Title: From George Washington to Edmund Randolph, 14 October 1793
From: Washington, George
To: Randolph, Edmund

            Dear Sir,
            Mount Vernon 14th Oct. 1793

          Enclosed is the copy of a Letr I wrote to you agreeably to the date—since which I have
            received yours of the 3d instt—which shews it had not at that time got to your
              hands.
          I sincerely hope your son Peyton is in no danger from the sick person he saw, and that
            the rest of your family, wherever they be, are in good health. Are you certain that the disorder of which the persons in
            German town died was the real malignant fever of Philada? For every fever now, of which
            people die in & about that City, will be so called. I was in hopes Congress might
            have assembled at German town in the first instance, and there taken ulterior
            resolutions if the City of Philadelphia at the time should be
            thought unsafe for them to sit in.
          I have just received a letter from the Speaker of the late house of Representatives
            (Trumbull) suggesting the expediency of convening Congress a few days before the first
            monday in December at some other place than Philadelphia, in order to avoid the
            necessity of a quoram of both houses meeting there—Similar sentiments I have heard, are entertained by others—Query, what with
            propriety, can the President do under the circumstances which exist? If the importance,
            & awfulness of the occasion would justify calling the legislature together at any
            other place than Philadelphia (on acct of the calamity with which it is visited) where
            should it be? This question, if German Town is also visited, would involve the Executive
            in a serious, & delicate decision—Wilmington & Trenton are equidistant from
            Philadelphia in opposite directions—but both are on the great thoroughfare through the
            Union—equally liable on that account to receive the Infection—and
            each, to the members whose distance would be encreased, obnoxious. Annapolis is more out
            of the Comn & has conveniences—but it might be thought that interested & local
            views dictated the measure. What sort of a Town is Reading, & how would it answer
            for the purpose of a Session? Neither Northern nor Southern members would have cause to
            complain of partiality on acct of its Situation. Lancaster would
            be thought to favour the Southern members most.
          You will readily perceive that if a change of place becomes indispensable, not a moment
            is to be lost in the notification thereof, whether by Proclamation, requiring it—or by a
            simple statement of facts, accompanied with information that at a certain time and place
            (which might be blank days before the 1st of December) I would meet the members in their
            Legislative capacity, or for the purpose of ulterior arrangements. The latter I presume,
            would be a novel proceeding—the other an illegal Act, if there is no power delegated for
            the purpose, & either would be food for scriblers; yet, if Philadelphia should
            Continue in its present unfortunate & alarming state something preliminary seems
            necessary—I wish you to think seriously of this matter; and not only give me your
            opinion thereon, but accompany it with what you may conceive a proper & formal
            instrument for publication for my consideration; leaving the place & time blank
            thereon, but dilated upon in a letter under the sevel views you may take of the subject;
            especially too as (I have heard but know not on what ground that) it is made a question
            by some, whether even the Legislature itself having in this instance fulfilled the
            powers of the Constitution have now a right to change the places which are established
            by law—This to me I confess, seems to be a strained Construction of the Constitution and
            is only mentioned to shew that caution is necessary.
          The heads of the Departments you will have no opportunity to advise with on this
            interesting subject, nor do I suppose you will be in the way of seeing professional men
            of much eminence, otherwise I should request you to know their sentiments on the legality—or expediency of Convening Congress
            otherwise than in Philadelphia. My best wishes attend you, Mrs Randolph & family—and
            I am, Dr Sir Yours Affectly

            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 14 October 1793
From: Washington, George
To: Wolcott, Oliver Jr.

            Sir,
            Mount Vernon 14th Oct. 1793

          Lest my last letter to Colo. Hamilton should have met some mischance I send a
            duplicate, & request your care of it; the necessity
            for the heads of Departments assembling by the first of next month becoming more &
            more apparent. Philadelphia or vicinity, is appointed for this purpose, where I shall be
            myself.
          Let me know, I pray you, whether the malady with which Philadelphia is afflicted has
            extended to German town, or neighbourhood. In a word, I would thank you for precise
            information on this head, for I have not been able to get any. A letter requiring this
            of the Attorney General is, I presume, still laying in the Post Office as I have
            received no acknowledgment of it although written & sent from this the 30th of last
              Month.
          On the supposition that the Fever in Philadelphia will not have entirely ceased, &
            the City Sufficiently purified by the first of December for Congress to Assemble there,
            what conveniencies would German town afford for this purpose? thereby superceding the
            necessity of removing the public Offices to a more distant part. If this also should be
            conceived an unsafe, or an improper place, what other is contemplated for the residence
            of Congress next Session? full information of the prevailing sense of those who are best
            acquainted with the true situation of things in and about Philadelphia would be very
            satisfactory to me, as our accts here are so vague and contradictory that we know not
            what to rely on.

          By report Mr Willing (President of the Bank) Mr Jno. Ross, Mr Jonathen Sergeant, Mr
            Howell, Colo. Franks, and many others of our acquaintances have fallen victims to the
            prevailing malignant fever; that near 4000 have died; & that the disorder rages more
            violently than ever. Are these things true? I hope you & Mrs Wolcot keep your
            health. with esteem & regard I am, Sir Yr Very Hble Servt

            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Henry Knox, 15 October 1793
From: Washington, George
To: Knox, Henry

            Dr Sir,
            Mount Vernon 15th Octobr 1793.

          The violence with which (from all accounts I have received) the contagious fever in
            Philada continues to rage makes it still more necessary than ever that the meeting of
            the Heads of Departments which I requested you to attend in a letter of the 25th Sept:
            should not fail to take place by the first of November
            that, among other things measures may be taken for security of the public offices &
            Papers. I shall set out from this place in order to meet you & the other Gentlemen
            in the vicinity of Philada at that time. The heads of
            Departments being absent the disputes arising between the agents of the Powers at War,
            and other matters, are transmitted immediately to me.
          Should the continuance of the fever in the City of Philada render it unsafe &
            improper for the members of Congress to assemble there the first of December (&
            indeed there seems to be no hope of its disappearance by that time) what in that case is
            to be done? Do you conceive the President is authorised by the Constitution or Laws of
            the U.S. to interfere in such a case? Altho’ the President has power to call Congress
            together in extraordinary cases, it is denied that power is given to change the fixed place of convening—By others it is thought the exigency of the present case
            wd justify the measure. Indeed it has been made a
            question by some whether even Congress themselves have this power. I should be glad to
            have your opinion upon these points as soon as possible, because if
            the Executive have power no time is to be lost in using it.
          Admitting, however, that the President was authorised to convene Congress at any other
            place than Philada where have you contemplated as most convenient & agreeable to all
              parties for the ensuing Session—considering it is a
            temporary measure—that the public offices are established in Phila.—& the papers
            difficult & expensive to remove? German town would certainly have been preferred by
              me but, unfortunately, I am told the fever has
            reached it & several people died therein but all
            deaths now are charged to acct of the malignt fever. Wilmington & Trenton are
            equidistant in opposite directions from Philada but situated on the great thoroughfare
            thro’ the Union, and exposed in a great degree to the communication of the
            infection—& would be equally unsatisfactory to the members whose distance would be
            encreased. Reading is more out of the way of taking the infection, being off the great
            road thro’ the Country—& could not be complained of by either northern or Southern
            members on accot of situation. how do you think it would accomdate Congress the ensuing
              Session? write fully and promptly as I may receive
            your letter before I shall see you—With very great estm & regard I am—Dr Sir—yr
            Affecte

            G. W——n


Title: To George Washington from Henry Knox, 15 October 1793
From: Knox, Henry
To: Washington, George

            sir
            Boston 15 Octr 1793.

          since my arrival at this place which was on the 7th instant I have had the honor to
            receive your favor of the 25th ultimo. I propose to set out on my return on Monday the
            21st, and hope to be in the vicinity of the sorely afflicted city of Philadelphia on the
            or before the 1st of November. I have the honor to be sir with the most perfect respect
            and attachment Your Most obedient humble Servant

            H. Knox


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Sim Lee, 15 October 1793
From: Lee, Thomas Sim
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Anna[po]lis Octr 15 1793

          I do myself the honour to transmit to yr Excelly the copy of a letter from the British
            Vice Consul residing in Baltimore and of a deposition corroborative of those which
            accompanied my letter of the 11 Instant respecting the Brig Cunningham.
          I enclose likewise the copy of a letter from the same Gentleman on the subject of the
            Ship Roehampton captured by the french Privateer Industry.

            T. S. L.


Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 15 October 1793
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Washington, George

              Sir,
              Philadelphia Oct. 15. 1793.

            The intelligence contained in the enclosed copy of a letter from Mr Storer, seemed to
              be of sufficient consequence to trouble you with; and I should have transmitted it a
              week ago; but the sickness in my family, and the death of a favourite son, have
              prevented me.
            To Governor Simcoe’s public professions of regret &c. at
              the issue of the treaty, a number of facts may be opposed. These with other
              communications I hope to have the honour to lay before you, when it shall please God
              to permit you to return hither with safety.
            I have received no further intelligence from Mr Storer. It may be proper for me to
              say, that I think Captain Ford a man of honour. He is a very sensible man; and
              whatever information he communicates from Mr Shehan may be the
              more relied on, as they married sisters, and the families lived under one roof. Capt.
              Ford has come to the States for the recovery of his health.
            The applications to Dr Rush, for two or three days past, have sensibly lessened, and
              the reports from his patients in general, are favourable: whence I hope the
              destructive fever is abating. It is now beginning to rain, and there is a prospect of
              its continuance; after which we may expect a cool air and frost that may destroy the
              fatal contagion. With great respect, I am, sir, your most obedient servant

              Timothy Pickering


Title: Enclosure: Charles Storer to Timothy Pickering, 4 October 1793
From: Storer, Charles
To: Pickering, Timothy

              Sir,
              New-York 4th October 1793.

            Captain Ford & Lady arrived here yesterday: they
              left Niagara the 13th ulto & came by the way of Oswego. He gives me some
              information of things which took place after we left that country, and which, as they
              probably will be new to you, I herewith communicate them.
            He says that Talbot, Brant and Shehan had arrived at Niagara some days before he sailed: that they
              informed the Governor, that as soon as the last message was sent to the Council at the
              Rapids of the Miami, a party of Indians was
              dispatched to Detroit River: they crossed at Brown’s Town, and arrived at
                Caldwell’s the morning after we sailed; and their
              object was to take our party prisoners, to cut off our noses and ears, & to detain
              us as hostages, in hopes thereby to obtain their own terms. They further say that it
              was very fortunate we did not go to the Miami, as once intended; since the Western
              Indians went armed into Council, and assuredly would have done us mischief. However,
              that Captain Bunbury had been severely reprimanded by the Governor, for having
              misconstrued his orders, in the act of refusing to let the vessel sail when the
              Commissioners desired it. Captain Ford was also told it was his duty to have sailed
              had the Commissioners insisted upon it. He has promised me a copy of his orders.

            Mr Shehan, in the absence of Colo. Butler, took the direction of the Six Nations: He
              was therefore early called upon by Colo. McKee to know his mind upon the treaty. He
              said he went there to treat of peace; that he and the Six Nations were enclined to
              peace, and should therefore urge it all that lay in their power. In consequence of
              this he & McKee had a quarrel, and neither he nor Brant were admitted once into
              the Indian Councils; but were marked out as Yankies. They both
              have declared to the Governor that the Indians were controuled by advice, & urged
              on to war; and that McKee and sundry traders were at the bottom of it. The Governor
              had publicly reprobated the conduct of McKee, and the whole proceedings of the
              Indians, regretting very much that the mission was successless.
            Mr Givens also had been severely reprimanded by the
              Governor for his conduct while with us; & particularly for striking Paine with his
              drawn sword, on our return to Navy-Hall, for which he was in disgrace.
            Brant & Shehan say, before breaking up of the Council at Miami, the Six Nations
              were called upon to join in the war: that those present said they must first consult
              their nations: that they had returned, & that Shehan was gone to Buffaloe Creek to
              attend the Council. And Ford says that they and the Governor were decidedly for their
              neutrality. When the council broke up, 3000 Indians went off to
              strike Wayne. This account is delivered the Governor by Brant, Shehan & Talbot.
              Captain Ford further adds, that a large party of Western Indians were preparing to
              attack the Genesee Country: that as soon as the Governor was informed of it, he sent
              to them positively to forbid it, saying, that as that was the route thro’ which he had
              intercourse with the states, he would stop all presents, supplies &c. to that
              nation who should send their warriors into Genesee. This broke up the expedition. Ford
              says the Governor is extremely provoked at the issue of the treaty, and regrets very
              much he could not see the Commissioners on their return.
            I asked Capt. Ford if he had learned what Welbank’s business was with the Governor.
              He says that Shehan informs him, that when Welbank returned to Miami, he related to
              the Indians that he was sent by the Creeks and Cherokees to know if the Governor of
              Upper Canada would assist the Western Indians against the states; in which case they
              would continue their war with Governor Blount, & form an
              extensive league: that Colo. Simcoe had said he had nothing to do in their dispute
              with Govr Blount; that he would not countenance it; nor would he aid the Western
              Indians at all against the states. That, however, both had been exchanged between the
              Creeks, Cherokees & Western Indians; and that Welbank had gone southward.
            Should Captain Ford communicate any thing further, I shall duly forward it to
              you.
            Enclosed is a piece of Canada news, which I cut out of one of their papers on our
              route. Ford says it was written by some merchant, and not by an officer. Does it not
              sound something like Macomb?
            I wrote you yesterday, in reply to yours of the first, and am sir with due respect yr humble servt

              Chas Storer.


Title: From George Washington to Henry Lee, 16 October 1793
From: Washington, George
To: Lee, Henry

          (Private)
          Dear Sir,Mount Vernon 16th Oct.
              1793.
          Since my arrival at this place I have been favoured with your
            letters of the 17th ulto and 7th instt. For your kind attentions to me I pray you to
            receive my sincere acknowledgments.
          I have always (from the accounts given of it) entertained a high opinion of Colo.
            Taliaferro’s threshing Machine, but knew at the sametime I had no stream that could
            supply water for one, on any of my Farms. This was confirmed when Mr Payne came hither
            & examined them.
          The model brought over by the English farmers may also be a good one, but the utility
            of it among careless negros, & ignorant Overseers, will depend absolutely upon the simplicity of its construction; for if there be anything
            complex in the Machinery, it will be no longer in use than a mushroom is in existence. I
            have seen so much of the beginning & ending of these new inventions that I have
            almost resolved to go on in the old way of treading, until I get settled again at home,
            and can attend myself to the management of one.
          As a proof in point of the almost impossibility of putting the Overseers of this
            Country out of the track they have been accustomed to walk in, I have one of the most
            convenient Barns in this, or perhaps any Country, where 30 hands may with great ease be
            employed in threshing. I had half the Wheat of the farm stored in this Barn and nothing
            to do but to lay it on the floor; yet, when I came home
            about the middle of September, I found a treading yard within 30 feet of the Barn
            door—the Wheat again removed from the Barn—and the horses treading it out on the ground in an open exposure liable to the vicissitudes of
            weather. I am now erecting a building for the express purpose of treading. I have
            sanguine expectations of the utility of it—and if I am not deceived in them—it may
            afford you some satisfaction when you come into this part of the Country to call &
            look at it.
          I have a grateful sense of your kind offer of Mr Workman. Previous however to the
            communication I had engaged a manager from the Eastern shore of Maryland—But the impression on my mind is not lessened on that
            account.
          I have not, as you will perceive, touched the subject of Politics in this letter. The
            reasons are, your letter of the 17th has expressed my ideas precisely of the conduct,
            & views of those who are aiming I am certain at nothing short of the subversion of
            the General Government; and that they would do it at the expence even, of plunging the
            Country in to the horrors of a disastrous war; and because I wish to wait a little
            longer to see what may be the sense of legally constituted bodies at the meetings about
            to take place.
          The public service requiring it, I shall set off in about ten days for Philadelphia or
            vicinity. Though unknown to your lady, I beg my respectful compliments may be presented
            to her. I wish you an agreeable & harmonious
            Session—and with much truth I am Dear Sir Your Affecte Hble Servt

            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Sim Lee, 16 October 1793
From: Washington, George
To: Lee, Thomas Sim

            Sir,
            George town 16th October 1793.

          I have received your Excellency’s Letter of the 11 instant.
          When the British Vice-Consul at Baltimore exhibits all his proofs respecting the
            capture of the Brigantine Coningham, a better judgment can be formed
            than at present, whether this act is an infraction of neutrality. In doing this he ought
            to make no delay; because there can be no decision before the evidence on both sides is
            heard.
          Three miles will, if I recollect rightly, bring the Coningham within the rule of some
            decisions, but the extent of the Territorial jurisdiction at Sea,
            has not yet been fixed, on account of some difficulties which occur in not being able to
            ascertain with precision what the general practice of Nations in this case has been. With very great esteem I am, Sir, Your Excellency’s mot
            Obt Servt

            Go: Washington


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

            Dear Sir
            Monticello [Va.] Oct. 17. 1793.

          I was the day before yesterday honored with your favor of the 7th inst. by post and
            yesterday I received that of the 11th by express from Colo. Carrington. I will take care
            to be at Germantown by the 1st of the month. as the ploughing thro the roads of the
            month of January would be disagreeable with my own horses, I shall send them back from
            Fredericksburg, for which place I will set out tomorrow (Friday) sennight, in order to
            take the stage from thence of Monday the 28th this of course will deprive me of the
            honor of waiting on you at Mount Vernon, but perhaps I may have that of seeing you on
            the road.

          I have carefully considered the question Whether the President may call Congress to any
            other place than that to which they have adjourned themselves, and think he cannot have
            such a right unless it has been given him by the constitution or the laws, & that
            neither of these has given it. the only circumstance which he can alter, as to their
            meeting, is that of time by calling them at an earlier day than that to which they stand adjourned, but no power to change the
            place is given. Mr Madison happened to come here yesterday, after the reciept of your
            letter. I proposed the question to him, and he thinks there was particular caution
            intended & used in the diction of the Constitution to avoid giving the President any
            power over the place of meeting; lest he should exercise it with local partialities.
          With respect to the Executive, the Residence law has fixed our offices at Philadelphia
            till the year 1800. & therefore it seems necessary that we should get as near them
            as we may with safety.
          As to the place of meeting for the legislature, were we authorized to decide that
            question I should think it right to have it in some place in Pensylvania, in
            consideration of the principles of the Residence bill, & that we might furnish no
            pretext to that state to infringe them hereafter. I am quite unacquainted with Reading,
            & it’s means of accomodation. it’s situation is perhaps as little objectionable as
            that of Lancaster, & less so than Trenton or perhaps Wilmington. however I think we
            have nothing to do with the question, & that Congress must meet in Philadelphia,
            even if it be in the open feilds, to adjourn themselves to some other place. I am
            extremely afraid something has happened to mister Bankson, on whom I relied for
            continuance at my office. for two posts past I have not received any letter from him,
            nor dispatches of any kind. this involves new fears for the duplicates of those to
            mister Morris. I have the honor to be with sentiments of the most perfect esteem &
            attachment, Dear Sir Your most obedt & most humble servt

            Th: Jefferson

            P.S. mister Randolph’s and mister Trumbul’s letters are returned.


Title: To George Washington from Edward Carrington, 18 October 1793
From: Carrington, Edward
To: Washington, George

            Dear sir
            Richmond Octo. 18th 1793

          Enclosed I have the Honor to transmit a Voucher for the Expence of forwarding your
            letter to the Secretary of State as requested in yours of the 11th Instant, being
            thirteen dollars & one third of a dollar. the
            milage is that which has been established by the Executive of the State, for such
            Service, & a faithful Express is not to be got lower. I have the Honor to be with
            the greatest respect your Most Ob. st

            Ed. Carrington


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Sim Lee, 18 October 1793
From: Lee, Thomas Sim
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Ann[apoli]s October 18. 1793

          I beg leave to lay before yr Excellency copies of a letter and depositions received
            yesterday from the British Vice Consul residing at Baltimore—The Letters I have lately had the honour Sir of addressing to
            you on similar occasions make it unnecessary for me to explain my object in the present
              case—I have taken the same provisionary step with
            regard to the vessel mentioned in the depositions herewith enclosed, as was adopted
            respecting the Brigantine Cunningham, and although I have not heard from the french Vice Consul, I have no doubt of his paying due attention to my
              requisitions—I have the Honor &c.

            Tho. S. Lee


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Sandwich, 18 October 1793
From: Sandwich, Thomas
To: Washington, George

          Letter not found: from

              Thomas
             Sandwich, 18 Oct. 1793. On 25
              Oct., Sandwich wrote to GW: “I had the honor of addressing you the 18th
            instant.”


Title: To George Washington from Robert Bowyer, 19 October 1793
From: Bowyer, Robert
To: Washington, George

            May it please your Excellency
            Historic Gallery Pallmall London19 Octo. 1793.

          The utmost apology is due for my presuming to venture upon a repetition of taking the
            liberty to address your Excellency, who am so perfectly unknown to You, but the high
            & flattering gratification I reced, from being honor’d with a letter some time since
            from your Excellency, has embolden’d me to take liberties which otherwise I might not
            have presumed upon. The cause of my presumption in the
            present Instance is to beg permission to introduce to your Excellency’s Notice, Mr
            Dowlin, Surgeon, a Gentleman whose abilities in his profession & amiableness of
            Manners & Character are worthy of the highest Panegyrick. He goes out to settle in that happy Country where every
            blessing of Felicity & peace must ever be expected, while it has for its patron, the
            exalted Character I am presuming to address: I must now beg leave to assure Your
            Excellency that It is my most earnest prayer that every blessing & happiness which
            this World or that which is to come can bestow may ever be yours. I have the honor to be
            May it please Your Excellency Your Excellencys Most Obliged & Devoted hble Servt

            Robt Bowyer


Title: To George Washington from Matthew Clarkson, 19 October 1793
From: Clarkson, Matthew
To: Washington, George

            Sir.
            Philadelphia October 19. 1793.

          It having pleased Divine Providence to add Doctor Phile, the naval officer of this
            port, to the number of those to whom the present prevailing disorder hath proved fatal,
            I am induced to solicit the appointment as his successor.
          Confiding in that protection which hath hitherto preserved me, whilsts upwards of three
            thousand of my fellow citizens have been removed into eternity, I shall think myself
            happy in receiving from you Sir the means of a comfortable support and the opportunity
            of being further serviceable to my country. I am with the most perfect esteem Sir Your
            most obed. humb. servt

            Matth. Clarkson


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Lloyd, 19 October 1793
From: Lloyd, Thomas
To: Washington, George

            To George Washington President of the United states of America
            Newgate prison in the City ofLondon Great BritainOctober 19th
              1793.

          The enclosed is a copy of my letter to Thomas Pinckney Minister Plenipotentiary, in
            which I have solemnly claimed the interference of my country, I send it for your
            information, trusting you will direct or recommend as the case may in your judgment
            require some effectual measure, by which I may obtain the redress of the injuries I have
              sustained.
          I transmit a Copy likewise to the House of Representatives of the United States.

            Thomas Lloyd


Title: To George Washington from William Pearce, 19 October 1793
From: Pearce, William
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Kent County [Md.] October 19th 1793

          I Recevd you Letter with a Coppy of our Agreement—you
            Inform me that I am to Live this winter at your mansion House which I shall Like Very
            well as it will be giving me an oppertunity of Giting acquainted with the Business
            there—But after that If it should be agreeable to you I had Rather Live in the house you
            intended for me as I have Several small Children and I should Like to keep them at A
            distance from the Black ones. and I thougt I saw a great many at your mansion house I
            have spoke for the plows and Expect to bring Them down with me and the other things you
            mention—As you Intend to leave home and probable will not be there when I go Down I will
            thank you to Leave me Every Instruction That you may think Nessessary—for their is some
            of your Business I fear I shall be at a Loss at first as to the
              management of your farms I Hope I shall Give you Sattisfaction
            However I shall use my utmost Indevours to Do it, for I do assure you that I would not
            miss Giveing you Sattissfaction for twice the sum I am to Receive—I am makeing Every
            Exertion In my power to Git my Business Setled and to git in Readiness to Come as soon
            as I possable Can, But my people has Been Very Sick and people are Generaly so—that
            hands ware not to be hired, but I hope I shall be ready to git Down before frost Set in,
            I have been Looking out For a Carpenter that I thought would Suit you But I cannot git
            one to Come that I think would do nor a man to Look after your house people, Dichers
              &c.—In your Letter you did not say wheather you
            Had got Either of them—I will still be upon the Look out for such Carractors as you
            first mentiond & will Ingage them Conditionaly If I Can meet With such as I think
            would suit and If you think proper to write and should not be suited and I should git
            Such men I will bring them down with me. I am Sir with the Greatest Resect Your Humbe
            Servt

            William Pearce


Title: To George Washington from Robert Rutherford, 19 October 1793
From: Rutherford, Robert
To: Washington, George

            Dear Sir
            Fredericksburgh [Va.] October 19th 1793

          The direful Contagion at Philada precludes Congress, I therefore beg leave to mention
            as the prevailing opinion, that you will recommend some place as a rallying point for
            the representatives of the people where they Can Resolve to proceed on the business of
            the Session. I write in haste from this place impressed with every sentiment of respect,
            and Confidence in your enlarged prudence, and far superior Judgment, while I have the
            honour to be with great Esteem and every good wish My Dear Sir Your Most obedt Hble
            Sert

            R. Rutherford


Title: To George Washington from Frederick Augustus Conrad Muhlenberg, 20 October 1793
From: Muhlenberg, Frederick Augustus Conrad
To: Washington, George

            Sir,
            Providence Township, Montgomery County [Pa.]Oct. 20th 1793.

          Lt Col. Solomon Bush, who has the Honor of being personally acquainted with You intends
            solliciting for the Appointment of naval Officer, for the Port of Philada in the Room of
            Dr Phile deceased, & considering his Service & Sufferings during and since the
            late War, I take the Liberty of assuring You that I know no one whom I can more
            cheerfully recommend than him, & that I verily believe, as far as my Knowledge
            extends that he would give general Satisfaction to the Merchants of Philadelphia amongst
            whom he is well acquainted. I have the Honor to be with the most unfeigned Respect Sir
            Your most obedient humble Servant

            Fredk A. Muhlenberg


Title: To George Washington from Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 20 October 1793
From: Wolcott, Oliver Jr.
To: Washington, George

            Sir,
            Smiths House, Falls of Schuylkill [Pa.]October 20th 1793

          I have had the honour to receive your Letter dated the 14th instant and have lost no time in obtaining the best information in my
            power, on the several questions therein stated.
          The malady with which the City is afflicted, has been progressive, from the time of
            your departure, untill Monday the 14th instant, at which time it had nearly extended
            through the City—Several small remissions have been observed during that period, all of
            which were confined to cool days, when the wind was in the northern quarter—whenever the wind has shifted towards the South, the number of
            the sick & the mortality have invariably increased. On monday there was a slight
            fall of rain—which was succeeded by cool days and several frosty nights—the mortality of
            course greatly diminished and but few comparatively fell sick—the three last days have
            been more warm, and the unfavourable effects, are at present rather increasing.
          From repeated observations it may be infered that the cause of the malady still
            exists—that its activity is increased by heat & diminished by cold—and that the City
            will not be purified and rendered safe, untill after heavy rains or severe frosts.
          It was very lately Doct. Rush’s opinion that the disorder was more violent & more fatal, than at the time of its first
            appearance in the City.
          Nothing certain is known of the number of victims; for some time, information on this
            point was carefully concealed; but from data which cannot be very
            erroneous—I judge that more than four thousand persons, have died.
          Mr Willing was for some time sick, but has recovered, Mr John Ross, has resided in the
            country, and is I presume well; Mr Sergeant & Colo. Franks are dead—several
            gentlemen of the name of Howell have died, & among them a relation of Mr Rawle who
            was much esteemed—the accountant of the War Department, has been indisposed, but he has
            recovered and is now in the Country. There is no point
            on which the public opinion is more unsettled, than in respect to the degree of danger
            which attends any given position in the vicinity of Philadelphia. It is certain that
            some gentlemen of good sense and those not deficient in firmness on
            ordinary occasions, have removed from the villages and estates in the neighbourhood of
            the City, to more interior situations—a greater number who have not removed, remain at
            home compleatly insulated from society.
          I have regularly obtained good information of the state of the City, and the adjoining
            places, and it is my opinion that the disorder is generally if not solely communicated
            by specific contagion—that its ravages have been confined to no age, sex, or
            temperament—and that it has affected those classes of citizens most extensively, who
            have been most exposed to intercou[r]se with each other—I mention in proof of this
            opinion, that six Clerks of the Treasury Department, seven persons employed by the
            Collector of the Customs—a number of Clerks in the different Banks and three persons in
            the Post Office have fallen victims—several others have been affected, who have
            recovered—being in the whole, a very great proportion of all those who have been
            exposed—A number of persons, belonging to, or resident in the Country, have contracted
            the disorder by occasional visits to the City—Mr Powel doubtless lost his life in
            consequence of a humane visit to his house in town, to provide for the accomodation of a
            favourite servant. The malady moreover appears to be contagious by having been
            constantly observed to extend and diverge, from infected places. though it is now spread
            nearly through the City, yet there are some neighbourhoods where it has not yet
            appeared.
          There has all along been a considerable diversity of opinion, in respect to the cause,
            nature and manner of communicating the malady. some have supposed that it was generated
            in the City—certain facts have however, been recently stated to me, by men of
            indisputable honour, which leave no doubt on my mind that it was introduced by an
            American Vessell, with French passengers & property from Hispaniola—It has also been
            asserted on respectable authority, that there has been no instance of the disorder being
            communicated to any person, who has constantly resided out of the City. I must admit
            that of the numbers, who have died in the villages and places adjacent to the City, I
            have known of no instance where the person affected, had not visited the City—if the
            observation should be found true in the latitude it has been made, it would militate
            with the opinion, which I have advanced and would go far to prove, that a residence near
              the City, admitting the malady to continue, would be absolutely
            safe.
          The Philadelphians will not abandon their present expectation, that the City will be
            purified and safe before the meeting of Congress, without painful reluctance—in that
            event it would be their wish and that of the people adjacent that Congress should
            convene, as near as possible to the City. Lancaster, Wilmington & Germantown have
            been mentioned—it is supposed that the latter place would under all circumstances afford
            the best accomodations.
          I have made full enquiry & entertain no doubt that the town is free from
            contagion—it is certain, that at present, not an individual is affected with the
            prevailing malady.
          I have conversed with a Majistrate of the place and am informed by him & other
            persons, that if events should render it necessary, every exertion will be made to
            accomodate Congress and the public Officers—the School House, with the adjoining
            buildings, may in my opinion, at a small expence, be fitted up & attired, so as to
            afford tolerable accomodations for the two houses & their immediate Officers.
          I have called at the house of the Attorney General near Germantown, and was informed
            that he was at Lancaster, but was expected soon to return—it was suggested that your
            Letter had been recd and that measures had been taken for engaging a house, the result
            of which, were not known. Col. Hamilton is in New
            Jersey, on his way to this place, I shall therefore retain the Letter to him, untill his
              arrival. Genl Knox is I presume from the best
            information I can obtain, at Boston, to which place, I shall address the Letter
            transmitted to me by Mr Dandridge, which has been just received.
          It has been just told me, that Doct. Phile, the Naval Officer is dead; though unfounded
            reports are often circulated I fear that this is true. I have the honour to be with the
            most perfect respect Sir, your most obedt & humble servant

            Oliver Wolcott Jr


Title: To George Washington from Thomas FitzSimons, 21 October 1793
From: FitzSimons, Thomas
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Philada 21. October 1793.

          The death of Mr Phile the late Naval Officer of this district haveing left a vacancy in
            an important Office I beg leave to Call your attention to my worthy friend Mr Clymer on
            Whose Capacity for executeing the duties of that office it is Unnecessary for me to make
            any observation. he has for some time been determined on resigning the Appointment he at
            present holds and only waited till the business was properly Arranged and time was
            afforded to find a proper Sucessor.
          It would be presumption in me to Suggest any reasons that should induce the President
            to give him this appointment in preference to many others who will apply for it.
          I will only take the liberty to add that it would gratify a Great Number of people in
            this City who are Among the most respectable And the Most Zealous Supporters of
            Government. With the Greatest respect I am Sir Yr Mo. hble Servt

            Thos FitzSimons


Title: To George Washington from John Graff, 21 October 1793
From: Graff, John
To: Washington, George

            Sir,
            [Pennsylvania] October 21. 1793

          Your Excellency will no doubt before the receipt of this be informed of the death of
            the late naval Officer Fred. Phile—Having had the honor to represent
            the Collector of the District of Pennsylvania (whose name is in the list inclosed) since
            the Year 1784 untill this date under the regulations of sd state & since under our
            happy Constitution I trust with Integrity am emboldened to sollicit a nomination for the
            Office above named—Almighty God having visited the City
            of Philada with a great Calamity prevents me at this time to offer recommendations such
            as I hope would be satisfactory, the Citizen in the mercantile line being dispersed in
            this & neighboring States, shall take the liberty of forwarding further
            recommendations as soon as may be—With great Respect
            & Esteem am Your Excellencys Most Obt huml. Servt

            John Graff


Title: To George Washington from Ludwell Lee and Roger West, 21 October 1793
From: Lee, Ludwell,West, Roger
To: Washington, George

              Sir
               Fairfax County [Va.] 21st Octr 1793

            We do ourselves the honor of enclosing to you an address signed by about five hundred
              of the most respectable Landholders, Merchants, & Inhabitants of this County—It is
              with pleasure we execute the desire of our fellow Citizens in forwarding to you this
              token of their approbation esteem & confidence, so justly merited on your part, and so freely given on theirs. We have the honor to be with
              the highest respect Sir Yr most Obedient, Humble Servants

              Ludwell Lee
              R: West


Title: Enclosure: Address from Fairfax County, Virginia, Citizens, 21 October 1793
From: Fairfax County, Virginia, Citizens
To: Washington, George

              To George Washington President of the United States of America
              [Fairfax County, Va., c.21 October 1793]

            Whilst the people of America, are so generally signifying to you Sir, their perfect
              approbation of your Proclamation; enjoining on the part of the Citizens of the United
              States, a strict neutrality, towards the belligerent Powers of Europe; we should have remained silent, under this general
              approbation, & not have troubled you, with our sentiments, did we not conceive,
              that the present crisis, calls loudly on all those, who feel for the dignity of their
              Government, to speak out, the language of their hearts—When foreigners, shall be so
              far forgetful, of the respect they owe, to the Sovereignty of the Community, in which
              they reside, as to threaten an appeal, to the Body of the People, from the decisions,
              & conduct of those, with whom the people have entrusted, that part of it, which
              relates to their foreign connections; & in despite of the public authority,
              prohibiting the contrary; shall arm & equip Vessels of war in our Ports, for the
              purpose of capturing the property of Nations with whom we are at Peace; which things can only have for their object, internal
              confusion, and all the calamities, of external warfare; that a stop may be put, to
              proceedings so hurtful, & so dangerous, we think it the duty, of the Citizens, to
              let their Sentiments be publicly known—Impressed with this truth, we the Subscribers,
              Landholders & Inhabitants of Fairfax County, have presented ourselves before you,
              and beg leave to assure you; that, as in all your conduct as Presiding Majistrate of
              these United States, we have seen you pursuing, with firmness &
              propriety, the good of Mankind, & the solid glory, & interests of your
              Country; and in no instance, we conceive, more truly honorable to yourself, or more
              serviceable, to us, than in the conduct, you have caused to be pursued, towards the
              Nations of Europe now at war; we shall hold ourselves bound to oppose, all attempts
              that shall be made, to disturb the Peace, or injure the Independance, & dignity of
              the Government, over which you preside, by the machinations of foreigners, or the
              intemperate actions, of discontented Individuals, of our own Country—We trust, that in
              speaking thus, we do but proclaim, the Ideas of every well intentioned Citizen of
              America, for all have felt, & we trust, will long continue to feel, the blessings
              of an Administration, where wisdom, temper, & firmness, have so conspicuously
              presided.
            Signed by about five hundred Inhabitants And by their desire forwarded by.

              Ludwell Lee
              R: West


Title: To George Washington from Stephen Moylan, 21 October 1793
From: Moylan, Stephen
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            West Chester [Pa.] Octobr 21st 1793

          the communication between the City and country is So much interupted that I am
            uncertain whether my Letter to the Secretary of State has ever reached him, I take the
            Liberty of inclosing a copy therof, that you Sir may Know the reason of my nonacceptance
            of the Office of Marshal which you was pleased to Offer to me—an Office is now vacant by the death of Fredrick Phyle naval Officer if you will please to confer it on me I will exert myself
            in fullfilling the duties of it Whether you think me worthy of this favor or not you may
            be assured Sir; it will make no alteration in the Sentiments of esteem and respect,
            which a long acquaintance with your virtues has indelibly impressed on the mind of Sir
            your obedient and much obliged humb. Servt

            Stephen Moylan


Title: To George Washington from Peter Muhlenberg, 21 October 1793
From: Muhlenberg, Peter
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Philadelphia County. Octobr 21st 93

          Having understood that a vacancy has taken place in the naval Office, by the Death of
            Dr Phile I presume to sollicit the appointment to that Office, provided The President
            conceives me qualified for it—I will not trouble The President with enumerating the
            motives which occasion the solicitation, and will only beg leave to mention, That if I
            had not been prevented by the Indian War, from removing my Family to the Western
            Country, where I have some property in Lands—I should not have become troublesome with
            my solicitation—But as I am situated at present; not having added to, but diminishd my
            little fortune during the War, and not having it in my power to return with propriety to
            the only occupation or calling I was brought up to—I
            wish to serve my Country as well as myself in some way or other, untill I can with
            safety retire with my Family to the Ohio. I have the Honor to be with the highest
            Respect Sir your most Obedt humble Servant

            P: Muhlenberg


Title: To George Washington from Richard Dobbs Spaight, 21 October 1793
From: Spaight, Richard Dobbs
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            North Carolina Newbern 21st Octr 1793

          In September I received a letter from the Collector of Wilmington informing me that the
            Captain of the Privateer, Vanqueur de Bastille had carried his prize the British Sloop
            Providence, down to the bar of Cape Fear river and had there shifted her guns &c.
            from on board the Vanqueur de Bastille to the prize sloop, proceeded to sea with her and
            was then cruizing off that Harbour, the Schooner was sent back again to Wilmington.
          I felt myself extremely mortified that a proceeding of that nature should take place in
            any port within this State after I had taken every step in my power to prevent it.
          In pursuance of the instructions received from the Secretary of War of the 16th and
            21st of August I immediately dispatched orders to the major of New Hanover Militia, to
            order the Vanqueur de Bastile to leave the port. and that should the
            aforesaid Sloop or any other privateer fitted out of the United States send or bring in
            any prize or prizes into the port of Wilmington, to secure her or them to be delivered
            to the former Owners, or to the Consul of the Nation to whom they belonged and to order
            the privateer or privateers to depart the port immediately.
          On the 15th instant I received letters from Col: Benjm. Smith of Brunswick County and
            Major Wright of New Hanover informing me that the said Sloop had arrived at that port,
            and brought with her a Spanish brig her prize, that they had agreable to my orders made
            some dispositions to Secure the prize. but had been prevented by the officious
            interposition of some evil disposed persons in Wilmington who sent down a boat in the
            night to give Captain Hervieux information of their intentions, who in consequence of it
            sent his prize to sea, where she remained about eight miles to the southward of the Bar;
            that Colonel Smith had given orders to Captain Hervieux to leave the port. who gave in
            excuse for his not complying with them, that he had put in there in distress and could
            not go to sea, till his people had recovered, and his Vessel was refitted, together with
            some other reasons mentioned in his letters to Coln. Smith and Major Wright. From the deposition marked No. 2 it appeared to me that the
            Vessel was really in a distressed Situation⟨.⟩ I therefore wrote to those Gentlemen that
            as the instructions I had received did not comprehend a case of that nature that they
            might permit her to remain in port for such time as was absolutely necessary to refit
            her for sea and then to compell her to depart—as the prize was without the port on the
            high seas I did not conceive myself at liberty to give orders to send after her. indeed
            from her force (she carries 8 Guns and from 20 to 30 Men) it could not be easily done as
            there is no armed vessel in the State, but I instructed them that if she should return
            into port again to use every means in their power to take and secure her for the
            Original Owners.
          Captain Hervieux previous to his receiving the information from Wilmington had put on
            board of the revenue Cutter Captain Cook a chest containing (it is said) betwe⟨en⟩
            thirty and forty thousand dollars which he had taken out of the Spanish prize on its
            arrival at Wilmington it was seized by the revenue Officers and placed in the hands of
            the Mareshall. I have wrote to Major Wright to give the Mareshal orders to keep the
            money secure till proper application is made for it by the former
            Owners or the Consul for Spain and if no such application should be made, untill such
            time as I should receive further instructions from you respecting what is to be done
            with it.
          The Schooner Vanqueur de Bastille lies at one of the Wharfs at Wilmington quite
            dismantled and unrigged and no person on board of her who can be made to comply with
            that part of your instructions of obliging her to leave the port under these
            circumstances I should be glad to know what is to be done with her.
          As this business is a national one it is expected that the General Government will pay
            every expence attending it at the same time it may be requisite that this State should
            advance in the first instance the monies necessary for the Amunition pay and subsistance
            of such part of the Militia as may be called into service to execute the instructions of
            the President of the United States. I shall therefore apply to the Council to authorize
            me to draw on the treasury of this State for such sums as may be wanted. I shall
            likewise be glad to be informed in what manner the State is to be reimbursed by the
            United States, the monies which may be occasionally advanced.
          I really feel myself ashamed of the Conduct of the New hanover Militia as related by
            Major Wright. I shall direct him to take such steps as are pointed out by the laws of
            the State to punish them for their disobedience of his orders.
          That you may be fully acquainted with the real state of the Case I have sent you
            enclosed copies of Col: Smith and Major Wrights letters and of the other papers which
            accompanied them. I have the Honor to be with due respect Sir Your Mo. Obt Servant

            Richd D. Spaight


Title: To George Washington from Joseph Wharton, 21 October 1793
From: Wharton, Joseph
To: Washington, George

            sir
            Philada October 21st 1793.

          My condition in life, through unmerited sufferings, which brought upon me the sacrifice
            of faithfull industry for many years, deprived me of the means of supporting an aged
            wife, and five Children—whose Characters are, in just estimation of my fellow Citizens,
            eminent for their virtue, and respectability.
          It is not for the honor of Truth, that my failings should be withheld from your
            knowledge, nor do I suppose, that the conduct of a Citizen, who once partook of your
            esteem, hath been undiscovered to you. But, as the great Doctor Franklin said, “that
            part of a Truth, is sometimes worse, than the whole Truth”—so may my infirmities have been exagerated, without those
            extenuations, which Charity would have mollified, and which good Men deplored. Those
            sufferings, and the consequent distresses to those, who ought not to have felt them—drove me to a temporary excess—which, however
            injurious to a once well earned reputation, brought it’s own remedy, by the severest
            contrition. It hath God! to grant me fortitude, to withstand the only temptation, that
            ever sullied my fair fame: and I have a well founded hope, that it will never revisit
            me, either to my friends anxiety, or my own dishonor. There are Men Sir, whose
            afflictions, cramp their virtues—whose confidence becomes annihilated, and constrains
            them to acts, which their very Souls abhor. This, unfortunately, has been my case. For,
            having formerly had the closest connection, with most of the trading Gentlemen in the
            United States, as well as with the principal Merchants in Europe—and foreseeing no
            prospect of reganing my station in the Commercial line, nor of aiding those Ties, who
            are nearest to me—I fell. It is not, nor ever was, the lot of
            humanity, in such scenes of complicated misery, which I have endured for nineteen years,
            “to bring the mind, instantly, to its’ condition”: It was not mine. For it requires
            time, and an exertion, not common, and scarcely known, to recover a firm dignity of
            conduct, and lament over a fatal secession from it.
          I have had the honor of a small correspondance with your Excelle⟨ncy⟩ respecting our
            quondam friend Colonel Mercer, and I have enjoyed the felicity of your favor at my
            House—on board my Ship, and at the Tables of your particular acquaintance, in this once blessed City. nor have my principles been adverse, but on the contrary,
            always flow from the purest motives, to the sacred Rights of my Countrey—which in fact,
            was the cause of my Ruin.
          Thus having presumed to lay my circumstance, and my change of life, before your
            rational and humane disposition—I beg leave to offer myself a Candidate for the Naval
            Office of the District, vacant by the death of Mr Frederick Phile. And, if it is
            expedient, that a powerfull recommendation, should preced appointment; I have not the
            least doubt of procuring signatures pleasing to your Excellency, and honorable to
            myself—nor shall competent security be unobtained from those, who are equally wealthy as
            they zealously disposed to serve me. I foresee but one obstacl⟨e⟩ in my progress of
            Recommendation, and that is, the extremely scattered residence of my fellow citizens in
            this calamitou⟨s⟩ affliction.
          I beg leave to sollicit your favorable acceptance of my application, and to pardon the
            freedom of this tedious narrative—which is written solely, that I may recover you⟨r⟩
            esteem, favor and confidence. I am Sir, with the grest Respect Your most ob: hl.
            Ser⟨vt⟩

            Jo. Wharton


Title: To George Washington from Nathan Beers, 22 October 1793
From: Beers, Nathan
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            New Haven 22 Octr 1793

          Among the number of Persons who have offered themselves as Candidates for the Office of
            Collector for this Port, I beg leave to mention to your Excellency my desire of that
            appointment—As by the Laws of These States the present duty of the Collector devolves on
            the Surveyor, I have been lead to suppose that the appointment will not be made untill
            the Meeting of Congress in December next, at which time I hope to forward such
            information respecting my Charracter and Services, as I flatter myself will have some
            weight with your Excellency, if they do not I cannot wish or desire the appointment. I
            am with due respect your Excellencys most Obedient & Humble Servant

            Nathan Beers


Title: To George Washington from Edmund Randolph, 22 October 1793
From: Randolph, Edmund
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Spencer’s [Germantown, Pa.] October 22. 1793.

          On my return from Lancaster, I found, that Major Franks had agreed to let you have his
            house. But the terms are excessive; being no less than 150£ per annum, or for a shorter
            period, not under six months, at the same rate. Except a looking-glass or two, and a few
            pictures, he will not suffer any of the furniture to remain; tho’ I have prevailed upon
            his agent to permit a couple of beds and some chairs and tables to continue, until you
            can accommodate yourself from some other quarter. But I have made no conclusive bargain;
            leaving this and the other house, which I mentioned in my last
            letter, and adjoins the school-house lot, free for your choice. Dr Bensel declines renting his house.
          The best road from the main Baltimore road to German Town is from Darby to the black-horse at the seven mile stone, on the Lancaster road: from
            thence to Righter’s ferry on Skuylkill, which is about two miles from German Town.
          We are flattered with a report, that the cold weather has given a stroke to the fever;
            but the authority, upon which it is circulated, is not conclusive with me. I have the
            honor, sir, to be, with the highest respect, and sincere attachment yr mo. ob. serv.

            Edm: Randolph.


Title: To George Washington from John Fitzgerald, 23 October 1793
From: Fitzgerald, John
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Alexandria [Va.] Octor 23d 1793

          Hearing this Morning that the Surveyor of this District was about to resign, I could not in justice to the Individual, or my own sense of
            propriety in the Office which I have the honor to hold, forbear solliciting your
            attention to Mr Vincent Gray; who was Mr Lee’s Deputy & continues to be mine[.] his constant & Vigilant attention, his strict
            impartiallity, & his knowledge of the business, entitle him in my estimation to a
            decided preference to any who may claim this appointment, & I will venture to say
            that in the performance of the duties of his office, he has
            constantly had the most minute regard to the public good, whilst in the other hand his
            Deportment has been such as to give the highest possible satisfaction to the Mercantile
            Interest with which of course the business was transacted[.] Added to this the business will in future be under the same
            Roof, which is the Mode in every large Seaport to the Northward, & will prevent an
            amazing delay to Owners & Masters of Ships, who often have, after their business
            with the Collector is done, to seek for a length of time after the Surveyor from whom
            they have nothing to get but a Certificate of admeasurement, & the fees of the
            Surveyor at this Port are inadequate to a constant attention to that duty.
          If any doubts should remain on your mind respecting this application, I have only to
            request that you would lay it before the immediate Head of the department who is soon to
            meet you, & I am persuaded is well acquainted with the merits of this Gentleman,
            & will by his observations strengthen the subject of my request. With most perfect Esteem I have the honor to be Sir your mo.
            Obedt Servant

            John Fitzgerald


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Fraunces, 23 October 1793
From: Fraunces, Samuel
To: Washington, George

            Hond Sir
            Philada 23d October 1793

          I received your letter last Evening—and it gives me
            the greatest Satisfaction that my conduct meets your approbation—was any accident to
            happen in the Famely it would not be for want of my care and attention I strictly adhere
            to your directions in every point—The House is clean and ready for your return and every
            thing in proper order—I long to see you home where I think you will be as safe as any
            where—as our Neibourhood is entirely clear of any infection—The Fever still continues to
            abate in the City but rages in Southwark & other out parts—You mention if any of the
            Famely should be taken ill to take advice which cannot be done as there i⟨s⟩ no Person
            of any consequence left but I hope we shall want none as your direction is quite
            sufficient—several Famelys however begin to return as it is thought they may with
            Safety—I Knew that the President lent Mr Osborn Money
            & in consequence made an enquiry before I received your Letter, & found none but
            fifteen dollrs with his distressed Wife which She took to the Hospital with her his
            Trunk and some of his Cloaths are here which I detained untill I heard from you—The
            Trunk is locked what is in it I do not know—Mrs Emerson
            is well and gives her duty to Madam but She is much oppressed in Spirits—Yr dutifull
            Servt

            Samuel Fraunces


Title: To George Washington from Richard Henry Lee, 23 October 1793
From: Lee, Richard Henry
To: Washington, George

            Dear Sir,
            Alexandria [Va.] Octr 23d 1793

          Having been informed that you designed to go northward in a few days, and finding Mrs
            Lees recovery to be too slow for the purpose of seeing you at Mount
            Vernon as we travelled homewards; I had fixed on this
            day, with my Son Ludwell to pay our respects to you. But, to my very great mortification
            and disappointment, I was attacked with a fever last Night, the consequence of the
            influenza that has afflicted me for some days past; and which deprives me of the
            happiness that I this day proposed to myself. It realy gives me infinite concern to
            find, even a few, for I am sure they are very few; who appear disposed to disturb the
            peace of our country under the feigned pretext of favoring the cause of liberty in
            France. I call it feigned because I think that a very careless Observer of what passes,
            must have seen, for some time past, that the Contest in France has been less for liberty
            than for Jacobinism or Anarchy, to favor the views of ambition and avarice. As well
            might it be said that supporting O. Cromwell was defending the cause of liberty, when he
            had destroyed it by erecting a despotism in his own country! But the very Men who talk
            in favor of french liberty acknowledge our inability to go to War, and yet they are
            inconsistent enough to counsel a conduct that must inevitably produce it! It appears to
            me, from some of Mr Genets late proceeding, that Jacobine like, he wishes from the
            atrocity of his own conduct, to force others into such intemperance as might at once
            justify and excuse himself.
          Give me leave to assure you Sir that to hear of your health and happiness will always
            contribute greatly to mine; being with the most unfeigned affection dear Sir your friend
            and servant

            Richard Henry Lee


Title: To George Washington from William MacPherson, 23 October 1793
From: MacPherson, William
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Chester October 23d 1793

          Under the most sensible impressions of gratitude to you Sir for the appointment I now
            hold, the duties of which I hope I have discharged in such manner, as to merit your
            approbation, and that of my fellow Citizens—beg leave to offer myself as a Candidate for
            the Naval office of this District, vacant in consequence of the unfortunate Death of
            Doctr Phile—I trust Sir I shall not
            appear presumptious or over greedy in making this request—The naval office being
            consider’d a superiour Grade in the Customs—I feel an honest ambition to receive this
            further mark of your goodness Sir, which I shall value in the highest degree; as it will
            be an evidence of my conduct having been such, as to merit your approbation. I have the
            honor to be with the most perfect respect your most obedient Servt

            W. MacphersonSurveyor District of Pennsylvania


Title: From George Washington to Stephen Moylan, 23 October 1793
From: Washington, George
To: Moylan, Stephen

            Sir
            Mt Vernon Oct. 23d 1793

          Your letter of the 21st was handed to me last Night. As I expect to be in the vicinity
            of Philadelphia (German town I believe) on the first of November I shall decline saying
            any thing on the subject of your application ’til then—It being my invariable custom to
            possess myself of the circumstances of every case before I decide on a nomination to the
              office—With esteem & regard I am Sir Yr very Hble
            Servt

            G. W——n


Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 23 October 1793
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Washington, George

            Sir,
            Philadelphia Octr 23. 1793.

          I wrote you by Monday’s post. That afternoon I went to
            see Mr Peters; and had the pleasure to find that your accommodation and a suitable
            provision for Congress had engaged the attention of him and divers other citizens of
            Philadelphia who were scattered in the adjacent country. They have had some
            consultations on the subject; and will continue them until suitable provision shall be
            made; of which he has promised to give me early information.

          It is Mr Peters’s opinion that the city will be perfectly safe for the assembling of
            Congress the first week in December: but lest it should be otherwise, competent
            provision will be made at Germantown. He says that a number of the citizens of
            Philadelphia are preparing to quit Germantown, for places on the river where they can
            better receive and dispose of their fall goods. These removals & the other measures
            which he and his fellow citizens will take, will make room for the members of Congress.
            He says also, that an Academy and an adjacent building at Germantown will answer very
            well for the meeting of the two houses of Legislature⟨.⟩ Their first object will be to
            provide for you the most convenient house the adjacent country will afford, to which, if
            you think proper you can soon resort. I will give you the earliest notice when this
            provision is made.
          As I mentioned in my last, the fever has not been known in Germantown, except with
            persons who had carried the infection from the city. And Mr Peters mentioned a
            remarkable fact—That from all such deaths in the country, not a single instance had been
            known of the infection being communicated. On my way to Germantown yesterday, I spoke of
            this circumstance to a reputable man whom I knew, and who lives near Fair-Hill: He
            confirmed it by many instances which he said had fallen
            under his own knowledge. By this it would seem, that persons not previously contaminated
            by the impure air of the city, were not susceptible of the disease.
          My ride to Germantown yesterday was on purpose to see the Attorney General: but he was
            not at home.
          I am waiting for an answer from the Mayor to a letter I wrote him last evening,
            requesting authentic information of the number of deaths, and of the present state of
            the disease.
          I have sent my servant a second time for the Mayor’s answer: but he does not return;
            and the closing of the mail being at hand, I must conclude now, and write again by the
            next post. I am most respectfully sir, Your obedient
            servant

            Timothy Pickering


Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 23 October 1793
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Washington, George

              Sir,
              Post Office Philaa Oct. 23. 1793

            Since sealing my letter of this date, my servant has brought me an answer from the
              Mayor, which I enclose. I am surprized at the number of deaths from Oct. 11th to the
              22d. I will continue to advise you of the state of the disease, as often as I can
              obtain any new information. very respectfully yr most obedt servt

              Timothy Pickering


Title: Enclosure: Matthew Clarkson to Timothy Pickering, 23 October 1793
From: Clarkson, Matthew
To: Pickering, Timothy

                Sir
                Philada Oct. 23—1793

              I think it may be concluded that the state of the mortal sickness is become more
                favorable, this appears from the decrease of funerals in the City generally, and at
                the Hospital at Bush-Hill It is not possible to ascertain, with any degree of
                precission the degree in which it has abated.
              The general appearance is pleasing, the Physicians have fewer applications from new
                patients, the proportion of those who recover is abundantly greater than at the
                commencement of the disease. The general Countenance of these Citizens who remain,
                has changed, there is an obvious difference in their looks, a cheerfulness hath
                taken place of a general gloom which not long since overspread every face; several
                Shops & stores which were shut up, are again opened.
              I have herewith sent you a New York paper in which I find a pretty accur[at]e
                Account of the funerals from the first of August to the 11th October, this is the
                best which can at present be obtained. since that
                time the funerals amount to aboutto the present day. I am very respectfully
                Sir—Your most obt servt

                Matth. Clarkson

              Particulars since the 11⟨th Oct⟩ober

                  Christ Church
                  19
                  }
                  43

                  St Peters
                  17

                  St Pauls
                  7

                  Germ. Lutheran
                  110
                  }
                  158

                  Calv:
                  48

                  Friends

                  56

                  Romans

                  34

                  Methodists

                  18

                  Potters field

                  313

                  642
                   to 19th October

              You will observe that returns from some of the Congegrations are not included in
                the above—for which may be added to that period—say 58—which will make the whole
                from the 11th to 19 inclusive 700.
              Note the Potter’s Field return is up to the 22d and inclusive.


Title: From George Washington to Edmund Randolph, 23 October 1793
From: Washington, George
To: Randolph, Edmund

            Dear Sir,
            Mount Vernon 23d Oct. 1793

          Your letter of the 14th only came by the Post of last night, to Alexandria, & this
            is sent thither to day, that it may go by tomorrow’s Mail, & thereby reach you as
            soon as the nature of the case will admit.
          As you have given no positive opinion respecting the Power of the Executive to change
            the place for Congress to meet at, & as it is uncertain what will be the result of
            this business; I am really at a loss to decide which of the three houses mentioned in the P.S. to your letter of the above date would best suit me, or
            whether either of them wd.
          If from the present state of the malady, with which Philadelphia is visited, &
            there is an unfavorable prospect of its ceasing, Germantown should be thought unsaf⟨e⟩
            &, of course an ineligable spot for Congress ⟨to⟩ sit in, or meet at even in the
            first i⟨n⟩stance, any kind of lodging & board would suffice
            for the short stay I sho⟨uld⟩ have to remain there, especially as all the time not
            e⟨m⟩ployed in business with the heads of Dep⟨art⟩ments & yourself might be spent in
            li⟨ttle⟩ excursions to places at a small dist⟨ance⟩ therefrom—of course all idea of
            furnishing, & keeping a house myself, (being entirely unprovided with Servants or
            means of any sort) ought to be banished entirely if it be practicable—& some rooms,
            even in a tavern, (if I could be retired in them) taken in preferrence. On the other
            hand, if my stay there is likely to be of any continuance, then, unquestionably Colo.
            Franks’ (if to be had) wd suit me best—because most commodious for myself, & the
            entertainment of Company—& next to this Bensel’s.
          This is the light in which the matter strikes me, at this distance—but as you are on
            the spot—know more precisely than I possibly can do, the real state of things—and
            besides, have been in the way of hearing the various opinions of People on the subje⟨ct⟩
            of what Congress ought to d⟨o,⟩ I would leave much to your judgment. I shall set out so
            as to be in Germantown, or thereabouts, the first of November, if no difficulties are
            encountered on the Road—As there can be but a short interval between your receipt of
            this letter, & my arrival, any place might do for my first reception.
          It is not in my power to dispatch a servant before me—I shall have but two neither of
            which can be spared for such a purpose—these with five horses—Mr Dandridge &
            myself—form the total of my family & equipage. It
            would be very convenient for me therefore to meet a letter from you at Wilmington, that
            I may know better how to proceed from thence—& where to cross the Schuylkill.
          My best wishes, in which Mrs Washington unites, attend you Mrs Randolph and family—we
            are glad to hear that your apprehensions on acct of Peyton have subsided. With sincere
            esteem & regard I am yours Affecte

            G. W——n


Title: To George Washington from Alexander Hamilton, 24 October 1793
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

            Sir,
            2½ Miles from Philadelphia Octobr 24. 1793.

          I arrived at my own house yesterday evening, where I found your letter of the 14
            instant; having previously received that of the 25 of September, by the circuitous route
            of Albany, the evening before my departure from New York.
          As to the right of the President to convene Congress out of the ordinary course, I
            think it stands as follows—“he may on extraordinary occasions
            convene both houses of Congress or either of them”—These are the words of the
              Constitution. Nothing is said as to time or place—nothing restrictive as to either—I
            therefore think they both stand on the same footing. The discretion of the President
            extends to place as well as time. The
            reason of the thing as well as the words of the Constitution, would extend it to both.
            The usual seat of the Government may be in possession of an enemy—it may be swallowed up
            by an earthquake.
          I know of no law that abriges in this respect the discretion of the President—if a law
            could abrige a constitutional discretion of either branch.
          But the doubt with me is whether the “extraordinary occasion”
            mentioned in the constitution be not some unforeseen occurence in the public affairs,
            which renders it adviseable for the public service, to convene
            Congress at some time different from that which the Constitution
            or some law has established—in other words, to anticipate their ordinary meeting—to have
            a special session, for a special object of
              public business out of the preestablished course.
          I doubt therefore whether the circumstance of a contagious disease existing at the seat
            of Government be a constitutional ground for convening Congress at another place, but at the same time, they had
            premeditated.
          And I know that there are respectable opinions against the power of the President to
            change the place of meeting in such a case; so as I think to render it inexpedient to
            take the step.
          But the President may recommend a meeting at some other place,
            as a place of preliminary rendezvous for the members of the two houses, that they may
            informally concert what further the exigency may require—and my present opinion inclines in favor of such a measure.
          The question then would be, what place is the most eligible?
          Obvious reasons render it desireable that it should be as near Philadelphia as may
            consist with the motive for naming such a place—(to wit)—the safety of the
            members—I—Innovation upon the existing arrangement with regard to the seat of
            Government, ought to be avoided as much as possible—II. Congress may think it necessary
            for regularity to go within the limits of the City (tho’ but for an hour) to give
            legality by some summary act to another place of Meeting—and with this view it will be
            convenient to meet at no great distance from the City. III. The place recommended may
            influence the place of session—The President and heads of Departments ought to be near
            Congress, but they cannot be long remote from their offices, and a removal of the public
            offices for one session would be in many ways an evil. Lastly—The less the President in
            such case departs from the preestablished course, the less room there will be for
            cavil.
          All these reasons would operate in favor of German town, if competent only to the momentary accommodation of Congress. Mr Peters & some other
            gentlemen affirm that it is. I have myself great doubt on the point, and I have not had
            time to examine, but I cannot help paying deference to the opinion of
            those who assert it’s competency.
          There is, however, another consideration not unworthy of attention. Experience seems to
            decide satisfactorily that there would be due safety at Germantown; but it is very
            probable, this would not appear to be the case to the members generally. The alarm
            appears to be greatest in proportion as you go furthest from the seat of the disease.
            Yet I should hope the Presidents recommendation stating the fact
            as evidenced by experience would appease the apprehensions of the parties concerned.
          If Germantown should not be found adequate, on the score of accommodation, Trenton,
            Reading, Lancaster & Wilmington are the places which present themselves to choice as
            most eligible. Nothing more notherly or southerly ought to be thought of. A place in
            Pennsylvania will best please the Pennsylvanians. They would be very jealous of Trenton,
            and they would have some, tho’ less jealousy of Wilmington. Lancaster would afford
            better accommodations than Reading. Wilmington would I apprehend be the most agreeable
            of these places to Congress.
          But I am, upon the whole, of opinion that it will be best to make Germantown do if
            possible. It will be time enough to decide when you arrive—and the interval will be
            employed to examine the ground.
          Mrs Hamilton & myself are very sensible to the obliging interest you have
            manifested on our recovery. Exercise & Northern air have restored us beyond
            expectation. We are very happy that Mrs Washington & yourself escaped. I have the
            honor to remain &c.

            A. Hamilton


Title: From George Washington to Ludwell Lee and Roger West, 24 October 1793
From: Washington, George
To: Lee, Ludwell,West, Roger

            Gentlemen,
            Mount Vernon 24 Octor 1793.

          The address of the Landholders & Inhabitants of Fairfax County, forwarded to me by
            you, has been received.
          It is a source of much pleasure to me to find my Fellow Citizens of
            Fairfax among those spirited republicans of the United States, who declare to the world
            their firm determination to support the Government they have chosen for themselves,
            & to oppose with manly resolution any attempts to weaken the public confidence
            therein, or to interrupt the repose they now enjoy, or a state of peace to which their
            interest & happiness are so closely allied.
          In fulfilling the duties which are attendant on the trust with which my Country men
            have honored me, my highest gratification is in meriting & receiving their approving
            voice; I therefore request you to communicate to the Citizens of Fairfax the pleasure I
            derive from their approbation of my public conduct, and to assure them of my constant
            and unremitted attention to the promotion of the prosperity and happiness of my Fellow
            Citizens of these States.

            Go. Washington


Title: To George Washington from Nicholas Lewis, 24 October 1793
From: Lewis, Nicholas
To: Washington, George

              Sir
              Albemarle [Va.] October 24th, 1793

            I have the Honour, to transmitt You Sundry Resolves entered into by a considerable
              proportion of the Inhabitants of the County of Albemarle, & I
              have Sir assumed thus far in conformity to the last of Said enclosed Resolutions. I am
              Sir With great respect your very Humble Servt

              Nicholas Lewis


Title: To George Washington from James Madison, 24 October 1793
From: Madison, James
To: Washington, George

            Dear Sir
            Orange [Va.] October 24th 1793.

          Your letter of the 14th instant did not arrive till sunday night, and being not then at home, I did not receive it till last
            night. I now lose not a moment in complying with its request; tho’ I foresee it cannot
            reach you before you will have left Mount Vernon, and before you will probably have made
            up a final determination on some if not on all the questions proposed. These are
          1. Ought the President to summon Congress at a time and place to be named by him?
            or,
          2. If the President has no power to change the place, ought he to abstain from all
            interposition whatever? or
          3. Ought he to notify the obstacle to a meeting at Philadelphia, state the defect of a
            regular provision for the exigency, and suggest his purpose of repairing to  as
            a place deemed most eligible for a meeting in the first instance?
          4. What is the place liable to fewest objections?
          From the best investigation I have been able to make in so short a time, the first
            expedient, tho’ most adequate to the exigency, seems to require an authority that does
            not exist under the Constitution and laws of the U. States.
          The only passage in the Constitution in which such an authority could be sought is that
            which says “The President may, on extraordinary occasions, convene
            both Houses, or either of them.”  But the obvious
            import of these terms is satisfied by referring them to the time only at which the
            extraordinary meeting is summoned. If indeed they included a discretion as to the place
            as well as the time, it would be unnecessary to recur to the expedient of altering the
            time in order to get at an alteration of the place. The President could as well alter
            the place without interfering with the time, as alter the time without interfering with
            the place. Besides; the effect of a change as to place would not be in all respects
            similar to a change as to time. In the latter case, an extraordinary session running
            into the period of an ordinary one, would allow the ordinary one to go on under all the
            circumstances prescribed by law. In the former case, this would not happen. The ordinary
            part of the Session would be held out of the place prescribed for it—unless prevented by
            a positive act for returning to it.
          The obvious meaning here assigned to the phrase is confirmed by other parts of the
            Constitution. It is well known that much jealousy has always appeared in every thing
            connected with the residence of the General Government. The solicitude of the
            Constitution to appease this jealousy is particularly marked by the 1st paragraph of
            section 6th & the 3d paragraph of section 7th of article I. The light in which these
            paragraphs must be viewed cannot well be reconciled with a supposition that it was meant
            to entrust the Executive alone with any power on that subject.
          Laying aside the Constitution and consulting the law, the expedient seems to be no less
            inadmissible. The act of July 1790 “establishing the temporary & permanent seat of
            the Government of the U.S.” cannot be understood to leave any such power in the
            President. And as the power, if exercised so as to interfere with the provision relating
            to the temporary seat, might beget an alarm lest, in the hands of a President unfriendly
            to the permanent seat, it should be turned on some pretext or other against that
            arrangement, prudential reasons unite with legal ones, for avoiding the precedent.
          The 2d mode of treating the difficulty would seem to be best, if the danger at German
            Town were out of the way. A voluntary resort to that place might be relied on; and the
            members of the Legislature finding themselves together and with the President, might legalize the necessary steps, or if that should be thought wrong
            might deliberate and decide for themselves on the emergency. But as the danger might
            defeat such an expectation, it results that,
          The 3d expedient is called for by the occasion; and being sufficient, is all that can
            be justified by it.
          The 4th point to be considered is the delicate one of naming the place.
          In deciding this point, it would seem proper to attend first to
            the risk of the infection. This consideration lies, as you observe, against Trenton
            & Wilmington: secondly, to Northern and Southern jealousies.
            This applies to N. York and Annapolis: thirdly, to the
            disposition of Pennsylvania, which is entitled to some regard, as well by her calamity,
            as by the circumstance of her being in possession of the Government.
          In combining these considerations we are led to look for some place within the State of
            Pennsylvania not materially different from Philada in relation to North and South.
            Lancaster and Reading appear to have occurred. With the former I am but little
            acquainted. The latter I never saw. If the object of the Executive should be merely to
            put Congress in the most neutral situation possible for chusing a place for themselves,
            as would have been the case at German Town, Reading seems to have the better
            pretensions. If the object should be to provide a place at once marking an impartiality
            in the Executive, and capable of retaining Congress during the Session, Lancaster seems
            to claim a preference.
          If the measure which my present view of the subject favors, should be deemed least
            objectionable, something like the following form might be given to it.
          “Whereas a very dangerous and infectious malady which continues to rage in the City of
            Philada renders it indispensable that the approaching Session of Congress should be
            held, as well as the Executive Department be for the present administered, at some other
            place: And whereas no regular provision exists for such an emergency; so that unless
            some other place be pointed out, at which the members of Congress may assemble in the
            first instance, great embarrasments may happen: Under these peculiar circumstances I
            have thought it incumbent on me to notify the obstacle to a meeting of Congress at the
            ordinary place of their Session; and to recommend that the several
            members assemble at  in the State of  at which place I shall be ready to
            meet them. G.W. P.U.S.[”]
          With sentiments of the highest respect and attachment I remain, Dear Sir, your
            affectionate humble servant

            Js Madison Jr