Title: To George Washington from Kentucky Citizens, 24 May 1794
From:
To: Washington, George

                  [c.24 May 1794]

               To the PRESIDENT and CONGRESS of the UNITED STATES of AMERICA;
               The REMONSTRANCE of the Subscribers, Citizens of the Commonwealth of KENTUCKY, SHEWETH:
               THAT your Remonstrants have observed with concern and indignation, the injuries and insults offered to the United States by the king of Great Britain. He has violated in important parts, that treaty of peace, the observance of which might have obliterated the remembrance of former injuries. He has, by means of his agents, supplied arms, ammunition, cloathing and provision to those merciless Savages, who have so long ravaged the Western Frontier of these States. He has interposed, unsolicited, and negociated truces for Portugal and Holland, with the Piratical States, in order to turn the rapine of those African Barbarians solely on the American commerce. His vessels of war, and the Piratical vessels of his subjects, by his orders, in violation of the law of nations, have despoiled the commerce, and insulted

                  the neutral flag of America. He has made no compensation for the property of citizens of these States, carried away by his troops contrary to treaty. And, that we might escape no species of injury which could be heaped on the weakest and most despicable of nations, he holds within the territory of the United States, in defiance of treaty and of right, posts fortified and garrisoned by his armies.
               That these injuries and insults call loudly for redress, and that we will, to the utmost of our abilities and in any mode that can be devised, support the General Government in the firmest and most effectual measures, to obtain full satisfaction for all our wrongs.
               That your Remonstrants, and the other Inhabitants of the United States West of the Allegany and Appalachian Mountains, are entitled by nature and stipulation to the free and undisturbed Navigation of the River Mississippi; and that from the year 1783 to this day, they have been uniformly prevented, by the Spanish King, from exercising that right. Your Remonstrants have observed, with concern, that the General Government, whose duty it was to have preserved that right, have used no effectual measures for its attainment. That even their tardy and ineffectual negociations, have been veiled with the most misterious secrecy. That, that secrecy is a violation of the political rights of the citizen, as it declares, that the people are unfit to be entrusted with important facts relative to their rights, and that their Servants may retain from them the knowledge of those facts. Eight years are surely sufficient for the discussion of the most doubtful and disputable claim; the right to the Navigation of the Mississippi admits neither of doubt or dispute. Your Remonstrants, therefore, conceive that the negociations on that subject have been unnecessarily lengthy, and they expect, that it be demanded, categorically, of the Spanish king, whether he will acknowledge the right of the Citizens of the United States to the free and uninterrupted Navigation of the River Mississippi, and cause all obstructions, interruption and hindrance to the exercise of that right in future to be withdrawn and avoided, that immediate answer thereto be required; and that such answer be the final period of all negociations upon this subject.
               Your Remonstrants further represent, that the encroachment of the Spaniards upon the Territory of the United States

                  is a striking and melancholy proof of the situation to which our country will be reduced, if a tame policy should still continue to direct our councils.
               Your Remonstrants join their voice to that of their Fellow Citizens in the Atlantic States, calling for satisfaction for the injuries and insults offered to America, and they expect that such satisfaction shall extend to every injury and insult, done or offered to any part of America by Great Britain and Spain; and as the detention of the Posts and the interruption to the Navigation of the Mississippi, are injuries and insults of the greatest atrocity and of the longest duration, they require the most particular attention to those subjects.
               Your Remonstrants declare, that it is the duty of the General Government to protect the Frontiers, and that the total want of protection, which is now experienced by every part of the Western Frontier, is a grievance of the greatest magnitude and demands immediate redress.


Title: Bartholomew Dandridge, Jr., to Henry Knox, 24 May 1794
From: Dandridge, Bartholomew Jr.
To: Knox, Henry

                  24 May 1794.

               By the Presidents order B. Dandridge has the honor to send herewith enclosed to the Secretary of War, a letter just received by the president from the Govr of north Carolina; & to request the Secretary to cause such directions to be given, with regard to the subject thereof, as may be proper.
               A Letter to the President from Colo. Fitzgerald is also sent for the information of the Secretary, who is informed that the President thinks the arrangements therein mentioned of the fortifications for the defence of alexandria, are adviseable & are such as meet his approbation.


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Mifflin, 24 May 1794
From: Mifflin, Thomas
To: Washington, George

                  Phila. 24 May 1794

               The information contained in the letter from Genl Wilkins, which I communicated to you yesterday; and the general aspect of our affairs on the frontiers; enforcing the necessity of an immediate exertion, to support the Detachment, which the Legislature of Pennsylvania directed to be formed, for the purpose of protecting the Commissioners, who were authorised to lay out a town at Presqu’-isle, I have issued orders for drafting one thousand militia from the Western Brigades, for that particular service. I have the honor to inclose a copy of my Orders; and to be, with perfect respect, Sir, Your Excellencys Most obd. Hb.


Title: To George Washington from Richard Shepard, 24 May 1794
From: Shepard, Richard
To: Washington, George

                  Sir
                  Philada May 24th 1794

               I am a native of No. Carolina bred to the Sea and wish the appointment of Lieutenant on board one of the Frigates to be fitted out by the United States, I understand that the Members of Congress from North Carolina have recommended me to the Secretary of war, If your Excellency appoints me as Lieutenant I shall do every thing in my power to merit your approbation. with the highest respect I am Sir your most Obedt Servt

                  Richard Shepard


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Mifflin, 25 May 1794
From: Mifflin, Thomas
To: Washington, George

                  Sir
                  Philadelphia, 25th May 1794

               I have occasion to regret, that your opinion, on the expediency of suspending, for the present, the establishment at Presqu’-isle, was not communicated to me, previously to the receipt of the letter from the Secretary at War, dated yesterday, in which that opinion is, for the first time, explicitly expressed.  I am apprehensive, indeed, that it is too late to prevent the execution of the measures, which, under the authority of the law of Pennsylvania, were concerted relatively to that object, and of which I had the honor regularly to apprise you:  but, ever anxious to promote the views of the General Government, and to avoid encreasing the dissatisfaction of the Six Nations, or in any other manner extending the sphere of Indian hostilities, I shall

                  consider your interposition and request, as a sufficient justification for attempting, even at this late period, to arrest the progress of the Commissioners in laying out the Town at Presqu’-isle, conformably to those directions of the Legislature which I could not, on any less authority, venture to supersede. Copies of my letters to the Commissioners, to the Captain of the Detachment, and to the Brigade Inspectors of the Western counties, for that purpose, are now inclosed.
               It may not, at the same time, be improper, Sir, to remark, in vindication of the measure projected by the Legislature, that the territory within which the Town is directed to be laid out, has not only been purchased from the United States by Pennsylvania, but has, likewise, been ceded to her, for a valuable consideration, by the Six Nations.  It could not, therefore, be in the contemplation of her government, that any hostile opposition would be made to her settling upon a property thus fairly acquired; or that the advancement of her peculiar interests in that respect, would be deemed incompatible with the general interests of the Union.
               In regard to my agency upon the occasion, permit me, also, to trouble you with a short recapitulation. On the 8th of April 1793, the Act for laying out a Town at Presqu’-isle was passed; in which I was empowered to obtain a survey of the reserved Tract in that quarter, and directed to cause a certain number of acres to be surveyed and laid out in Town-lots and Out-lots. It was obviously the intention of the Legislature that this trust should be speedily executed; as the bounty offered to settlers, was limited to those who should actually inhabit and reside in the Town before the 1st of January 1794: but the dangerous state of the Frontiers at that time, induced the Commissioners appointed for making the survey, to protract their departure, till the meeting of the General Assembly in December last, when I represented the necessity of providing adequate means for the protection and safety of those gentlemen, if the accomplishment of the plan confided to them was deemed of immediate importance. Accordingly, during the Session, two laws were passed; by one of which I was authorised to make a detachment, for that particular service, from the four Defensible Companies raised by Pennsylvania; and by the other the period for allowing bounties to settlers was extended to the 1st day of May 1795.  The

                  language and spirit of these Legislative provisions left me no alternative, but as to a choice of means for carrying them into effect; and lest, even in that respect, any interference with the Federal arrangements should occur, I have punctually transmitted to you, information of every step that was taken; as you will perceive by a reference to my several letters of the 28th of March, the 9th 23rd and 24th of May 1794.
               Under these circumstances, Sir, I trust it will appear, that I could not, with justice to my official station, act upon the bare intimation given on the 10th current by the Secretary at War to the Secretary of the Commonwealth; and that I sufficiently manifest my confidence in your advice, by pursuing it, when it is expressly stated. I am, with perfect respect, Sir, Your Excellency’s Most Obedient Humble Servant

                  Tho. Mifflin


Title: From George Washington to William Pearce, 25 May 1794
From: Washington, George
To: Pearce, William

                  Mr Pearce,
                  Philadelphia 25th May 1794

               I learn with concern from your letter of the 18th instant, that your crops were still labouring under a drought, and most of them very much injured.  At disappointments and losses which are the effects of Providential acts, I never repine; because I am sure the alwise disposer of events knows better than we do, what is best for us, or what we deserve. Two or three fine rains have fallen here in the course of the past week; some of which I hope (though I fear the showers were partial) may have extended to Mount Vernon.
               I am quite astonished as well as concerned, to hear so unfavorable an acct of the drilled Wheat. What can be the cause of it?  Not the working of it I hope? for by that means it was, I expected to have augmented the crop considerably.
               The great change for the worse in my Sheep, since I left home about five years ago is as much to be regreted, as the constant decrease of their numbers. At that time, the fleeces through my flock, averaged upwards of five pound, now, I perceive by the last reports they are but little over two pounds.
               From the letters I have received by the Peggy, she must have arrived at George Town, I hope you have got my thorn plts, and Mr Lears fruit Trees to Mount Vernon. Enclosed is a copy of

                  the list of the latter, which desire the Gardener to be particularly attentive to.
               It was always intended that the Negro quarters at Union farm should range with the lane fence, or nearly so; but then the fence of No. 5 & the great Meadow was to have been moved forward, with a view to narrow the lane, and to throw the Barn in the middle of it—So wide a lane as the present never was intended to remain. but matters may rest as they are until I come home, or until you shall hear from me again. The first will not be, I fear, so soon as I expected; as it is very questionable whether Congress will be up next week; and I may have business afterwards, to detain me here a few days; which does not occur to me at this moment. In my next (this day week) I may probably speak with more certainty on this point. I wish you well and am Your friend &ca

                  Go: Washington

                  P.S. Have you heard of the Oats yet, which I sent from hence?
                  A vessel is now up for Alexandria, by which I shall send Paper for my House in that place.

                  G.W.


Title: To George Washington from Harriot Washington, 25 May 1794
From: Washington, Harriot
To: Washington, George

                  Honord Uncle
                  Fredericksburg May th. 25 1794

               Aunt Lewis has desired me to inform you that she has received your letter to Cousin Robert and expect’s it will have a quick conveyance, as cousin Carter leaves this for Fauquier to day. I hope My dear Uncle will excuse my asking him for some Summer dresse’s, as nothing would induce me to be so troublesome

                  if I was not in absolute want of them. those that I had last year are almost worn out I am affraid My dear Uncle will think me careless and extravagant but indeed I mend and wear them as long as I possibly can Aunt Lewis say’s if you will send the money to get them that I shall not have any thing that I am not in real want of, but she say’s things are very dear here and if you pleased to get them there it would be cheaper as Cousin has told us goods are much lower there than they are here.
               Aunt Lewis join’s me in love to you Aunt Washington and all the rest of the family. I am Honord Uncle Your affectionate Neice

                  Harriot Washington


Title: To George Washington from James Bell, 26 May 1794
From: Bell, James
To: Washington, George

                  Sir,
                  Philada May 26. 1794

               Persuaded that your important time must be occupied with the weighty Care of the public affairs, I feel, on this account, great embarrassment for trespassing one moment on your attention. I regret, Sir, that it has become necessary. But, your exalted Character justifies me in hoping that, tho’ surrounded by great and important public business, you will condescend to hear my Representations, and, so far as in you lies, remedy the Grievances of which I complain.
               When, in the Course of the war with Great Britain, an Expedition was undertaken by the United States against Canada, I rendered, what are allowed to be, great and important Services to the United States. I expended, Sir, my own Monies—I furnished Supplies, at my own expense, for the American Army; and, otherwise, assisted the expedition by all the means in my power: and, in the doing of this, I reduced my private fortune very considerably. I had hopes in the Justice of the United States, and entertained no doubt, but that my Demands for these

                  services, supported as they are by just vouchers, would be allowed to me. Accordingly I lately petitioned the Congress; and, in the House of Representatives, my petition was referred to a Committee who, on a full investigation of my Claims & Vouchers made a favorable report, which was agreed to in the House and a Bill was brought in agreeably thereto which being referred to a Committee of the whole was lost on the principle that I am barred by the Act of Limitation. I enclose, for your perusal a Copy of the report of the Committee, and of my own statement to them when sitting for the purpose of examining my Claims.
               I have believed, Sir, that the Services I have rendered to the United States were meritorious—and that my demands for them are just is incontestible. I have also believed, Sir, that the Act of Limitation cannot bar my Claims, because, not dwelling within the limits of the United States, I ought to come within the provisory exceptions of that Act; for, my residence has all along been at Chambly in Canada.
               But, Sir, just as my demands are I am excluded from all Chance of recompense; and I cannot help expressing to you that I deem this peculiarly hard.
               I beg of you, Sir, if it lies in your power, to assist me in having my Business put into a train of just liquidation; and, I am sure, that your regard for those, who were the real friends of America in the time of her greatest Danger & Distress, will lead you to do every thing to this purpose that you consistently can.
               For Brevity sake, I have avoided a more particular detail; hoping, that you will be pleased to favor me with an opportunity of personally explaining the peculiar Hardship of my Situation with regard to this business. Permit me therefore to wait your Answer. With the greatest respect & Esteem I am Sir Your most obedt humble Servant

                  Jas Bell


Title: From George Washington to the Earl of Buchan, 26 May 1794
From: Washington, George
To: Buchan, eleventh earl of (David Stuart Erskine; 1742-1829)

                  My lord,
                  Philadelphia 26th May 1794.

               It is no uncommon thing to attempt, by excuses, to atone for acts of omission; and frequently too, at the expence of as much time as (seasonably employed) would have superceded the occasion of their presentment. Sensible as I am of this—and ashamed as I am of resorting to an apology so common yet I feel, so forcibly, the necessity of making one for suffering your Lordships very polite and obliging favor of the 30th of last June to remain so long unacknowledged that I cannot avoid falling into the error I am reprobating.
               The truth is, the malignant fever which raged in this City during the months of August, September & October of last year (of which at least 5,000 of its inhabitants were swept off) occasioned my retreat therefrom on the 10th of September and prevented my returning until some time in November; between which and the meeting of Congress (the first monday in december) I had

                  hardly time to prepare for the Session. The Session has been long & interesting (and is not yet closed). Little leizure therefore have I had, during the period of its continuance for the indulgence of private corrispondencies.
               I did however, from German Town, in the early part of November, give your lordship the trouble of receiving a few lines from me introductory of my friend Mr Lear; and am exceedingly flattered by the polite attention with which he was honored, on my account, by your lordship and the Countess of Buchan. He speaks of it (in a letter I have lately received from him in London) in the highest terms of respect & gratitude.
               The sentiments which are expressed in your lordships letter of the 30th of June, do honor to the goodness of your heart, and ought to be engraved on every mans mind. And if, instead of the provocations to War—bloodshed & desolation (oftentimes are unjustly given), the strife of Nations & of individuals was to excel each other in acts of Philanthropy; industry and œconomy; in encouraging useful arts & manufactures, promoting thereby the comfort & happiness of our fellow men, and in exchanging on liberal terms the products of one country & clime for those of another; how much happier would mankind be.
               But Providence, for purpose beyond the reach of mortal scan, has suffered the restless, & malignant passions of man, the ambitious, & sordid views of those wh<o> direct them, to keep the affairs of this world in a continual state of disquietude; and will, it is to be feared, place the prospect of peace too far off & the promised millennium at an awful distance from our day.
               In the disturbed state at which most Nations seems to have arrived—and from which it is my earnest wish to keep this Country fre (if it can be done consistent with honor, and the respect which every Nation owes to itself as well as to others) I shall avoid all details on Political Subjects, & having no other, at present, worthy attention, I shall conclude with asking your Lordships forgiveness for the liberty I have taken in putting the packet for Docr Anderson under cover of this letter to you directed to the care of the American Minister in London—Assuring you, at the same time, of the sentiments of high respect & esteem with which I have the honor to be, Your Lordships most Obedt & Very Hble Servant

                  Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Robert Morris, 26 May 1794
From: Washington, George
To: Morris, Robert

                     Dear Sir,
                     Philadelphia 26th May 1794.

                  As I have other unproductive landed property in the Western Country besides that which you seem disposed to become the purchaser of—and some also in Virginia, which, in my opinion, promises the richest future harvest of anything of the kind I have contemplated. I offer the whole to you upon the terms mentioned in the enclosed paper.
                  Were my prospects different from what they really are, not the sum there mentioned—or anything like it—would alienate the property from me. But, as the case is, I prefer present convenience to future advantages; and therefore, in my own days, which cannot be many, am disposed to turn my unproductive land into cash, that I may enjoy the comforts which may result fro<m the interest thereof.
                  Mr Casenave (through the medium of Govr Lee of Virginia) made> overtures to me for my interest in the Great Dismal Swamp. The answer to these you will find enclosed.  He scarcely—as I understood from the Govr, knew whether to say yea, or nay, to my offer; and being timid—and wishing first to know if he could secure the other there, the matter stopped, & so it has remained. Mr Casenave expected, probably on good ground, that a purchase from others might be made on lower terms than I had affixed to mine.
                  The plat of this land; that of the round bottom; and of those tracts on the little Miami; a sketch of the Town of Mount Pleasant at the conflux of the Ohio & Great Kanhawa; with some

                  Map 1. GW’s Western Lands. (Illustrated by Rick Britton. Copyright Rick Britton 2010.)

                     other Papers, are enclosed.  They may be returned with such as you have, belonging to me, or retained to be added to according to your decision.
                  It may be desirable on Mr Casenaves acct<, to make no mention of his views, if you do not incline to embark in the measure yourself, <illegible> I do not> know what steps he proposed to take, or has taken, in the business.
                  I have made you the offer wch is enclosed, and given the best view I am able of facts, because I understood from you that Mr Greenleaf is to be concerned with you in purchases of this kind, and is expected in this City. With very great esteem & regard I am—Dear Sir Yr most Obedt & Affect. Sert

                     Go: Washington


Title: Enclosure: Memorandum on Land, 25 May 1794
From: Washington, George
To:

                     Philadelphia May 25th 1794.

                  Land belonging to the subscriber—West of the Alligany Mountain—and in the Great dismal Swamp in Virginia—which he would dispose of at the prices thereunto annexed.
      Upon the River Ohio—East side   }
In 3 separate tracts—according to the }   Acres
     Surveys thereof for 2,314.       }   9,157
     2,448 & 4,395
Round bottom (1)                            587
                                                  9,774.
       On the great Kanhawa.          }
In 4 tracts—viz.—10,990—7,276         }
     2,000—& 2,950—together           }  23,216
                           32,960 @ 20/ V: Cy (2)   £32,960
                                 25 prCt diffe. Exch. 8,240

       West of the Ohio.
In 3 tracts, on the little Miami—viz.—
     first, near the mouth—
     within a mile of the Ohio   }           839
     2d Seven miles up the Miami }           977
     3d ten miles up the same    }         1,235
                                           3,051 @  7/6  (3) 1,144. 2.6
         In Kentucky.
     In two Surveys                     5,000           3/9  (4)           937.10.0
         In the state of Pennsa
     Washington C[oun]ty by Patent      2,813          30/   (5)         4,219.10.0
     Fayette     Ditto   by Do          1,644          40/   (6)         3,288
     Westmoreld  Do   Great Meadows       234½         25/   (7)           293. 2.6
       Great dismal Swamp.
     A full share 2/21 part about       4,000          25/  V. Cy  (8)   5,000
                                                         diffe. Excha.     1,250
                                                                          57,332. 5.0
                  The above land, in my opinion, is richly worth the sum annexed to each parcel, & I have no doubt of its fetching it, or more, at the present moment, if I was in the habit, or in the way of disposing of land; but as neither of these is the case, and as I prefer present convenience to future gain, I will let them go to one person, or to an association of persons, for the round sum of fifty thousand pounds; estimating dollars at Seven shillings & six pence, and other gold & silver coin, currt in the country, at that rate; and if the interest is secured to me in any of the Banks, or in any other manner so as to render the receipt certain, when paymt becomes due, I will wait a term (to be agreed upon) for the principa[l].
                  The notes on the other side, relatively to some of the tracts, may be as <satis>factory as they are useful.

                     Go: Washing<ton>

                     Note (l). This tract for its size, is perhaps one of the most valuable on the Ohio River. It is in the shape of a horse shoe, with an elevated situation at the upper end for a house, on the bank of the River. It lies on the nearest & most direct road from the

                        Settlements on the Monongalia to Detroit; about 15 miles below Wheeling (where there is a thick & respectible settlement) and about 75 miles above Mariatte.
                     (2) The price at which they were offered to Mr Greenleaf.
                     (3) These tracts adjoin Judge Symes purchase & settlements—on the opposite side of the little Miami and are in the vicinity of Fort Washington. They were obtained for me, under the auspices of Colo. Thos Marshall of Kentucky; and by a verbal conversation which I have had with the person who surveyed them I am more impressed with the value of the land than I am by the official report—but it is on the latter I rest the character of it.
                     (4) I have neither the Surveys nor the Patents of these lands by me; both however are at Mt Vernon. They were purchased from Governor Lee of Virga, who has assured me, that they were of the first quality in that Country. They cost me £500 Virga M[one]y several years ago.
                     (5) By an actual survey (since the patent issued for this land) it has been found to measure upwards of 3000 acres. It lies not more than 15 or 16 miles from Pittsburgh—less from the County town—and contains 12 or 15 good & well improved farms—for that part of the Ctry.
                     (6) This tract is composed of five original Surveys, compactly joined, with an allowance of 6 prCt (according to the custom of the land office of Pennsylvania) at the time it was granted. These Surveys are among the first that were made in that country, & the goodness of the land is not exceeded by any therein. It lies on the great Road from Fort Cumberland to Pittsburgh, distant from the latter 40 miles. It has one large and several smaller farms on it. A Mill which cost (15 or 18 years ago) between a thousand & twelve hundred pounds—and lately by an allowance to the tenant has undergone a repair. Within 30 feet of the Mill house is a great shew of Iron Ore.
                     (7) This tract consists chiefly of Meadow, and is very valuable though unimproved. It is situated about half way between Fort Cumberland & Pittsburgh. Braddocks Road passes through it; which, and the advantage of so much meadow fit for the scythe, makes it an excellent stand for a Publican.
                     (8) This quantity is about the amount of the share I hold

                        in the great dismal Swamp. And of all the speculations in the United States, of which I have any conception, this, for the magnitude of it, is, in my opinion the most promising. The company of which I am one, holds 40,000 acres of Patented land therein; in which there is no dispute; and they have a just right to a good deal more which has been taken from them (illegally, & not past recovery) through their own inattention. Independant of the 40,000 acres, of which mine is a part, there is a large plantation of reclaimed land, on which the Company worked a number of hands many years; Part of whom, I believe, are continued thereon to this day. My share of the Plantation & Negros shall be included in the sum annexed to the Land. The 40,000 acres is the richest part of the whole swamp, and indeed it is scarcely possible for soil to be richer. The unreclaimed rice swamps of So. Carolina which are in no respect better & few of them so advantageously situated sell from ten to £15 ster[lin]g an acre, and when reclaimed at from 25 to £50 pr Acre. The Canal which is now opening from Elizabeth River to Albemarle sound passes through it, & will contribute much to the draining thereof; and in other respects will add immensely to the value of the property.  Rice, Tobacco, Indian Corn, Oats & other articles have been raised most luxuriantly by the Companies hands, on their plantation in this swamp. The value of so much land, of this quality within a few miles of Norfolk, Suffolk & Portsmouth; and alongside of Nansemond River (at a very small distance therefrom)—cultivated in these articles or laid to grass for mowing or grazing is almost incalculable.


Title: To George Washington from Edmund Randolph, 26 May 1794
From: Randolph, Edmund
To: Washington, George

                  Philadelphia May 26: 1794.

               The secretary of state has the honor of informing the President, that Mr Adams is of opinion, that his son will and ought to accept the appointment; and that he himself will advise him to accept it.
               Mr Monroe assents to the nomination of himself.
               The inclosed is a draft of the message, which was mentioned to the President this morning.


Title: To George Washington from Burgess Ball, 27 May 1794
From: Ball, Burgess
To: Washington, George

                  Dear sir,
                  Leesburg [Va.]—27th of May 1794.

               For a considerable time past I have been in a bad State of Health, and to endeavour to regain it I took a Trip to Alexandria to put myself under the direction of Doctor Craik, & from thence made a Visit to Fredericksbg—I thank God, I find myself mendg, but have so little appetite I regain my flesh very slowly.
               I saw Mr Pearce 2 or 3 times, and being inform’d by him that he had only sowed about 300 Bush: of Buck Wheat, I conciev’d you wd not want the 45½ which was lacking of the 500, as 100 or

                  150 will be a great deal to sow for Seed and Cows & Hoggs—If however you wd rather have the Buck wheat, I will with pleasure procure & forward it in full time—It is scarce indeed, but had not two men disappointed me, it wd have been in my mill long ago. The wheat I was obliged to give 2/6 ⅌ Bush: for, and for the Carriage 1/. ⅌ Bush:, so that the whole Amot of the 454½ comes to £79.10.9, out of which is to be deducted the 200 dollar Bank Note, 3 Bush: of Clover Seed, & 400 wh[i]t[e] Fish & 2500 Herring that I got of Mr Pearce. Mr Chs Carter who lives with the Atty Genl had the Settlement of my Sons affairs in Philada, and I am owing for him Ball: of 25 dollars, which Sum I must request you’ll be so good as to pay Mr Carter, and the Ball: of the Accot we can settle when we meet again.
               Colo. Washington has grown much heartier and for some time past has declined—which makes us all happy—miss Milly & Sammy are here and (with Fanny) unite with me in wishing you & yours every filicity.  I am Dr sir with the highest Esteem Yr Affect. Hble servt

                  B: Ball

                  P.S. Mr Dandridge will be good enough to take the 25 dollars to Mr Carter for me. B.B.


Title: To George Washington from Alexander Hamilton, 27 May 1794
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

                  Sir,
                  Treasury Departmt May 27. 1794.

               In answer to the enquiry you have been pleased to make, I have the honor to inform you that nothing has been yet done upon the first section of the Act of the 20th of March last, which appropriates a million of dollars, to defray any expenses that may be incurred in relation to the intercourse between the United States and foreign Nations; authorising the President if necessary to borrow the whole or any part of that sum.

               I should before this have brought that subject under the consideration of the President, but for the following reasons.
               The Act directs that the sum in question shall be paid out of any monies which may be in the Treasury, not otherwise appropriated—but refers to no time as the criterion of such unappropriated monies. To understand monies as synonimous with funds, which was no doubt meant, as has been the frequent language of appropriation Laws—and to attach the appropriation upon the funds, which at the time of passing the Act were not otherwise appropriated, would materially endanger the adequateness of the funds for satisfying the appropriations for the War Department for the present year, which happens to have received the signature of the President one day later.
               To act therefore upon the law in this sense would essentially embarrass that more urgent part of the public service which respects our military operations—& would no doubt contravene the intention of the Legislature.
               It is well understood, that this intention was to postpone the object in question to a future provision, & accordingly the Committee of ways and means have had a special reference to it in the new taxes proposed.
               To construe the law according to this intention, it is necessary to wait for such further provision—for there would be no fund that could be relied upon as the basis of the loan to be obtained.
               When this provision shall be made, it will remain for the President to determine, whether he will upon contingency incur the expense to the United States of borrowing the entire sum at once, or whether he will subdivide it, or wait a further development of circumstances respecting the probability of a call for the money before any operation is made.
               But though I could not recommend an attempt to borrow the entire sum as the business is now situated; yet if there be any particular call for a part of it I presume arrangements may be adopted which will procure it. With perfect respect &c.

                  Alex. Hamilton


Title: To George Washington from Alexander Hamilton, 27 May 1794
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

                  Sir,
                  Philadelphia May 27. 1794.

               I sometime since communicated an intention to withdraw from the office I hold, towards the close of the present session.
               This I should now put in execution but for the events which have lately accumulated of a nature to render the prospect of a continuance of our peace in a considerable degree precarious. I do not perceive that I could voluntarily quit my post at such a juncture, consistently with considerations either of duty or character; and therefore I find myself reluctantly obliged to defer the offer of my resignation.
               But if any circumstances should have taken place in consequence of the intimation of an intention to resign, or should otherwise exist, which serve to render my continuance in office in any degree inconvenient or ineligible, I beg leave to assure you, Sir, that I should yield to them with all the readiness naturally inspired by an impatient desire to relinquish a situation, in

                  which even a momentary stay is opposed by the strongest personal & family reasons and could only be produced by a sense of Duty or reputation. With the highest respect, I have the honor to be &c.

                  A. Hamilton


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Mifflin, 27 May 1794
From: Mifflin, Thomas
To: Washington, George

                     Sir.
                     Philadelphia, 27th May 1794.

                  In compliance with the request of Judge Addison, I have the honor to transmit to you a copy of his letter, dated the 12th current, in explanation of the Extract communicated to you on the 18th of April last, relatively to the collection of the Excise in the Western counties.  As it appears, that the information, which he enabled me to lay before you, has been used in a way that was not intended, justice requires that the foundation of his opinions should be clearly understood. I have the honor to be, With perfect respect, Sir, Your Excellency’s Most Obedt Hble servt

                     Tho. Mifflin


Title: To George Washington from William Pearce, 27 May 1794 [letter not found]
From: Pearce, William
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from William Pearce, 27 May 1794. In GW’s letter to Pearce of 1 June, he writes, "I am glad to find by your letter of the 27th ulto that you had had some good rains"; in Pearce’s second letter to GW of 4 June, he refers to "my Letter of the 27th."


Title: From George Washington to the United States Senate, 27 May 1794
From: Washington, George
To: United States Senate

                  Gentlemen of the Senate,
                  United States 27. May 1794.

               The Executive provisory Council of the French Republic having requested me to recal Gouverneur Morris, our Minister Plenipotentiary in France; I have thought proper, in pursuance of that request, to recal him.  I therefore nominate, James Monroe, of Virginia, as Minister Plenipotentiary of the United States to the said Republic.
               I also nominate William Short, now Minister resident for the United States with their high mightinesses, the states general of the United Netherlands; to be Minister resident for the United States to his Catholic majesty, in the room of William Carmichael, who is recalled.

                  Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to the United States Senate, 28 May 1794
From: Washington, George
To: United States Senate

                  Gentlemen of the Senate,
                  United States 28th May 1794

               I nominate the following persons to be Consuls and vice Consuls for the United States of America, at the places affixed to their names respectively.

               James Simpson, to be Consul for the United States of America at the port of Gibraltar; and for such other places as shall be nearer to the said Port, than to the residence of any other Consul or vice-Consul of the United States within the same allegiance.
               Philip Marck, to be Consul for the United States of America, in Franconia in Germany.
               Peter Feliechy, to be Consul for the United States of America at the port of Leghorn; and for such other places as shall be nearer to the said Port, than to the residence of any other consul or vice-consul of the United States within the same allegiance.
               Arnold Delius, to be Consul for the United States of America, at Bremen.
               William McCarty, to be Consul for the United States of America, in the Isle of France.
               John Culnan, to be Consul for the United States of

                  America, at the port of Oratava, in Teneriffe; and for such other places as shall be nearer to the said port than to the residence of any other Consul or vice Consul of the United States within the same allegiance.
               Sylvanus Bourne, to be Vice Consul for the United States of America at the port of Amsterdam; and for such other places as shall be nearer to the said port, than to the residence of any other Consul or Vice Consul of the United States within the same allegiance.
               P. F. Dobree, to be Vice-Consul for the United States of America at the port of Nantz; and for such other places as shall be nearer to the said Port, than to the residence of any other Consul or Vice Consul of the United States within the same allegiance.
               Joseph Wilson, to be Consul for the United States of America, at the port of Dublin; and for such other places as shall be nearer to the said port, than to the residence of any other Consul or vice Consul of the United States within the same allegiance.

                  Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Mr. Wilson, 28 May 1794
From: Wilson, Mr.
To: Washington, George

                  Maryland, Havre de Grace, May 28. 1794.

               The Decade or French Calendar.
               A great and magnanimous Nation, the immediate Servants of the supreme Disposer of the universe, having been much traduced and misrepresented, by the advocates of Priests and Kings, the eternal enemies of the Rights of Man, and that pure

                  evangelic spirit of Freedom, which breathes nothing but good-will towards the whole human race, a Fellow Being, unconnected with party, and totally divested of improper or selfish motives, has, in the retirement of meditation, and the contemplation of Things temporal as well as spiritual, endeavoured by the communication of his Ideas, to open a grand Frontispiece of Events, as well as a Justification of those People (the French) who cordially appear to be supported by the most High, for ridding the world of pristine bondage, and perpetuating that Liberty, wherein God, by his word, has commanded all men to be free.
               It will be first proper to speak to the last Dispensation, or old order of Things, before we advance to that period, where the Almighty declares—"Behold I make all Things new"!
               In the word or Holy Scriptures numbers signify Things; and the reason why numbers signify Things, or rather are like a kind of adjuncts to Substantives denoting a certain quality in Things, is, because number in itself is natural, for natural Things are determined by numbers, but spiritual Things by Things, and their states; wherefore he who doth not know the signification of numbers in the scriptures, especially in the last Dispensation promised to man, the Apocalypse or Revelations, can know but little of what are contained therein.
               Seven, in the word denotes all or completion; hence it is, under the old Dispensation, that the Sabbath was instituted on the seventh Day, and that the seventh year was called the Sabbatharian year; and the seven Times seventh year the Jubilee, by which was signified every thing holy in the old Church: Hence also it is, that week (seven Days) in Daniel and elsewhere, signifies an entire period from beginning to end, and is predicated of that system or Dispensation which is now consummating or ended.
               The Jews observed the seventh Day in commemoration of the Creation, and their redemption from the bondage of the Egyptians; the Christians observe the first day of the week in commemoration of the resurrection of Christ from the dead, and the universal redemption of mankind. The Days as they are generally called, such as Sunday, Monday &c. all derive their names from the Pagan Idols, and that especially from the Saxons. We advance now to the Decade.
               Ten, in the word, signifies the duration of state to the full. The Reason why ten Days signify duration of state to the full, is,

                  because ten days signify states, and ten what is full; for Times in the word signify states, and numbers add the quality of them; For as much as ten signify what is full, it also signifies much and many, also every thing and all, as may appear from these passages which follow, "Those men which have seen my glory have tempted me these ten Times,["] Numb: 14.22. These ten times have ye reproached me, Job: 19.3. Daniel was found ten Times wiser than the astrologers, Dan: 1.20. Ten Women shall bake Bread in one oven, Levit: 26.26. Ten men out of all Languages of the Nations shall take hold of the Shirt of him that is a Jew, Zec: 8.23. Because ten signifies many, and also all, therefore the Things which were written upon the Tables of the Decalogue of Jehovah, are called the Ten words, Deut: 4.13. And because ten signifies all and every thing, therefore the Lord compared the Kingdom of Heaven to ten Virgins Matth: 25.1. Moreover in the parable he said of the nobleman, that he gave his Servants ten Talents to trade with, Luke, 19.12.13.  Beside a variety of other passages from the word to support the allusion. But we here arrive at the Inference.
               It is declared by Him that has promised, and shall He not perform it? that, "all Things shall be made new," or in the fullness of Time, when the old Dispensation can no longer benefit his People, a new order of Things shall take place.
               It is asserted, that "the Sabbath was made for man," for his ease, convenience and rest; but when it becomes so debased as to be universally the most prophaned period of Time among Men, through the subtilty of the Serpent or Priestcraft, then the Promises are fulfilled "in the Angels lifting up his hand to Heaven, and swearing by him that liveth for ages of ages, who created Heaven and the Things that therein are, and the Earth and the Things that therein are, and the Sea and the Things that are therein, that there should no longer be Time,["] Rev: 10.5.6. This is not, as some vainly imagine, a destruction of the Planet we now inhabit, but a destruction of the old order of Time. By Time is signified state, and because the church or old system is here treated of, a state of that church is signified; therefore, there shall no longer be Time, signifies that there will not be any state or remaining order of the old church.
               The noble French nation has been publicly fulminated by "Pulpit Drum Ecclesiastic," for Theism; Be it so.

               In the last Dispensation promised, it is worthy of observation, that all worship and adoration is commanded to be given only unto God, "for He only is Holy,["] Rev: 15.4. And the Lord God of the Prophets sent his Angel to shew unto his Servants the Things which must shortly be done. And I John saw these things, and heard them. And when I had heard and seen, I fell down to worship before the feet of the angel, which shewed me these Things. Then saith he unto me, see thou do it not: for I am thy Fellow Servant, and of thy Brethren the Prophets, and of them which keep the sayings of this Book, worship God! Rev: 22.6.8.9. This also is expressly commanded in the 19 chp: and unless we can prove that there are more gods than One, the French nation certainly are not antichristian for solely giving their supreme adoration to the one great eternal Being of boundless Love and immeasurable wisdom: who without Time is Eternal, and without place is Infinite; whose centre is everywhere, but whose circumference or Limits are no where.

                  N.B. As the Cent or tenth is found to be the perfection in Figures, so the Decade or tenth will also be found to be the completion or fulness in Time.

                  (Public.)


Title: From George Washington to Charles Carter, Jr., of Culpeper, 29 May 1794
From: Washington, George
To: Carter, Charles Jr.

                  Dear Sir,
                  Philadelphia 29th May 1794

               I have duly received your letter of the 14th instant.
               The enclosed to Mr John Lewis, left open for your perusal, will shew what I require for myself, and am willing to do for others.  Do you & he therefore, after full enquiry into facts, point out what this ought to be—and no delay shall be experienced from me.

               The two hundred pounds for which you endorsed an order upon a Merchant of this place, has been duly paid. The remainder of the money due me for the purchase of the lots (amounting to about two hundred pounds more) I give, as I desired Mr Howell Lewis to inform you to my niece Mrs Carter—And by these presents I confirm the gift.  Give my love to her. With great esteem & regard I am—Dear Sir Your Obedient Servt

                  Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Alexander Hamilton, 29 May 1794
From: Washington, George
To: Hamilton, Alexander

                  Sir,
                  Philadelphia May 29th 1794

               The communication, which you made to me sometime ago, of your intention to resign, and to which you refer in your letter of the 27th instant (received yesterday afternoon) I always considered as depending upon events.
               Of course nothing has been done by me to render your continuance in Office inconvenient or ineligible. On the contrary, I am pleased, that you have determined to remain at your Post until the clouds over our affairs, which have come on so fast of late, shall be dispersed.

                  Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Alexander Hamilton, 29 May 1794
From: Washington, George
To: Hamilton, Alexander

                  Dr Sir,
                  Philada 29 May 1794.

               To the best of my recollection I shewed, or turned over to your office, a letter from the Governor of this State, with enclosures, to which the one herewith sent of the 27th refers.  But the parts of the former alluded to in the latter have escaped me. I therefore send it to you, that if any answer thereto, or acting upon either or both is necessary, that you will do it accordingly. I am &c.

                  Geo: Washington


Title: From George Washington to the United States Senate, 29 May 1794
From: Washington, George
To: United States Senate

                  Gentlemen of the Senate,
                  United States 29th May 1794.

               I nominate John Quincy Adams, of Massachusetts, to be minister resident of the United States of America, to their High Mightinesses, the States general of the United Netherlands.
               On the 19 day of Feby 1793 a nomination was made of Edward Fox, as Consul of the United States of America for the port of Falmouth in Great Britain. It now appears that the name of the person, intended to be nominated is Robert Weare Fox.  I therefore nominate the said Robert Weare Fox, to be Consul of the United States of America for the port of Falmouth, in the Kingdom of Great Britain; and for such other parts of the said Kingdom as shall be nearer to the said port, than to the residence of any other Consul or vice Consul of the United States within the same Kingdom.

                  Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from William Deakins, Jr., 31 May 1794
From: Deakins, William Jr.
To: Washington, George

                  Sir
                  Geo. Town [Md.] May 31st 1794

               I have Just receved a letter from Mr Benja. Jones, he Writes me your Part of the Rents of Woodstock is 4500 lb. Tobo ⅌ year. the whole of which is in the hands of the Tenants which he expects to Collect & pay into my hands by August Next. You shall then be Informed the Value of it at this Market.  With Great Respect I am Sir Your Obt Servt

                  Will. Deakins Junr


Title: To George Washington from Henry Lee, 31 May 1794
From: Lee, Henry
To: Washington, George

                  Sir,
                  Norfolk May 31st 1794

               I informed the Secretary of War since my arrival, that I should devote all the leisure I might have in examining the Western part of the Chesapeake and Hampton-Road, with a view to the preparing for you authentic information on points which, in case of war, will probably engage your attention.
               I have so done, but my time has not admitted of the minute examination I wished; still I believe my enquiries have been sufficient to substantiate the opinions they have given birth to—If at a future day anything of the sort should be brought into execution, a review will necessarily precede operation.
               I consider old Point Comfort, without comparison, pre-eminent in its advantages for the protection of the Chesapeak commerce, and it does, in my humble opinion, admit of works capable of certain defense of itself, and at the same time of considerable annoyance to a hostile fleet. Indeed I see no other place which in any degree controuls the entrance into Hampton-Road, which is the only Harbour, within the Chesapeak, convenient to the sea, for a large fleet, and which must always be resorted to by an invading Navy.
               Old Point-Comfort is 21 miles from Cape Henry, gives, of itself, a safe harbour to all vessels not drawing more than ten feet water, which comprehends a large proportion of the Vessels employed in the West India trade and coasting trade and gives in Hampton-Road a safe harbour to ships of any size and however numerous.
               The north east winds which prevails in October & September,

                  only can injure vessels riding in Hampton-Road, In which event Elizabeth river, not more than three miles, and Newport News, about five miles from the centre of the Road, afford Safety—The latter harbour will receive Ships of the line—Elizabeth river will only admit Vessels, drawing under twenty one feet Water. Together they afford protection complete, when the North-east Wind renders the road unsafe.
               Under the protection of Oldpoint Comfort fortified, our departing Vessels, from the Bay and all its rivers, may lay in safety, until the Wind & other Circumstances invite their sailing; and our returning Vessels—pressed by an enemy, off the capes, may, in a few hours run, enjoy the same good. If this advantageous spot remains unpossessed by us, it will always be occupied by the enemy when in the Chesapeake, they will enjoy its bounty as a harbour, they will use it as a resting place for the collection of information, and while waiting for opportunity to execute in the Bay and view their predatory plans. To deprive the enemy of such an Advantage, would be sufficient compensation of itself for the money which the execution of Works and their support would cost.
               Counting on the continuance of our Neutrality (which I sincerely pray may be the case) considerable good would daily be experienced from a military port at old point Comfort.
               Prizes brought into the Chesapeake by the Privateers of France, being confined to this one convenient Spot, until decision was had as to their legality, would put it in the power of the officers of government to execute your instructions relative to Neutrality with dispatch and with convenience to all concerned.
               Ships of War, belonging to any of the belligerent powers, coming into the Chesapeake being required to fulfil their Views of coming there (which to them would be entirely convenient) could not fail to prevent our fellow Citizens from much of this discord which prevails and will prevail in those seaports, having intercourse with the fleets of the nations at War.
               Whether we regard old point Comfort as productive of good to ourselves, or of annoyance and injury to our enemies, whenever we shall be so unfortunate as to have enemies, I am conclusively in opinion, that it ought to be held as a port. In peace we shall be amply paid for the expence attending the erection of Works in the manner I have before specified, and in War the

                  Chesapeake trade must daily feel the want of our possession of this all important spot.
               No nation can enjoy the blessings of independance without expenditure of the money. The united States must submit to evil unless they will consent to furnish the means of interdicting it. I enclose a draft of the place I have so much commended. It was taken by mr Courty, a French officer formerly, he is a gentleman of discernment in his line and received from me every help to give exactitude to his labours. I think you may consider the draft accurate.
               You discover whether we have war or not, that I esteem the establishing a Strong tho’ small Work at old Point Comfort entirely proper, almost indispensable.
               Should we be drove to War, which you So wisely struggle to prevent, then I am of opinion, that additional forts on our Waters will be necessary. The following are the points which I prefer out of the many which claim examination:  Pianketank, York town, West Point, and Flowdry Hundred on James’ river. I omit the upper part of the Bay, Elizabeth river and Potowmack as they are in a manner provided for by law.
               Pianketank is distant from Cape Henry from 50 to 60 miles, lies close to the mouth of Rappahannock, in the direct route from Potowmac and Baltimore, and affords a convenient harbour to vessels belonging to those rivers and the upper Bay where they may wait going out until a proper opportunity offers.
               It may so happen in war, that these Vessels attempting to reach Old point Comfort may be intercepted, therefore do I consider this second place necessary.
               To all vessels returning from sea, bound up the two mentioned rivers, and the Bay, Pianketank is more convenient than old point Comfort, and in case of pursuit if cut off from the one they may reach the other and there be safe.
               After you enter the mouth of Pianketank your water is from 4 to 5 fathom, the harbour safe and easily defended and contiguous to a few populous counties, whose militia would be at hand to reinforce the Garrison. Vessels which draw more than 3½ fathom cannot enter into this Harbour: this is sufficient for all our trading vessels, and no force above a Frigate can attempt to molest them.
               Your own intimate knowledge of York town preclude many

                  observations which I should otherwise hazard. I will only add you carry to this harbour 5½ fathom Water.
               West-point, which is at the confluence of the two rivers which form York river and about 30 miles above York-town, strikes me as one of the maritime spots most worthy of governmental attention. It is true it cannot like old Point Comfort controul Hampton Road, or give immediately a safe harbour to our vessels pressed by the enemy on their return from sea as is offered by old Point Comfort, York town and Pianketank, but in another way is highly beneficial—It affords a safe harbour for all our commercial vessels, is the most proper place for a depot of naval stores because it may be made impregnable and is situated near the heart of the Country, not more than one days ride from the Metropolis and very convenient to the seas as well as to all parts of the Chesapeake navigation. With a View therefore to ultimate safety in the course of a difficult War to our trading Vessels and to the formation of an Arsenal as safe as the force of the Country can make a place I look at West Point as combining all the requisites to be desired.
               It is not convenient to the shipping of James’ River and therefore is it that I have noticed Flowdry Hundred.
               This port is represented to me by those who know it well to be distant from the Capes 90 miles and from Old point Comfort 70 miles. It will admit of Vessels drawing 19 feet water, will conveniently contain 50 or 60 sail of large ships, is safe from ice, which is an important Consideration, and safe from Worms which affect all the defensible Waters below, and convenient to the militia South of James’ river.
               I have not seen the place and therefore cannot say whether sufficient fortifications may be easily erected for its defence, but from the best description I have obtained am inclined to think they may.
               As a convenient Dock Yard, this place is highly commended, having the advantage of Gosport in respect to suitability of tide for heaving down ships. This is a subject I am not acquainted with, but I feel it proper to mention every Circumstance communicated to me relavant to the Character of the spot I am describing.
               It results from what I have said, if my observations are just, that Old point Comfort, york town, and Pianketank may be

                  converted into great use to our shipping in case of War; that Old point Comfort in peace ought to be possessed; and that, with York town, it will afford convenient harbours to our ships of War. That for all the other purposes, which a maratime nation must attend to, West Point is particularly fitted so far as Virginia is interested, and that Flowdry Hundred offers a convenient and safe site for James River.
               The Works will be safe in times of Peace when entrusted to the militia relieved every three months, provided that although the troops are changed the officer should continue. The duty imposed on the militia would not be heavy and would tend to dicipline them and the continuance of the officer will secure all the good to the public flowing from judicious appointment, which would be lost if militia officers in rotine were intrusted.
               You will find subjoined, in mr Courty’s draft, the plan of a fort suggested by him as adapted to Old point Comfort.
               I believe it will be found on closer investigation, that nine Guns will suffice as the tide runs with vast rapidity, and the Vessel having past your front line of fire, quickly gets out of reach and consequently that your right battery will be rendered useless.
               This is my own observation and may not be founded, as I have not reflected much upon it. Admitting fifteen for the sea the expence will not be great.
               The land defence may be made very stout with proper exertions. I recollect in reading letters which passed between Sir Henry Clinton and Earl Cornwallis relative to their operations in 1781, that old Point Comfort was examined with a View to its fortification as a Harbour and place of Arms and that on report of the Engineer his Lordship declined the business. The Engineer was of opinion, that it could not be made capable of resisting a Fleet.  I mention this authority as I wish you to be thoroughly informed and as I know my own inferiority of Judgement. Yet I must confess great as is the respect due to the opinion quoted I must adhere to the sentiments before expressed.
               West Point I learn admits of 3½ fathom Water. This shall be ascertained when necessary—It is subject to Worms at the spot but up the rivers which from that point the vessels may proceed to fresh Water and therefore may be safe from Worms.
               I have not been so full as I intended when I took up my

                  pen owing to a very painful face in consequence of my late Water excursion for the purpose of examining the Virginia Chesapeak.
               You may suppose that it is requiring too much to ask the Fortifications of the several places mentioned—But you know how this state is intersected with navigable rivers and how convenient her towns and farms are consequently to a naval Enemy.
               I see no way of securing us from being plundered by every Adventurer which bids so fair to the common tranquility and at so small expence—It always contributes very much to my satisfaction to be useful to you and at the present crisis when your patriot labours to save our common Country from the Scourge of War seems to be opposed as well by the internal folly and wickedness, as by foreign lust for gold, it would be doubly pleasing to me to contribute in the smallest degree to the success of your administration. I have &c.

                  Henry Lee


Title: To George Washington from Edmund Randolph, 31 May 1794
From: Randolph, Edmund
To: Washington, George

                  Philadelphia May 31. 1794.

               The Secretary of state has the honor of informing the President of the United States, that, having already accounted to him for the sum of thirteen thousand, two hundred dollars, destined for the relief of such of the exiles from St Domingo, as resided in the United States, he has offered the remaining eighteen hundred dollars, as follows: six hundred to Pennsylvania, which have been accepted: six hundred to Baltimore, which have been accepted: five hundred to New-York, which were said not to be necessary, and one hundred to Delaware, which were also unnecessary.  Hence the sum of six hundred dollars are deposited in the bank, liable to be disposed of, as the President shall choose, for the further relief of the inhabitants of St Domingo.

                  Edm: Randolph


Title: From George Washington to the Commissioners for the District of Columbia, 1 June 1794
From: Washington, George
To: Commissioners for the District of Columbia

                  Gentlemen,
                  Philadelphia June 1st 1794.

               I had hopes, and at one time strong expectation, that Congress would have closed their Session before this; and that other matters would have permitted my proposed visit to Mount Vernon about the time of your meeting in the Federal City; which (by a letter from Mr Carroll), I understood was appointed to be on the 5th of this month.
               In this expectation I have been disappointed. Congress are still in session, and it is not clear to me that they will rise this week. After which business of a public nature may, and probably will detain me in this City some days. This being the case, I decide now, to take the No. West quarter of square 21 (offered to me in your letter of the 23d of April); and presuming it was meant I should pay the same for this, as for the No. Et quarter, I enclose 266⅔ dollars; being the amount of the first payment, for both.
               For the reasons mentioned to you in my letter of the 27th of April, I should have been better pleased if I could have got the So. East in place of the No. West quarter of this square; and if you could, conveniently, and with propriety (for I do not know to whom it belongs, or under what circumstances it is), make the exchange—or obtain it by purchase (at or about the price of the others[)], it would oblige me. If by purchase, I mean notwithstanding, to retain the No. West quarter also. In short, it being my purpose to build on this sqr. if by some arrangements which I have in contemplation, I can obtain the means, I should have no objection, but on the contrary would wish, to possess myself of the whole square, that I might have space enough for my plan, be the design of it what it may.
               Not being without hope that I may yet see you before August, I shall not in this letter, more than in my former of the 27th of April, touch the subject which was then postponed.  With esteem & regard I am—Gentn Yr Most Obedt Servt

                  Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to James Germain, 1 June 1794
From: Washington, George
To: Germain, James

                  Mr Germain,
                  Philadelphia June 1st 1794

               An honest man—a man attentive to his duty—and one who discharges the trust reposed in him with activity, zeal and integrity fears neither the inspecting eye, nor the chiding remarks

                  of his Employer; because he feels something within him, that tells him, that the first measure is dictated by that prudence wch ought to govern all men who commits a trust to another—and that such a conduct as I have described above will be an effectual shield against the latter.
               On the other hand
               a dishonest man—one who is indolent, inattentive & careless; fond of company, pleasure & perhaps liquor, is always uneasy under restraints, and averse to a<ll> checks; and for the best reason (as it respects himself) in the world, for checks & enquiries will discover, if it does not prevent his knavery, and shew how unworthy he is to be entrusted.
               There are some men, not intenti[on]ally dishonest, who, notwithstanding, do as much injury to those who employ them as if they were really rogues, and in several ways—such for instance, as entrusting that to others which was intended for themselves only to perform thereby affording opportunities to persons in whom no confidence is placed, and where there is no responsibility, to help themselves to wh<at>ever they can filch with impunity, and ca<r>ry off without detection.
               2d By inattention and carelessness in suffering things to be wasted & destroyed in the family which might, and ought to have been prevented.
               3d By providing more for the use of that family (especially in the article of provisions) than is really necessary fo<r> the purposes for which they are designed—and particularly from not seeing tha<t> that which is provided, be set of, and turned to the greatest advantage, and not suffered to spoil—be misapplied—or taken away by the Servants without leave.
               4th By not seeing that the Servants are always in their places—that they are sober—and attentive to the duties which are assigned to them; and by not preventing, as much as possible, the breakage of China, glasses & other brittle wares—the bruising, and other abuses of the Silver & other things of a similar kind though of lesser value—& by hiring jobbers, too frequently, to do things which might well be done without.
               5th By not being sufficiently impressed with the magnitude of an evil which is not less pernicious because it is a common one—and that is—not attending to small as well as to greater matters. There is an old Scotch adage, than which none in the

                  whole catalogue of them is more true, or more worthy of being held in remembrance—viz.—"that many mickles make a muckle" indicating that however trifling a thing may be in itself, when it stands alone, yet, when they come to be multipl<yed> they mount high which serves to prove, that nothing, however trifling, ought to be wasted that can be saved—nor bought if you can do well without it.
               Having expressed these general ideas to you, it remains for me to add, in a more particular manner, what it is that I expect from your Stewardship.
               In the first place I am to inform you, that all the Liquors—the groceries—and other shop articles of consequence, will be laid in by my Secretary.
               Trifling articles, which are only wanted occasionally, will be provided by yourself. Provisions, and other articles of daily consumption, which are purchased in the common markets you are to provide on Market days, or at such othe<r> times & places as occasion may require. And that you may be enabled to do it on the best terms, find out the most respectable characters in the different lines that supply them and let these be the persons with whom you deal principally—taking care always that you receive full weight, full measure, or full count of all that you pay for & that it is brought home without diminutio<n>.
               From Mr Dandridge you will obtain money to defray my expences, & with him you are to settle your accounts, weekly, enumerating in a book to be kept for that purpose, the species, & quantity (with the price <fixed> to it) of every article that is bou<ght>; and the day it was bought. and where receipts can be taken to lay them before him. Ready money is to be paid for everything you purchase. I want no credit—and am averse to after reckonings.
               The multiplicity of my public duties leaves me but little leisure to suggest domestic arrangements—to look into <the> œc<onomy> of the family—or to inspect the articles which are provided for its support. For this reason I require that <you w>ould advise with Mrs Washington on these several points & be governed by her <di>rections. My general id<eas> on this subject are shortly thes<e>. 1st that my table <s>hall be handsomely but not extravagantly furnished on the days that company is en<t>ertained. 2d that a decent but econom<ical> board be spread at other times. And 3d that my domestics sh<d> be plentifully fed at all times with what

                  is wholesome & proper <beyond> which <nei>ther in quantity nor quality you are no<t> to go; nor suffer them to carry anythin<g> away from the h<ous>e unless they have permission so to do.
               Whatever remains after these purposes are served, and is not necessa<ry> for another day, I would have given to the poor and needy housekeepers in the <neigh>bourhood who may want & would <not> a<pply> for it.
               As we never have suppers, nor sudden calls for extra dinners, it can be <no> difficult matter to ascertain, with certainty to what my expences (agreeably to the <illegible>ing mode of living) may be reduced; an<d> as it is essential I should know it that I <may> govern myself accordingly my desire is that precise and particular pains be ta<ken> to accomplish this. The morning is the proper season for marketing—Le<t> it be a rule therefore to go thither early and knowing your wants, provide accordingly every article of which, and all the expenditures of the day are to be entered in a book as before directed; which book is, the succeeding morning, immediately after I rise from Breakfast (& before the Officers of Government are coming in) to be laid before me that I may see what the expences of the preceeding day has been. The weekly account, as you have been informed before, is to be settled at the end of it, with my Secretary—Mr Dandridge—And as the Provisions for the day will be brought in before Breakfast, they may, when Mrs Washington rises from it, be shewn to her.
               Let the Cellars, and other places of deposit be cleaned out, & put in proper order for the reception & safe keeping of the Provisions of every species which are laid in & the keys therof kept by you, or the Housekeeper and not a single article delivered thence but by one or the other & the purpose known.
               To prevent clashing, in any of the duties which are to be performed by the Steward and Housekeeper, it will be proper for you and Mrs Emmerson to arrange them between you, and aid (rather than counteract or thwart) each other in the duties of your respective functions.
               To add that the yard, around the Houses, the Corners in which dirt collects, &ca should be kept clean, can scarcely be necessary, because health as well as decency requires this. N<or> can it be necessary I hope to guard you against a practice which not only adds to the expence but is productive of other evils—I mean introducing company t<o> your tables.

               I mean to be thus particular and exact (and you are informed of <it> beforehand) because my household expences hitherto, have run so much beyond all calculation that I am resolved to discover the cause, which according to my conception, must proceed from on<e> or other of the following—either that I am charged for things that have never been got, at least to the amount, or if got, from their not having been applied to advantage—or lastly, from waste, or being borne off again, after they have been brought into the house; which is not unlikely, as every one seems to have access to them. The first (if it has been practiced) is nothing short of shear roguery; and the others, disreputable to any one who is entrusted with the managemt of the concerns of another; being equally injurious; for it is of little signification to the sufferer, whether he is cheated by the person or persons in whom he places a confidence, or by others through their inattention, & want of care. Nor in my opinion is there any difference in the criminality, as it respects themselves—the trust being equally violated; as the damage which they are employed to guard against is the same.
               In consideration of your performing these services—and in full expectation of your paying particular attention to the Cookery seeing that every thing appertaining to it is conducted in a handsome style, but without waste or extravagence I agree to allow you fifty guineas a year—and if I find myself much benefited by your skill, attention and œconomy, it may be an inducement to me to add something more to it after sufficient & satisfactory proofs shall have appeared of these facts.

                  Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Henry Knox, 1 June 1794
From: Knox, Henry
To: Washington, George

                  sir
                  Sunday 1st June 1794

               It is with great pain I submit the enclosed letters from Major Roberts, and Captain Freeman giving information of the recent disturbances and appearances of war which have arisen on the

                  frontiers of Georgia.  The protection of the frontiers by Militia, appears to be the certain mean of bringing on a war which the U.S. are desirous of avoiding. It seems however indispensible that these communications should be laid before Congress, but whether with a special message, or a simple communication by me, requires some consideration. For this purpose I shall wait upon you tomorrow Morni[n]g.
               I also submit two other letters, one from the Govr of Virginia, and the other the Governor of Maryland.  I am Sir respectfully Your obt Servt

                  H. Knox


Title: To George Washington from James Monroe, 1 June 1794
From: Monroe, James
To: Washington, George

                  Sir
                  Philadelphia June 1. 1794

               I was presented yesterday evening by Mr Randolph with the commission of Minister for the French republick, which you were pleas’d with the approbation of the Senate, to confer on me. As I had previously intimated to him in consequence of a conversation I had with him the day before the nomination was presented, that I would accept this trust, I have only now to request that you will consider me as ready to embark in the discharge of its duties, as soon as I shall be honored with your commands, and a suitable passage can be procured for myself & family to that country.
               In accepting this very distinguished mark of your confidence I should do injustice to my own feelings, if I did not express to you the particular obligation it has conferrd on me, and assure you of the zeal with which I shall endeavour to discharge the duties of so high a trust in a manner that may justify the Executive in committing it to me. On that zeal but more especially on the councils which will direct my conduct, I rely as the resources, which are to supply the inadequacy of my abilities to a station at all times important, and at the present crisis peculiarly arduous and delicate. Be assured it will be my study and will give me the highest gratification, to have it in my power to promote by my mission the interest of my country, and the honor and credit of your administration which I deem inseperably connected with it. I have the honor to be sir with sentiments of the highest respect & esteem yr most obt & very humble servant

                  Jas Monroe


Title: From George Washington to William Pearce, 1 June 1794
From: Washington, George
To: Pearce, William

                  Mr Pearce
                  Philadelphia June 1st 1794

               I am glad to find by your letter of the 27th ulto that you had had some good rains, previous to the date of it.  Those rains, with such as have followed since, may give a very different appearance both to your Oats & flax; & may enliven, & push forward the Corn and B. Wheat; but I fear much for any grass that may have been cut, there having been no weather to cure it (in this part of the Country at least) these ten days.
               I am sorry to perceive, that amongst all your other unfavourable prospects, that little is to be expected from the White bent grass—the seeds of which I sent you last Spring.  Endeavor, however, to save all the Seed you can from it, in like manner as you were requested, with the other experimental grasses, in the Vineyard; my little garden, &ca.
               If the drilled wheat is not much forwarder tha[n] the common Wheat, there must have been an imposition in the seed; for the ripening of it three weeks before the common sort, is a fact that is well ascertained.
               The deception with respect to the Potatoes (210 instead of 418 bushls) is of a piece with other practices of a similar kind, by which I have suffered hitherto; and may serve to evince to you, in strong colours, first how little confidence can be placed in any one around you; and secondly the necessity of an accurate inspection into these things yourself. for to be plain, Alexandria is such a recepticle for every thing that can be filched from the right owners, by either blacks or whites, and I have such an opinion of my Negros (two or three only excepted); and not much better of some of the whites—that I am perfectly sure not a single thing that can be disposed of at any price, at that place, that will not, and is not, stolen, where it is possible; and carried thither to some of the underling shopkeepers, who support themselves by this kind of traffick.

               I am really concerned that the Potatoes have fallen so much short of expectation; and if I could have had any fore knowledge of it, instead of disposing of what there was, in Corn grd, I should have given them to the lots wch were intended for clover; as I conceive nothing is a better preparative for this crop, than Potatoes. As you have them not—and know the object for which these lots are designed—I leave it to you to manage them as shall seem best in your own judgment, to effect end in view.
               It is not longer ago than last year (if my memory has not greatly failed me) that I paid, in this City, 40 or 50/ for the Turnip seed I sent to Mount Vernon, & to have no Seed there now is, too be sure, extraordinary; but as these things serve to shew you how I have been imposed upon, & to what expences I have been run for want of common care & attention, so I persuade myself, they will induce your exertions to avoid the like in future.
               If you can get the price mentd in your letter for the midlings & Ship stuff take it. I am—Yr friend &ca

                  Go: Washington

                  P.S. Mr Douglass is a person I am not acquainted with—He may be as able to fulfil a contract as any in Alexandria for ought I know to the contrary—but prudent precaution to have the money secured—and at the time it is engaged is not amiss.
                  When I wrote you last, I had expectation of being at Mount Vernon by the 10th of this month; but now I have not nor can I with certainty say when it will be—probably—not before the last of the Month. yrs

                  G. W——n


Title: From George Washington to the United States Senate and House of Representatives, 2 June 1794
From: Washington, George
To: United States Senate and House of Representatives

                  United States 2d June 1794.

               Gentlemen of the Senate and of the House of Representatives.
               I send you certain communications, recently received from Georgia, which materially change the prospect of affairs in that quarter, and seem to render a war with the Creek Nations more probable than it has been at any antecedent period.  While the attention of Congress will be directed to the consideration of measures suited to the exigency, it cannot escape their observation, that this intelligence brings a fresh proof of the insufficiency of the existing provisions of the laws, towards the effectual cultivation and preservation of peace with our Indian neighbours.

                  Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Arthur Young, 2 June 1794
From: Young, Arthur
To: Washington, George

                  Sr
                  Board of Agriculture London June 2. 1794

               I should have done myself the honour of answering Your Excellency’s letter more fully than was in my power by the farmers I recommended to you, long since, but I waited to be able to transmit the second edition with large additions of my Travels. I now have that pleasure, & shall be happy if the book is honoured with a place in your library.
               The doubts you were pleased to express as to the propriety of applying to me on the subject of the farms you had to let, were founded in great delicacy of sentiment, but there is nothing in the laws of England or in the practice of her government which can occasion the least hesitation on the subject. Immediately on the receipt of it I made every enquiry that could probably be attended with effect; and I have continued those enquiries to the present time; but I am very sorry to inform you that except those farmers I gave a letter to none would listen to hiring in America tho’ very many were eager to become proprietors there. The acquisition of land in fee is indeed one of the principal inducements which instigate so many men to remove from this country to America.
               I have examined & reflected on the plan of your farms & the description which you have given of them, & they seem to me to have been laid out & distributed with great judgment; and that the only drawback is the stock of negroes, wch from motives that ought for ever to do honour to your feelings you are so assiduous to keep in their envied situation; I do not know enough of America to understand fully the effect of such a clause, but apparently it must have its difficulties. Foreigners just ariving in the country are less likely perhaps than others to object; & I was glad to find that the men I recommended to you did not seem to raise any objections on that point.
               there is a passage in your letter which precludes my taking any publick step to procure such tenants as you describe, otherwise I have little doubt but I should be able to effect what seems so much to be your wish; the assignment of the live stock is a tempting circumstance to men whose capital is not very large, & was nearly persuading one party, who however changed their

                  mind after ariving at Londo[n] on becoming acquainted with a person who had lands in the back country to sell at a cheap rate.
               It is unnecessary to assure you that I will omit no enquiries after proper persons & should the farms be already lett it will not occasion any inconvenience to such as are going where the major number go, to the central States.
               It is not easy for me to express how much I am indebted to you for the continuation you have favoured me with of intelligence concerning the central States you have in the whole procured for me such a mass of valuable knowledge that I know no description I ever read of any country that comes nearly equal to it. If I had your permission to publish that series of information in the Annals with observations drawing the intelligence to one point I should suppose a stream of emigration would flow from this country: for myself I am at present fixed but how long I may be so is quite uncertain—from public appearances at present in Europe there does not seem much hope to be placed on any thing with stability and America seems the last resource, and heaven preserve it the best, for those who wish a secure tranquility.
               One observation I must make on your wish to let your farms—Surely one sheep per acre, would pay you the rent you ask of a dollar?  And that such land as you describe would keep 2 or 3 through the year if laid to grasses cannot be doubted. The land would at the same time be in a constant state of improvement, & no buildings or expences except a very little labour, necessary.
               If I can execute any commissions for you, or assist any person coming to England, & you will signify yr Commands I hope you are assured that I shall at all times be most happy in the opportunity I am much obliged to you for making me known to so sensible & well informed a gentleman as Mr Lear.  I have the Honour to remain With every sentiment of Respect and Gratitude Sr Your Excellency’s Much O[b]liged & faithful

                  A. Young


Title: To George Washington from Alexander Furnival, 3 June 1794 [letter not found]
From: Furnival, Alexander
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Alexander Furnival, 3 June 1794. An entry of 6 June in GW’s journal of proceedings reads in part: "Sent to the Secy. of war a letter from Alexr. Furnival, dated Baltimore 3d. June. on the subject of the sale of ground at that place to erect fortifications on" (JPPDorothy Twohig, ed. The Journal of the Proceedings of the President, 1793–1797. Charlottesville, Va., 1981., 307).


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Newton, 3 June 1794 [letter not found]
From: Newton, Thomas
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Thomas Newton, Jr., 3 June 1794. On 11 June, GW "Put into the hands of the Secry. of State a letter from Thos. Newton Junr. dated Norfolk June 3d. 1794. on the subject of the application of a sum raised by subscription in that place for the relief of Amr. Captives in Algiers" (JPPDorothy Twohig, ed. The Journal of the Proceedings of the President, 1793–1797. Charlottesville, Va., 1981., 308). On 19 June, Secretary of State Edmund Randolph wrote Newton "to acknowledge the receipt of your letter to the President of the United States."


Title: To George Washington from Alexander Hamilton, 4 June 1794
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

                  Sir,
                  Treasury Departt June 4. 1794.

               I have the honor to reply to your Letter of the 29th of May, on the subject of the Million of dollars granted by the Act of the 20 of March last.
               As a day or two must determine the question of the fund, and will probably produce the requisite disposition concerning it—measures may be taken provisionally on that supposition. I therefore send here with the draft of a power for making the loan to be executed if approved.
               The President, if I understand rightly the concluding part of his letter, is desirous of knowing whether a loan could not be engaged conditionally, to take effect when the occasion of employing the money shall occur.
               I could not promise myself that this would be found practicable. Neither Banks nor Individuals would be willing to hold so large a sum suspended upon a contingency; at least without a considerable premium for the purpose.

               The principal question therefore is—shall an absolute loan of the sum be immediately made?  To this there is the strong objection of it’s being entirely uncertain when the money will be wanted for employment.
               Perhaps it may be found most adviseable to take the following course—(vizt) to lodge in Holland, power to make a loan of Eight hundred thousand Dollars, to be set on foot when the person who is charged with the negotiation with Algiers shall direct it—he to be instructed not to cause the loan to be entered upon ’till a probable prospect of treating successfully with Algiers opens—the power of borrowing the residue to be reserved for exercise here as occasion shall require. This division is proposed upon the consideration that a part of the sum is & may be necessary for other purposes than the Algierine business. Mr Jay’s mission is an example.
               This course while it avoids the incurring of expense which may be useless, and that for an indeterminate period, puts the thing in a train to give a more expeditious command of the money than if it were to wait, after a prospect of negotiation opens, for communication here & operations from hence.
               It is possible, that a premium not exceeding two per Cent, may obtain an engagement in Holland to furnish the loan when wanted on certain specified terms. Those of the last loan are the best that can be expected under present circumstances, namely 5 pr Cent Interest & 5 per Cent charges.  This, if thought adviseable, may be attempted.
               The permanent removal of Mr Short to Madrid indicates the expediency of constituting his successor in Holland agent for future loans. An instruction of the President on this head is requested.  With perfect respect &c.

                  Alex; Hamilton


Title: To George Washington from Alexander Hamilton, 4 June 1794
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

                  Sir,
                  Treasury Dept June 4th 1794.

               Upon receipt of the communication to you from the Governor of Pennsylvania of the 18 of April last, I put that letter and the papers attending it into the hands of the Commissioner of the Revenue to examine into the suggestions made & report to me concerning them.
               The result is contained in a letter from that Officer dated the 25 of April, (which hurry of business put out of sight) and which is now communicated only for the information of the President, as the case does not seem to require any particular reply to the Governor; nor any act upon the subject—and the exhibition to him of the picture, which I believe is justly drawn of the conduct of Mr Addison & others, would perhaps only excite useless irritation.
               The removal of either of the officers objected to, after the persecution they have suffered and the perseverance they have displayed, would be a hazardous step—and a suspicion is warranted by the conduct of the parties that it may have been recommended with an insidious view.  Experience however may better explain in a little time whether any concession on that point will be expedient—in which case some means of indemnifying the officer or officers who should be removed would be demanded both by justice & policy. With perfect respect &c.

                  Alexander Hamilton


Title: To George Washington from Edward Hand, 4 June 1794
From: Hand, Edward
To: Washington, George

                  Sir
                  Lancaster [Pa.] June 4th 1794

               As nothing could give me so much pain of mind as even An Apprehension that any part of my conduct might be viewed in an unfavourable light by you, and as it is possible you may be informed of the negative Ansr I find myself however reluctantly, obliged to give to a question very lately put to me, without being at the same time acquainted with the reasons which influenced me; I take the liberty of explaining myself on the Subject, and at the same time entreating that, you will have the goodness to pardon the intrusion.
               It is true the communication was made in confidence, but I cannot think that imparting it to you Sir can be deemed a breach of that confidence.
               It is as follows
               "I beg to be informed by first opertunity whether you will accept the Office of Supervisor to move to Philadelphia, Mr Clymer being about to resign."
               Now Sir altho it would be extremely flattering to me to suppose I enjoyed so much of your confidence & that of the Senate of the United States as to put the Alternative in my power & tho I must confess the Emoluments are Adequate to the Services to be rendered, and would be highly convenient to me if it was possible for me to do the duties of the Office without being Obliged to reside constantly in Philada, I am however aware that a removal to that City with my Family would be a measure ruinous to them & me—first, it would derange all my little plans of Subsistence here, and deprive me of the small Aid my practice brings to

                  industry of another nature, in the next place, at the present enormous rate of House-rent in the City, it would take nearly the whole of the Salary to pay House & Office rent & Compensate a good Clerk, and leave me to Struggle with the maintenance & other incidental expences of a large Family, an expence indeed which my finances will not admit of—I therefore humbly trust that you will attribute my hesitation on this Occasion, to its true motive, necessity, and that you will be pleased to credit me when I assure you most solemnly that, as it always has so it ever shall be my most earnest desire to serve the U.S. to the utmost of my Ability. with sentiments of gratitude & the most profound respect—I have the honor to be Sir your most obedt & most hble Servt

                  Edwd Hand