Title: Enclosure: Roger Alden to Charles Thomson, 30 November 1789
From: Alden, Roger
To: Thomson, Charles

              Dear Sir
              Newyork Novr 30. 1789

            I have been induced by desire of Mr Fisher to suspend writing to you until this time respecting some transactions in which he is

materially concerned. It is a duty which I owe to you to declare the truth. As I never could practise duplicity to serve myself I never will be guilty of it to oblige another.
            On the first of this month he asked my permission to be absent 8 or ten days to collect some money due to him at Claverack [N.Y.]. I readily granted his request. A few days after he left town I was informed that he was very much involved and the report was that he had absconded to avoid the payment of his debts. The day that he had promised to return, his wife informed me of his distress & added that he had heard of the reports. She requested me to advise him what was best to be done. I pitied him and wishing to relieve him wrote the letter N1 addressed as I thought to an honest, tho’ unfortunate man, and directed her to ascertain the amount of his debts that his friends might be the better able to advise & assist him. Three days after this she told me it was impossible to ascertain the sum—that the manner of incurring his debts doubly encreased her own distress—that he had contracted an unjustifiable acquaintance with a family in town whose interest and happiness he had preferred to his own—that he had retained money which he had received from the public & had expended it for their support. This alarmed me. The same day I examined the files in the Register’s office where I had directed the accounts & receipts to be preserved together. But many were missing. I called upon some of the gentlemen whose names she had mentioned, from their information and his papers I found there remained due to

                Doctor Provost
                £ 50. 0.0

                Doctor Rodgers
                22.10.0

                Berry & Rogers
                27.19.6

                Mr McLean
                17. 1.6

                Mr Hodge
                9.10.0

                Mr Greenleaf
                4.13.4

                Mr Morton
                12. 0.0

                £143.14.4

            He had told these gentlemen that the money was not received, but the accounts would be paid when the new treasury department was compleated. This prevented farther enquiries, and having told me that the receipts were lodged with the accounts I never suspected his honesty or veracity.

            Having ascertained these facts I was preparing to communicate them to you when I received his letter N2. Agreeably to his request I went to see him at a room his wife had taken in Broadstreet in his absence, being obliged to leave the house in which they had lived. It was such a scene of poverty and distress that I found no object for my resentment. I did not even enquire the causes of his conduct. On examining the paper, he mentioned I found they contained his accounts against the family which he had supported and a list of his debts amounting to £130 exclusive of the above sum. He proposed to surrender all he possessed which is a mere trifle, and was desirous of being continued in the office. To the latter I could not assent. I told him he must make no calculation upon that, and it was unnecessary for me to say more, his own mind could best suggest the reasons which determined me. I was not disposed to encrease the distress of a man whose misery seemed compleat. I rather wished to lessen it and encouraged his wife to summon her resolution by hoping that her husband would become a more industrious man & a better christian after his trials.
            I called the next day with Dr Tillary one of his creditors. He advised him to write to his creditors & recommended the taking a lodging house and to begin the world anew. This has been done. Some seem disposed to treat him with lenity and to grant him his liberty for two years. To what they will eventually agree is uncertain.
            It is about a year since he has used his discretion in paying the money entrusted to him and such has been his management that his conduct has been unsuspected by me. In Septr last he informed me that a man to whom he was endebted for rent hearing that he was to go with the southern commissioners as he had applied for a place had sued him, and asked me if I would not accept an order for the wages due to him. I replied that I could not—that I would not make myself responsible to any man for the payment of money which it was uncertain I should receive. After painting his troubles and the damage it would be to his reputation he obtained my consent to retain it to my hands and to pay it in the manner expressed in my letter N5. The lawyer gave up his note & took me for security & now demands payment.
            His wages from Oct. 1 to the middle of Novr & the debts due

from the family he has supported amounting to above £100 are all the funds he can calculate upon. He is now confined in his house and lies at the mercy of those whose confidence he has betrayed & whose property he has abused. His letters shew the present state of his mind and his countenance discovers all the marks of corroding remorse and aggravated guilt. Had he been imprudent only, a sense of my own faults and failings would dictate some plea for the exercise of charity, but knowing the facts I cannot offer a single word to extenuate his crimes or to avert his punishment. If justice could be satisfied with sufferings the poor fellow has in some degree cancelled his debts.
            In this situation what is to be done & how am I to proceed? To whom must the public creditors apply for justice? Here my trouble commences. Some of the accounts are presented for payment. I want your advice & can take no measures until I am honored with your instructions.
            Doct. Rogers desired me to enclose the letter he recd. He can say nothing for him, but with me supposes that from a state of facts you will be best able to judge of the man and of his conduct. I don’t know what view the unhappy man had in applying to him unless he considered it as a favorable opportunity to shew his contrition and repentence.
            Please to make my respects to Mrs Thomson & be assured that to promote your happiness will always give the greatest pleasure to your sincere friend & humble Servt

              R. Alden


Title: To George Washington from Burgess Ball, 26 December 1789
From: Ball, Burgess
To: Washington, George

            Dear sir,
            Travellers Rest [Va.] 26th of Decr 89.

          I fear you will think we have been very dilatary respecting the Settlement of the Old Ladys Affairs &c., as it has been a long time since we have given you any Information of them. For my part I have been so embarrass’d for some time by being Security for Majr Willis, that I cd scarcely think of any thg else. The Negroes are at length divided, but all the things of the Old Ladys are not yet quite dispos’d of, as there were many wch cd not (with propriety) be sent to Vandue, and Mrs Lewis sells them off to Private Purchacers—We concluded to divide the Negroes into four parts by wch it ⟨m⟩eans you have a Fellow call’d Dundee in ⟨ad⟩dition to the one you had before—None of the Families are parted, which is a happy Circumstance, but, those whose Husbands or Wives did not belong to the Estate, were obliged to part with such, of Course. Your two Fellows here (George & Dundee) I shall give a Pass to, as soon as the Hollidays are over, to go to Mount Vernon. Mrs Lewis will transmit you an Accot of the Division &c. in a few days.
          We have endeavour’d to dispose of your Lotts to sundry Gent, who inclin’d to purchace but the Valuation is, by every Body,

(even those who valued ’em) thought to be too high; therefore, least the Houses &c. shd be injur’d this Winter, we have recommended it to Mr Carter to move immediately into them, especially, as he wishes himself to be a Purchacer, & I expect will give as much as any person—He will, I believe give £350 payable in three Years with int. and I do not know any Person who will give so much—If he does not purchace, he will at any time move out for any Person who may. Any Security you shd require he will give. Fanny joins in best Wishes for you & yours & I am with the highest Esteem Dr sir, yr mo. Obt Servt

            B. Ball


Title: To George Washington from Perez Morton, 26 December 1789
From: Morton, Perez
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Boston Decbr 26th 1789

          If, as the Commerce of the United States is every day extending, & their Intercourse with the East Indias rapidly growing into an established Trade, The Wisdom of the Supreme Executive should suggest the Necessity of appointing Consuls in that Quarter of the Globe, permit me to solicit the favor of an appointment of that kind for the Hither India in behalf of a Brother, Joseph Morton, Merchant at Fort St George, on the Coromandel Coast.
          He is twenty five Years of Age; he left this Country early in the Year 1787, and has been established at Madrass in the mercantile Line about two Years. Educated in the habits of Œconomy, he is prudent & discreet beyond his period of Life; and for his Integrity, Capacity and Patriotism I can chearfully pledge myself. least however both the Candidate and the Solicitor may be personally unknown to you, I beg leave to refer you to Genl Lincoln’s Letter accompanying this, whose Enquiries respecting the Qualifications & Character of the Candidate have been such, as have induced him to support his Pretensions in the manner

he has—I flatter myself, should no other present, who in your Judgement would better serve the Interests of the United States, you will honor him with your Nomination & Support; which will confer an Obligation on him, who has The Honor to subscribe himself, with every Sentiment of Respect your most Obedient and very hu. Servt

            Perez Morton


Title: To George Washington from Poellnitz, 26 December 1789
From: Poellnitz, Friedrich Charles Hans Bruno, baron von
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            New York 26th Decbr 1789.

          The countenance Your Exellency has been pleas’d to give, to my feeble efforts in agriculture, has encouraged the promulgation of this Essay, the manuscript of which, I send to your Exellencys perusal, before I giv’ it to the printer, from whom I

expect the alteration, of the to a foreigner unavoidable faults of ortography.
          Permit’ me Sir to decorate this pamphlet with a great Title, by writing on the head “This Essay is respectfully inscribed &.&.&. to your Exellency; this will make more impression on the minds, then all the Arguments contained in the Essay, as it conveys the Idea, that what may be Useful in it, has received your Exellency’s gracious Sanction. I am respectfully your Exellencys, most humble, and devoted, Servant.

            F. C. H. B. Poellnitz

            The quantity the Mill can thrash in an hour, is left in bianco, ’til I receive Your Exellency’s Order, for the Experiment.


Title: From George Washington to Jabez Bowen, 27 December 1789
From: Washington, George
To: Bowen, Jabez

            Sir
            New York Decr 27th 1789.

          The letters with which you have been pleased to favor me, dated in Octr and the 15th of the present month came duly to

hand, and are entitled to my thanks for the communications contained in them.
          As it is possible the conduct of Rhode Island (if persevered in) may involve questions in Congress which will call for my official decisions, it is not fit that I should express more than a wish—in reply to your letter—than that the Legislature at the coming Session would consider well before it again rejects the proposition for calling a Convention to decide on their accession to or rejection of the present government. The adoption of it by No. Carolina has left them entirely alone. I am much obliged to you for your good wishes, and with esteem & regard I am—Sir Yr Most Obedt Hble Servt

            G. W——n


Title: To George Washington from Christopher and George Champlin, 27 December 1789
From: Champlin, Christopher,Champlin, George
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Newport Decemb. 27th 1789

          The Inclosed came under cover to us which we have the honour of Transmiting to your Excellency.
          Mr Hans Rudolph Saaby the subscriber is a merchant of Copenhagen and the acting person in the House of Nicholas Ryburg Esqr. & Co. of that City.
          We conceive it a duty incumbent upon us, (not only as Freinds to the Union) but in Justice to the Character of Mr Saaby; to inform your Excllency, that from a Commercial conection of five years Standing, we have found him a Gentleman of information, punctuality, and Probaty. and that the House of Nicholas Ryburg Esqr. & Co. is reputed the most oppulent in Copenhagan; and from thier extensive conections, have it in thier power to render services to the Commerce of this country.
          If a Foreigner is admissable to the office of Consul General. We have the honour to be with the greatest respect Your Excellencys Most obedient, and most humble servants

            Chrisr Champlin
            Geo: Champlin


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Harwood, 28 December 1789
From: Harwood, Thomas
To: Washington, George

            Sir.
            Annapolis Decemr 28th 1789.

          Having served as Continental Loan Officer in the State of Maryland, during the Revolution to this present time, and occasionally receiver of the Money appropriated by this State to Congress, and presuming that under the present Government, in the Arrangement of the Business of the United States such an Office or one similar to it may be necessary; and flattering myself with having the Approbation of Congress and those under whom I acted in the Business of that Office, beg leave to Solicit your favor and attention; and a certainty of doing the best in my Power may be depended on in the Duties of that, or any other Office that I may be thought Worthy of.
          My Brother Mr Benjamin Harwood who has done Business with me during the time of my being in Office, and who acted under Mr Morris, while he was Financier, as the Continental Receiver is at present in no Office, he is well Qualified for any Business, and should he succeed to an Appointment, I am sure he would give entire satisfaction; for information respecting my Brother and myself, I beg leave to refer you to Mr Morris, the late Board of Treasury and the Senators and Delegates from this State, who have a perfect knowledge of us. With Sentiments of the Highest Esteem, I am Sir Your most Obedient and very Humble Servant

            Tho. Harwood


Title: From George Washington to Samuel Huntington, 28 December 1789 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Huntington, Samuel

Letter not found: to Samuel Huntington, 28 Dec. 1789. In a letter to GW of 2 Jan. 1790, Huntington referred to “your letter of the 28th Ulto.” It is possible that Huntington misread the date of GW’s letter to him of 23 Dec. 1789 as 28 December.


Title: To George Washington from John Daves, 29 December 1789
From: Daves, John
To: Washington, George

            Sir:
            New Bern [N.C.] 29th December 1789.

          North Carolina having adopted the new Constitution I presume that Officers are soon to be appointed in the several Ports of this State; In the Year 1784 I was favored by the General Assembly with the appointment of Collector for Port Beaufort to which New Bern belongs—the inclosed Certificates will shew in what manner I have acquitted myself in the discharge of that Office, and if Sir you will have the Goodness to appoint me to the same Office under the new Government, I hope that my future Conduct will not give you any reason to complain.
          Having a Wife and some small children, neither the Remains of the pay that I was able to save when the Army was disbanded, nor the profits of the Office I now hold, make it convenient for me to give personal attendance at New York, this circumstance, however, I am persuaded, will have no effect on your deliberations. I have the Honor to be Sir Your most obedient and respectful Servant

            John Daves


Title: To George Washington from Alexander Hamilton, 1789–1795
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

            [1789–1795]

          Mr Hamilton will with pleasure execute the command of the President by the time appointed and have the honor of waiting upon him.


Title: To George Washington from the Invalid Pensioners of Pennsylvania, 1789
From: Invalid Pensioners of Pennsylvania
To: Washington, George

            [1789]

          The Petition of The Subscribers, pensioners According to Act of Congress of 7th June 1785 in consequence of wounds and disabilities incurred in the service of the United States during the late war with Great Britain, Most respectfully sheweth,
          That your Petitioners have found that the legislature of the

Union at their last session have made a temporary continuation for one year of the pension they had hitherto received from the State of Penna as aforesd and that they have with great propriety left with your ⟨Excely⟩ the mode in which they are to receive it. Your Petitioners represent that many of them, nay all of them are in the greatest distress and want occasioned by the late stoppage of their payments, that many of them are maimed so as to be unable to go any great distance for relief. Your Petitioners therefore beg leave to intreat your Excellency to direct that the benefits aforesaid may be speedily extended to them and that it may be paid to them the State of Pennsylvania where they now are and your petitioners as in duty bound will every pray.


Title: To George Washington from Michael McDonnell, 1789
From: McDonnell, Michael
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Wednesday morning. [1789]

          Permit one of the lowest of the people to approach you with every sentiment of Gratitude and Respect which has been, or can be expressed by any individual, or collective Body in the Union. Likewise to intrude upon your patience with a request, which if inconsistent with your inclination to admit, must rely on your well-known candour to pardon the impertinent intrusion.
          I am a person Sir of a tolerable English education, and use a pen in the Character you are perusing, (the same Character in which you were frequently addressed by Brigadier General Nixon in the year 1779 and 80) I never possessed an Interest, but thro a variety of misfortunes, and particularly from a variety of maladies, which attended my own person, from June 1784 to April 1787, (during all which time I could not earn a Shilling) myself and small family are reduced to as much poverty as persons can well suffer: and the beforementioned sickness has so much impaired my formerly robust Constitution, that I cannot gain a subsistence by Labour; my only dependence is my Pen, which procures me (but) a scanty subsistence in temporary Schools. During an interval of fifteen Months, in which time Roxbury has been erecting a New Grammar School I have been employed there as a private Teacher, but that being now completed, I have again lost my Bread for no other reason but my Ignorance of the Learned Languages: I can bring from the most respectable Characters that employed me in that Town, such recommendations as I trust will be satisfactory to any gentleman.
          I wish for no more than a decent permanent support for myself and little family; but unhappily I have no connexions or acquaintance of sufficient consequences to introduce me into

any permanent Business that may offer; so that I am in the same situation with the poor Man at the pool of Bethsaida.
          Under these circumstances I am emboldened to look up to yourself, as the real friend of such as struggle for an honest subsistence thro’ the difficulties of Life; and if my pen or figures, both which I can use with accuracy and dispatch can be serviceable to yourself, or any of the Gentlemen of your Houshold, I am ready to attend your Commands at any time or place: as my family is at present small, my expectations shall ever be circumscribed by your own Generosity, and my attention to Business shall be unremitted by night or Day.
          Waiting with the utmost deferrence and submission for what you may please to communicate upon the subject, I beg leave to conclude with every sentiment of the most profound respect, Sir, Your ever Obedient and Devoted Humble Servant

            Michael McDonnell


Title: To George Washington from Pierre Penet, 1789
From: Penet, Pierre
To: Washington, George

            to his excellency general Washington
            [c.1789]

          the Subscriber parthener of Emanuel Pliarne decea’d in the year 1777 in crosing Potomock River, then charged of publick affairs, hath the honor to represent to your excellency, that he was in St Eustache in the year 1775 at the arrival of an american Vessel dispatch’d by the governer Coock of providence in the state of Rodeland, wishing to procure munitions of war the

inhabitants of that island having refused, to satisfy his demand then the Subscriber offered to the capin of the said Vessel to go the cap francois where he procure him fire arms, powder &ca the Subscriber also Emanuel pliarne his parthener have with generosity supplyed the said Vessel with all the munitions of war without any interest that the satisfaction to Shew their Earnest desire to promote the americain cause they embarked in the Said Vessel to go to Providence, few days after their arrival in November 1775 they were at Cambridge to have the honor to See his excellency general Washigon and offered him their Service to Supply the americains with all munitions of war and furnitures wanting for their army, knowing all the importance of our Proposition the general advised Pliarne also the Subscriber to go instantly to Philadelphia and that he will inform the honorable congres of our propositions.
          the 28 January 1776 a contract was made between the committee Secret of the honorable congress, the Subscriber and his partherner, for a considerable furniture of munitions of war and other articles necessary for the use of the army and by the Said contract, it is Said in case that the Subscriber and his Parthener Would Succeed in the negociation committed to their care, they Should participate to the future favour of the united States of america.
          the subscriber embarked on board of the concorde at Philadelphia for france in March 1776 emanuel Pliarne was resident in this City, When the Subscriber arrived in france he go to Versailles obtained an audience of the Minister, and has been so succesful in his negociation that he is the first frenchman that hath procured useful correspondance between french and america, he give information to his parthener that all the produce and americains Vessel Should be received in the port of Nantes from whence the Subscriber was oblidge to send several Vessel to the Congress the first Were the Hancoke & Adam Capin Smith the Mary elizabetha, loaded with munitions of war, clothing and furniture for the troupes.
          in December 1776 his excellency D. B. Francklin delivered letters directed for the subscriber from the Secret committee of the honorable congress he Stay Sometime with him, and I want with him at Paris, after having supply him with Money also the americain frigatte the represaille [Reprisal] in which his excellency

came to Nantes, the Subscriber continued to do all the advance to all Americain Vessel directed to him by the united states or By the Board of War of Boston the President of which in his letter give acknowledgement that by receiving his invoice of 7000 firearms in due time, they have very much contributed to the glorious Journey of Saratoka. it is with the Same Zeale and fidelity that he hath completed all the order he received during the war as far as his faculty and credit Shoud permit Since 1775 till the peace took place.
          the Subscriber wishing to be employed in the americain service asked to your excellency a Brevet of aide de camp which has been granted to him in the year 1776 by the honorable Congress, the importance of the orders successively comitted to his care in Europe for the supplement of the armys in which he has been constantly employed during the War, is the only motive that prevented him to return and to be employed in the americain army. all his familly Wishing for his return in Europe particularly his Brother in law Knight of the order of St Louis and employed in the Royal Corps of artillery in which I have been employed myself before to come in america, in going to his country he wished to have Some mark of distinction to prouve to his nation that he hath fulfil with honor Zeal and fidelity the mission in which he hath been concerned, these be considered the Subscriber beseech your excellency to have him Received as a member of the order of St Cincinnati with permission to make use of the priviliges accorded to the order, in So doing you shall do Justice and the Subscrirer shall for ever pray for your excellency.
          (his excelancy the President of the united states of america) it is with respect that I beg your excellency to examine the memoirs of my services here annexed, and I beseech you to be favourable to my demand, if you are So good to protect them, I got no doubt that I shall suceed to obtain the favour that my Zeal and attachment for the americain Cause deserve, having ever been ready to discharge my duty with honour in the mission in which I have been employed for the Service of the united States. in granting my request I Shall have an eternal acknowlegment of your gratitude. I am with Respect the Most obedt humble servant of your excellency.


Title: To George Washington from Alexander White, 1789
From: White, Alexander
To: Washington, George

            [1789]

          General Edward Stevens—solicits an appointment in the Customs particularly the District of Norfolk He is a Gentleman in high repute in his Country both as a Citizen and a Soldier.
          Col: Will. Heth—has I expect explained to your Excellency his particular Views—I have known him from his Infancy. There is not a man in whom I would more readily confide for the discharge of any Office he may undertake—As a Soldier he is probably better known to Your Excellency than to me, though his early exertions may have escaped your notice or your Memory—I know him to be an excellent Accountant, an affectionate and dutiful Son to his indigent Parents notwithstanding his circumstances are narrow and he has a young Wife and an increasing Family.
          Col: Gustavus Wallace is desirous of a Collectors Place—particularly that of Rappohannock—I have but a very general acquaintance with him He was an Officer in the Army, from that circumstance, and from what I know of his Connections I presume he is not unknown to Your Excellency.
          Hudson Muse, is desirous of the same Office He is an entire Stranger to me—but has been long in that Office, and is recommended by Gentlemen on whom I can depend, as a faithful diligent able man in his office, and a good Citizen.
          Col: Christian Febiger—has explained to Your Excellency his particular Views—I knew him well early in the War. he was much esteemed among us at that time, and I understand has supported a good character both as a Soldier and a Citizen ever since.

          Elias Langham—is desirous of being appointed a Commissary of Military Stores—He married a young Lady in my Neighbourhood, and lived there sometime, I believe his character is good—and I find he has given satisfaction in his present Office at the Point of Fork.
          Frederick Phile—solicits the Appointment of Naval Officer of the Port of Philadelphia He has been twelve years in that Office, and brings ample Testimonials of his faithful discharge of the Duties of his Office, and of his general Good Character—I am not personally acquainted with him.
          Joseph Shallcross—solicits the Appointment of Collector of the Customs at Wilmington. He is also a Stranger to me, but from the character given him by those on whom I can rely—I have no doubt of his fitness for the Office, and of his general good character.


Title: To George Washington from Nathaniel Keais, 1 January 1790
From: Keais, Nathaniel
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Washington No. Carolina Jany 1st 1790

          the Subject of this Letter is to Inform your Excellency that I now hold the Office of Collector of the Impost for the Port of Bath—by an Appointment from this State.
          (Should there be no Weighty Reasons Offered to you Against it) I shall Esteem it as a Perticular Favour to be Reinstated in that Office under Congress. I am with the Greatest Respect Your Excellencys Obt Servant

            Nathn. Keais


Title: To George Washington from Joseph Willard, 1 January 1790
From: Willard, Joseph
To: Washington, George

            Sir,
            Cambridge [Mass.] Janry 1. 1790

          When I had the honor of paying my respects to you, at the University in this place, I took the liberty of mentioning the utility of the Medical Institution, established in it, and at the same time, the disadvantage under which it has labored, from the first, for want of an Infirmary connected with it. As the time and other circumstances would admit but of few words upon the subject, you were so condescending and obliging, as to suggest my writing to you, and precisely stating the wishes of the Government of this Society, respecting a Hospital, and manifested your readiness to do every thing for the Institution, which you might be able, with propriety. Agreeably to this permission, I would take the opportunity of offering a few things upon the subject.
          The Medical Institution in this University, for teaching the healing Art systematically by Professors, is the only One in the New England States, and has existed for seven years. The Professors are—one for anatomy and surgery—one for the theory and practice of physic—and one for chemistry and materia medica, who give lectures in their several branches to medical students, both to such as belong to the University, and such as come from abroad. The Professors have, for very small pecuniary inducements, since the establishment of the Institution performed the duties assigned them, greatly to the satisfaction of the Public and to the advancement of regular practice in physic. Their lectures have been attended by students in physic from the neighboring States, but their labors cannot be attended with

so great advantage to this most important Art, as they might be, were there an Hospital to which they might introduce their medical pupils, where they would frequently see curious cases in medicine and surgery, as well as the common daily administrations of the Professors, among the Invalids, and the theories of those Gentlemen would be explained, elucidated and confirmed, by lectures at the bed side, and actual practice.
          Several years ago, a plan was proposed by the Corporation of the University and the medical Professors, to the General Court of this Commonwealth, for establishing a marine Hospital; and a Committee of the Court was appointed to examine into the usefulness of the measure, and they were so well satisfied of it’s utility, that they reported a Bill for the purpose. The present happy system of General Government being prepared, soon after, induced a delay of the Institution, in hopes that one of a similar nature would take place for the Continent, in this Commonwealth, and upon more liberal and extensive principles, than it would be in the power of the State to adopt; and the Bill remains upon the files of the Senate, without being acted upon.
          Having seen, the last fall, in the debates of the House of Representatives of the General Government, a motion for establishing marine Hospitals, on the sea coast in the United States, I could not but hope, if they should be established, that as they would subserve the purposes of humanity, by the shelter they would afford to individuals, so they might be made extensively to promote the interests of medical knowlege, by being connected with public medical Institutions. I have communicated my ideas to Gentlemen who have the care and Government of this University, and they all wish, if a marine Hospital should be established in this neighborhood, it might be made beneficial to our medical Institution. What we have therefore to request, Sir, is that the Hospital which may be in this part of the Country, may be fixed in such a situation upon Charles River, that it may be easy of access from the University, and that the Gentlemen, who at present teach the medical branches in it, may have the charge of it, which might be the means of greatly promoting the knowlege of medicine, and of course, saving the lives of many valuable Citizens of the Community. Should there be an impropriety in appointing the three Professors, if some one of them

could have the direction of such an Hospital, it would answer the general purposes.
          I by no means wish, Sir, to be importunate upon this subject; and I rest fully assured, that your wisdom will direct to that which shall be for the best. I have the honor of being, with sentiments of the highest defference and respect, Sir, your most humble and obedient servant

            Joseph Willard.


Title: From George Washington to the South Carolina Society of the Cincinnati, 2 January 1790
From: Washington, George
To: South Carolina Society of the Cincinnati

            Gentlemen,
            New-York, January 2nd 1790.

          From a conviction that the dispositions of the Society of the Cincinnati, established in the State of South Carolina are peculiarly friendly to me, I cannot receive their congratulations on the occasion, which gave birth to their address, without emotions of peculiar satisfaction.
          The interest that my fellow-citizens so kindly took in the happiness which they saw me enjoy in my retirement after the war, is rather to be attributed to their great partiality in my favor than to any singular title I had to their gratitude and affection.
          Notwithstanding I was conscious that my abilities had been too highly appreciated, yet I felt, that, whatever they were, my Country had a just claim upon me, whenever the exercise of them should be deemed conducive to its welfare. With such feelings I could not refuse to obey that voice which I had always been accustomed to respect, nor hesitate to forego a resolution which I had formed of passing the remainder of my days in retirement. And so far am I from having reason to respect the decided measure I took in the crisis of organising a new general government, that I ought rather perhaps to felicitate myself upon having met the wishes and experienced the assistance of a patriotic and enlightened People, in my arduous undertakings.
          Always satisfied that I should be supported in the administration of my office by the friends of good government in general; I counted upon the favorable sentiment and conduct of the Officers of the late army in particular—nor has my expectation been deceived. As they were formerly distinguished by their eminent fortitude and patriotism in their military service, during the most trying occasions; so are the same men, now mingled in the mass of citizens, conspicuous for a disinterested love of order, and a jealous attention to the preservation of the rights of mankind. Nor is it conceivable that any Members of the community should be more worthy of the enjoyments of liberty, or more zealous to perpetuate its duration, than those who have so nobly and so successfully defended its standard in the new World.
          I sincerely thank you, Gentlemen, for your expression of

attachment to my person; and wish for my happiness and honor. On my part I only dare to engage it shall be my incessant study that you may happily experience, and long enjoy the fruits of a government, which has for its basis, the good of the American People.

            Go. Washington


Title: To George Washington from Matthew Clarkson, 2 January 1790
From: Clarkson, Matthew
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Philadelphia Jan. 2d 1790.

          Having formerly acted under your immediate Command as a principal in the department of auditor of accounts to the army; I had the honor to become personally known to you; those services I hope were approved. I still wish to be useful to our common country.
          From the late proceedings of Congress I have been induced to suppose that that honorable body will shortly determine where their permanent residence shall be fixed, and that the appointment of Commissioners for the locating and establishing thereof will be committed to you. The object of this address Sir! is to make a tender of my services in that employment.
          Convinced that the nomination or appointment to offices which you are pleased to make, have suitable qualifications, personal merit and former services for their objects; uninfluenced by the solicitations of friends, I cheerfully rest my application upon that issue as the most honorable.
          Should I be so happy Sir! as to meet your aprobation I will endeavor to do justice to your appointment.
          With every sentiment of reverence and esteem for your public and private charactor, I have the honor to be with the greatest truth Sir Your most obedient and most humb. servt

            Matth. Clarkson


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Huntington, 2 January 1790
From: Huntington, Samuel
To: Washington, George

            Sir,
            Norwich [Conn.] Jany 2d 1790.

          I am honoured with your letter of the 28th Ulto. Sensible that You must be wearied with Solicitations for appointments to

Offices, it is with reluctance that I now take the liberty to mention Dudley Woodbridge jun. Esq: as a suitable character to supply the vacancy lately made by the decease of Genl Parsons in the supreme Court in the western Territory. Mr Woodbridge sustains an amiable & virtuous Character: Having receivd the honours of Yale College with good reputation, he applied to the study of the Law, & made good proficiency under my care and inspection for a number of years & was introduced to the practice of the Law with encouraging circumstances & persevered therein for some time until unfortunately an inveterate Phthisic distressed him in his Exercises as a public Speaker to such a degree as threatened a disolution of his Constitution, & obliged him not without Reluctance to abandon his hopeful prospects in that Profession; he hath since been unsuccessful in trade: having a growing family & his Connections being respectable & influential Characters in this State, he could not endure the prospect of retiring from business in [the] prime of life, with his rising family & amiable partner unprovided for in future; but hath taken the Resolution to settle himself & family, at Marietta where they now dwell. I beleive his character & abilities such as will give satisfaction to the public & do honour to the Office should he be appointed to fill the vacancy I have mentioned, & from the character he sustains with the advantages of his education, more especially his knowledge in jurisprudence he may reasonably expect employment in some learned profession where he may render essential service to mankind, & receive some consolation under his peculiar misfortunes. With the most perfect Esteem and Respect I have the honour to be Your Obedient humble Servant

            Saml Huntington


Title: To George Washington from Winthrop Sargent, 2 January 1790
From: Sargent, Winthrop
To: Washington, George

          Losanteville [Territory N.W. of River Ohio]
          Sir2d Jany 1790
          I do myself the Honour to transmit your Excellency the Proceedings of the Governour in his Executive Department from July last, and since his Return to the Territory.
          By the Ordinance for the Government of this Country such Communications should have been made to the Secretary of Congress, but a late Resolution has induced me to suppose (though it has not expressed it) that all Official Communications, from me, as well as the Governour, should be addressed to your Excellency.
          If I have erred in this Opinion, I request your Excellency would put me right.
          Mr Charles Thompson Secretary to Congress furnished me with the Journals, to Novr 1787—If it is proper that they be continued to me, I must take the liberty of asking your Excellency’s Order to that Purpose.
          The Governour arrived here this Morng & will probably be detained by public Business until the 4th when he expects to

take his Departure for Kaskaskias. With the greatest Respect I have the Honour to be your Excellency’s most obedient & most devoted Servant

            Winthrop Sargent


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Shaw, 2 January 1790
From: Shaw, Samuel
To: Washington, George

            Sir,
            Boston, 2d January 1790.

          On the 26 January 1786, the then Congress of the United States did me the honor to appoint me their Consul at Canton in China, where I resided till the 20 January 1789, at which time I embarked on my return to America. Being about to go again to that Country, I do myself the honor, Sir, to request, if it be not incompatible with any present public arrangement, that I may be favored with the same appointment, and a new commission, under our present happy government. Though neither salary nor perquisites were annexed to the office, yet the respect to be derived from such a mark of the confidence and esteem of the United States renders it to me, who have experienced the good effect of it, an object truly desirable. I have the honor to be most respectfully, Sir, Your most obedient and very humble servant

            S. Shaw


Title: Farm Reports, 3–9 January 1790
From: Washington, George Augustine
To: Washington, George

            [Mount Vernon, 3–9 January 1790]

          Meteorlogical Account of the Weather Kept at Mount Vernon 1790

              Jany

              3
              Morning 47 SWt
              Clear
              Noon 54 SWt
              Clear
              Night 57 SWt
              Clear

              4
              Morning 49 SWt
              Clear
              Noon 58 SWt
              Clear
              Night 58 SWt
              Clear

              5
              Morning 44 NEt
              Rain
              Noon 46 NEt
              Cloudy
              Night 48 NW
              Clear

              6
              Morning 36 SEt
              Clear
              Noon 40 SEt
              Clear
              Night 42 SEt
              Cloudy

              7
              Morning 37 SWt
              Cloudy
              Noon 41 SWt
              Clear
              Night 46 SWt
              Clear

              8
              Morning 39 SWt
              Cloudy
              Noon 42 SWt
              Cloudy
              Night 49 SWt
              Clear

              9
              Morning 37 NW
              Clear
              Noon 40 NW
              Cloudy
              Night 41 NW
              Clear

          January 9th

              days

              Dr. Dogue Run Plantn for the work of 7 Men & 11 Women Amountg per week to

              108

              Cr. By plowing at the River plantn

              4

              By hauling Straw to Cover a farm pen & to make litter

              6

              By Making a farm pen

              65

              By Clearing and Grubing on the side of the Swamp below ⟨illegible⟩ House

              9

              By Cuting rails & Trunnels for a Trunnel fence

              10

              By Striping Tobo

              10

              By Sickness Brunswick

                4

              Total
              108

          Sent to the Mill 11 Bushels Corn Recd from ditto 9 Bushels B. Meal Sent to the Mansn House 6 Barrels Sound Corn, 56 head Cattle 89 Old Sheep, 35 Lambs, & 8 working Horses.

              days

              Dr. Muddy Hole Plantn for the work of 4 Men & 10 Women Amtg per week to

              84

              Cr. By breaking up ground in No. 6

              22

              By hauling rails and going to Mill

              1

              By Clearing and Grubing in no. 6

              45

              By Striping Tobo

              4

              By Sickness Gabrel & Molly

              12

              84

          Sent to the Mill 10 Bushels wheat and 6 ditto of Corn Recd from ditto 6¼ Bushels B. meal 2 ditto Oats, 2 ditto Bran Stock 45 head Cattle 15 Old Sheep, 4 Lambs & 9 working Horses.

              Days

              Dr. River Plantn for the work of 7 Men 17 Women 3 Boys & 1 Girl Amounting per week to

              162

              Cr. By breaking up ground in no. 7

              15

              By hauling Mud on N. 5 and rails to no. 2

              20

              By going to Mill with wheat

              4

              By Cuting & Mauling rails 16 days Geting Posts 6 ditto

              22

              By dressing flax

              10

              By Cuting Straw & Grinding axes 3 days Shelling Corn 6 do

              9

              By Taking in and threshing wheat

              70

              By Sickness Cornelia 6 days Natt 3, & Agness 3 days

               12

              Total
              162

          Decrease 2 wethers—Sent to the Mill 52 Bushels wheat 19 ditto of Rye, Reed from ditto 9½ Bushels Corn meal, 45 Bushels Choped Rye and Bran Mixed, & 5 Bushls Oat Meal—Stock 86 Head Cattle 126 Old Sheep, 53 Lambs, & 14 working Horses.

              Days

              Dr. Ferry & Frenches for the work of 7 Men 16 women & 3 Boys Amtg per week to

              156

              Cr. By breaking up ground in no. 2

              7

              By ditto ditto in No. 5

              16

              By hauling Shingles to the barn, Flax to Mansn House & to the Ferry and at Mill

              12

              By preparing for Mauling Rails

              2

              By Leveling the dirt around the barn wall

              13

              By planting Honey Locust

              4

              By threshing & Cleaning wheat

              24

              By Carrying Shingles in the barn Celler

              6

              By Cuting rail timber & Mauling

              22

              By Shelling Corn 4 days dressing Flax 8 ditto

              12

              By Grubing in No. 2

              3

              By Striping Tobo 11 days Grubing in no. 6 12 ditto

              23

              By Spinning & Sewing

               12

              Total
              156

          Decreas 2 Sheep died from Eating Ivey—Sent to the Mill 16 Bushels Corn 14½ ditto of wheat Recd from ditto 11½ ditto Corn meal—Stock 80 head Cattle 88 Old Sheep, 28 Lambs, 15 working Horses, 2 ditto Mules 2 ditto Spring ditto Fernages 24/.

              Days

              Dr. Mansn House for the work of 14 men 8 Boys & 6 Girls Amtg per week to

              168

              Cr. By waggon Hauling rails to post and rail fence Hay, wood and at Mill

              6

              By 2 Carts hauling wood Sand, & Gravel

              12

              By working at Muddy Hole Plantn

              18

              By Mauling and Sawing rail Stuff

              10

              By Killing Hogs & Striping Tobo

              14½

              By diging Holes and puting up post and Rail fence

              45½

              By Tenentg rails

              5

              By Cuting wood for Mansn House

              7

              By Cuting Rail Stuff

              3½

              By Loading waggon with Hay

              1

              By hauling with the Muddy Hole Cart for the post & rail fence

              2

              By tending Knowles

              13

              By feeding beeves & beating Homeny

              6

              By burning the Ends of the posts

              ⟨½⟩

              By Currying leather

              6

              By tending Stock 6 days Making Baskets 3 ditto

              9

              By Sickness Tom Davis 6 Days Scomburg 3 ditto

                9

              Total
              168

          Recd from the Ferry Plantn 6 Hogs Wt 596—from the River pln 1 ditto Wt 75—Total 671 out of the same was delivered to Isaac 50 Wt to Will 50 ditto—Recd from the Mill 25 Bushels B. Meal 7 Ditto of Oats & 13 ditto of Bran—Stock 17 head Cattle, 32 Old Sheep, 18 Lambs, 5 last Spring Mules, 1 ditto 2 Years Old, 4 ditto Spring ditto, 3 ditto Spring Colts, 2 ditto Spring Jennies, 2 ditto Old ditto, 3 ditto Jacks, 1 ditto Spring ditto

              days

              Dr. Ditchers for the work of 5 Men Amtg per week to

              30

              Cr. By ditching finished 25½ roods

              12½

              By Sawing & hewing Rails

              9½

              By hewing posts at Manleys on Acct of Rain

              2

              By Sickness Pascall

               6

              Total
              30

              days

              Dr. Joiners & Carpenters for the work of 4 men Amtg per week to

              24

              Cr. By Thomas Mohony puting the plates of the barn Shed walls puting up Joists & Posts

              4½

              By handling 2 Handsaws

              1½

              By James & Sambo engaged in ditto

              10

              By Making a Gutter & putg it on the Shed Stable to prevent the water from Injuring the wall

              2

              By Carrying wheel Stuff from the Top of the Hill to the Houn Kennel for Isaac

              1

              By Isaac Making a New wheel Barrow and a New wheel to another & assisting about removg the Lemmon & Orange trees to the Green House and finished a New Cart wheel for D. R. Plantn

               6

              Total
              24

              Mill Grist
              Dr.
              Wht
              Corn
              Rye
              Oats

              Remg in the Mill

              913
              19
              10½
              22

              To Toll this week

              1½
              10

              To R. Plantn

              52
              11½
              18½

              To D. Run Plantn

              To Muddy Hole Plantn

              9¾
              6

              To Ferry & Frenches

               15¼
              17

              991½
              63½
              29
              22

              Contra
              Cr.
              B. Ml
              Rye
              Ots
              Bran

              By River plantn

              9½
              30

              15

              By D. Run Plantn

              9

              By Muddy Hole Plan.

              6½

              2
              2

              By F. & Frenches

              11½

              By Mansn House

              25

              7
              13

              By Coopers & Miller

              1

              By John Knowles

                2½

              65
              30
              9
              30

              Days

              Dr. Coopers for the work of 2 Men Amtg per week to

              12

              Cr. By Making Tobo Hogheads & Flower Casks

              11

              By geting the Large boat round in the Mill Creek

               1

              Total
              12


Title: To George Washington from David Forman, 3 January 1790 [letter not found]
From: Forman, David
To: Washington, George

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


Title: To George Washington from Alexander Hamilton, 3 January 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

            [3 January 1790]

          The Secretary of the Treasury having, in consequence of the Act for the Establishment and support of Light-houses, directed his Enquiries to that object begs leave most respectfully to submit the result to
          The President of the United States of America.
          New Hampshire.
          In this State is only one Light house situated on a point of land on the Island of New-Castle, three miles from Portsmouth, without the walls of the Fort which commands the entrance of Piscatqua river. It is under the Superintendance of a Commisary who is Captain of the Fort; and is at present in good repair.
          The annual expence of maintaining it, is estimated at
          Dollars 217.20.
          Massachusetts.
          In this State are six Light-houses at the following places vizt

            Boston
            Cape-Ann
            Plymouth
            Plumb Island
            Nantucket
            Portland

          The whole expence attending the support of these Establishments including the Officers Salaries, is estimated at
          Dollars 5736.
          The Officers appointed for their management are,

              At Boston, Captain Thomas Knox with an annual Salary of
              Dollars 400

              At Cape Ann Mr Samuel Houston with Ditto
              400

              At Plymouth the widow of the late General Thomas with Ditto
              233.50.

              At Plumb-Island Mr  Lowell with Ditto
              220.

              At Nantucket, Mr Paul Pinkham with Ditto
              250.

              At Portland, the building not being perfectly

completed no person is yet appointed to superintend it.

          Exclusive of the above there is an officer stiled a Commisary who has the charge of supplying the whole.
          This Office is now filled by Mr  Devens, but what allowance he has for executing it, the Secretary has not yet ascertained.
          When the building at Portland is completed, the expence of maintaining it, and the allowance of the Commissary superintending the whole, will probably make the total amount of the Light-house Establishment in the State of Massachusetts about
          Dollars 6000 per annum.
          Connecticut.
          In this State there is only one Light house which is situated at the port of New London; it is built of stone, and has lately been repaired: In the month of May last the General Assembly ordered some Buoys to be fixed in the harbour for the safety of the navigation, but nothing has been yet done in consequence of the Act.
          The annual expence of this Establishment is estimated at
          Dollars 450
          At New Haven there is a pier in the harbor which is private property, & a Buoy at the entrance, two other buoys are judged necessary for the safety of the navigation.
          New York.
          At New York there is a Light-house and was lately a Beacon at Sandy hook, the annual expence of which (exclusive of an allowance to the Wardens of the port) is about
          Dollars 1500
          The number of the Wardens is four, who have (besides other Duties incident to their Office) the charge of supplying and superintending this Establishment. They have each an allowance of one Dollar and an half pr day, when employed in visiting the works, exclusive of their provisions &c. The Master Warden is Mr Thomas Randall. The Beacon has been recently blown down and will require to be replaced; which can be done at an inconsiderable expence.
          In New Jersey.
          There is no Light-house, nor any establishment of that nature.

          In Pennsylvania.
          There is a Light house at Cape Henlopen, and several Buoys, Beacons and Piers for the security of the navigation on the Bay & river Delaware. The annual expence of these establishments which have been under the care of a Board of Wardens of the Port of Philadelphia, is estimated by the present Master Warden at, Dollars 4133. This Office is now filled by Capt. William Allibone.
          In Delaware.
          There is no Light-house nor other establishment of this nature, those on the Bay & river Delaware answering for that state.
          In Maryland & Virginia
          There are at present no Light houses, nor any Beacons, Buoys &ca for the security of Vessels navigating the Bay of Chesapeak. I[n] consequence of certain Acts of the Legislatures of these States, stiled the compact Laws, considerable Sums have been collected heretofore, by a Tax upon Tonage, for raising a fund for the purpose of building Light-houses &c. at Cape Henry. The Commissioners appointed by the two States for superintending this work, expended on it previous to the War, in collecting materials &c., at between 7 and £8000 Virginia Currency but it is presumed that no considerable Benefit can be now derived from this Expenditure—The present expence for erecting this Lighthouse &c. (as estimated by one of the Commissioners appointed on the part of the State of Virginia) is comput’d at
          Dollars 34.076.66.
          The annual Expence of maintaining it would probably not exceed
          Dollars 2.000
          In South Carolina.
          There is one Light-house and the necessary Buoys and Beacons, for the security of the navigation into that harbour—The Lighthouse is in good Condition, but the Buoys and Beacons want repair—The annual expence attending this establishment is computed at
          Dollars 1.457.
          The officer having charge of them at present is Mr Thomas Hollingsby, who is recommended by the Commissioners of Pilotage

for that harbour as a person perfectly qualified for the business; his present salary is
          Dollars 257.14.
          Georgia.
          No information has been received from that State on this subject, although the same enquiries have been made there, as in other States.
          To this statement of the substance of the information, which he has received respecting the several Establishments in question, The Secretary begs leave to add that most of the persons who have been singly charged with the care of any of them, have been recommended as proper to be continued, & that no objection has been made to any; And that in the two instances in which that care has been commited to Boards (as in the Cases of Pennsylvania and New York) the principals of those Boards are well recommended.
          It appears to the Secretary, that it will be expedient to conform to the plan, which exists in Massachusetts, and to substitute Individuals to Boards, where the business has been committed to them; and he thinks it probable that a reappointment of the persons who have been heretofore employed, will be most likely to produce an eligible choice, and to give satisfaction; and also that the allowances heretofore made (as far as they apply) will be a good standard for those to be established. As however it is the intention of the Legislature, that the expenditures for these establishments, should be made by Contract, which from the nature of the objects must generally be conducted on the spot, it seems advisable for this and other reasons, which will occur, that in the distant States, there should be some other persons than the immediate Superintendants of the Light-house connected with them in the business.
          As a temporary arrangement for this purpose, the Secretary wou’d propose that the particular Superintendants in the several States, except Pennsylvania and New York, should be put under the direction of the Collectors of the principal ports.
          In New Hampshire of the Collector of Portsmouth
          In Massachusetts of the Collector of Boston
          In Connecticut of the Collector of New London
          In South Carolina of the Collector of Charleston
          Georgia is omitted from the want of information

          Pennsylvania & New York are excepted, because their contiguity to the Seat of Government will place the particular Superintendants sufficiently under the Eye of the Secretary of the Treasury.
          Pursuant to the foregoing Ideas the Secretary sub-[mits] the following nomination.

              At Boston Capt. Thomas Knox with a Salary of
              Dollars 400. pr An.

              At Cape Ann—Mr Samuel Houston with do of
              400

              At Plymouth, the widow of the late Genl Thomas with do of
              240.

              At Plumb-Island Mr  Lowell with Do of
              220

              At Nantucket Mr Paul Pinkham with Do of
              250

              At New London (a person to be nominated by Genl Huntington) with Do of
              100

              At New York Mr Thos Randall with ditto of
              400

              At Philadelphia Mr William Allibone with do of
              500.

              At Charleston, South Carolina, Mr Thomas Hollingsby with Ditto of
              260

          No account having been received at the Treasury of the Completion of the Light-house erecting at Portland in Massachusetts, the Secretary has not included it in the present nomination; he has also omitted the Port of New Haven in Connecticut, as the piers & Buoys in that harbor, appear to be private property, not that of the State.
          In the States of Virginia & Maryland it appears from what is above stated in this report, that there are no establishments in those states, altho’ materials have formerly been collected for building a Light-House at Cape Henry. As the Act of the seventh of August last relative to the support of Light-houses &c. renders it necessary to obtain a cession of a proper place near the entrance of the chesapeak previous to the erection of a Light-house in that Quarter, the Secretary submits it to the consideration of the President, whether it would not be advisable to determine on the place best adapted for such an Establishment, in order that an application may be made to the supreme Executive of the State, under whose jurisdiction the same may be, for a cession of the same.
          It will be observed, that the secretary has not mentioned a

person for taking charge of the Light-house at New Hampshire—The present Commissary (as before stated) is Capt. of the Fort, near to whose Walls the Light-house is situated, The Collector of the port of Portsmouth is of opinion that the care of it should be entrusted to the Captain of the Fort, but has said nothing as to the qualifications of Mr Clap for this office; or of the Allowance made to him on this account by the State; the Secretary therefore submits the propriety of deferring any appointment for this place, ’till further enquiry is made on these points, to which immediate attention will be paid.
          With respect to the Duties of the General Superintendants, as the act contemplates the maintaining, supporting and erecting the Establishments to be by Contract, the Secretary is of opinion, that in all Cases where the nature of the service or supply will possibly admit of the same being so done, with advantage to the public, the Superintendants should be authorised to enter into Contract for the same, subject to the ratification of the Secretary of the Treasury, with the approbation of the President; and where the same cannot be so done, that the General Superintendants shall direct the execution of the necessary business at as low a rate as possible.
          This line the Secretary is induced to suggest, as he finds on an Investigation of the different Objects of Expenditure accrueing under these establishments, that Cases will sometimes occur (especially in the repair of works and replacing Buoys &c.) where it will not be possible to Establish any principles of calculation for doing the same by Contract, in which case the party contracting (should such be found) would either demand an extravagant allowance for securing him against the possibility of risque, or endeavour to avoid the same by exectuting his Contract in an inefficient manner. All which is humbly submitted

            Alexander HamiltonSecretary of the Treasury


Title: From George Washington to Alexander Hamilton, 4 January 1790
From: Washington, George
To: Hamilton, Alexander

            Dear Sir,
            [New York] Monday Morng 4th Jany [1790]

          I feel myself very much obliged by what you sent me yesterday. The letter from Governor Johnston I return—much pleased to find so authentic an Acct of the adoption by No. Carolina of the Constitution. Yrs sincerely & affectly

            Go: Washington


Title: William Jackson to John Jay, 4 January 1790
From: Jackson, William
To: Jay, John

            Sir,
            United States [New York] January 4th 1790

          The letter, which accompanies this, addressed to the Vice-President of the United States by Judge Sewall, with its enclosure, having been submitted to the President of the United States, he directs me to transmit them to you, as the objects to which they refer are immediately within the department of the supreme Judiciary, and will, in the first instance, come most properly before you. The President of the United States likewise directs me to inform you that Judge Sewall has hinted at the subject of the enclosed papers in a letter to him, of which, if it is thought necessary, a transcript may be had. I have the honor to be, most respectfully, Sir, Your obedient Servant

            W.Jackson


Title: To George Washington from Christian Charles de Klauman, 4 January 1790
From: Klauman, Christian Charles de
To: Washington, George

            Richmond [Va.] Janr. the 4 1790

          Your Excellency will pardon the liberty of this address, tho’ the author of it has not the honor of being personally known to you. My wish is, thro your favor, to be appointed to some employment whereby I may make a decent living, and my pretensions are these.
          I left the Danish service in the year 1777, and arrived in Virginia that Fall with an intention of joining your army, but the Enemy being in the Bay and a passage to the North difficult, I accepted a Captains Commission in Colo. Marshalls regiment of Artillery. In the same year I was by Govr Henry appointed to the duty of Inspector Genr. over the military stores and artillery of the state of Virginia upon the resignation of Colo. de la Loyaute. In the year 1779 the Govr and Council recommended me to the assembly for that post, but the assembly discontinued the Office, and appointed a board of war, the members of which were to do this duty in rotation. The same assembly passed a law for raising two Battallions of Infantry, to one of which they appointed me a Major, with order to proceed immediately to New Castle in Virginia and there to remain untill the recruits should be collected. By this means I lost my Commission in the artillery, and the State not being able to raise men for the two Battallions, the assembly at their next meeting discontinued them, whereby I was altogether thrown out of the State line, and deprived of all the advantages of half pay &c. which were promised me at my entering into the service. Continuing in the State, I served during the difrent Invasions with a command in the militia, and had the honor of serving under your Excellency at the Siege of york as an Aid to the marquis de St Simon.
          I have lodged with Colo. Bland my Commission and Resignation in the Danish army, as also my recommendations and Certificates of Service signed by Genr. Weedon & Genr. Mulenburg, Baron ⟨de⟩ Steuben, Marquis de la Fayette, and Marquis de St Simon, which will prove to your Excellency the truth of the

above related circumstances. I have the honor to be with the greatest esteem your Excellencies Most obedient humble Servant

            C: C: de Klauman


Title: To George Washington from Henry Knox, 4 January 1790
From: Knox, Henry
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            War Office [New York] January 4th 1790

          I humbly beg leave to submit to your consideration a general statement of the Indian Department, and of the South Western frontiers, the same being intimately blended together.
          The invitation of the United States to the Creek Nation of Indians, to treat of peace on terms of mutual advantage has not been accepted—The report of the Commissioners a will fully show the precarious state of this business.
          The assurances given by some of the Chiefs of the peaceable intentions ⟨of the Creek Nation, are too uncertain in their nature, even if sincere, for the United States to rely upon.
          The case seems to require an adequate provisional arrangement, which, on the commission of any further depredations by the Creeks, should be called into activity—After the solemn offer of peace which has been made, and refused, it is incumbent on the United States to be in a situation to punish all unprovoked aggressions.
          In case the conduct of the Creeks should Render coercion indispensibly necessary, policy requires that it should be under taken with a force adequate to the speedy accomplishment of the object.
          An Army of sufficient strength should be raised to march

into⟩ their country and destroy their Towns, unless they should submit to an equitable peace.
          The Warriors of the Creeks have been stated at various numbers from four to six thousand, and are said to be generally well armed, and furnished with ammunition.
          To march into the Country of the Upper and Lower Creeks so as to be superior to all opposition would require an Army to be raised of five thousand men—This number after making the necessary deductions for sickness—establishment of posts of communication—and convoys of provision, would probably be reduced to three thousand five hundred effectives.
          The troops to be employed on this service ought to be enlisted for the occasion, subject however to be sooner discharged if necessary.
          I have formed an Estimate of the expence of such an Army which is hereunto annexed marked No: 1, on the supposition that the pay of the non-commissioned officers and privates may be reduced to the sums therein specified.
          But in either event of peace or War with the Creeks the establishment of a line of military posts on the south western frontier appears to be highly requisite. No peace with the Indians can be preserved unless by a military force—The lawless whites as well as Indians will be deterred from the commission of murders when they shall be convinced that punishment will immediately follow detection.
          The situation of the Cherokee Nation looking up to the United States for protection in consequence of the treaty of Hopewell, demands attention.
          Although existing circumstances may require that the boundaries stated in the said treaty should be more accomodated to the inhabitants who cannot be removed—Yet the other general principles thereof ought to be preserved, and particularly the stipulated protection of the United States—This cannot be afforded but by troops—The friendship of the Chickasaws and Choctaws cannot be cultivated, and the trade stipulated by treaty cannot be extended to them but by means of the protection of troops.
          The present military arrangement of the United States consists of one Battalion of Artillery of two hundred and forty noncommissioned and privates, and one regiment of Infantry of

five hundred and sixty non commissioned and privates—This force for the following objects is utterly inadequate—To prevent the usurpation of the lands of the United States—To facilitate the surveying and selling of the same, for the purpose of reducing the public debt—and for the protection of the frontiers from Georgia to Lake Erie—If it should be decided to erect a line of posts of that extent, and to leave small guards for the public Arsenals the following establishment would be required.
          A Battalion of Artillery of two hundred and forty non commissioned officers and privates—And two Regiments of Infantry of seven hundred non commissioned officers and privates each—the total of the Artillery and Infantry amounting to sixteen hundred and forty non commissioned and privates.
          The Estimate hereunto annexed marked No: 2. will exhibit the annual expence of such an establishment—It is to be observed that the Estimate is formed on the principle, that the present pay of the non-commissioned officers and privates may be considerably reduced—But the pay of a Lieutenant Colonel Commandant is enlarged from fifty to seventy five dollars per month—and the pay of the Major Commandant of Artillery to fifty dollars per month—This occasions an encrease for the Lieutenant Colonels and Major Commandant of sixty dollars per month—when the duty and expence of a Commanding Officer of a regiment or battalion be considered, it is presumed, that the proposed additional pay in these instances will promote the oeconomy and good of the service.
          Although the proposed reduction of the pay cannot effect the existing stipulations to the troops now in service yet as they are liable to be discharged at any period it is highly probable that in preference thereto, they would accept the reduced pay.
          The several representations herewith submitted marked B of the depredations committed by the Indians on the people along the south of the Ohio, and upon Cumberland river, show the exposed situation of those settlements—It seems the posts North West of the Ohio do not afford the necessary protection, and the people claim the employment of their own militia at the expence of the United States—A similar arrangement having been in operation until the organization of the General Government, at the expence of Virginia.
          If it shall be decided to afford the protection requested, the

propriety of employing the militia of the country for that purpose may be doubted—The oeconomy of disciplined troops is always superior to militia while their efficacy is at least equal—Hence if troops are employed within the district of Kentucky as patroles or otherwise, they ought to be detachments from the regular troops of the United States under the orders of the Commanding Officer on the Ohio—About four companies acting as patroles or scouts would afford all the satisfaction to the settlements which could be derived from defensive measures—but it is only from offensive measures that full security could be obtained.
          The various tribes seated on the Wabash river, extending up to the Miami Village, and the several branches of that river, are the indians from whom the settlements of Kentuckey principally receive injury.
          But these depredations although perhaps effected with impunity as to the actual perpetrators, are not so to the Indians generally, for the whites frequently make incursions into the Wabash country north west of the Ohio, and it is probable that indiscriminate revenge is wreaked on all bearing the name of Indians—Hence a difficulty arises on the part of the United States, which requires a serious consideration.
          That the people of Kentuckey are entitled to be defended, there can be no doubt—But as there seems to have been such a prevalence of hostilities as to render it uncertain who are right, or who wrong—The principles of justice which ought to dictate the conduct of every nation seems to forbid the idea of attempting to extirpate the Wabash indians until it shall appear that they cannot be brought to treat on reasonable terms—If after a treaty should be effected with them, it should be violated, or after an invitation to a treaty which should be refused, and followed by hostilities, the United States will clearly have the right to inflict that degree of punishment which may be necessary to deter the Indians from any future unprovoked aggressions.
          If this statement be just it would follow that the Governor of the Western territory should be instructed to attempt to effect a general treaty with the said Wabash tribes on terms of mutual advantage—If they should refuse, and continue, or suffer a continuance from any of their neighbouring tribes of the depredations

upon the district of Kentuckey, the Arms of the Union ought to be exerted to chastise them.
          The statement hereunto annexed No: 3. will show the application of the sum appropriated during the last session of Congress to indian treaties, and indian expences—The sum remaining unexpended might be applied to a treaty with the Wabash Indians.
          Provisions must be furnished the indians during the treaty—Whether any presents shall be added thereto will depend on the decision of Congress—It seems to have been the custom of barbarous nations in all ages to expect and receive presents from those more civilized—and the custom seems confirmed by modern Europe with respect to Morocco, Algiers, Tunis and Tripoli.
          The practise of the British Government and its colonies of giving presents to the indians of North America is well known—They seem to have been convinced that it was the cheapest and most effectual mode of managing the Indians—The idea of fear, or purchasing a peace is not to be admitted in the cases above stated—But the conduct appears to have been dictated by wise policy—a comparative view of the expences of an hostile or conciliatory system towards the indians will evince the infinite oeconomy of the latter over the former.
          The question then on the point of presents must be simply this—Is the situation of the United States such, with respect to the neighbouring European Colonies, as to render it good policy at this time to annihilate the indian customs and expectations of receiving presents, and thereby disgusting them in such a manner, as to induce them to connect themselves more closely with the said Colonies?
          If it should be decided to the contrary, the Estimate of the Governor of the Western Territory for the object of the Wabash indians No: 4 would show the sum required, from which however must be deducted the balance remaining from the appropriation of the last year.
          Although the information is not sufficiently accurate whereon to form a decided opinion of the number of indian Warriors within the limits of the United States, yet the evidence seems sufficient to warrant the supposition that they amount nearly to twenty thousand—If to this number we should add for every

Warrior three old men women and children, the total number would be eighty thousand.
          Since the United States became a nation, their conduct, and some of the States towards the indians seems to have resulted from the impulses of the moment—Until the treaty effected at Fort Harmar in January 1789, it seemed a prevailing opinion, that the treaty of peace with Great Britain instead of the preemption only, actually invested the United States with the absolute right of the indian Territory—and in pursuance of this idea treaties were made, and boundaries alloted to the indians—But by the directions of Congress of 2d of July 1788 to the Governor of the Western territory to extinguish the indian claims to lands they had ceded to the United States, and to obtain regular conveyances of the same it would appear, that they conceded the indian right to the soil.
          The various opinions which exist on the proper mode of treating the indians, require that some system should be established on the subject.
          That the Indians possess the natural rights of man, and that they ought not wantonly to be divested thereof cannot be well denied.
          Were these rights ascertained, and declared by law—were it enacted that the indians possess the right to all their territory which they have not fairly conveyed, and that they should not be divested thereof, but in consequence of open treaties, made under the authority of the United States, the foundation of peace and justice would be laid.
          The individual States claiming or possessing the right of preemption to territory inhabited by indians, would not be materially injured by such a declarative law, the exercise of their right would be restrained only, when it should interfere with the general interests—Should any State having the right of preemption desire to purchase territory, which the indians should be willing to relinquish, it would have to request the General Government to direct a treaty for that purpose, at the expence however of the individual State requesting the same.
          But as indian Wars almost invariably arise in consequence of disputes relative to boundaries, or trade, and as the right of declaring War, making treaties, and regulating commerce, are vested in the United States it is highly proper they should have

the sole direction of all measures for the consequences of which they are responsible. I have the honor to be Sir, With the highest respect Your Most Obedient Humble Servant.

            H. Knoxsecretary for the department of War


Title: To George Washington from James Madison, 4 January 1790
From: Madison, James
To: Washington, George

            Dear Sir
            George Town [Md.] Jany 4 1790

          After being detained 8 or 10 days beyond the intended commencement of my Journey, by the critical illness of my mother, I am now subjected to a further delay by an attack on my own health. A slight complaint in my bowels which I first felt on the day of my arrival here (friday last) very suddenly took the form of a pretty severe dysentery. With the aid of Doctr Stuart who has been good eno’ to see me every day, I have I hope nearly subdued the malignity of the disease, and got into a course of recovery. I find myself however much weakened by the joint operation of the malady & the medicine, and shall be under the necessity not only of remaining here a few days longer, but of travelling afterwards with some circumspection.
          You will probably have seen by the papers that the contest in the Assembly on the subject of the amendments ended in the loss of them. The House of Delegates got over the objections to the 11 & 12, but the Senate revived them with the addition of the 3 & 8 articles, and by a vote of adherence prevented a ratification. On some accounts this event is no doubt to be regretted. But it will do no injury to the Genl Government. On the contrary it will have the effect with many of turning their distrust towards their own Legislature. The miscarriage of the 3d art: particularly, will have this effect.
          A few days before I was allowed to set out for N. York, I took a ride to Monticello. The answer of Mr Jefferson to the notification of his appointment will no doubt have explained the state of his mind on that subject. I was sorry to find him so little biased in favor of the domestic service allotted to him, but was glad that his difficulties seemed to result cheifly from what I take to be an

erroneous view of the kind and quantity of business annexed to that which constituted the foreign department. He apprehends that it will far exceed the latter which has of itself no terrors to him. On the other hand It was supposed, & I beleive truly that the domestic part will be very trifling, and for that reason improper to be made a distinct department. After all if the whole business can be executed by any one man, Mr Jefferson must be equal to it; if not he will be relieved by a necessary division of it. All whom I have heard speak on the subject are remarkably solicitous for his acceptance, and I flatter myself that they will not in the final event be disappointed.
          In case I should be detained here much longer than I calculate, and any thing should occur, I may trouble you with a few lines further. With every sentiment of respect and attachment I am Dear Sir, Your’s truly.

            Js Madison Jr


Title: From George Washington to the United States Senate and House of Representatives, 4 January 1790
From: Washington, George
To: United States Senate and House of Representatives

            Sir,
            United-States [New York] January 4th 1790

          Whenever there shall be a sufficient number of the two Houses of Congress assembled to proceed to business, I request to be informed of it. And also at what time and place it will be convenient for Congress that I should meet them, in order to make some oral communications at the commencement of their session. I have the honor to be, Sir, Your most humble servant

            Go: Washington


Title: Tobias Lear to Alexander Hamilton, 5 January 1790
From: Lear, Tobias
To: Hamilton, Alexander

            Sir,
            United States [New York] January 5th, 1790.

          By direction of the President of the United States, I have the honor herewith to transmit to you a letter from the Governor of Virginia, dated December 18th, 1789, enclosing an Act (which is likewise sent you) of the general Assembly of that Commonwealth, passed Novr 13th 1789, to convey to the United States in Congress assembled certain Land for the purpose of building a Light House on Cape Henry. I have the honor to be, with perfect respect, Sir, Your most Obedt Hble Servt

            Tobias Lear.Secretary to the President of the United States.


Title: From George Washington to Sarah Bomford, 6 January 1790
From: Bomford, Sarah
To: Washington, George

            Madam,
            New York, January 6th 1790.

          In answer to your letter of the 23rd of August last, which came to my hands but a few days ago, I must observe that, from the year 1775. to the close of the war with great Britain, my public duties totally precluded me from attending to any kind of private business whatever, and from the latter period to the time of my entering again into public life, I was occasionally so much engaged in correspondencies, and other matters consequent on the station which I had held, that, with the greatest industry I could not find time to pay that attention to my own private affairs which they required.

          Under these circumstances I had it not in my power to attend particularly to the affairs of Mrs Savage, and, of course, have not that knowledge of the situation of them that Mr Fairfax has, to whom I have transmitted your letter with a request, and not doubting, that he will give it the attention which it deserves, and which the situation of Mrs Savage’s affairs will admit of—And I must request that in future you will correspond with him upon this business. I am Madam, Your most obedient Servant

            G. Washington.


Title: To George Washington from James Coor, 7 January 1790
From: Coor, James
To: Washington, George

            Sir,
            New Bern [N.C.] January 7th 1790.

          The state of North Carolina having Acceeded to the General Government of the United States I am told it becomes my duty to Acquaint You that I have acted at this place as a Naval Officer for port Beauford in this state for many years.
          And also to mention that If agreeable to Your Excellency and the Authority which may have such Appointments I should wish to be Continued as Naval Officer for port Beauford which Comprehends the town of New Bern where almost all the trade of the port is transacted. I have the Honour to be Your Excellencys Most Obedt Servt

            James Coor


Title: To George Washington from John Christopher Kunze, 7 January 1790
From: Kunze, John Christopher
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Chatham street [New York] N. 24.January the 7. 1790.

          Supposing, that many abuse Your Condescension by taking up Your previous Time in Conferences of an indifferent Nature, I was not bold enough, to intrude myself into Your Presence, without knowing first Your Pleasure, and wishing nevertheless to lay something before You, that appears to me at least to be not incompatible with Your other high Employments, I take this Method, to communicate it.
          A Year ago I recieved a Letter, directed to my Father in Law,

Mr Muhlenberg, who was then dead already, from one Mr Anton Theodore Brown, in which he acquainted him, that being convinced of the fundamental Errors of that Church, in which he had been a minister for a Number of Years, the Church of Rome, and not finding any Rest in his Soul at the Attempts to counteract the Dictates of his Conscience and Reason, he begged his Advice and adjoining a Testimony from a Lutheran Congregation in Canada, he wished to be approved and confirm’d by him as a Minister of the Lutheran Church. As the Person, to whom the Letter was intended, was not among the living and as no Investigation could be made without Mr Browns personal Attendance, I took no further Notice of this Matter, mistrusting besides the Sincerity of the Motives a little.
          This Gentleman is now in this City and hath by his Testimonials, Conversation, preaching in my Church and Marks of Self denial removed all my Doubts concerning him. Last Sunday he renounced before my Congregation his former Errors and was taken into the Communion of the Lutheran Church.
          His Employment in Canada was preaching among the Indians he being a Missionary to them, and for some Years Superior for Six Indian Missions, and understands therefore the Language of the Northern Indians. At present he recieves a little Support from my Vestry and from the german Society in this Town, till I can find an Opportunity, to recommand him to a german Lutheran Congregation in the State.
          Yesterday I recieved a Letter from him, which I take the liberty to inclose with an annexed Translation. In a Conversation which I had afterwards with him I could not but judge his Zeal for the Indians commandable, and though I am entirely ignorant of the Practicability of his Proposals, yet I thought it my Duty to lay the Matter before the President of the United States, as we have the Happiness, to be govern’d by a Man, who with the Hero unites the Christian and the Friend of Mankind. Our Government, I know dos’ not interfere in Matters of Religion, but to give a small Salary to an Indian Preacher, might perhaps, as Mr Brown imagines, be consider’d in a political Light. At all Events, I think, the President will perhaps deem this truly pious man not unworthy of a kind and condescending Attention, and pardon the Freedom of the Person, who introduced

him to His Notice. I am with profound Deference and Respect Sir Your most devoted Servant

            John Christopher KunzeLutheran Minister in the City of New York


Title: David Humphreys to John Jay, 8 January 1790
From: Humphreys, David
To: Jay, John

            Sir
            United States [New York] Janry 8th 1790

          I am commanded by the President of the United States of America to send to you some Papers which have just come to him, and which are of a nature highly interesting to the Community. His object is to avail himself of your opinion, relative to the measures which should be adopted in consequence of this Communication. I have the honor to be with perfect respect &c.

            D. Humphreys

            N.B. the above letter was from Genl Forman—giving an acct of the detection of forgeries on the State Notes of New York—& enclosing several of the Counterfiet Certificates.


Title: To George Washington from William Temple Franklin, 9 January 1790
From: Franklin, William Temple
To: Washington, George

          (Private)
          Sir,Philadelphia Jany 9th 1790
          I know not whether I am acting improperly, in thus addressing you, but if I am, I beg your Excellency will not impute it to any want of Respect for your exalted Character, or elevated Situation. Thinking as Shakespeare expresses it, that “There is a Tide in the Affairs of Men, Which taken at the Flood, leads on to Fortune” has induced me to trouble your Excellency on this occasion: for I consider the improving the present Moment, as important to the Success of my future Voyage through Life.
          You well know Sir, the Claims I have both on my own Account, and that of my venerable Grandfather’s, on the Justice, as well as the Favor of the United States, and that it is to your Excellency alone that I look up to for both. If I have been rightly informed, it is your Wish to forward my Views in the Line of Foreign Affairs: should this be the Case, an Opportunity will probably soon offer of doing it to the utmost of my Ambition. By Mr Jefferson’s accepting his late honorable Appointment, a Vacancy will ensue at the Court of France. This Appointment, of all others, would be the most satisfactory to me, as well as to my Grandfather, who has long been desirous of seeing me employed in the Line to which he brought me up, and to which I have sacrificed every other Pursuit in Life. He would consider it likewise, in some Measure, as an Approbation of his Services in Europe, for which, tho’ acknowledg’d to be great, he never has yet receiv’d either Reward or even Thanks. I am the more solicitous of this Appointment, as I have had it in view since my first being employ’d in the Diplomatic Line, and from my long Residence at the Court of France, my Knowledge of the French Language, the Duties of a Plenipotentiary, and the Business that has hitherto been transacted between this Country and that; added to my personal Acquaintance with most of the distinguish’d Characters there, & the Reputation of my Grandfather, I am tempted to believe that I should in that situation, be a Credit to my Country as well as to my Employers. This has also

been the Opinion of my Friends both here and in France. Permit me as applicable to this Subject, to enclose an Extract of a Letter from Mr Gouvernour Morris, wrote soon after his Arrival at Paris, in which he takes notice of the deep Impression my Grandfather has made in that Country, and the Utility that would probably result from my being employ’d there.
          Thus, Sir, I have taken the Liberty of suggesting my Wishes, relative to a particular Appointment, to which it may be said I have some Claim; but at the same time permit me to add, that I shall be perfectly satisfied with whatever your Excellency may determine on this Subject, and not less grateful should it please you to employ me differently. But having endeavor’d to qualify myself to serve my Country, either at home or abroad, in the Line of Foreign Affairs, I thought my Pretensions in this Line better founded; as well that I might be more useful; few of our Countrymen having attended much to this very important Part of Public-Affairs. When in France, from an Idea, that possibly I might hereafter be concerned here in the Management of Foreign Affairs, or that it might be of Service to those who were; I collected & committed to writing, all the Information I could get, relative to the Duties of a Secretary of State for the foreign Department, as well as the particular Arrangements to be made in his Office, with regard to secrecy; regularity, and Dispatch of Business. This System I will with Pleasure communicate to your Excellency should you be inclined to peruse it.
          I cannot conclude without apologizing for having thus intruded on your Time with my Personal Concerns; but I have been imbolden’d to it by the Friendship that has long subsisted between your Excellency and my Grandfather, and the Kindness you have on all occasions shewn me. Another Inducement I have had, and which I need not conceal from your Excellency, is; that being now arrived to the senatorial Age (30) I am anxious to be settled in Life, or at least to know what Course I ought to pursue; having hitherto avoided every Engagement however honorable or advantageous that might the least interfere with my favorite Object. My Grandfather, who is sensible that he cannot long resist the effect of Time and a cruel Malady, grows also more & more anxious to see me provided for; and your Excellency will easily conceive the Satisfaction it would give him, to find that his Views in bringing me up to Public Life, have not

been unsuccessful, and that the Gratitude of his Country, for his Endeavors to serve it, extends to his Descendant.
          That your Excellency may long live, and enjoy the Affections of a grateful People for your eminent Services; and that our Country will, at least in your Instance, be an exception to the Obloquy generally incident to Republics, is the Prayer, of Sir, Your Excellency’s, most obedient & devoted humble Servant

            W. T. Franklin.

            P.S. It is possible that from the Nature of this Letter your Excellency may not think it proper to answer it in Writing, but would prefer conferring with me on the Subject: if so, be pleas’d to mention it to Mr Morris, who will apprise me of it, and I will immediately do myself the honor of waiting upon you.