Such a length of time having elapsed since I had the pleasure of seeing you last, that I shou’d not be in the least surprised, if you

had entirely forgotten that you ever had such an officer as myself under your command in the late continental army. But were I to be assured that I still lived in the remembrance of my old commander, the reflection wou’d communicate to me the most pleasing & agreeable sensations imaginable.
Yet highly as I honor & venerate your person & character, Sir, and as much as I conceive myself to be bound to you in gratitude in common with every real American, for the eminent services which you have rendered our country, both as a consummate general and as an enlightened statesman, and also as much as I wish at all times to hear of your tranquillity & happiness, I shou’d scarcely have taken the liberty of troubling you with a perusal of this letter, were it not that I had a favour to solicit of you in behalf of a particular friend; and perhaps the present situation of our affairs may be a sufficient apology for my doing so. In thus applying myself to you, I shou’d naturally have approached you with a kind of awe & diffidence, were I not assured that the name of an old soldier, and the recollection of the many dangers which such as he have shared with you in the glorious struggle for liberty, intitled him to draw towards you with a manly confidence of meeting with an ingenuous friend.
As there appears at present to be the great probability (which Heaven avert!) of our entering into a war with the republick of France, I wou’d beg leave to recommend to your patronage Mr Hum[phre]y Brooke, son of the late Col. Robert Brooke, of the county of King-William, a young gentleman of merit & abilities, and one who has been always firmly attached to the government & constitution of his country. He is very desirous of entering into the service of the United States in the capacity of captain of marines, on board one of the frigates to be fitted out by congress. I flatter myself, Sir, that the young gentleman will upon every proper occasion support the character of an American officer with becoming dignity & spirit; and that any steps which you may please to take in recommending him to the notice of the executive will ever be most gratefully acknowledged by him, as it ever will be by, Illustrious Sir, Your most obt servt

Callohill Mennis