Title: From George Washington to Catharine Sawbridge Macaulay Graham, 9 January 1790
From: Washington, George
To: Graham, Catharine Sawbridge Macaulay

            Madam,
            New York Jany 9th 1790

          Your obliging letter, dated in October last, has been received; and, as I do not know when I shall have more Leisure than at present to throw together a few observations in return for yours, I take up my Pen to do it by this early occasion.
          In the first place, I thank you for your congratulatory sentiments on the event which has placed me at the head of the American Government; as well as for the indulgent partiality, which it is to be feared however, may have warped your judgment

too much in my favor. But you do me no more than Justice, in supposing that, if I had been permitted to indulge my first & fondest wish, I should have remained in a private Station. Although, neither the present age or Posterity may possibly give me full credit for the feelings which I have experienced on this subject; yet I have a consciousness, that nothing short of an absolute conviction of duty could ever have brought me upon the scenes of public life again. The establishment of our new Government seemed to be the last great experiment, for promoting human happiness, by reasonable compact, in civil Society. It was to be, in the first instance, in a considerable degree, a government of accomodation as well as a government of Laws. Much was to be done by prudence, much by conciliation, much by firmness. Few, who are not philosophical Spectators, can realise the difficult and delicate part which a man in my situation had to act. All see, and most admire, the glare which hovers round the external trappings of elevated Office. To me, there is nothing in it, beyond the lustre which may be reflected from its connection with a power of promoting human felicity. In our progress towards political happiness my station is new; and, if I may use the expression, I walk on untrodden ground. There is scarcely any action, whose motives may not be subject to a double interpretation. There is scarcely any part of my conduct wch may not hereafter be drawn into precedent. Under such a view of the duties inherent to my arduous office, I could not but feel a diffidence in myself on the one hand; and an anxiety for the Community that every new arrangement should be made in the best possible manner on the other. If after all my humble but faithful endeavours to advance the felicity of my Country & Mankind; I may endulge a hope that my labours have not been altogether without success, it will be the only real compensation I can receive in the closing Scenes of life.
          On the actual situation of this Country, under its new Government, I will, in the next place, make a few remarks. That the Government, though not absolutely perfect, is one of the best in the World, I have little doubt. I always believed that an unequivocally free & equal Representation of the People in the Legislature; together with an efficient & responsable Executive were the great Pillars on which the preservation of American Freedom must depend. It was indeed next to a Miracle that there

should have been so much unanimity, in points of such importance, among such a number of Citizens, so widely scattered and so different in their habits in many respects, as the Americans were. Nor are the growing unanimity and encreasing good will of the Citizens to the Government less remarkable than favorable circumstances. So far as we have gone with the new Government (and it is completely organized and in operation) we have had greater reason than the most sanguine could expect to be satisfied with its success. Perhaps a number of accidental circumstances have concurred with the real effects of the Government to make the People uncommonly well pleased with their situation and prospects. The harvests of Wheat have been remarkably good—the demand for that article from abroad is great—the encrease of Commerce is visible in every Port—and the number of new Manufactures introduced in one year is astonishing. I have lately made a tour through the Eastern States. I found the Country, in a great degree, recovered from the ravages of War—the Towns flourishing—& the People delighted with a government instituted by themselves & for their own good. The same facts I have also reason to believe, from good authority, exist in the Southern States.
          By what I have just observed, I think you will be persuaded that the ill-boding Politicians, who prognosticated that America would never enjoy any fruits from her Independence & that She would be obliged to have recourse to a foreign Power for protection, have at least been mistaken. I shall sincerely rejoice to see that the American Revolution has been productive of happy consequences on both sides of the Atlantic. The renovation of the French Constitution is indeed one of the most wonderful events in the history of Mankind: and the agency of the Marquis de la Fayette in a high degree honorable to his character. My greatest fear has been, that the Nation would not be sufficiently cool & moderate in making arrangements for the security of that liberty, of which it seems to be fully possessed.
          Mr Warville, the French Gentleman you mention, has been in America & at Mount Vernon; but has returned, sometime since to France.
          Mrs Washington is well and desires her Compliments may be presented to you. We wish the happiness of your fire side; as we also long to enjoy that of our own at Mount Vernon. Our wishes,

you know, were limited; and I think that our plans of living will now be deemed reasonable by the considerate part of our species. Her wishes coincide with my own as to simplicity of dress, and every thing which can tend to support propriety of character without partaking of the follies of luxury and ostentation. I am with great regard Madam. Your Most Obedient and Most Humble Servant

            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Joseph Mandrillon, 9 January 1790
From: Mandrillon, Joseph
To: Washington, George

            Amsterdam 9 [January] 1790.

          I have the honour of sending to your Excellency a Copy of my letter to the National Assembly—it is a part of my patriotic wishes to which I pray your Excellency to add it after the preface—Mr Cazenove who has saild from London for America, is charged to offer a copy of my wishes to your Excellency, and I pray you to accept them with the same indulgence and the same goodness with which you honor me. I am with the most profound respect Your very humble and very obedt

            Jh Mandrillon


Title: To George Washington from Francis Adrian Van der Kemp, 9 January 1790
From: Van der Kemp, Francis Adrian
To: Washington, George

            Sir!
            Kingston [N.Y.] 9 Jan. 1790.

          The offer of your Excellency’s Services to the Patriots and friends to the rights of mankind, with which I was honoured by Your Excellency’s favourable letter of 28 May 1788, encouraged me to recommend to your Excellency’s attention Mr S. T. G. Mappa, a Gentleman of a distinguished character amongst the Patriots. Upon the advice of respectable men in Europe the advice of his Excellency Jefferson he brought with him a curious letter fondery—wanting to this moment in America, at the value of more than 3000 £ currency. It wil be a blessing for every branch of literature, and every liberal improvements, if that Gentleman meets any encouragement in his undertaking; which can not fail if he is happy enough to be patronised by your Excellency.
          Your Excellency wil pardon the trouble, which I occasion unwillingly, daring not neglect Such as fair opportunity of recommending a worthy Subject to Your Excellency’s benevolence and assuring that I am with Sentiments of the highest esteem and respect Sir! your most obedient and Humble Servant

            Fr. Adr. Vanderkemp


Title: From George Washington to Noah Webster, 10 January 1790
From: Washington, George
To: Webster, Noah

            Sir,
            New York January 10th 1790.

          The Book, entitled Dissertations on the English Language, which you was so polite as to send me on the 11th of December, has reached my hands: And your acceptance of my best thanks for this mark of attention will oblige, Sir, Your most Obedt Servt.


Title: To George Washington from Beverley Randolph, 11 January 1790
From: Randolph, Beverley
To: Washington, George

            Sir,
            Richmond [Va.] January 11th 1790

          Immediately on the receipt of your letter Covering a proposal for establishing a Woollen Manufactory in this state I laid it before the General Assembly taking care not to communicate the name or residence of the person from whom the proposal Came. I have now the honour to inclose you the Resolutions of the Senate and House of Delegates on that Subject. I am, with the highest respect your Obedient servant

            Beverley Randolph


Title: From George Washington to the United States Senate, 11 January 1790
From: Washington, George
To: United States Senate

          United States [New York]
          Gentlemen of the SenateJanuary 11th 1790.
          I have directed Mr Lear, my private Secretary, to lay before you a copy of the adoption and ratification of the Constitution of the United States by the State of North Carolina, together with the copy of a letter from His Excellency Samuel Johnson President of the Convention of said State to the President of the United States.
          The Originals of the papers which are herewith transmitted to you will be lodged in the Office of the Secretary of State.

            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to the United States Senate, 11 January 1790
From: Washington, George
To: United States Senate

          United States [New York]
          Gentlemen of the Senate,January 11th, 1790.
          Having advised with you upon the terms of a treaty to be offered to the Creek Nation of Indians, I think it proper you should be informed of the result of that business, previous to its coming before you in your legislative capacity.
          I have therefore directed the Secretary for the Department of War, to lay before you my instructions to the Commissioners, and their report in consequence thereof.
          The apparently critical state of the southern frontier will render it expedient for me to communicate to both Houses of Congress, with other papers, the whole of the transactions relative to the Creeks, in order that they may be enabled to form a judgement of the measures which the case may require.

            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to the United States Senate: Answer to the Address of the Senate, 11 January 1790
From: Washington, George
To: United States Senate

            Gentlemen,
            [New York, 11 January 1790]

          I thank you for your address, and for the assurances, which it contains of attention to the several Matters suggested by me to your consideration.
          Relying on the continuance of your exertions for the public good, I anticipate, for our Country, the salutary effects of upright and prudent Counsels.

            G. Washington


Title: To George Washington from Lafayette, 12 January 1790
From: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de
To: Washington, George

            My Dear General
            Paris January the 12th 1790

          I Cannot let the packet Sail without a line from your filial friend, who, altho’ He depends on Mr Short for your information, wants to Express you those Affectionate and Respectful Sentiments that Are Never So well felt as in UnCommon Circumstances—How often, My Beloved General, Have I wanted your wise Advices and friendly Support! We Have Come thus far in the Revolution without Breaking the Ship either on the Shoal of Aristocraty, or that of faction, and Amidst the Ever Reviving efforts of the Mourners and the Ambitious we are Stirring towards a tolerable Conclusion—Now that Every thing that was is No More, a New Building is Erecting, Not perfect By far, But Sufficient to Ensure freedom, and prepare the Nation for a Convention in about ten years, where the defects May Be Mended—I will Not Enter in all the details I Have Already Related—Common Sense is writing a Book for you—there you will See a part of My Adventures—I Hope they will turn to the Advantage of My Country and Mankind in General—liberty is Sprouting about in the other parts of Europe, and I am Encouraging it By all the Means in My Power—Adieu, My Beloved General, My Best Respects wait on Mrs Washington—Remember me to Hamilton, Harrison, Knox, Lear, and all our friends—Most Respectfully and Affectionately Your Most devoted and filial friend

            Lafayette

            I wish Mr Jay, John Adams, Wadsworth, and Doctor Franklin Could witness the difference Betwen this France, this Capital, and the once they Have Seen.


Title: To George Washington from Philemon Dickinson, 13 January 1790
From: Dickinson, Philemon
To: Washington, George

            Hermitage [N.J.] 13 Jany 1790.

          Mr Philemon Dickinson’s Compliments to the President of the United States of America, & begs his acceptance of an American Cheese, made by a Mr Capner, of Hunterdon County, State of New Jersey.


Title: Clement Biddle to Tobias Lear, 14 January 1790
From: Biddle, Clement
To: Lear, Tobias

            Tobias Lear Esqr.
            Philadelphia 14th January 1790

          I have before me Your favour of the 6th & 10th Int. to answer which I could not do by last Post for want of the Necessary information respecting the Boulting Cloths.
          Mr Lewis says that he is at a Loss to put up the Boulting Cloth until he knows the size that will suit he says that a Reel which in the whole length is ten feet (the Common size here) requires a Cloth of 8 feet 3 Inches long and the remainder of the Reel is Covered with Strong Linen, the price for Such sized superfine

Cloth is £10 and as he expressed a Doubt from the words of your Letter I thought it best to wait your Answer by which I should only loose one post to the Southward & the Post Master will forward it with the Mail to the Nearest post Office to Mount Vernon, you will therefore please to mention if (as I suppose) the whole length of the Reel is only Nine feet two Inches, I have Wrote to Mr Abraham Hunt at Trenton to procure the 200 Bushels of Buckwheat as he assured me he could get it & I have desired his speedy Answer in Case of Failure that I might procure it in the Neighbourhood of this City in due season.

            C.B.


Title: To George Washington from the Marquise de Lafayette, 14 January 1790
From: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Paris 14. January 1790.

          Amidst the agitations of our revolution, I have always participated in the pleasure which Mr de La Fayette found in following your footsteps, in observing, according to your example and your lessons, the means of serving his country, and in thinking with what satisfaction you would learn the effects and success of them. Permit me, to offer you the assurance of this sentiment and permit at the same time to request of you a favour which interests me sensibly. Mr Poirey the secretary of Mr De la Fayette and who is at present that of our national guard, loaded with kindness by you in America where he has had the happiness of meriting your approbation has not ceased since that time, to give to Mr De la Fayette testimonies of attachment, and he has rendered to this cause important services and above all very affecting to him. His ambition is to obtain the glorious distinction of an American Officer, the Ribbon of Cincinnatus is the object of all his wishes, and Mr De la Fayette would think he could not refuse him the permission, if you would deign to confer upon him, a brevet commission. I set a great value upon obtaining for him this favour, and it would be to me a great pleasure if I owe it to your goodness for me, I should recieve almost as much pride as gratitude from it, ⟨and⟩ that it would be the means of acquitting a little what we owe to Mr Poirey, and which I believe due to him more than to any other person, persuaded as I am, that his vigilant cares have contributed very much in the midst of the Storms to the preservation of what I hold most dear in the world. Mr De la Fayette approves my request, and will leave to me I hope the pleasure and the glory of having obtained the success of it from you Sir, and of joining on this little occasion the hommage of my personal gratitude, to that of all his sentiments of admiration, attachment and respect, which I participate with him and with which I have the honour of being, Sir, Your very humble and very obedient servant

            Noailles de la Fayette

            Accept I entreat you the hommage of respect of our little George and his Sisters, and permit that Mrs Washington receive here mine and those of all our family.

            The Chr de la Colombe who has had the honour of serving under your orders, and whose patriotism and sentiments for Mr De la Fayette have rendered eminent services to our cause as well in his province as in the parisien Army, in which he is Aid-Major, having known that I had the honour of writing to you wishes that I offer to you his best respects. Pardon my writing in french I in treat you, the occasion required it, and for six months since it is a great deal for me to recover my ideas in my own language. It is true that in writing to General Washington it is more my heart than my mind that dictates my expressions. This is my excuse, if I am indiscreet, this the justification of my confidence.


Title: From George Washington to the United States House of Representatives, 14 January 1790
From: Washington, George
To: United States House of Representatives

            Gentlemen
            [New York, 14 January 1790]

          I receive with pleasure the assurances you give me that you will diligently and anxiously pursue such measures as shall appear to you conducive to the interests of your Constituents; and that an early and serious consideration will be given to the various and weighty matters, recommended by me to your attention.
          I have full confidence that your deliberations will continue to be directed by an enlightened and virtuous zeal for the happiness of our Country.

            G. Washington


Title: From George Washington to Gabriel Dupare de Bellegard, 15 January 1790
From: Washington, George
To: Bellegard, Gabriel Dupare de

            Sir,
            New York January 15th 1790

          I have received your letter dated the 18th of September 1789; and in reply to it, must inform you, that so far from living upon terms of intimacy and friendship with the late General Oglethorpe, (as it appears by your letter you have understood that I did) I never was so happy as to have any personal acquaintance with that Gentleman, nor any other knowledge of him but from his general character. The distance of our places of residence from each other, which is near 1,000 Miles, and the different periods in which we have lived are circumstances which preclude the probability of our having been upon an intimate footing.
          I have, however, directed enquiries to be made among the Gentlemen from the State of Georgia, who are now attending Congress in this place, respecting the affairs of the late General Oglethorpe, and am informed by them that they know of no lands belonging to him. One of the Gentlemen, a Senator from the State of Georgia, mentions his having been written to, some time since, by Mr Jefferson our Minister at the Court of Versailles, upon the same subject, and in consequence thereof he made every enquirey in his power relative to the matter; but there were no lands in Georgia belonging to General Oglethorpe; and he further adds, that if there had been property of that Gentleman’s in Georgia in the time of the late War with Great Britain, so far from its having been confiscated, it would have met with singular protection, in consequence of the high estimation in which the character of General Oglethorpe stood in that State. I should have been happy, Sir, to have had it in my power to give you more pleasing information upon this subject. I am, Sir, Your Most Obt Servt

            Geo: Washington.


Title: To George Washington from Andrew Ellicott, 15 January 1790
From: Ellicott, Andrew
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Philadelphia Jany 15th 1790

          I arrived in this City the day before Yesterday, after a long and tedious journey from Fort Erie, and have the satisfaction to inform your Excellency that so much of the Survey on which I was employed, that fell within the Territory of his Britanick Majesty is compleated. I find the Geography of the Country about the Lakes very erronious, too much so to be even a tolerable guide. The south side of Lake Erie is laid down half a

degree too far to the south, in the American Atlas published in 1776; and said to be corrected by Majr Holland, De Brahm and others. The same Lake is by Hutchins, and Mc Murry, placed 20 miles too far North: Similar errors attend all that Country thro’ which I passed.
          A corrected Chart of the west end of Lake Ontario, the Strait of Niagara, and part of Lake Erie, comprehending the whole British Settlement of Nassau, shall be handed to your Excellency as soon as I come to New York.
          From certain data, which cannot be materially defective, the sale of Lands made by the United States to the State of Pennsylvania, will not neat less than thirteen thousand pounds specie to the Union, rating Certificates at 4/6 to the pound.
          On my arrival at the Garrison of Niagara on the 21st day of October last, I was introduced by the Officer of the day, in company with Gen. Chapen of Massachusetts, and Mr Joseph Ellicott of Baltimore, to the Commandant Lieut. Col. Harriss: after the introduction I produced my Commission, which the Col. looked over; and then addressed himself to me in the following words—“Pray Sir what request have you to make from this paper?” (Meaning the Commission). To which I replied. “In order to execute the duties of my appointment, it will be necessary to go into the Territory of his Britanick Majesty; but as you may not be authorized to grant such permission, an express has been sent on by our Secretary of foreign affairs, to his Excellency Lord Dorchester Governor of Canada, to obtain this privilege: and if the express has not yet arrived, my present request is only, that myself, and party, may have the liberty of staying in the Country, with such privileges as are allowed to other Gentlemen from the United States, and wait his arrival.” To which the Col. replied “You cannot have permission to stay in this Country, you must leave it Sir.” I then informed him that our going away so precipitately must be attended with inconveniency to ourselves, and the present expence of the United States, sacrificed to no purpose; and as I was confident that the express would arrive with the first Vessel, and from a desire to have the business executed with all possible dispatch, I should not be very punctilious about the privileges; but would willingly be confined to one single Acre of Ground, or any other space, and under any restrictions which he himself should prescribe: to which he

replied. “Your request cannot be granted Sir, you must leave this Country, and that with expedition.” I then informed him, that myself, and companions were much fatigued with a long, and painful journey, and our Horses broken down with hard duty, and the want of food: and that our return home might be marked with some degree of certainty, I requested the privilege of continuing some few days in the Country to refresh ourselves, and recruit our horses. To which he returned “I cannot be answerable for your situation, you are not to continue in this Country, and if you stay any where in it, I shall hear of you, and will take measures accordingly.” I then observed to him that I had some Gentlemen in my party, who were very desirous to view the falls of Niagara, and as this was the only probable opportunity which would ever fall in their way, I requested that their curiosity might be gratified; perticularly as the falls were not near any of their posts. To which he answered “Your Gentlemen cannot be gratified, they cannot see the falls, too many people have seen the falls already[.]” I then began to make some observations on the common usage of all civilized Nations with regard to matters of Science, and natural Curiosities; but was soon interrrupted by the Col., who desired that I “would not multiply words on that subject,” that he “was decisive,” and we “must depart.” He then addressed himself to Col. Butler of the Rangers, (who was present), as follows “Col. it is our Luncheon time, will you go and take a cut with us.” Then turning to me he said “You may retire to the Tavern in the Bottom, and purchase such refreshment as you may want; in the mean time,” (pointing to my Commission which lay on the Table,) “I will take a copy of that paper, after which the Adjutant shall return you the original[.]” We were then attended by the Officer of the day to the Tavern. After some consideration I thought it best to make one other request to the Commandant, which was; that myself, and party might have permission to go to the Indian settlement on Buffaloe Creek, which is 30 Miles from the Garrison, and in the Territory of the United States, and there wait the arrival of the express. This request was handed to Col. Harris by my companion Gen. Chapen; but shared the same fate with the others. Some time after dark, the adjutant waited upon us with the inclosed pass, without which we could neither get out of the

Garrison, nor pass the Indian Settlements in our own Country. From the tenor of the pass it appears that the Military jurisdiction of the British Garrison at Niagara, is extended to the Jenesees River; but this in my opin[i]on is more full confirmed by their general conduct in that quarter.
          After leaving the Garrison we had five miles to ride to join our party, on our arrival we gave immediate orders to have our Baggage prepared, and every measure taken for an early movment the next morning; but before we had time to leave the ground, a Leut. Clarke waited upon us, and renewed the orders of the Col. and added “that the Commandant desired that our departure might be attended with expedition.” We left the ground about 9 OClock in the morning, and proceeded to the Jenesees River, a distance of near 100 miles, where we received Lord Dorchesters permission to execute any part of our business, which might fall in the Territory of his Britanick Majesty by an express sent on by Captain Guion, who had in the mean time arrived at Niagara from Quebeck. Although our Horses were unable to return, I was nevertheless determined to go on with the business. We then employed Canoes to carry our Instruments, and Baggage down the Jenesees River to the carrying-place, where we procured a Boat, and returned up Lake Ontario to Niagara. On our return we were treated with politeness, and attention. We entered immediately upon the execution of our business, which was attended with uncommon difficulty and hardship, no Horses were to be had in that Country at any price, we were therefore under the necessity of employing a greater number of men than would otherwise have been wanted, which has added considerably to the expence. I have the Honor To be with the greatest Esteem Your Excellences Hbe Servt

            Andrew Ellicott


Title: To George Washington from Clement Hall, 15 January 1790
From: Hall, Clement
To: Washington, George

            Sir.
            North Carolina Chowan County Jany 15th 1790

          This Letter with the Inclosed Recommendation will be handed to your Excellency by the honourable Samuel Johnston Esquire, who is appointed a senator for this State, in the Congress of the United States, It is Subscribed by several Gentlemen of Distinction amongst whom are the two Speakers of the General Assembly, and two of the Judges of the superior Court of Law and Equity in this state; Should their Recommendation Merit your Excellency’s attention, and should ⟨I be⟩ considered Competent to the Trust of Surveyor for Edenton District, hope to Meet with your Excellency’s Sanction to that appointment, In discharge of which important public Trust, should that Office be conferred on me, hope will be attended with General Satisfaction. I am Sir. respectfully your Excellency’s Most Obedient Servant

            Clem. Hall


Title: From George Washington to Edward Newenham, 15 January 1790
From: Washington, George
To: Newenham, Edward

            Dear Sir,
            New York, January, 15th 1790

          I have now before me your several letters of the 23rd of February, 24th of July, 14th of August and 10th of October 1789—the last of which but lately reached my hands.
          I should feel myself guilty of a great impropriety in suffering your letters to lay so long without an acknowledgement, was I not conscious that the new and busy scenes in which I have been engaged for these 9 or 10 months past, by engrossing my whole attention, would excuse me in your mind from any apparent neglect—and I trust that the same cause will apologise for my not entering, at this time, into a particular response to the matter contained in your several letters.
          I cannot however avoid observing that it must afford a most pleasing satisfaction to the friends of the human race to view the enlightened spirit of liberty which seems to have pervaded a great part of your European world, and, at the sametime the philanthropic mind cannot but feel anxious for the issue of those novel and patriotic exertions.
          The government of the United States seems now to want very little more than the sanction of time to give it all that stability which can be expected from any human fabric—The people meet it with as much fondness as its most sanguine friends could anticipate, because they are convinced that it is founded in principles of national happiness—and the recent accession of the State of North Carolina (which has ratified the constitution of the United States with marks of peculiar good will) leaves the little State of Rhode Island by herself—how long she will be able to stand in that forlorn condition must depend upon the duration of that infatuation and evil policy by which she appears to have been guided.
          I was pleased to hear of Mrs Montgomery’s safe arrival, and the satisfaction which she enjoyed in her visit to Ireland—Should she be in your neighbourhood when this letter gets to

your hands, you will be good enough to present the best compliments of Mrs Washington and myself to her—and likewise make the same acceptable to Lady Newenham. With very great regard, I am &ca

            G. Washington

            P.S. In answer to your quere—why has Mr Thomson resigned? I reply—that it was his earnest wish to retire from the bustle of public life, and enjoy the evening of his days in domestic tranquillity, after having faithfully served his country for a series of years in an important station.
            The journals of Congress, which you request, will accompany this.


Title: To George Washington from George Augustine Washington, 15 January 1790
From: Washington, George Augustine
To: Washington, George

            Honor’d Uncle
            Mount Vernon Janry 15th 1790

          On Saturday Your favor of the 28th Ulto came here on which day I had left this for Loudoun to view a tract of Land about 8 miles above New Gate the property of Mr Theodorick Lee who I am endeavouring to make an exchange with for my property in Fredericksburgh the improvements on which, are so rapidly declining that I am anxious as there is a prospect of geting something for them—Mr Lee goes to Fredericksburgh on Saturday next to examin my Lots and as my being with him to point out the advantages they possess and to fix the matter while he is in the humor will induce me I believe to attend him as it will require but a few days and may be of consequence to me.
          I am pleased that You have dispensed with the cultivation of Pumpkins among Corn as I could not devise a probable mode by which it could be done without interuption to the Plows as our Corn requires late working which would allow too much time for the vines to spread before the working of it can be dispenced with, and I doubt not it will be found as You have directed that

ground appropriated particularly for the purpose, will be most productive and attended with the fewest inconveniences and without some other mode more effectual than any we have tried should be discoverd more than will suffice for immediate use will be unprofitable—The ground under the New post and rail fence at the Mansion house is not now sufficiently enriched to lay down in grass next spring and as a fallow and coat of manure will prepare it for wheat and grass early in the fall it will I think be much preferable to takeing another crop of Tobacco from it—tho Fairfax says a second crop from manured ground generally succeeds best and by manuring of it again it would be in good order for Oats and grass seed the next spring—this if it has no other objection as it produces delay will have influence with You as the ground is designed to be got into Grass as speedily as possible it here occurs to me to suggest what I had in my last intended taking the liberty of doing which is that a crop of no kind should be designated to the hands of the mansion house, conceiving that the advantages arising from the speedy compleation of the post and rail fence which is to enclose Your Land will amply compensate for what might probably be raised by them; for the additional aid which this would afford from them would greatly progress the business—I am also induced from a belief that it will tend very much to the advancement of this work to mention another thing as it will be necessary previous to runing the Fence through the woods where the road is design’d to be open’d, that the trees should be cut down to prevent injury to the Fence, which is to lay of the road mark such trees as will make posts and Rails and give the rest to any person or persons that will cut them down properly and remove them—Mason, Adams or any one convenient I am inclined to think would readily do it Mr Washington, Fairfax inform’d me had expressed a wish to be permited to remove some of the wood which has been cut down—I have said nothing respecting it to any of them least it should not meet your concurrence.
          I shall immediately apply to Mr Thompson for the deficiency of Buck wheat and in case of disappointment You shall be immediately inf⟨orm’d⟩ I think that the Buck wheat may be got from Philadelphia without the expence of Bags or Casks, for I enquired of Capt. Elwood of the Packet from that place, and he informed me that for the quantity I mentiond 350 or 400

Bushels he would plank up a temporary apartment in his vessel and bring it in bulk, and deliver it here; and I do expect he will do the same for the quantity You have directed Colo. Biddle to send—The Tobacco in the Mansion house Barn is not intirely striped but Fairfax seems still to have no doubt of its making 2 Hoggsheads I sent him to Alexandria the other day to examin at the warehouse the proper mode of presing &c. and hope it will be properly done.
          I do not apprehend that any notice would be taken of the Gates proposed to be placed on the public roads unless by some of those who would be secluded from the advantages within them; I meant after informing you to apply to the Court for permission as I would not in that or any other instance designedly infringe the Laws—I have once examind the Creek side, and will do it again but do not think it will answer to run the fence altogether below the bank as it will cause a very great increase of distance and in many places would be very liable to be washed up—I proposed after finishing the post and rail fence to the Millers Garden which will be tomorrow, to run a fence from the corner of the shed to the Mill, leaving a space for a Gate opposite the Bridge across the race, and then to run a temporary fence from the uper corner of the mill in a direct line to Frenches Fence to prevent the encroachment of horses and Cattle. The ditch is finished to the last bend in the fence next the Mill which is nearly opposite the post and rail by Berrys houses, but it cannot be well finished untill the ground & weather becomes more setled—I hope with care that the Corn made & the 150 Bls purchased will be sufficient untill we are supplied by the next crops. Corn I am told is now 12/ & 13/ and is supposed will be higher before spring—the Ground at D: Run adjoining No. 7 is too wet and rough to lay down in Timothy this winter I was thinking of taking a crop of Oats from it and laying it down next fall or plowing it during the Summer without a Crop which would not prevent the use of the pasture untill the fall—The mode You point out to me is certainly a great aid to the dispatch and accuracy of replying to Letters the want of time in replying to the Letters you mention arose from interuption which is sometimes unavoidable, tho’ I endeavour to guard against it—the Mail leaves Alexandria twice a week on Mondays and Fridays at 3 oClock I shall as its agreeable to You write by the latter untill

the next change—Fanny joins in best wishes for the health and happiness of Yourself my Aunt and the Children—and believe me to be Your truely affectionate Nephew

            Geo. A. Washington


Title: From George Washington to the Board of Trustees of Dartmouth College, 14 November 1789
From: Washington, George
To: Board of Trustees of Dartmouth College

            Gentlemen,
            [14 November 1789]

          In assigning so important an agency to the endeavors of an individual, as is mentioned in your address, you render a tribute to my services, which a sense of propriety forbids me to assume.
          For the flattering terms in which you are pleased to express your sentiments of those services, and for the kind wishes you prefer in my behalf, I thank you with grateful sincerity.
          To the animated spirit of freedom, that pervaded our country, and to the firm temper of our citizens, which braved all dangers in defence of their privileges (under the protecting care of divine providence) are we indebted for the blessings of political independence—To the enlightened policy, which has directed our public councils, we owe the reform and establishment of our federal constitution. Under its auspicious influence, aided by the industry and moral conduct of those citizens, who compose the great family of our union, we may hope for the substantial enjoyments of individual happiness and national honor.
          From your superintending care, Gentlemen, as the Guardians of a Seminary, and an important source of science, we are to derive great assistance in accomplishing those desiderata.
          That your labour may be crowned with success, and render you happy in its consequences is my sincere prayer.

            G. Washington.


Title: To George Washington from La Luzerne, 17 January 1790
From: La Luzerne, Anne-César, chevalier de
To: Washington, George

Sir,
London January 17th 1790.

I dare to flatter myself that your Excellency does justice to the very tender and respectful attachment which I have long entertained towards you—and that you will be persuaded of the great pleasure with which I have learned the success that has followed the first movements of your administration. After having given freedom to your country it was worthy of the virtues and great character of your Excellency to establish her happiness on a solid and permanent basis, which is assuredly the result of the new federal constitution, in framing which you assisted by your counsel, and which you now support as much by the splendor of your talents and patriotism as by the eminent situation confided to you by your fellow-citizens—They possess

the advantage of enjoying more particularly your beneficence, and the honor of having you born among them: but I dare to assure you that the consideration which you enjoy throughout Europe, and particularly in my country, yields not even to that which you have obtained in your native land—and notwithstanding the prejudices of the people with whom I live here there is not one among them who does not pronounce your name with sentiments of respect and veneration. All are acquainted with the services you have rendered to your country as their General in the course of the war, and with those, perhaps still greater, which you now render as a Statesman in peace.
The love of glory and of freedom, which led the Americans to surmount such great difficulties, must still prevail, after surmounting them, to establish the principles of justice towards those of their fellow citizens and strangers who assisted them in their distress; and I have seen with great pleasure that from the first moment in which you have appeared at the head of the federal government, the credit of the american nation has been established in every country of Europe, and that the confidence in her resources and mean⟨s⟩ are infinitely better founded than in many of the older Powers.
It is beyond doubt that it will take still greater consistency, and that the freest country in the world, ought also to be that which should enjoy the most extensive public credit.
I am too well acquainted with your sentiments for France not to be convinced of the interest which you take in her present position—The vices of an ancient and vitiated administration could not be reformed even by the virtues of a King who loves his people, and who has many qualities to make them happy—Some revolution was required in the form of the monarchy, and above all in setting bounds to the ministerial authority in matters of finance—it was likewise necessary that the liberty of the citizen should be assured by a conclusive law of which we were totally destitute. It is this which induced the King to assemble the States-General, who might easily have made some useful reforms, leaving the monarchy to subsist, or at least reforming it but slowly and partially: But the love of liberty, and still more the exaltation of opinions has carried us too far—they have overturned every thing without rebuilding any thing, which has reduced us to a very disagreeable situation for the moment—I

hope that time will a little moderate opinions, and that we shall recur to true principles, and that, in assuring the liberty of the citizen, they will restore the authority of the executive power, which is the soul of a great Empire. If we can arrive at that state of things I am persuaded the subject will have gained infinitely, and that even the position of the King will be more happy than it formerly was. But unfortunately to attain this situation we must reiterate a very thorny career, and our french heads are little fitted for such proofs.
Your ancient friend the Marquis de la Fayette finds himself at the head of the revolution, it is indeed a very fortunate circumstance for the State that he is, but very little so for himself. Never has any man been placed in a more critical situation—Good citizen, faithful subject, he is embarrassed by a thousand difficulties in making many people sensible of what is proper, who very often feel it not, and who sometimes will not understand what it is.
He has occasion for all the aid of that wisdom and prudence which he acquired under your tuition⟨; and⟩ assuredly he has hitherto proved himself worthy of his Master—having supported the most difficult s⟨ituation with⟩ the rarest talents, and most astonishing foresight. I have the honor to be with a very sincere and very respectful attachment Your Excellency’s most humble and most obedient Servant.


Title: To George Washington from Thomas McKean, 17 January 1790
From: McKean, Thomas
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Philadelphia January 17th 1790.

It appears, that Congress intend to erect Hospitals in the United States for the reception of sick & disabled seamen, and

it is expected, that one may be established at Baltimore in Maryland.
Doctor George Buchanan, who practices physic there, wishes for the superintendence or direction of such an institution. His pretensions are, that his studies & pursuits in life have led him to attain qualifications for such a station: he served an apprenticeship in this city with Doctor William Shippen, some time Director General of the Hospitals of the American Army; afterwards he attended the medical lectures in our University, and received its honors; he then went to London, Edinburgh and Paris to perfect himself in his profession.
I am interested, Sir, in his prosperity, as he is married to my second daughter; but this circumstance may incline me to be too partial to his talents & industry, I would therefore rather refer Your Excellency to Messieurs Smith, Carrol &c. of Baltimore, Delegates in Congress (who I suppose know him) for further information of his character & conduct. The Doctor is the eldest son of General Buchanan sometime deceased, whose zeal in the American cause was so great, that I think, he could not be unknown to you: the family connexions are very numerous in Maryland, particularly in Baltimore county.
As a small proof of the Doctor’s desire to be useful, and as it bears some relation to the present application, I beg leave to present your Excellency with a treatise on the Hospital fever, lately written by him.
Your favoring Doctor Buchanan’s suit will, in my humble opinion, serve the Public, and it will confer a particular obligation on him as well as upon one, who professes himself to be, Sir, with the utmost attachment and regard, Your Excellency’s Most obedient And most humble servant

Thos McKean


Title: From George Washington to Burgess Ball, 18 January 1790
From: Washington, George
To: Ball, Burgess

Dear Sir,
New York, January, 18. 1790.

Your letter of the 26. of December came duly to hand, but occurences of various kinds have prevented an acknowledgement of it till this time.
I am not at all uneasy at the delay, or impatient for the settlement of the estate accounts of my deceased Mother; I am persuaded they will be rendered in due time, and to the satisfaction of all concerned—To pay all she owed is my first wish—to render unto every one their due is the next—The method which has been taken to dispose of the effects is, I presume, the best; and I am satisfied therewith—That none of the families of Negroes have been parted (where it could be avoided) is very agreeable to me.
I am well pleased that Mr Carter is inclined to take possession of my lots in Fredericksburg—We shall not disagree about the price, or in the mode of payment; of which be so good as to inform him.
I hope you have got through your difficulties on account of your surety-ship for Major Willis, and without loss—when you engaged in this business you neglected the advice of the wise man—than which no better I believe is to be found in his whole book—or among all his sayings “Beware of surety-ship”—Offer

my love and good wishes to Fanny and the family—accept the same yourself and those of Mrs Washington. I am &ca

G. Washington.


Title: To George Washington from John Collins, 18 January 1790
From: Collins, John
To: Washington, George

State of Rhode-Island & Providence Plantations
Sir,January 18th 1790.
I have the Honor of transmitting to you an Act of the General Assembly of this State for calling a Convention, to take into Consideration the Constitution proposed for the United States, passed on the 17th of September, A.D. 1787, by the General Convention held at Philadelphia.
This Event gives me the most sincere pleasure, as there is every Reason to hope that the Accession of this State will in a short Time not only entitle the Citizens thereof to all the Benefits of the Federal Government, but as it will render the Union complete, and affords a rational and pleasing prospect that the Thirteen States which by their United exertions, at the expence of their common blood and treasure obtained liberty and Independence, will be again joined in the firmest Bands of Friendship, under a Constitution calculated to secure to them the great Objects for which they fought and bled.
The Operation of the Federal Government, according to the existing Laws, will immediately prove greatly injurious to the Commercial Interests of this State, unless a further Suspension of them can be obtained: I do therefore, at the Request of the General Assembly, and in Behalf of the State, make this application

to the Congress of the United States, requesting a further Suspension of the Acts of Congress subjecting the Citizens of this State to the payment of foreign Tonnage, and foreign Duties, during the pleasure of Congress.
At the same Time that I desire you to communicate this Application to Congress, give me Leave, Sir, to hope for your favorable Influence in our Behalf.
I have the honor to be, with the greatest Respect and Esteem, Sir, Your Most Obedient, and Most Humble Servant,

John Collins


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Dubois, 18 January 1790
From: Dubois, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

Mon Général
Mont-marin Le 18’ Jier 1790.

Sans avoir demandé votre agrêment, j’ai pris la liberté de donner le nom de votre éxcellence à mon navire, commandé par le Sr Duroutois, sous lieutenant de Vaisseaux; Si j’etais assez malheureux que vous le trouvassiez mauvais, quoi que désesperé

de changer un nom aussi cher dans toutes les parties du monde, je rémplirais vos ordres: j’ose esperer que vous voudrez bien m’eviter ce chagrin et vous rendre à ma priere.
Permettez moi de vous supplier en oûtre d’accepter le plan d’un port que j’ai crée, en deux ans de tems, qui reunit beaucoup de ressources pour les traveaux maritimes; les atteliers en tous genres y font réunir ce qui me facilite les moyens de faire en peu de tems beaucoup de constructions. J’ai L’honneur d’être avec les sentimens les plus Respectueux Mon Général Votre très humble et très Obeissant Serviteur

Benjamin Dubois


Title: To George Washington from David Forman, 18 January 1790 [letter not found]
From: Forman, David
To: Washington, George

	Letter not found: from David Forman, 18 Jan. 1790. On 21 Jan. GW wrote to Forman “Acknowledging the receipt of your letters of the 3rd and 18th instant.”


Title: To George Washington from Henry Knox, 18 January 1790
From: Knox, Henry
To: Washington, George

Sir,
War Office [New York, 18] January, 1790.

Having submitted to your consideration a plan for the arrangement of the militia of the United States, which I had presented to the late Congress, and you having approved the general principles thereof, with certain exceptions, I now respectfully lay the same before you, modified according to the alterations you were pleased to suggest.
It has been my anxious desire to devise a national system of defence, adequate to the probable exigencies of the United States, whether arising from internal or external causes; and at

the same time to erect a standard of republican magnanimity, independent of, and superior to, the powerful influences of wealth.
The convulsive events, generated by the inordinate pursuit of riches, or ambition, require that the government should possess a strong corrective arm.
The idea is therefore submitted, whether an efficient military branch of government can be invented, with safety to the great principles of liberty, unless the same shall be formed of the people themselves, and supported by their habits and manners. I have the honor to be, with the most perfect respect, your most Obedt Servant.

H. Knox, Secretary for theDepartment of War.


Title: To George Washington from Alexander Martin, 18 January 1790
From: Martin, Alexander
To: Washington, George

Sir,
North Carolina Jany 18th 1790

As Brigadier General Martin of Washington District in this State, Agent of Indian Affairs has been criminated as he is informed before your Excellency and Congress, by a certain Bennet Belew for some mal-practises in his Agency, more particularly for a Letter said Gen. Martin should have written to

Alexander McGilveray one of the Chiefs of the Creek Nation, to whom some particular Resolutions of Congress were said to be improperly communicated. In justification of himself he hath had that Transaction investigated by a Committee of both Houses of the General Assembly of this State, and a Report in his Favor hath been made, and concurred with by the General Assembly. At his Request I beg Leave to present the same to your Excellency, he considering himself to deserve well heretofore of the public, that any unfavorable Impressions that may have been made as to his Conduct in this Business may be done away. As to any other Charges exhibited against him by Belew, they are unknown here, but when your Excellency is informed as to Belew’s Character, Genl Martin flatters himself they will have little Weight without being supported by better Authority. Brigr Genl Charles McDowel of Morgan District hath certified to me the Character of Belew which is enclosed for your Excellency’s perusal.
Since my personal Acquaintance with Gen. Martin, which hath been for eight or nine years past, he hath been a Member of the General Assembly for Greene County in Washington District and Agent for Indian Affairs both for Virginia and North Carolina, in which Stations he hath served with Reputation, and generally conducted himself to public Satisfaction.
Should your Excellency from the above Representation, entertain with me any favorable Opinion of General Martin, he sollicits your Excellency for a Continuance of his Agency for Indian Affairs, being well versed in the same in such Departments to the Southward your Excellency will please to allot, & honour him with. I have the Honour to be with the greatest Respect your Excellencys most obedient humble Servant

Alex: Martin


Title: To George Washington from William Tew, 18 January 1790
From: Tew, William
To: Washington, George

Sir
Newport Rhode Island January 18th 1790

The General Assembly of this State at their Session held last Week, have agreed (at last) to Call a Convention Which is to Meet the first Monday in march Next, and as the matter is beyond a Doubt that they will Adopt the Constitution.
I have taken the Liberty to Address your Excellency Upon a Subject of Great Consequence to me tho very Small to your Excellency.
It is no Less than beging your Excellency to think of me When you appoint the Officers of the Customs in this State, or in other Words in this town. I do Not asspire to any Office higher than the Surveyor of this port, for fear of Interfering with Some more worthy Characters.
In the year 1775 I Was appointed a Captain in Col. Thomas Church’s Regt in 1776 I Went into Col. Hitchcocks And in the year 1777 I Went into Col. Israel Angells And Serv’d in Said

Regt untill the first Day of January 1781. So that I Servd Six Campaigns a Captain Which Was Perhaps the only Instance of the kind During the War. Seeing No Prospect of Promotion and was Liable to Be Commanded By a Very Large Number of Officers Who I had Commanded. Which mortification I had undergone too often before I took the opportunity Which Presented upon the New Arrangement of the on the first of January 1781, and Retird from the Service.
I have been in as many Actions as perhaps any officer that Was in the Service. Which Was No less than Six to Viz. on Long Island at Harlem heights at Princeton at Red Bank at Monmouth and at Springfield. And to prove my Attachment to your Excellency and Lady I Will Relate the following Circumstances, on the 9th of Feby 1776 Mrs Tew Was put to Bed With a fine Boy Who We had Christiand By the Name of George Washington[.] And on the 28th of October 1780 She Was again put to bed With a fine Daughter Who we had Christian’d By the name of Patty after your Excellencys Lady.
I know your Excellency is not Influenc’d in the Appointment of Officers By Such Matters as only Respect your Excellency And family, yet I know at Same time that it Does Not Make the Less Deserving of an Appointment.
I have a Large family to Support no Less than Seven Children and owing to the Mistaken Policy of the State for Some time Past the times are Bad.
I Belive my Character Stands fair. I think Col. Henry Sherburne who Lives But a few Doors from me, Will Give me the Character of an Honest Industrious Citizen. and Col. Jeremiah Olney Who Lives in Providence and Does me the Honour to Corespond With me at Least once a month, Will Say as Much or more in My favour.
If your Excellency in your Great Goodness Will take the Above into your Consideration and will Grant the Above or any Other favor of the kind that I May help Support a Most Amiable Woman And Seven fine Children, I will keep it in Everlasting Remembrance. I am With the Greatest Respect your Excellencys Most Obedient And Most Humble Servt

William Tew


Title: To George Washington from Daniel Rodman, 19 January 1790
From: Rodman, Daniel
To: Washington, George

New York January 19th 1790
SirCherry Street N. 70
Impressed with the most lively sentiments of your exalted character for justice and humanity, and The just attention shewn to Persons whose exertions, & sufferings were meritorious in The Revolution in which you had The honour To act so conspicuous a part: Together with the advice of a number of Friends, Hath emboldened me To lay The following statement of facts before you, praying your interposition in my behalf, so far, as is consistant with That duty you owe The Publick, and The superior claim of individuals. At the commencement of the late War, I was in easy: or what in New England would rather be called affluent circumstances. In The Spring 1775. I was one of the principle Persons consulted by the late Gouvernour Hopkins of Rhode Island in makeing all the arrangements respecting the first Troops that were publicly raised upon This continent, and I believe I may say without much vanity that I was one of the most active Members in May Session 1775 in preventing Gouvernour Wanton & Deputy Gov. Session from being sworn into Office, after they had been unanimously elected by the Freeman; as They had both (with three of The Gouvernours Counsel) Publicly protested (now upon record) against the act

for raising Troops the preceeding April. In consequence of which Sir James Wallis then commanding Three Frigates in the harbour of Newport, wrote several letters to the General Assembly calling us an illegal body of Men Assembled together without our legal Supreme Magistrate at our head and ordering us to disperse, upon pain of being declared Rebels & Traitors, I had The honour of drafting answers to those letters and at a day when many trembled to hear Them read, However Familiar the sound rebel became afterwards, That was before we Knew that the God of armies had provided a Saviour to secure our necks from the Halter: and our Estates from confiscation—In The years 1775. 76. 77. & To April 1778, I loaned to the United States between Eleven & Twelve thousand pounds Lawfull money reduced by the scale, and for upward of one Thousand pounds of which I sold a real Estate, but reitterated misfortunes in trade obliged me to part with The whole of the securities for the money Thus Loaned and the most advantageous disposition I made of any was about £2600 sold Messrs Broom & Platt for dry goods @ 7/6 p. £. I was The second man That put Money into the Loan Office in Rhode Island, by placeing six hundred Dollars There The day that the office first opened, and upon West India goods turned out to different Commissaries of the Armey Two Thousand pounds Lawfull money in addition to all The pay That I ever received, would not have replaced me my goods exclusive of interest, by reason of the depreciation of The pay before I could obtain it—I had also a considerable store of dry goods burnt in The genneral conflagration at New London I also lost rising one Thousand pounds Sterling first cost in Amsterdam Captured by The British in two Vessels from Thence without any Insurance, also rising Four Hundred pounds Sterling upon a Cargo of goods Shiped at Amsterdam & stoped at the Texel upon the rupture between the British and Dutch which was unladed and sold at Auction. And I believe it will not be contended where I was known, that many Persons advanced their property upon every call of Their Country with more chearfulness and liberality than I did—And at the commencement of peace, in hopes of redressing my losses I ventured what I had left in Navigation, and by a series of unbounded misfortunes lost The whole and am now reduced to The necessity of keeping a boarding House in this City to support a Wife and seven small Children—And as I hope and expect that The State

of Rhode Island will adopt the confederacy this winter (which is the land of my nativity and in which State I held the Office of Clerk of The supreme Court for seven years and Then resigned it) should that event happen and upon inquiry you judge that my character & situation is deserving it, I will be very thankfull for the Collectors Office of the Port of Newport (or if more convenient and agreeable any Thing else that will give my Family a decent support—I am not insensible of The delicasey of your exalted situation, and the numberless applications necessarily attendant upon it. in every event therefore my opinion of your goodness will remain the same, as I am an entire stranger to you I have taken the liberty to enclose Coppy of a certificate (the original of which is now in my hands) given me upon leaving The State of Rhode Island, since which I have lived in the State of Connecticutt until the last spring, when I removed to this city, and for my genneral character of conduct since in Connecticutt; I beg leave to refer you to the Delegates in Congress from that state, particularly Benja. Huntington Esqr. & Colo. Wadsworth & Trumbull who were intimately acquainted with me during my residence there, and if necessary His Excelly Govr Huntington & Genl Huntington as I lived in the same Town with them many years and was particularly intimate at their Houses & they at mine—I have the Honour to be with The greates[t] respt Sir Your Most Obdt & very Humbe Servt

Daniel Rodman


Title: From George Washington to the Maryland Legislature, 20 January 1790
From: Washington, George
To: Maryland Legislature

Gentlemen,
[New York, 20 January 1790]

I receive with the liveliest emotions of satisfaction, your expressions of gratitude for my having accepted the Office of President of the United States, and your congratulations on that event.
From the enlightened policy of the Legislature of the Union, in conjunction with the patriotic measures of the State Assemblies, I anticipate the Blessings in reserve for these United States: and so far as my Administration may be conducive to their attainment, I dare pledge myself to co-operate with those distinguished Bodies, by constantly respecting and cherishing the rights of my fellow-Citizens.
Your mention of the place from whence you address me awakens a succession of uncommon reflections. In noticing the eventful period, since the resignation of my military command; I trace, with infinite gratitude, the agency of a Providence, which induced the People of America to substitute in the place of an inadequate confederacy, a general Government, eminently calculated to secure the safety and welfare of their Country.
The good dispositions of this People, and their increasing attachment to a Government of their own institution, with the aid of wisdom and firmness in their common Councils, afford a well founded hope, that the dangers of civil discord may be averted, and the Union established on so solid a basis that it may endure to the latest ages.
When I reflect on the critical situations to which this Country has been more than once reduced, I feel a kind of exultation in the character of my Countrymen, who have rescued it from threatened ruin by their virtue, fortitude, intelligence, and unanimity.
I thank you for the favorable sentiments which you are pleased to express of my public conduct, and for the affectionate interest which you have the goodness to take in the success of

my measures and the preservation of my health. I pray for the Divine Benedictions on you, Gentlemen and on your State.

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from John C. Ogden, 20 January 1790
From: Ogden, John C.
To: Washington, George

Sir
Portsmouth New Hampshire Jany 20st 1790

Could I have introduced the book, which accompanies this, to your perusal, or for the amusement, of some hour of relaxation, from the important duties, of your exalted station; in any other or a better method than this; I would have done it. But my distance from New York, a fear least I might be charged with taking too great liberty with you, or be suspected of some party designs; has led me to convey it by the post.
This work was aided to the press, by a general subscription of the members of the Legislature of New Hampshire; as well as very many of the first Patriots in America. It tends to bind Episcopalians to their mode—It removes antient prejudices against them on that head; and thus, by preserving them in uniformity and unity, it presents them, as Lovers of order; and gains them in New England, that religious liberty, which is the birth right of all, and to some almost their only treasure.
The subject appears to be of the first importance. The learned & pious writers of The Church of England, have ever complained; that the practice This author wishes to reform, has been an engine to promote sedition and rebellion.
Impartiality will shew, that it most powerfully assisted, in bringing about The Independance of America. This point being now obtained; a question arises, whether true policy, does not lead us as patriots, now to strive to remove, what may be a source of confusion, and disunion, at another day among our selves?
The Character of most nations is very generaly formed by their mode of Religion. As an individual It is my opinion that nothing will tend more, to cement the union of These States, and make it permanent; than our gradualy, affectionately, and generously, removing antient prejudices, and striving to unite the jarring interests, and opinions of religious communions.
The kind care of our civil fathers, in protecting all who are good subjects—Their generously avoiding all religious establishments, or acts of superiority; leaves all in their sphere, to seek the good of the whole; and to strive, for that unity in worship and doctrines, which is the duty and interest, of a free, enlightened, & truly pious people to adopt voluntarily & seriously.

This measure has most generaly been frustrated by the interference of civil government.
Pardon Sir, the liberty I have taken. As the office will convey the book safely, it will be, unnecessary to tax your goodness, to acknowledge its arrival, and unpardonable in me, to hope to intrude my self, into your correspondence, upon this subject.
Presenting Your Excellency and family with the compliments of the season—Beseeching Almighty God, The fountain of all Goodness, to hear the prayer of The Church, that you may be prospered with all happiness; I subscribe my self to be with all possible respect and veneration, Your Excellency’s, Most obedient, and most humble servant,

John C. OgdenRector of Queens Chapel


Title: From George Washington to David Forman, 21 January 1790
From: Washington, George
To: Forman, David

Sir,
New York January 21st 1790.

Acknowledging the receipt of your letters of the 3rd and 18th instant, I desire to assure you that I have not been inattentive to your communications.
In order that the most prudential steps might be taken on the subject, to which your letters related, they were laid before the Chief-Justice of the United States, who thought that a reference of them to the Executive of this State was the most adviseable measure—and the accompanying letter, from Governor Clinton to you, expresses his opinions of what ought to be done. The Governor thinks that the papers which were transmitted by you, will be necessary in the further prosecution of this matter, and he has therefore retained them.

This mark of your attention to public justice receives my best thanks. I am, Sir, Your most obedient Servant.

G.W.


Title: From George Washington to the United States Senate and House of Representatives, 21 January 1790
From: Washington, George
To: United States Senate and House of Representatives

United States [New York] January 21st 1790.
Gentlemen of the Senate and House of Representatives.

The Secretary for the Department of War, has submitted to me certain principles to serve as a plan for the general arrangement of the Militia of the United States.
Conceiving the subject to be of the highest importance to the welfare of our Country, and liable to be placed in various points of view, I have directed him to lay the plan before Congress for their information, in order that they may make such use thereof as they may judge proper.

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from John David Woelpper, 21 January 1790
From: Woelpper, John David
To: Washington, George

Philada January 21, 1790

To his Excellency the President of the United States of America
The Petition of John David Wœlpper of the City of Philadelphia in the State of Pennsylvania Most humbly sheweth.
That Your Petitioner in the late War with Great Britain took an early and Active part on behalf of the United States, and was on the 17th Day of July 1776 honoured with a Captains Commission in the German Battalion (after having served as first Lieutenant for the Space of Six Months and upwards).
That on the Appointment to a Captaincy Your Petitioner was emulous to have his Company raised and compleated, and used his utmost endeavours for that purpose, and expended in the Recruiting service, of his own Money to the amount of 681 Dollars Specie from November 1776 to May 24th 1777 as Will appear by the annexed Account.
That in the Month of June 1778 Matthew Clarkson Esquire, then Auditor of Accounts, examined & passed Your Petitioners

Account; in Consequence whereof, Your Petitioner received on the 11th Day of June, from the United States 681 Continental Dollars which (agreeably to the Depreciation Table affixed by Congress) were then worth 246 Dollars 7/90 & ⅝ of a Ninetieth of a Dollar, and passed his receipt for the whole Sum of 681 Dollars: being ignorant of any Depreciation and placing too great a confidence in the Money then Current.
That Your Petitioner hath served to the End of the War, and flatters himself with reputation to himself, and satisfaction to Your Excellency and the United States, but hath never been solicitous or troublesome to his Superiors or the United States for Money, as many others were; his frugality and Œconomy enabled him from Time to Time to subsist on his pay, and at the conclusion of the War received Certificates for the Depreciation of his pay and commutation of his half pay; the Interest whereof hath hitherto been his sole Support! but the payment of Interest for want of Supplies in the Treasury being often delayed, Your Petitioner is thereby often put to the utmost straights for subsistence, as by reason of his Advanced Age having now compleated the 81th Year he is not able to support himself and Family by Labour, which induced him to apply divers Times to the Honble the House of Assembly and the Supreme Executive Council of Pennsylvania for relief; but received for Answer, “That his account for Monies Expended in the recruiting Service, was against the United States, and that he must apply to Congress for relief.” Your Petitioner accordingly prefered a Petition to that Honourable Body but received no answer.
Thus Situated Your Petitioner is reduced to the Utmost Distress, the Interest not being regularly paid, and when paid, paid in depreciated paper Currency, that it was not sufficient for his support, he was consequently reduced to the necessity of contracting Debts, and is now hard pressed for the payment thereof; wherewith, he knows not, and hath now no other refuge left him but to Your Excellency, he Therefore humbly prays! Your Excellency may be pleased to take his distressed Condition into Consideration, and cause such relief to be granted him in the Premises as to Your Excellency in Wisdom shall seem meet. And Your Petitioner in Duty bound shall ever pray &c.

John David Woelpper

The United States of America in Acct with John David Wœlpper

1777

Dollr

May 24. To amount of Cash advanc’d in the Recruiting Service from Novr 1776—to this Day—Specie—
681.

1778

June 11. To Interest from May 24. 1777—to this Day—is 1 Year & 17 Days—
  42.51

Dollars
723.51

Cr.

1778

June 11. By Cash recd in Continental Money

Dollr
681.

(from which deduct depreciation, 100 Dollr Contl Money being then worth 36.86.1[)—Depreciation being
434.82.3

246. 7.9

By Balce carried to new Acct
 477.43.3

£723.51.

To Balance brought down

477.43.3

Interest on this Sum from June 11. 1778. to Jany 11. 1790—is 11 years & 7 months
 332.19.2 1/2

Due J. D. Wœlpper
Dollr.
809.62.5 1/2

exclusive of Arrearages of Interest due on his Certificates which amounts to One hundred Pounds & upwards—January 21. 1790.

John David Woelpper


Title: To George Washington from Henry Merttins Bird, 23 January 1790
From: Bird, Henry Merttins
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Charleston [S.C.] 23 Jany 1790

The public debt of the United States of America being to be taken into consideration during the present Session of Congress, it is probable that for the purpose of raising a sum of money in Europe, an Agent or Agents may be wanted to negociate a loan, or to undertake the payment of interest to the European creditors of the united States.
Conceiving that to answer this purpose it may be thought necessary that the Appointment shou’d be given to some person or persons resident in London, I presume to offer the services of the house of Henry Merttins Bird, Benjamin Savage & Robert

Bird, known under the firm of Bird, Savage, & Bird, American merchants of London, in which I am a partner.
Should it be thought that one house is not competent to an appointment of so much trust, the house of William Manning senr, William Manning junr, & Benjamin Vaughan, known under the firm of Mannings & Vaughan, merchants of London might be added.
I trust that on enquiry of the most honble Ralph Izard Esqr. or the honble William Smith Esqr the competency of one or both these houses will be found equal to the undertaking, & shou’d they be thought worthy of the trust I will immediately have the honor to attend at New York to take your Excellency’s commands. I have the honor to be with sentiments of the most profound respect, Sir, Your Excellency’s most obedient & most devoted humble Servant

H. M. Bird


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Meredith, 23 January 1790
From: Meredith, Samuel
To: Washington, George

Sir
New York Jany 23d 1790.

I have the honor of transm[it]ting to you my Accots as Treasurer of the U: States settled to the first of January 1790. It is

not in the same form as the one I at first rendered, which was an exact transcript of my Books, but such as the Officers were desirous of having, it being of little moment to me (only in the delay) in what way it was rendered, the balances being the same, to form which in this case, a recapitulation was necessary, and was annexed to the Account previous to its settlement.
I have likewise forwarded the Bank book as a Voucher for the propriety of my conduct, this last after examination, I shall take as a particular favour to have returned. I am with perfect respect Sir Your most obliged & humble Servant

Samuel Meredith


Title: To George Washington from Vaudreuil, 23 January 1790
From: Vaudreuil, Louis-Philippe de Rigaud, marquis de
To: Washington, George

Mr President,
Paris 23d January 1790

M. le Cte d’Estaing transmitted to me the diploma, admitting me into the Society of the Cincinnati, which your Excellency had addressed to me. deign, I beseech you, to receive my thanks for it. I shall always feel myself honored in being a member of a Society which was instituted to celebrate your talents, to consecrate the virtues of which you have exhibited such an example to the Universe, and to transmit them to the admiration of posterity. I shall never cease to regret that I was not able, when I was at Boston, to leave the command with which I was honored, to go & pay my respects to you, and know more intimately a hero who has added lusture to every place which he has occupied. I am with Veneration Mr President, Yr Excellency’s Most Obedient Humble Servant

le Mis de Vaudreuil


Title: To George Washington from Daniel Grant, 24 January 1790
From: Grant, Daniel
To: Washington, George

Sir
Baltimore [Md.] Jany 24th 1790

By tomorrow’s Stage I have forwarded 4 pr white Back Ducks In a Box directed to the President of the United States. Hopeing they will arrive safe and in good Order as they are Intended for Mrs Washington. from the great Scarceity of those ducks this Season I have been deprived of the pleasure of Sending any before. those that I have Sent are the best I Could procure. as they are a fine Bird and Such they Have not to the North of this I hope they will be acceptable. that Prosperity may Attend you Sir and Lady Washington in all Your Undertakeings is the Sincere Wish of Your Humble Servant

Danl Grant


Title: To George Washington from Edward Rutledge, 24 January 1790
From: Rutledge, Edward
To: Washington, George

My dear Sir
Charleston [S.C.] January 24th 1790.

Our mutual Friend General Pinckney has desired me to write with him in requesting you would be so obliging as to favor him with a Letter of introduction for a youth who is his nephew, and on the Eve of entering of his Travels to the Marquis de Fayette. Altho I did not imagine that there was any request that the General could make you would be declined, yet I most readily complied for a variety of Reasons. There is no doubt my dear Sir that the national Gratitude of America will remain to you, and to your Memory as long as Divine Providence shall permit any Blessings to flow from Liberty. But as my affection for you is as much attached to the Man, as that of others is to the General & the President, I am anxiously desirous that the Individual should be united to the national Regard, & that both should be continued as long as possible. I wish that our young People should look up to you as the common Father of the Country, consider your Name as a Protection to them, and entitle them

to the Rights of Americans in foreign Countries—When I view the Subject as a public man, I feel an anxiety in obtaining for the rising Generation a Knowledge of the politics of foreign States. In spite of our best Efforts it may be often very difficult, & some times altogether impossible to keep clear of their Politics: it is therefore a part of our general Duty to be prepared to meet them, and if we must intermingle with them, to make the best of it. And if this be true in the general it gathers new strength when applied to the Citizens of a State peculiarly weak from its local Situation, & will forever I fear continue so from its modes of Cultivation. We must therefore endeavour to counteract what I consider as natural Evils, and I know of nothing so likely to accomplish our desires as giving to our Children good Educations & extensive Knowledge—to improve them by Travel—to enable them to travel under the most favourable Circumstances. It is from these Considerations that I unite in giving you what I look upon as that kind of Trouble which receives a compensation from the Pleasure which it affords—The occasion therefore will be the apology: & I am sure you will consider it as such. I am my dear Sir with every Sentiment of Friendship & Esteem your most affectionate Humble Servt

Ed: Rutledge


Title: From George Washington to Ebenezer Tucker, 24 January 1790
From: Washington, George
To: Tucker, Ebenezer

Sir,
New York, January 24. 1790

Captain Burnett delivered me your letter of the 18. instant, and is so obliging as to take charge of this answer.
It is my sincere opinion that the land mentioned in it is worth what I asked for it—to wit four dollars per acre, and once would have sold for it; but, if, in the present scarcity of cash it will not fetch that sum, let those, who are really inclinable to buy, come forward, like men that are in earnest, and say what they will give—If they, or their Agent have seen the land, (and without this it is useless to name any price) have examined its qualities and improvements, they can say what they will give, and ought to act like fair and candid men—On these terms I am ready to treat with them. It is not my intention to dispose of the land for

a song, nor is it my wish to higgle, or make many words to the bargain—for which reason I pray them to come to a decision at once, and that you would inform me of the result—at any rate it would be well for you to write to me, and soon, that I may not miss any other offer, should any be made to Sir, Your most obedient, humble Servant

G. Washington.


Title: To George Washington from William Milnor, 25 January 1790
From: Milnor, William
To: Washington, George

Hond Sir
Philada January 25th 1790

Altho’ I have not Words to Express the gratefull feelings of my heart, for your great condecention in recommending me to the Collector of this port, I cannot any longer resist the impelling desire I feel, to inform you, how happy you have made me, from a mind almost driven to dispair with thoughts of the increaseing distress of my family, from unavoidable indolence and from every species of indigence I am happily delivered—Immediatily on the receipt of the Papers from, you Mr Delany Appointed me one of the Gaugers and from the blessed 10th day of August last, I have faithfully perform’d that office to the utmost of my abilities, & I am the happier in having the Honour to inform you that I have given intire satisfaction to my superior officers in the custom house as well as to the Merchants & all others concern’d, to confirm this, I beg your pardon for the liberty I take in Mentioning the following little anecdote. Some few days a go I waited on the Collector gave him the Complimts of the Season & thank’d him for the Appointmt he had been pleased to honour me with, and hoped he had found me faithfull in the discharge of my duty, he replied, I am sorry Mr Milnor that I did not at first give you the whole of that buisness, your Conduct has pleased every body Concern’d, I must again beg your pardon for saying so much about myself—for my past & future Conduct I must now beg leave to refer you to those Gentlemen under whome I act, when I consider that should I through neglect, be found lacking, in Industry Vigilence & accuracy in my buisness, I should merrit your Contempt forever, a mortification the greatest I could suffer on this side the Grave, I confess it is a ⟨Stimoler⟩ not to be resisted—Mrs Milnor desires to join me in our best respects to Mrs Washington knowing she has ever been propitious to our welefare we feel it our duty to retain a due sense of it. I have the Honour Sir, most Humbly to be and remain, Your Most Obliged & Most obedt Servt

William Milnor


Title: From George Washington to the United States Senate and House of Representatives, 25 January 1790
From: Washington, George
To: United States Senate and House of Representatives

United States [New York], January 25th, 1790.
Gentlemen of the Senate and House of Representatives.

I have received from His Excellency John E. Howard, Governor of the State of Maryland, an Act of the Legislature of Maryland to ratify certain Articles in addition to, and amendment of the Constitution of the United States of America proposed by Congress to the Legislatures of the several States; and have directed my Secretary to lay a copy of the same before you, together with the copy of a letter accompanying the above act, from His Excellency the Governor of Maryland to the President of the United States.
The originals will be deposited in the Office of the Secretary of State.

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Henry Knox, 26 January 1790
From: Knox, Henry
To: Washington, George

Sir,
War Office [New York] January 26th 1790.

In consequence of the act of the United States in Congress assembled of the 29th of September 1789 for the payment of the invalid pensions, the Secretary of the Treasury submits it as his opinion that the persons whose names are stated on the enclosed paper would be proper persons to pay the pensions to the said invalid pensioners under the said act—All the said persons being collectors of the customs within the states respectively excepting Colonel Jeremiah Olney of Rhode-Island and  of North Carolina.
And the Secretary of the Treasury submits a further opinion that it would be reasonable to allow the sum of two per cent on the sums they shall pay for their trouble in making the necessary examinations and payments aforesaid.
These names and the allowance proposed are humbly submitted for your consideration and approbation. I have the honor to be with the greatest respect Sir, Your most Obedient Servant
H. Knox

New Hampshire
Portsmouth
Joseph Whipple

Massachusetts
Boston
Benjamin Lincoln

Rhode Island
Providence
Jeremiah Olney

Connecticut
New London
Jedh Huntington

New York
New York
John Lamb

New Jersey
Perth Amboy
John Halsted

Pennsylvania
Philadelphia
Sharp Delany

Delaware
Wilmington
George Bush

Maryland
Baltimore
Otho H. Williams

Virginia
B. Hundred
William Heth

North Carolina

South Carolina
Charleston
George Abbott Hall

Georgia
Savannah
John Habersham


Title: To George Washington from William West, 26 January 1790
From: West, William
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Baltimore-Town [Md.] Jany 26th 1790.

Sensible that Merit only should claim the Attention of one, whom Merit alone has advanced to supreme Dignity; and sensible too that an honest Recommendation will be acceptable to you—I cannot but testify, in Favour of Mr Alexander Wooddrop Davey, of this Town, that I have been acquainted with him for some considerable Time, and admire him for his Integrity & upright Principles. And I scruple not to say, that in my Heart I verily believe he will faithfully discharge any Office to which he may be appointed. He wishes to obtain the Excise Office, & could he be so happy as to succeed, I am fully convinced he would acquit himself with Honour & Reputation in the Discharge of it. Less than this I cannot say tho’ duly sensible of the Weakness of my Testimony, in Favour of that honest & worthy man—And I trust you will pardon me for being interested in the

Success of such a Character, who am, with the greatest Respect & Gratitude, Sir, Your obliged humble Servt

Wm West


Title: From George Washington to the United States Senate and House of Representatives, 28 January 1790
From: Washington, George
To: United States Senate and House of Representatives

United States [New York] January 28th, 1790
Gentlemen of the Senate and House of Representatives.

I have directed my Secretary to lay before you the copy of an Act of the Legislature of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations, entitled “An Act for calling a Convention to take into consideration the Constitution proposed for the United States, passed on the 17th day of September A.D. 1787, by the General Convention held at Philadelphia,”—together with the copy of a letter accompanying said Act, from His Excellency John Collins Governor of the State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations to the President of the United States.

The originals of the foregoing act and letter will be deposited in the Office of the Secretary of State.

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Steuben, 29 January 1790
From: Steuben, Friedrich Wilhelm Ludolf Gerhard Augustin, baron von
To: Washington, George

Sir
New York Jany 29th 1790.

Though sensibly imprest with the marks of confidence & freindship, you have been pleased to manifest for me, since my arrival in America.
Nothing but the most urgent necessity could induce me at this time, to divert your attention from more important Objects of National concern, to the consideration of one, which may be of a more personal nature.
Unaccustomed to suffer pecuniary distress before I came to this Country, the indigent situation to which I find myself reduced, becomes every hour more insupportable.
Seven Years have now been spent in vain solicitations for the determination of a cause, the justice of which was at all times acknowledged by a large and respectable majority of the old Congress.
Flattered from Session to Session with the hopes of a determination in my favor—I have been induced to prolong my stay in this Country untill I have incumbered myself with Debt, and every possible resource exhausted—The immediate decision of Congress on my Memorial presented at their last Sessions is

therefore become indispensible to my existance, and it is to solicit such Official assistance as propriety may authorise in this respect, that I now take the liberty to address you.
The peculiarity of my situation in every respect is submitted as the true reason for making the request—It is indeed peculiar—Whatever the decision may be, I shall at least be releived from all that anxiety of mind, which arises from expectations so long deferred.
In whatever quarter of the Globe I may be obliged to seek an Asylum, the reputation I established in my own Country before, I left it, will always insure me the esteem of every honest Man, nor will this sentiment be lessened by the small share I have had, in the glorious Revolution of the United States.
And as I shall have nothing to reproach myself with, I shall be able to support my situation (however reduced) without a blush. With the highest respect I have the honor to be Sir Your Most Obedient & very humble Servant

Steuben


Title: To George Washington from Peter Trenor, 29 January 1790
From: Trenor, Peter
To: Washington, George

Newry [Ireland] 29th Jany 1790

Shortly after I had the Honour of receiving your Excellencys Letter, at portsmouth Virginia, dated Mount Vernon the 15th November 1786 Enclosing one for Mrs Anne Ennis, of Dublin, I returned to this Country, & handed your Letter to that, Poor distressed Lady, whose Circumstances, has been reduced to the Lowest Ebb, owing ⟨meerely⟩ to a train of dire Misfortunes, and I do assure your Excellency was it not for the support I gave her, from time to time, that she woud have been in a most deplorable Situation—she was in daily expectation of hearing that your Excellency, had got the affairs of the late Mrs Savage finally settled, as your Letter gave her hopes that there woud be a final Issue put to the Business, in a Term or two, from that Period.
 By this Conveyance I have forwarded to Geo. Pollock Esqre of Newyork Authenticated before the Lord Mayor of Dublin the following Papers Viz.: Copy of Mrs Savages Will—(wherein she has bequeathed to your Excellency £200 V. Cy & to Bryan Fairfax Esqre ⟨£100⟩ of like Money—which two sums & the £53 Bh you advanced in 1772 your Excellency will please deduct from the Amount received & the remainder you’l be so good as to order into Mr Pollocks hands[.] Copys of the late Richard Ennis’s Will[;] Power of Attorney from Mrs Anne Ennis Wife to said Richard Ennis to me & Power of Attorney from me to said Geo. Pollock Esqre to be proven on your side by Capt. William Chevers of the Ship Ann & Susan[;] also ⟨Mrs⟩ Savages Death & Interment, Authenticated before the Lord Mayor of Dublin.
Knowing that your Excellency will do every thing that justice or equity will admit of, to help the Distressed Mrs Ennis, I have the Honour to be Your Excellencys very obedt Servt.

Peter Trenor

⟨Mutilated⟩ thing defficient in the Papers, forwd to Mr Pollock, your Excellency will be so obliging as to point same out to me, which shall be rectified in course.


Title: To George Washington from Silas Talbot, 31 January 1790
From: Talbot, Silas
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Johnstown [N.Y.] January 31st 1790

My motives for presuming to address you at this time is to solicit your particular favor & notice so far as to take into consideration the propriety of my being again employed in some public service in case any should offer, in which I might be thought adequate to the performance of.
I have been Informed Sir by a member of Congress, that new arrangements will probably take place in some or all of the principal Harbours in the United States and that in order to carry such Laws or regulations as may be made for that purpose into effect, there will likely be a Harbourmaster appointed to each post: should it be deemed necessary to make any appointment similar to what I have before described for the Harbour of New-york, I have the Vanity to believe from my former acquaintance, & present knowledge of Shipping, that I could do the duties of that office And if my abilities might be viewed in so favorable a light I solicit the favor of your Excelly to nominate me to that Office. Should this request be granted I pledge myself to do my best endeavours to justify the appointmt by paying all suitable attention to the duties that shall be required of me in that station I could feign hope that my former services might in some small degree recommend me at this time; And in order that they may more readily occur to your mind, I take the liberty to inclose several copies of Original papers now in my possession; besides these if it were necessary, I could have forwarded copies of Three Letters from Major Genl Sullivan wrote to Congress while I was under his immediate command in these Letters he is pl[e]ased to mention me to that Honorable Body in terms of high approbation of my conduct as an Officer—I could

likewise forward three other copies of Letters from Major Genl Gates to Congress in 1779; in these Letters the General was also pleased to hold me up to them in a light very much to my Honour And was it not Sir for taking up too much of your time I could furnish copies of Letters from other General Officers of less rank, & particularly one from the Governor and Council of the state of Rhode Island in the begining of the year 1780 to Congress, stating my services to them, in a manner very flattering to me.
The inclosed Certificates &ce. I trust will be satisfactory in regard to my public character, as to that of my private or the Identity of my persn I must beg leave to refer your Excellency to Major Generl Knox, who I trust will be able to give you Satisfactory information on that head. I am &ce.