Title: To George Washington from James Muir and Samuel Hanson, 11 March 1791
From: Muir, James,Hanson, Samuel (of Samuel)
To: Washington, George

Sir.
Alexandria [Va.] 11th March 1791

Majr Washington informed us some time ago that it was your desire to be furnished with a State of the School founded upon your bounty. We should have obeyed your Commands immediately, but for the indisposition of Dr Brown, the other Visitor of the Academy, whose Concurrence we wished in the Communication requested. That Gentleman, however, still Continuing too ill to attend, we have ourselves proceeded to the Examination of

the School; and are happy in reporting that the Pupils acquit themselves very well, and that the plan of teaching appears to us good, and well executed.
The Teacher informs us that many of them attend very irregularly, owing, as he believes, to the necessity their Parents are under of employing them at home to procure fuel; and for other necessary purposes.
To ensure a punctual attendance, the Teacher passed a law, immediately after the foundation of the School, that “any Pupil absenting himself more than one day, without sufficient excuse, to be judged of by the Visitors, or any one of them, may on that account be excluded from said School, by such Visitor or Visitors, till the next meeting of the Trustees, to be then submitted to them to determine finally on every such Case.” This law we have not thought proper to enforce, because the School has never yet been full; and we Conceived that it was intended to operate only when the number of Candidates for Admission should exceed twenty, and when the Continuance of such as should not attend regularly might exclude others who would.
From the subjoined list it would appear that the School is at present full. But we beg leave to explain that Circumstance, by stating that several of the Boys having discovered marks of extraordinary Genius, it was thought proper, at the request of the Rector, to remove them to the other School, where they are taught with out any additional charge. With perfect respect, we are Sir Your most obedt Servants

James Muir
S. Hanson of Saml


Title: To George Washington from Alexander Hamilton, 12 March 1791
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

Treasury Department March 12th 1791

The Secretary of the Treasury has the honor respectfully to submit to the President of the United States a Contract which has been recently transmitted from South Carolina for the Keeping of the Light-house in that State. The terms are somewhat less than those of the Ligh[t]house Keeper at Cape Henlopen, and considering the expences of living in south Carolina it is humbly conceived they are not immoderate at this time. The Secretary, however, begs leave to suggest the expediency of confirming the Contract for one year only from its commencment, as there appears some reason to expect a diminution of the highest of this class of compensations.

Alex: Hamilton


Title: To George Washington from John Jay, 13 March 1791
From: Jay, John
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
N. York 13 March 1791

Perceiving that you have been pleased to appoint Col. Smith a Supervisor for this District, I conclude that on his acceptance of that place, the office of Marshall will be conferred on some other person. It is probable that Several candidates will offer, and I take the Liberty of communicatg my sentiments respecting a Gentleman who too delicate to display his own merit, possesses more than falls to the Share of many—I mean General Matthew Clarkson. I think him one of the most pure & virtuous

Men I know—when at Boston General Lincoln (whose aid he was) spoke to me of him in Terms not only of Approbation but affection—During the war he was a firm & active Whig, and since the Peace a constant Friend to rational and good Government. Few men here of his standing enjoy or deserve a greater Degree of the Esteem & goodwill of the Citizens than he does, and in my opinion he would discharge the Duties of that or any office for wh. he may be qualified with Propriety and Honor—Be pleased to present my Respectful Compt. to Mrs Washington, & permit me to assure you of the perfect Respect Esteem & Attachmt with which I am Dr Sr your obliged & obt Servt.


Title: To George Washington from Peter Jaquett, 14 March 1791
From: Jaquett, Peter
To: Washington, George

Sir
Wilmington [Del.] March 14. 1791

I feel my self much hurt by the unfair manner in which I have been represented in Major Andersons affair, and exceedingly mortified that it should leave an unfavorable impression of me on the mind of your Excellency. I am however convinced that if I could be permitted the indulgence of an interview for a quarter of an hour I should be able to convince your Excellency that I have certified nothing but truth concerning Major Anderson, and that I can reconcile the apparent contradiction between the certificate and the Letter which I wrote to Mr Vining.
I had been long in habits of friendship with Mr Vining and he was well acquainted with all the circumstances concerning the affair between Mr Anderson and myself and I had some reason to believe that Mr Vining had interested himself with your Excellency in favor of the Major’s appointment; but I never knew that Mr Vining or Mr Bedford had represented the Major’s

affair in a disadvantageous point of view to your Excellency, untill five days after I had wrote the letter to Mr Vining which was intended for his Eye alone.
From the opinion which I always entertained of Mr Andersons honor & integrity I was convinced that he would discharge the debt as soon as he was in a situation to do it. I therefore felt myself obliged to Mr Vining (who I knew entertained a favorable opinion of M. Andersons abilities and understanding) for the aid which I imagined he had given in recommending him to your Excellency, as I knew it would put the Major in a situation to do what he heartily wished namely to discharge a debt of honor due to me. I call it a debt of honor, because I lent it to him upon his word of honour to return it to me in three months and took no written obligation for that purpose. At the same time the Major told me that he had attatched a large sum of money in the hands of the treasurer of the United States the property of Nathaniel Twining for whom he had been security to a large amount and to his very great injury, that he expected to receive this mony in less than three months when he would repay me. For some reasons unknown to me I believe the Major received but about one eight part of the money he expected, which disappointment put it out of his power to comply with his engagement to me.
I am convinced that the Major was severely mortified at the idea of being unable to pay me, especially as he knew that my situation was by no means a comfortable one. But as he was unable to pay me he in some measure avoided me, for more than a Year, during which time I scarce saw or heard from him.
After the debt had been due upwards of four years, upon my hearing that he was about going to Kentuck⟨y⟩ I directed my Attorney to institute a suit against him in hopes that his Brother in Law, would become security for part of my demand giving my Attorney my directions at the same time, to use no rigor and informing him that the Major had certain Land Warrants in his possession which I would take at 3/9 pr Acre as a security to his bond which I directed him to take. Major Anderson being in Maryland my order was executed with more rigor than I wished or expected and he was sent to Goal his bond taken and the Land as security.
When the Major came to me for the certificate which he obtained,

I told him I was very ready to certify any thing to his advantage consistent with truth that I had always viewed the affair as his misfortune not his fault. He then assured me that he would give me any instrument of writing which I should chuse, to convince me that he did not want inclination but ability to pay me. ⟨We⟩ then called Major Bush the Collector (who was witness to all our transactions) to our assistance, and in his presence, I gave him the certificate, when he renewed his bond and gave me an article of agreement approved of and witnessed by Major Bush, by which he bound himself to give me immediately on his appointment a power of attorney to draw from the treasury of the United States such part of his salary as I should demand. I did not think it necessary to state all those circumstances in the certificate, because that I believed that Your Excellency having had some hint of the debt due me (from whom I knew not) unfavorable to the Major, only wished to Know from me whether he had acted honorable with me or not in respect to that debt, and I firmly believe, that he has done, and would at any time do every thing in his power to comply with his engagements.
But my mentioning some circumstances in my private letter to Mr Vining which were not in the certificate (and which Mr Vining well Knew before if his memory has not deceived him) have been applied as contradictory to the certificate, and I believe it will appear upon a review of the Letter that I have not stated that Mr Anderson had given me a power of attorney but that he had agreed to give me one to draw a certain part of his Salary.
I must therefore request your Excellency to believe that when I mentioned in my letter to Mr Vining, that I had not certified all the truth (tho an unhappy expression) I only intended to convey the Idea that I had not certified all the particulars mentioned in this letter, (which particulars Mr Vining well Knew) because I thought them unnecessary. I am indeed sorry that my letter to Mr Vining was shewn to the Senators of this State as I did not wish to give persons who were not my friends an opportunity of saying any thing more to my disadvantage.
I hope therefore that what I have now said will reconcile this apparent contradiction of which so much has been said and

shew that I wrote nothing with a view of deceiving your Excellency, or of injuring an individual.
I should have been much hurt by hearing myself accused by my Equals of a crime of which I hold myself incapable. Your Excellency may then judge of my uneasiness when I found a report from the Secretary of State, certifying that I had contradicted myself, I hope it will be viewed by you sir in a different light and that Major Andersons virtue will highly justify all that I have said or believed of him as well as your Excellencys confidence in him.
I have now to request if after reading this Letter there should remain in your Excellencys breast a doubt to my disadvantage, that I may be honored with an interview.
Your Goodness Sir I am convinced will forgive me the trouble I have given you in reading this letter in which I have endeavoured to acquit myself of the duplicity of which I have been accused and of which I hope I stand acquitted by your Excellency. I have the honor to be with the greatest affection your Excellency’s most obedt & ⟨Hble⟩ Sert

Peter Jaquett


Title: To George Washington from Henry Knox, 14 March 1791
From: Knox, Henry
To: Washington, George

Sir
War department, 14th March 1791.

I have the honor to submit to your consideration such a plan of raising the levies as appears to Major General St Clair, Brigadier General Butler and myself to be proper.
And I also submit to your consideration, the draft of a letter to be written to me previously to your departure, authorizing me upon the points therein mentioned.
I shall have the honor to wait upon you, in the morning, in order to explain such points as may require it. I have the honor to be with great respect Sir Your most humble and obedient servant

H. Knox


Title: Enclosure I: From Henry Knox, 14 March 1791
From: Knox, Henry
To: Washington, George

War department 14th March 1791

The Secretary of war respectfully submits to the President of the United States, the following arrangement for the corps of Levies to be raised in pursuance of the act entitled “an act for raising and adding another regiment to the military establishment of the United States, and for making farther provision for the protection of the frontiers.”
That the two thousand Levies mentioned in the said act be arranged into two Regiments.
Each Regiment to consist of three Battalions.
each Battalion, to consist of four companies.
each company, to consist of eighty three noncommissioned and privates.

Twenty four companies, each of eighty three noncommissioned and privates, would amount to one thousand nine hundred, and ninety two noncommissioned and privates. were the companies stated at the number of eighty four, the proportions would be better, but the number stated in the Law would be exceeded by Such an arrangement, by the excess of Sixteen.
That the following Commissioned and non commissioned officers, to be arranged to each Regiment and Battalion.
Regimental Staff

1 Lieutenant colonel commandant
1 Paymaster
1 Surgeon

Battalion Staff

1 Major
1 adjutant
1 Quarter Master
1 Surgeon’s mate
1 Serjeant major
1 Quarter Master Serjeant.

Company
Commissioned and non commissioned officers

1 Captain
1 Lieutenant—excepting the rifle companies
1 Ensign
6 Serjeants
6 Corporals
2 Musicians

That one company of each Battalion, be expert rifle men if possible—That each of these companies have an additional Lieutenant.
That the Six Battalions of the said Levies be raised as follows.
1st Battalion in the territory of the United States, South of the ohio, and the neighbouring parts of Virginia. to rendezvous in the first instance at the old Blok house on Holstein—in the Second at Fort Washington.
2d Battalion in Virginia east of the mountains—to rendezvous in the first instance at Winchester—in the Second, by the way of Red stone at Fort Pitt—there to receive the orders of the Major General.
3d Battalion in Maryland, to rendezvous in the first instance

at Hager’s Town, and in the Second by the way of red stone at Fort Pitt.
4th Battalion in Pennsylvania, west of the mountains—to rendezvous in the first instance at Fort Pitt—and in the second, at such place as the major general shall direct.
5th Battalion, east of the mountains and west of the Susquehannah inclusively, to rendezvous in the first instance at Shippensburg and the Second at Fort Pitt.
6th Battalion, in New Jersey—to rendezvous in the first place at Trenton, and in the Second at Fort Pitt.
As soon as a company should be completed at any of the Said first rendezvous, they should be marched to the Second.
The President of the United States to appoint immediately the Brigadier General and the two lieutenants colonels commandant, together with Such others of the field and other officers as he may judge proper.
The Governor and Brigadier General Sevier of the territory of the United States, South of the ohio, to appoint the officers of the Battalion, to be raised in the said territory.
Lieutenant colonel commandant Lee, if he should accept his appointment, to appoint such of the officers of the Battalion to be raised in Virginia, as shall not be appointed by the President.
Major Benjn Brooks, is submitted as a proper person to command the Battalion to be raised in Maryland, and the other officers to be appointed in the best mode that may be devised.
Major McCulley is submitted as a proper person to command the western Battalion to be raised in Pennsylvania
and
Major William Alexander, is submitted as a proper person to command the eastern Battalion to be raised in Pennsylvania.
The other officers to be appointed in the best modes that may be devised.
A proper officer to command the Battalion to be raised in New Jersey, has not yet presented, or any of the inferior officers.
Lieutenant colonel Henry Lee, is submitted as a proper character to be the first Lieutenant colonel commandant—and
the Second Lieutenant colonel of Said Levies.
It is further submitted that the recruiting of the said Levies shall proceed by voluntary inlistment, until the 15th of May next, and if not completed then, to be filled by drafts from the

militia, provided it shall appear, by the opinion of the attorney general, and other sufficient authority that the President of the United States, possesses under present circumstances, legal power for that purpose. All which is humbly submitted to the President of the United States

H. KnoxSecretary of War


Title: Executive Order, 15 March 1791
From: Washington, George
To:

15 March 1791.

Arrangement made by the President of the United States, with respect to the subdivisions of the several Districts thereof into Surveys, the appointment of Officers, and the assignment of compensations, pursuant to the Act of Congress passed the 3d day of March 1791, entitled “An Act repealing after the last day of June next, the duties heretofore laid upon distilled Spirits imported from abroad & laying others in their stead; and also upon spirits distilled within the United States, and for appropriating the same.”
New Hampshire forms one Survey of Inspection. The duties of Inspector are performed by the Supervisor. To this Office Joshua Wentworth has been appointed. his compensation is a salary of Five hundred Dollars, and a commission of one half per centum.
Massachusetts forms three Surveys of inspection: No. 1 consists of the Province of Maine; No. 2 of the Counties of Essex, Middlesex, Worcester, Hampshire and Berkshire; No. 3 of the residue of the State. Nathaniel Gorham has been appointed Supervisor: his compensation is a salary of Eight hundred Dollars, and a commission of one half per cent. The Supervisor performs the duties of Inspector of Survey No. 1. Jonathan Jackson has been appointed Inspector of Survey No. 2. and Leonard Jarvis for Survey No. 3. The compensation to each of these Inspectors is a salary of Five hundred Dollars, & a commission of one half per cent. Rhode Island forms one Survey. The duties of Inspector

are performed by the Supervisor: John S. Dexter has been appointed to this office, with an allowance of Five hundred Dollars, & a commission of one half per centum.
Connecticut forms one Survey. The duties of Inspector are performed by the Supervisor, who is John Chester. His compensation is a salary of Six hundred Dollars, & a commission of one half per centum.
Vermont forms one Survey, of which the Supervisor performs the duties of Inspector. Noah Smith has been appointed to this office: his allowance is a salary of Four hundred Dollars, & a commission of one half per cent.
New York forms one Survey, of which the Supervisor performs the duties of Inspector. Willm S. Smith has been appointed to this Office, with a salary of Eight hundred Dollars, & a Commission of one half per Cent.
New Jersey forms one Survey. The Supervisor performs the duties of Inspector. To this Office Aaron Dunham has been appointed. His compensation is a salary of Four hundred Dollars, and a Commission of one half per cent.
Pennsylvania forms four Surveys. No. 1 consists of the City & County of Philadelphia, and the Counties of Bucks & Montgomery; No. 2 of the counties of Berks, Northampton, Luzerne, & Northumberland; No. 3 of the Counties of Delaware, Chester, Lancaster, York, Dauphin, Cumberland, Franklin, Mifflin & Huntington; No. 4 of the Counties of Bedford, Westmoreland, Washington and Alleghaney. The Supervisor of the District, George Clymer, acts as Inspector of Survey No. 1. His compensation is a salary of one thousand Dollars, and a commission of one half per cent. James Collins has been appointed Inspector of Survey No. 2. Edward Hand of survey No. 3. and John Neville of survey No. 4. The allowance to each of these Inspectors is a salary of Four hundred & fifty Dollars & a commission of one per cent.
Delaware forms one Survey, of which the supervisor Acts as Inspector. His compensation is a salary of four hundred Dollars and a Commission of one per cent. Henry Latimer, who was appointed Supervisor, has resigned his office.
Maryland forms two Surveys. No. 1 comprehends the Counties of St Mary’s, Somerset, Calvert, Queen Anne’s, Caroline, Kent, Charles, Talbot, Dorchester, Baltimore, Ann Arundel,

Dorcester, Harford, Ceecil, and Prince Georges. No. 2 consists of the Counties of Montgomery, Washington, Frederick, and Alleghany. The Supervisor of the District, George Gale, officiates as Inspector of Survey No. 1—his compensation is a salary of Seven hundred Dollars, & a commission of one per cent. Philip Thomas has been appointed Inspector of Survey No. 2 with a salary of Four hundred & fifty Dollars, & a commission of one per cent.
Virginia has been divided into seven Surveys of Inspection. No. 1 consists of the Counties of Lancaster, Northumberland, Richmond, Westmoreland, King George, Caroline, Hanover, Henrico, Charles-City, James-City, Warwick, Elizabeth-City, York, Gloucester, Matthews, Middlesex, Essex, King & Queen, King William, & New Kent. No. 2 of the Counties of Stafford, Prince William, Fairfax, Loudoun, Fauquier, Culpepper, Orange, Albemarle, Louisa, & Spotsylvania; No. 3 of the Counties of Goochland, Fluvanna, Amherst, Bedford, Franklin, Henry, Patrick, Pittsylvania, Halifax, Charlotte, Mecklenburg, Lunenburg, Nottoway, Amelia, Powhatan, Cumberland, Buckingham, Prince-Edward and Campbell: No. 4 of the Counties of Princess-Anne, Chesterfield, Norfolk, Isle-of Wight, Sussex, Surry, Prince George, Dinwiddie, Brunswick, Greenesville, Southampton, Nansemond, Accomack & Northampton; No. 5 of the Counties of Frederick, Berkly, Hampshire, Hardy, Monongalia, Ohio, Harrison, Randolph, Pendleton, Augusta, Rockingham and Shenandoah; No. 6 of the Counties of Rockbridge, Botetourt, Montgomery, Wythe, Washington, Russel, Greenbriar, and Kanhawa; No. 7 consists of the District of Kentucky. Edward Carrington has been appointed Supervisor with a salary of one thousand Dollars, and a Commission of one per centum. Drury Ragsdale has been appointed Inspector of Survey No. 1—Edward Stevens of No. 2—Mayo Carrington of No. 3—Thomas Newton of No. 4—Edward Smith of No. 5. James Brackenridge of No. 6 and Thomas Marshall of No. 7. The compensations to these Officers are, to each a salary of four hundred and fifty Dollars, & a Commission of one per centum.
North Carolina, forms five Surveys. No. 1 consists of the Counties of Wilminton, Onslow, New-Hanover, Brunswick, Bladen, Dauphin, Anson, Richmond, Moore, Cumberland, Robertson and Sampson; No. 2 of the Counties of Carteret, Hyde,

Beaufort, Pitt, Craven, Jones, Dobbs, Johnson & Wayne; No. 3 of the Counties of Kurrituck, Cambden, Pasquatank, Perquinans, Chowan, Gates, Hartford and Tyrrell; No. 4 of the Counties of Northampton, Martin, Halifax, Nash, Edgecomb, Warren, Franklin, Caswell, Orange, Randolph, Grandville, Wake & Chatham; No. 5 of the Counties of Mecklenburg, Montgomery, Roan, Iredell, Surry, Stokes, Rockingham, Guilford, Lincoln, Rutherford, Burke & Wilkes. William Polk has been appointed Supervisor, & a salary of seven hundred Dollars, & a commission of one per cent have been assigned him as a compensation. James Read has been appointed Inspector of Survey No. 1—John Daves of No. 2—Thomas Benbury of No. 3—John Whitaker of No. 4—& Joseph McDowell the elder of No. 5. The compensation to the Inspectors of Surveys No. 1. 2. & 3. are to each, a Commission of two per Centum; those inspectors being also Officers of the customs. A salary of four hundred & fifty Dollars & a commission of one per cent have been assigned as a compensation to the Inspectors of Surveys No. 4 and 5 respectively.
South Carolina forms three surveys. No. 1 consists of the Counties of Colleton, Berkeley, Washington, Marion, Bartholomew, Charleston, Granville, Hilton, Lincoln, Shrewsbury, Winton, Orange and Lewisburgh; No. 2 of the Counties of Winyaw, Williamsburgh, Liberty, Kingston, Darlington, Chesterfield, Marlborough, Clarendon, Clermont, Lancaster, Kershaw, Richland, Fairfield, Chester, & York; No. 3 of the Counties of Edgefield, Abbeville, Newbury, Laurens, Union, Spartanburg, Greenville & Pendleton: The duties of Inspector of Survey No. 1 are performed by the Supervisor, Daniel Stevens, to whom a salary of seven hundred Dollars and a Commission of one per cent have been assigned as a compensation. Benjamin Cudworth has been appointed Inspector of Survey No. 2 and Sylvanus Walker of No. 3—the compensation assign’d to the Inspector of Survey No. 2 is a salary of three hundred Dollars and a commission of two per centum—to the Inspector of Survey No. 3 a salary of four hundred & fifty Dollars & a Commission of one per Cent.
Georgia forms one survey. The Supervisor, John Matthews, officiates as Inspector. The compensation assigned him is a salary of five hundred Dollars, and a Commission of one per centum.
The Commission in each case is computed upon the nett

product of the duties on spirits distilled within the jurisdiction of the Officer to whom it is allowed: which nett product is determin’d by deducting at each stage of the compensation all preceding charges.
With regard to the Ports, the following arrangements have been made. At the Ports at which there are both a Collector and a surveyor, the latter has been appointed an Inspector; where there is a Collector only, he has been appointed; and where there is a Surveyor only, he has been appointed. The Ports, at which neither surveyor nor collector resides, have been placed under the inspection of the Collector or Surveyor of the District to which they belong, as the one or the other is the Inspector of the Revenue for the Port where he resides. The duties of these Inspectors are confined to Spirits imported from abroad; and, as they bear an analogy to those which they have been accustomed to perform, no compensation has been assigned.
The Officers directed, by the 18th Section of the Law, to be appointed by the Supervisors, have been denominated Collectors of the Revenue. Their number has been of necessity left to the discretion of the Supervisor, with these general intimations—that they should be in all cases as few as the proper execution of the business would permit—and that, in regard to the collection of the duties on Stills, one for each County would suffice. But this regulation necessarily varies, as the stills are more or less dispersed, where they are much scattered, two, three, or more counties have been assigned to the same person. The compensation to these Officers is a commission, on the sums collected by each, of two per centum on the product of the duties on spirits distilled from foreign materials; and of four per centum on the product of the duties arising from Spirits distilled from Domestic materials, whether per gallon or by the Still. This difference was dictated by the different nature of the Business.

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Alexander Hamilton, 15 March 1791
From: Washington, George
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Philadelphia, 15 March 1791]

Having thought fit, pursuant to the powers vested in me by the Act intitled “An Act repealing after the last day of June next the duties heretofore laid upon distilled Spirits imported from abroad and laying others in their stead & also upon spirits distilled within the United States and for appropriating the same” to divide the United States into the following fourteen districts namely one to consist of the state of Newhampshire, another to consist of the State of Masschusetts another to consist of the State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations another to consist of the State of Connecticut another to consist of the State of Vermont another to consist of the State of New York another to consist of the State of New Jersey another to consist of the State of Pennsylvania another to consist of the State of Delaware another to consist of the State of Maryland another to consist of

the State of Virginia another to consist of the State of North Carolina another to consist of the State of South Carolina and another to consist of the State of Georgia, and having by and with the advice and consent of the Senate appointed the following persons to be Supervisors of the said Districts respectively that is to say—for the District of Newhampshire Joshua Wentworth, for the District of Massachusetts Nathaniel Gorham for the District of Rhode Island & Providence Plantations John S. Dexter for the district of Connecticut John Chester for the district of Vermont Noah Smith, for the District of New York William S. Smith for the district of New Jersey Aaron Dunham for the district of Pennsylvania George Clymer for the district of Delaware Henry Latimer for the district of Maryland George Gale for the district of Virginia Edward Carrington for the district of North Carolina William Polk for the district of South Carolina Daniel Stevens and for the district of Georgia John Matthews.
I do hereby in further execution of the said powers make and establish the following supplementary arrangements—viz.—
First—that the Compensations to the said Supervisors respectively shall be as follow.
To the Supervisor of Newhampshire a Salary of Five hundred Dollars and a Commission of one half ⅌Cent.
To the Supervisor of Massachusetts a salary of Eight hundred Dollars and a Commission of one half per Cent.
To the Supervisor of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations a Salary of Five hundred Dollars and a Commission of one half per Cent.
To the Supervisor of Connecticut a Salary of Six hundred Dollars and a Commission of one half per Cent.
To the Supervisor of Vermont a Salary of Four hundred Dollars and a Commission of one half per Cent.
To the Supervisor of New York a salary of Eight Hundred dollars and a Commission of one half per Cent.
To the Supervisor of New Jersey a salary of Four hundred Dollars and a Commission of one half per Cent.
To the Supervisor of Pennsylvania a Salary of One thousand Dollars and a Commission of one half per Cent.
To the Supervisor of Delaware a Salary of Four hundred Dollars and a Commission of one per Cent.

To the Supervisor of Maryland a Salary of Seven hundred Dollars and a Commission of one per Cent.
To the Supervisor of Virginia a Salary of One thousand Dollars and a Commission of One per Cent.
To the Supervisor of North Carolina a Salary of Seven hundred Dollars and a Commission of One per Cent.
To the Supervisor of South Carolina a salary of Seven hundred Dollars and a Commission of one per Cent.
To the Supervisor of Georgia a Salary of Five hundred dollars and a Commission of One per Cent.
Secondly—That the States hereafter mentioned shall be distributed into the following Surveys of Inspection and under the dispositions and regulations which follow—viz.—
The districts of Newhampshire, Rhode Island and Providence Plantations, of Connecticut, Vermont, New York, New Jersey, Delaware Maryland for the present, and Georgia shall severally form each one survey and the duties of Inspector of each Survey shall be performed by the Supervisor of the district comprehending the same.
Massachusetts shall form three Surveys No. 1. 2. & 3, the first consisting of the province of Maine, the second of the counties of Essex, Middlesex, Worcester, Hampshire and Berkshire, the third, of the residue of the State.
The duties of the Inspector of the Survey No. 1 shall for the present be performed by the Supervisor.
For the Survey No. 2. there shall be an Inspector, whose compensation shall be a Salary of Five hundred Dollars and a Commission of one half per Cent. To this Office I shall appoint Jonathan Jackson.
For the Survey No. 3 there shall also be an Inspector whose compensation shall be a Salary of Five hundred Dollars and a Commission of one half per Cent. To this Office I shall appoint Leonard Jarvis.
Pennsylvania shall form four surveys No. 1. 2. 3 and 4: the first consisting of the City and County of Philadelphia and the Counties of Bucks and Montgomery. The duties of Inspector of this Survey shall for the present be performed by the Supervisor—The second consisting of the Counties of Berks Northampton, Luzerne & Northumberland—the third, consisting of the Counties of Delaware, Chester, Lancaster, York, Dauphin,

Cumberland, Franklin, Mifflin and Huntington—the fourth consisting of the Counties of Bedford, Westmoreland, Fayette, Washington and Alleghany. To each of the three last Surveys there shall be an Inspector whose compensation shall be a Salary of Four hundred and fifty Dollars and a Commission of one per Cent. I shall appoint for No. 2—James Collins, and for No. 4 John Neville. It is my wish to appoint for No. 3 Edward Hand—But as his acceptance of the office is doubted and some inconveniences might attend a refusal, I have concluded to leave a Commission with a blank for his name; desiring that you will take measures to ascertain the disposition of the said Edward Hand, and if this should appear to be in favour of an acceptance that the blank be filled with his name; if against it with the name of—John McDowel.
With regard to the district of Virginia I shall postpone any further arrangement till my arrival within that State.
  North Carolina shall form five Surveys No. 1: 2. 3. 4 & 5, the first consisting of the Counties of Wilmington, Onslow, New Hanover, Brunswick, Bladen, Duplin, Anson Richmond, Moore, Cumberland, Robertson and Sampson. The second of the Counties of Carteret, Hyde, Beaufort, Pitt, Craven, Jones, Dobbs, Johnson Wayne, the third of the Counties of Kurrituck, Cambden, Pasquotank, Perquimans Chowan Gates Hartford Tyrrell—the fourth of the Counties of Northampton Martin Hallifax Nash Edgecomb Warren Franklin Caswell Orange, Randolph Grandville Wake & Chatham—the fifth of the Counties of Mecklenbergh Montgomery Roan Iredel Surrey Stokes, Rockingham Gilford Lincoln Rutherford Burke Wilkes. I shall appoint for the present the Collector of Wilmington as Inspector of Survey No. 1. The Collector of Newbern as Inspector of No. 2. The Collector of Edenton as Inspector of Survey No. 3. And the compensation in each case shall be a Commission of two per Cent. To each of the Surveys No. 4 and 5 there shall be an Inspector whose compensation shall be a Salary of Four hundred and fifty dollars and a Commission of One per Cent. It is my present intention to appoint for No. 4 John Whitaker and for No. 5 John McDowell. But as I shall have an opportunity of further enquiry in the course of my Journey through the State I shall leave Commissions with blanks which are not to be filled up till after the tenth day of June next; but if nothing to the

contrary is learned from me by that day, the blanks are severally to be filled with the names above mentioned.
The State of South Carolina shall form three Surveys No. 1. 2 and 3. the first consisting of the Counties of Colleton Berkley, Washington, Marion Bartholomew Charleston, Granville Hilton, Lincoln, Shrewsbury, Winton Orange Lexington and Lewisburgh—the second consisting of the Counties of Winyaw, Williamsburgh Liberty Kingston Darlington, Chesterfield, Marlborough Clarendon Clermont Lancaster Kershaw Richland Fairfield, Chester, York—the third consisting of the counties of Edgefield Abbeville Newbury Laurens Union Spartanburgh Greenville Pendleton. The duties of Inspector of Survey No. 1 to be performed by the Supervisor. The Collector of Georgetown to be Inspector of No. 2 with a salary of Three hundred dollars and a Commission of two per Cent. And for Survey No. 3 there shall be an Inspector whose compensation shall be a Salary of Four hundred and fifty dollars and a Commission of One per Cent. To this office I shall appoint Andrew Pickens.
The Commission in each case shall be computed upon the Nett product of the duties distilled within the United States and within the jurisdiction of the Officer to whom it is allowed; which nett product shall be determined by deducting at each Stage of the computation all antecedent charges.
Thirdly—That at every port where there is a Collector and Surveyor, the Surveyor shall be an Inspector, and at every port where there is a Collector only he shall be an Inspector and at every port where there is a Surveyor only he shall be an Inspector. The duties of these Inspectors except in the cases herein before specified shall extend only to Spirits imported from Foreign Countries.
Fourthly—That for the sake of uniformity the Officers to be appointed by the respective Supervisors shall be denominated Collectors of the Revenue.
Fifthly—That the compensation to those Officers respectively shall be a Commission on the sums which shall from time to time be collected by each, of two per Centum on the duties arising on spirits distilled from foreign Materials and of four per Centum on the duties arising on spirits distilled from Materials of the Growth or production of the United States.
Having thus made known to you the arrangements which I

have thought fit to adopt, you will proceed to notify them to whomsoever it may concern. And you will add such instructions to the respective officers in conformity to the law and to the tenor of these presents as shall appear to you necessary. Given under my hand at the City of Philadelphia the fifteenth day of March in the year One thousand seven hundred and ninety one.

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Jefferson, 16 March 1791
From: Washington, George
To: Jefferson, Thomas

My dear Sir,
[Philadelphia, 16 March 1791]

Enclosed is the last letter I have received from Messrs Deakins & Stoddart. What step had I best take to bring matters to a close with Burn’s, and by declaring at once the Site of the public buildings, prevent some inconvenience which I see may arise from the opinions promulgated by Mr L’Enfont? as much probably from complaisance as judgment. Yrs

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from John Canon, 17 March 1791 [letter not found]
From: Canon (Cannon), John
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from John Canon, 17 Mar. 1791. In a letter to John Canon, dated 9 April 1791, Tobias Lear refers to a letter Canon “wrote to the President of the United States on the 17. of last month.”


Title: From George Washington to Daniel Carroll, 17 March 1791
From: Washington, George
To: Carroll, Daniel

Dear Sir
philadelphia March 17th 1791

I am estremely anxious to have a full meeting of the Commissioners--I wish you to send an express to Governor Johnson and let him know my earnestness on this head--I have directed the post master at Geo. Town to send this Letter to you (and another which has been written for this post) by express, in case you should have left Baltimore.  With very great regard, I am Dear Sir your mo. obedt Servt

Go. Washington


Title: From George Washington to William Deakins, Jr., and Benjamin Stoddert, 17 March 1791
From: Washington, George
To: Deakins, William Jr.,Stoddert, Benjamin

Gentlemen,
Philadelphia March 17th 179[1]

In order to avail the public of the willingness expressed by the inhabitants of Washington county, as mentioned in your letter of the 11th to sign a paper ceding their lots in Hamburg, on being requested by any person under my direction, I have written the inclosed letter, which, if you think it will answer the desired end, you will be so good as to dispatch to them, with the necessary propositions in form. I am aware that, by this means it will become known that you are acting for the public: but there

will be no reason for keeping this longer secret after my arrival at George town.
With respect to Mister Burns I will confer with you on my arrival as to what is best to be done in his case, should you not have obtained a cession from him in the mean time.


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Jefferson, 17 March 1791
From: Washington, George
To: Jefferson, Thomas

Thursday Evening [17 March 1791]

The P. has just recd the enclosed. He prays Mr Jefferson to write by tomorrows Post to Majr L’Enfant agreeably to what was mentioned this morning.


Title: To George Washington from the Seneca Chiefs, 17 March 1791
From: Seneca Chiefs
To: Washington, George

Pittsburg, 17th March 1791.

Message from the Corn planter, New arrow, Half town and Big tree, chiefs of the Seneka nation of Indians, to the President of the United States.
Sir
When we raised from the great counsel of the Thirteen fires, we mentioned that we meant to have a counsel with the chiefs of the bad angry indians.
Through the whole Quaker state, as we came up the road, we was treated well and the[y] took good care of us until we came here, one misfortune happened only, that one of our waggons is not yet arrived here, the one we first engaged with the goods you presented to us.
Father,
Your promise to me was that you would keep all your people quiet, but since I came here, I find that some of my people have been killed, the good honest people, who were here trading.
Father,
We hope you will not suffer all the good people to be killed, but your people are killing them as fast as they can. Three men and one woman have been killed at Big beaver creek, and they were good people, and some of the white people will testify the truth of this. When I heard the news I found one boy had made his escape and got to the traders house who saved his life; I now wait to see him.
Father,

We have been informed that twenty seven men came from another state and murdered these men in the Quaker state, and took away nine horses, and all the goods they had purchased from the trader. Our father and ruler over all mankind, now speak and tell me, did you order these men to be killed?
Father,
Our words is pledged to you that we would endeavor to make peace with all warriors nations. If we cannot do it, do not blame us, you struck the innocent men first, we hope you will not blame us—as your people has first broke good rules, but as for our people they are as friendly and firm as ever.
Father,
We must now acquaint you with the mens names who did this murder at Beaver creek—Samuel Brady formerly a captain in your army, and under your command; also a Balden, persons was concerned in this murder.
Father,
I can inform you little more there fore will conclude, with asking you how I should have come to the knowledge of this, or how I could have informed you, had it not been for our good friend Joseph Nicholson therefore beg you may grant him an appointment as interpreter, for we cannot see how we will do without him—I know of no other man that speaks your language and ours so well as him.

his
Corn Planter
mark
his
New Arrow.
mark
his
Half Towne.
mark
his
Big Tree
mark

P.S. The boy, who made his escape at Beaver Creek, has arrived at this place, and I have taken him under my protection. Father,

your dispatches for Detroit has been unavoidably detained heretofore, but to morrow, Big tree and one other shall set off with it, and will also take the boy mentioned here, and deliver him to his relations. We part to day at this place—Big tree is going amongst the cross indians, to see if they will make peace; and I go to my own people to call them to counsel.

Corn planter.


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Jefferson, 18 March 1791
From: Jefferson, Thomas
To: Washington, George

Mar. 18. 1791.

Th: Jefferson is sorry to present a long letter to the President to be read at so busy a moment: but the view which it presents of our commercial matters in France is too interesting to be unknown to the President. the circumstances presented to view in the 2d page of the letter induce Th: J. to think it may be well to commit to mister Short & the M. de la Fayette to press our settlement with Spain on a broader bottom than merely that of the case of Ste Marie.


Title: To George Washington from Henry Knox, 18 March 1791
From: Knox, Henry
To: Washington, George

Sir.
War Department 18th March 1791.

Having arranged all the Papers referred to in the proposed instructions to me, I have the honor to submit them under one cover. A Map of the south-western frontier is preparing, which will not be finished until tomorrow, and which would be proper to accompany the book.
The instructions for Major General St Clair, are copying, in order to be submitted to your consideration; and it may be proper to add them to this collection. I have the honor to be With the highest Respect Your Obedient Servant

H. Knox
Secy of War


Title: To George Washington from Henry Knox, 18 March 1791
From: Knox, Henry
To: Washington, George

Sir
War Department, 18th March 1791.

I have the honor to submit to you the opinion of the Attorney General respecting the United States retaining Fort Pitt.
Messrs Turnbull and Marmie the owners, are solicitous to have the premises yeilded to them—the place is in ruins, and for a long time past the public have had only a partial occupancy of it. The principal building which the public require is the magazine, which is public property.
I have the honor to submit to you the propriety of relinquishing to Messrs Turnbull and Marmie all the appendages of the said Fort, excepting such parts as Major General St Clair shall judge to be essential to be held for public service—and for such parts a rent must be paid. I have the honor to be with the highest respect Sir Your most obedient an humble servant

H. Knox
Secy of War


Title: From George Washington to Alexander Hamilton, 19 March 1791
From: Washington, George
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Philadelphia, 19 March 1791]

Pay or cause to be paid to the Secretary of State Forty thousand Dollars to be applied to the purposes of the Act, entitled “An Act providing the means of Intercourse between the United States and foreign Nations” for which this shall be your warrant. Given under my hand at Philadelphia the nineteenth day of March, in the year one thousand seven hundred & ninety one.

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Powel, 19 March 1791
From: Powel, Samuel
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Saturday 19 March 1791

Inclosed I send you the Act of the Legislature of Pennsylvania which I mentioned Yesterday Evening. It is by no Means what I wished it to have been; yet that it is not worse required much Exertion. I am, with unfeigned Respect, dear Sir your most obedt humble Servt

Samuel Powel


Title: Proclamation, 19 March 1791
From: Washington, George
To:

[Philadelphia, 19 March 1791]

Whereas it hath been represented to me that James O’Fallon is levying an armed force in that part of the State of Virginia which is called Kentucky, disturbs the public peace, and sets at defiance the treaties of the United States with the Indian tribes, the act of Congress intituled “An act to regulate trade and intercourse with the Indian tribes,” and my proclamations of the 14th and 26th days of August last founded thereon; and it is my earnest desire that those who have incautiously associated themselves with the said James O’Fallon may be warned of their danger, I have therefore thought fit to publish this proclamation, hereby declaring that all persons violating the treaties and act aforesaid shall be prosecuted with the utmost rigor of the law.

And I do, moreover, require all officers of the United States whom it may concern to use their best exertions to bring to justice any persons offending in the premises.
In testimony whereof I have caused the seal of the United States to be affixed to these presents and signed the same with my hand. Done at the city of Philadelphia, the 19th day of March, A.D. 1791, and of the Independence of the United States the fifteenth.

Go. WASHINGTON.
By the President: Th: Jefferson.


Title: From George Washington to George Clendinen, 21 March 1791
From: Washington, George
To: Clendinen, George

Sir,
Philadelphia March [2]1st 1791.

Since writing to you on the 21st of February by Mr Moore, (in which letter I have some instructions respecting my lands in your neighbourhood) I have disposed of all my lands on the Ohio and great Kanawa to Mr de Barth a french Gentleman. I have therefore to request that you will stop all measures, which you may have taken, or may be about to take relative to the settling or otherwise disposing of my lands agreeably to any instructions which I may have given for that purpose. As I have engaged to deliver them to Mr de Barth free from all incumbrances—And, should any steps have been taken in the business, I must beg you to withdraw them so as to leave the lands entirely free—You will likewise be so good as to return me the draughts &ca of the land, which you received from Colonel Lewis.
I must in the meantime beg you to be assured, Sir, that I have a proper sense of your attention and goodness in the readiness with which you have given me your assistance towards my arranging this property, and my best thanks are offered therefor. with very great esteem and regard, I am Sir, Your most obedient Servant

G. Washington


Title: To George Washington from Desbrosses, 22 March 1791
From: Desbrosses, —— (chevalier)
To: Washington, George

Mon general
port au prince isle a coteSt domingue 22. mars 1791

quoique je naye pas Lhonneur destre connu de vous permettés moy de vous exposer ma Situation dans ce moment.
depuis vingt huits a trente ans jai lhonneur de servir mon roi et ma patrie, depuis cette Epoque jai au moins mangé ⟨En⟩ service La moitié de mon patrimoine, et L’autre moitié mest aujourdhuy Enlevé par La revolution qui vient de Sopperer En france.
il me restoit Encore mon general une resource a ma famille et a moy, cetoit un ami, et il nous a eté Enlevé Le 4 de ce mois, Le cher thomas de mauduit—colonel du regiment du port au prince a perdu La vie a cette Epoque, il me flattoit toujours que par votre credit, il me feroit avoir des terres par concession, meme En assez grande quantité pour y pouvoir placer toute ma famille, et cela a peu de frais, et a vingt ou trente lieux de new york, puis je Esperer mon general que sans aucunes recommandations que vous voudrés Bien vous interesser au sort dun militaire vraiment ⟨ma⟩lheureux, qui na aujourdhuy dautres desirs, que de vivre sous Les Lois des Etats unis, et de faire nombre parmi Les citoyens, mes moyens dans ce moment se reduisent a peu de choses, mais je me Sens Encore assez de forces et d’energie pour m’acquitter Enver la patrie qui aura Bien voulu me recevoir dans son Sein et je vous aurai monsieur toute ma vie La plus vive reconnoissance de ce que vous voudrés Bien faire pour a ce Sujet, je vous ai parlé particulièrement de new york parceque Le che[valie]r massuroit quil y avoit Encore aux Environs Beaucoup de terres a conseder et a defricher, je me trouverai toujours Bien ou vous voudrés Bien avoir La Bonté de me colloquer, et ferai honneur aux Engagemens que de toute necessité il faudra contracter pour La Concession si toute fois cela nexcede pas me facultés.
mr P. Penet avoit Envoyé icy quelques imprimé jai eu Lhonneur de luy Ecrire, je nai point Encore eu reponse de luy il paroit quil est Etabli a peupres dans La partie dont mr de mauduit me parloit.

je mets tout mon Espoir En vous persuadé que vous voudrés Bien m honnorer dune reponse. je suis avec respect Mon general Votre tres humble et tres obeissant serviteur

Le ch[evali]er desbrosses


Title: To George Washington from Tobias Lear, 23 March 1791
From: Lear, Tobias
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Philadelphia March 23d 1791

I had the honor last evening to receive your commands, through Major Jackson, to deliver the letter for Colo. Clandenen to General St Clair, unless Genl Knox thought Genl Sevier a more direct conveyance or knew of a better, and in obedience thereto I made the inquiry of Genl Knox, who thought Genl St Clair would be most likely to give the letter a direct & speedy conveyance; I therefore delivered it to him—informing him of the purport, to impress the necessity of its being put into a safe and expeditious channel, which he assured me should be done. Genl St Clair leaves this City tomorrow morning. If any other opportunity should offer to send a letter from hence to Colo. Clandenen, I shall write to him by it.
Mr Coxe, of whom I had made some inquiry respecting a certain person, sent me the enclosed letter today; but I cannot learn from whom the information comes. Colo. Hamilton sent today for the Commissions for the Commissioners who are to receive subscriptions to the Bank. They are filled up with the names of Thomas Willing, David Rittenhouse, Samuel Howell of Pennsylvania—John Beale Bordley of Maryland & Lambert Cadwalader of New Jersey.
We are very happy to hear that the roads will probably be better than you expected to find them. Mrs Lear, who continues in a fine way—unites with me in a respectful remembrance & best wishes for your health & happiness—and a pleasant Journey. I have the honor to be with the highest respect & most perfect Attachment Sir Your most Obedt Servt

Tobias Lear.


Title: To George Washington from Tobias Lear, 24 March 1791
From: Lear, Tobias
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Philadelphia March 24th 179111 O’Clock P.M.

The enclosed letters have been this moment brought to me by the Post Master, who informs thus they have just arrived at the Office in the Western Mail. As they may contain important intelligence I delay not a moment to forward them.
Mrs Washington and the family are well. Nothing particular has transpired since your departure. I have the honor to be, with the highest respect & most sincere Attachment Sir, Your obliged & very humble Servt

Tobias Lear.


Title: Memorandum of Pierre-Charles L’Enfant, 26 March 1791
From: L’Enfant, Pierre Charles
To: Washington, George

[Georgetown, Md., 26 March 1791]

Note relative to the Ground laying on the Eastern branch of the River Potowmack & being Intended to parallel the Severals position proposed within the Limits betwen that branch & George-town for the seat of the Federal City.
After coming upon the Hill From the Eastern Branch ferry the Country is level & on a Space of above tow mi[les] each way present a most elligible position for the First Setlement of a grand City & one which if not the only within the limits of the Federal territory is at least the More advantageous in that part laying betwen the Eastern branch & George-town.
the Soil is dry and notwithstanding well watered with abounding Springs it has an wholsome air and being of an easy ascent it is however so heigh that it Command on most of the surrounding Country and may be Effectually guarded from those Hill over looking it—these are on the oposite side of the Water and a branch from the Grand Western montain which Come Round and Extend down on that Eastern Shore in bordering on the River potowmack and they may rather be considered as a

mean for protection as the securing of thier Subsoil with proper Establishment would render that situation most respectable.
with respect to navigation it lay at the head of an Extansive one & Cover & forme the bank of an harbor in Every respect to be prefered to that of the potowmack toward George town—Less impeded by ice & never so swelled with Fresh—the chanell is deeper & will admit any vessel as May pass over the shalow down below at the Mariland pt being moored to warfs while they most remain at half mile off from the bank of the potowmack owing to the Main chanel bearing from the Entrance into the eastern branch immediatly and all the way up on the Virginia Shore Until it Come to strik on Mason Island round which in turning it Come to wash for a Shorter Space on the Rock at hampsted pt, or Funk town, making its way to & from the warfs at george town were the grand navigation end.
This Spot made to derive Every possible advantages from water Conveyance Would in the same time be Free from the great Inconveniency attending the crossing of navigable River, the deep water in that branch not coming farther up than Evans pt about half mile Above the Ferry there the large bed of the river immediatly changes in to smal Run over the which bridges might easily be Erected to secure a Constant intercourse with the Eastern Continant in the mean while as it would facilitate seats being fixed on each border of a grand streem whose dept abound with fish and whose wild aspect would in affording a delassement from the great bustling rest the ayes from the grand sight below the City.
all the local of this ground is such as will favour Every Improvement as may render the City agreable Commodious & Capable of promoting all sort of util[itarian] establishement.
on its water side from the Mouth of the Eastern branch at Carroll bourough as far up as to Evans point A distance of above three Miles the Frequent winding of the Shore form—many natural wetdock which for not having Every were a great dept of water nevertheless would become very Convenient for the establishing of naval Store and for arsenals the which as well as ware house for marchant men might safly be rised on the water Edge without fear of impeding the prospect from on the Heigh flat behind. there were the level ground prevail on the water and all round were it decen’d but most particularly on that part terminating

in a ridge to Jenkins’ Hill and runing in a parallel with and at half mile off from the river potowmack separated by a low ground intersected with three grand Streems—Many of the Most desirable position offer for to Erect the publique Edifices there on—from these height Every Grand building would rear with a majistick aspect over the Country all round and might be advantageously seen From twenty miles off—while Contigous to the First Setlement of the City they would there Extand to ages in a Central point to it, facing on the grandest prospect of both of the branch of the potowmack—with the town of Allexandry in front seen in its fullest Extant over many points of land projecting from the Mariland & Virginia shore in a Maner as add much to the perspective at the end of which the cape of great Hunting Creek appear directly were a Corner stone of the Federal district is to be placed and—in the room of which a majestick Colum or a grand Pyramid being Erected would produce the happyest effect and Compleatly finish the landscape.
thus in Every respect advantageously situated the federal City would soon grew of itself & spread as the branches of a tree do toward were they meet with most nourishment.
there the attractive local will lay all Round & at distance not beyond those limits within the which a City [the] Capital of an Extensive Empire may be deliniated.
having a bridge laid over the Eastern branch some were a bove Evans pt there the natural limit of the eastern branch of the City may be Extended while in its western Extrimity may be Included george town itself which being situated at the head of Grand Navigation of the potowmack Should be favoured with the same advantage of a better Communication with the southern by having also a Bridge Erected over the potowmack at the place of the tow sisters were nature would effectually Favour the undertaking.
then betwen those tow points begining the setlement of the Grand City on the bank at the eastern branch and promoting the first improvement all along of the Heigh flat as far as were it end on Jenkins Hill would place the City Central to the ground left open to its agrandisement which most undoubtly would be rapide toward both Extremity. provided never the less that attention be paid immediatly on laying the first out Line of the Establishment to open a direct & large Avenue from the

bridge on the potowmack to that on the Eastern branch the which should be well level passing a cross George town and over the Most advantageous ground For prospect trought the grand City, with a midle way paved for heavy Carriage and walks on eachside planted with double Rows of trees to the end that by making it A Communication as agreable as it will be Convenient it may the more induce the improvement of either place all along and prompt the Citizens in Both to Exertions to shorten the distance by building and insensibly affect the wished junction and Compleat a Street Laid out on a dimention proportioned to the Greatnes which a City the Capital of a powerfull Empire ought to manifest.
In viewing the Intended Establishment in this light & Considering how in progress of time a City so happily situated will Extend over a large surface of Ground, much deliberation is necessary For to determine on a plan for the local distribution and conceive that plan on a sisteem which in the mean while as it most render the place Commodious & agreable to the first settler in it may be Capable of being made a part of the whole when Enlarged by progressive Improvement, the which to be made agreable to what will first have been Erected and preserve the similar Correspondance with what may only be intended should be forseen in the first delination in a grand pland of the whol City Combined with the various ground it will Cover and with the particular Circumstances of the Country all round.
in Endeavouring to effect this it is not the regular assemblage of houses laid on in Squar & Forming Streets all parallel & uniform that is so necessary for such plan Could only do on a well level plain & were no surrounding object being interesting it become Indifferent which way the opening of a street may be directed.
but on any other Ground a plan of this sort most be deflective and it never would Answer for any of the Spots proposed for the federal City. and on that held here as the most eligible it would absolutly annulate Every of the advantage Enumerated and the securing of which will along Insure the success of the undertaking.
Such regular plan in deed however answerable as they may appear upon paper or seducing as they May be on the first aspect to the ayes of some people Most even when applayed upon

that ground the best calculated to admit of it become at last tiresome and insipide & it never Could be in its orrigine but a Mear Contrivance of some Cool imagination wanting a sense of the real Grand & trewly beautifull only to be Met with were Nature Contribut with art and diversify the objects.


Title: From George Washington to St. John’s College Faculty, 26 March 1791
From: Washington, George
To: St. John’s College Faculty

Gentlemen,
[Annapolis, Md., 26 March 1791]

The satisfaction which I have derived from my visit to your infant Seminary is expressed with real pleasure, and my wishes for its progress to perfection are preferred with sincere regard.
The very promising appearance of its infancy must flatter all its friends, (among whom I entreat you to class me,) with the hope of an early, and at the same time a mature manhood.
You will do justice to the sentiments, which your kind regard towards myself inspires, by believing that I reciprocate the good wishes contained in your address—and I sincerely hope the excellence of your seminary will be manifested in the morals and science of the youth, who are favored with your care.

G. Washington


Title: From George Washington to Martha Washington, 26 March 1791 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Washington, Martha

Letter not found: to Martha Washington, 26 Mar. 1791. On 27 Mar. 1791 GW referred Tobias Lear “to a letter I wrote to Mrs Washington from Annapolis yesterday.” Only three of GW’s letters to his wife have survived to the present. Martha Washington’s granddaughter Martha Parke Custis Peter wrote in 1828 that shortly after GW’s death on 14 Dec. 1799 Martha had burned all but two of his letters to her, and only a handful more have since been found. See GW to Martha Washington, 18 June 1775, source note; Fields, Papers of Martha WashingtonJoseph E. Fields, ed. “Worthy Partner”: The Papers of Martha Washington. Westport, Conn., and London, 1994., xxxi, xxxvii, n.39; and Washington Papers Index,Library of Congress. Index to the George Washington Papers. Washington, D.C., 1964. viii.


Title: To George Washington from Alexander Hamilton, 27 March 1791
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

Sir
Sunday March 27, 1791.

I have embraced the first moment of leisure to execute your wish, on the subject to which the enclosed Notes are applicable—They are neither so accurate nor so full, as I should have been glad to make them: but they are all that my situation has permitted.
Nothing new has occured in my Department worth mentioning

  —I thought that the following extract of a letter from Mr King might not be wholly uninteresting, and I there fore make it—“The Legislature of this State have incorporated the Bank, limiting its capital to a million of Dollars and its duration to twenty years. The Treasurer is authorised to subscribe to the Loan, proposed to Congress all the Continental paper in the Treasury and by a bill that passed the Legislature this morning, he is directed to take in behalf of the State, one hundred and ninety shares in the National Bank. I have seen a letter from Mr John Taylor of Albany which has created some uneasiness on account of our frontier settlements—He says—‘there is great reason to apprehend danger from the Indians in this quarter;’ but does not mention, nor have I been able to learn the grounds of this apprehension. You are sensible that almost every person here is interested in our Western lands; their value depends upon the settlement of the frontiers, these settlements depend on Peace with the Indians, and indeed the bare possibility of a war with the six Nations, would break up our whole frontier. It is from this state of things that the war with the Wabash Indians is so much disrelished here. The Legislature have authorised the Governor to draw Money from the Treasury and to take such measures as he may judge suitable to preserve the good will of the neighbouring Indians. I have said, and I presume it will be the case, that all prudent steps will be pursued to keep the six Nations quiet; that we were embarked and that it had became necessary to go forward with the War if peace could be obtained by no other means; but I am more and more convinced that it behoves the government if practicable to finish this Indian business, in the course of the summer.”
The clue to Mr Taylors apprehensions seems to be a late murder of some friendly indians within the limits of this State; the particulars of which I take it for granted will be made known to you by the Secretary at War. With the most perfect respect and truest attachment I have the honor to be Sir Yr most Obedient & most hble servt

A. Hamilton


Title: To George Washington from Tobias Lear, 27 March 1791
From: Lear, Tobias
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Philadelphia March 27th 1791

Since I had the honor to write to you on the 24th Inst. I have been informed that the Indians on the frontier of New York have lately given indications of a hostile disposition—and that the legislature of that State were about to take some measures of a temporary nature for conciliating the Indians—or, if that should prove ineffectual, to defend their frontiers. These measures, however, it was said, are not, by any means, intended to interfere with any arrangements of the General Government. They are only for the moment, and are to cease as soon as anything relative to the object can be carried into effect by the General Government. This Account I give as it was related to me on Friday evening by Mr Coxe—who informed me that it was received by Colo. Hamilton in a letter from Mr King.
The Secretary of the Treasury has just now sent for a Commission to be filled up with the name of General Edwd Hand, who will accept the Appointment of Inspector of one of the Surveys of this district.
I have heard nothing from Mr Fraunces since I informed his son of the terms upon which he would be admitted into the family. His son told me on Thursday last that he had written to his father as soon as he received my letter, which he had enclosed for his father’s information; and as he had requested that he would let him know immediately if he should not incline to come, he presumes, from his having heard nothing from him, that he may be expected in a few days. Mr & Mrs Hyde have not yet gone out of the family. They denied that they might continue for a few days (unless some other person came in in their stead) until he could make some arrangements, for their support after leaving the family without going to the expense of boarding which he could illy bear. This being but a reasonable request was granted—and they have continued to do such duties as they have heretofore done. Tomorrow or next day they expect to take

their departure, but I do not know what plan they have fixed upon. They have delivered up the things which were committed to their charge, and with as little wear & tare as could be expected—so far they may have credit.
This letter will be directed to Mount Vernon, and Mr Jefferson suggested to me an idea to-day, of direct letters in future, which appears to be a good one—it is, to request the Post-Master of this place to make up a particular packet of such letters as may be sent to the Office for you, and direct them to the President of the United States, without enclosing them in the Mail for any particular place—and as the Mail is opened at every post-town on the Road, the Post-Masters will be able, either to deliver the letters to you if you should be at the place (of which they will certainly know) or forward or detain them as your progress may require. As it was your intention to return by a rout different from the common post road, you will then be better able to give directions for conveying letters to you than we are to calculate it.
Mrs Lear & the little boy are well. We unite in best respects & most sincere affection for you, with—Sir, Your Obliged & very Hble Servt

Tobias Lear.


Title: To George Washington from John Cooke, 28 March 1791
From: Cooke, John
To: Washington, George

28 March 1791

  Tipperary, Ireland, 28 March 1791. “Understanding that the regulations of weights and measures is one of the objects of your Exellency’s councils at present, and humbly expecting that the enclos’d invention may be instrumental in effecting that end,” takes the liberty of laying it “at your Excellency’s feet.”


Title: From George Washington to Tobias Lear, 28 March 1791
From: Washington, George
To: Lear, Tobias

Dear Sir,
George Town [Md.] March 28th 1791.

Late this afternoon your letters of the 23d & 24th instant came to hand, and as the Mail is about to be closed (leaving this before sun rise in the morning) I shall, as I must, be short.
I return some letters to be filed;—one from Colo Blaine to be given to Genl Knox, to be acted upon as he pleases;—he is as well acquainted with the man as I am, & knows the want of such a character better than I do;—another letter from Colo Cannon, which I may venture to say proves him to be, what I will not call him; and, that I need never look for any Rents from him.—I pray you to say to him, if he does not come to Philadelphia during my absence, that his own statement—given in at New York—does not justify his prest report—and that I am too well acquainted with the prices of grain and the demd for it last year in his own neighbourhood to be imposed upon by such a tale as his letter exhibits.—In a word, that I am by no means satisfied with his treatment of me;—for sure I am I shall get nothing from him but assurances of improvements, whilst he is either applying my rents to his own use—or suffering the tenants to go free from the payment of them.
One of the Pads to the Waggon harness was left, it seems, at Mr Clark’s—send it by the Stage to Alexandria;—if it comes too

late the matter will not be great.—I am not able to say yet, how long I shall be detained in this place—where I arrived before breakfast this morning. I am—Your affecte

Go: Washington.

P.S.—I send with my best remembrance a Sermon for Mrs W——n—I presume it is good, coming all the way from New Hampshire, but do not vouch for it not having read a word of it.—It was one of your enclosures.—


Title: From George Washington to Charles Pinckney, 29 March 1791
From: Washington, George
To: Pinckney, Charles

Dear Sir,
George Town, Maryland, March 29th 1791.

I had the pleasure to receive your Excellency’s obliging letter of the 8th instant last evening.
I am thus far on my tour through the southern States—but, as I travel with only one sett of horses, and must make occasional halts, the progress of my journey is exposed to such uncertainty as admits not of fixing a day for my arrival at Charleston.
While I express the grateful sense which I entertain of your

Excellency’s polite offer to accommodate me at your house during my stay in Charleston, your goodness will permit me to deny myself that pleasure.
Having, with a view to avoid giving inconvenience to private families, early prescribed to myself the rule of declining all invitations to quarters on my journies, I have been repeatedly under a similar necessity with the present of refusing those offers of hospitality, which would otherwise have been both pleasing and acceptable.
I beg your Excellency to be persuaded of the sincere esteem and regard with which I am, dear Sir, Your affectionate and obedient Servant

G. Washington


Title: Agreement of the Proprietors of the Federal District, 30 March 1791
From: Proprietors of the Federal District
To: Washington, George

[Georgetown, Md., 30 March 1791]

We the subscribers, in consideration of the great benefits we expect to derive from having the Federal City laid off upon our Lands, do hereby agree and bind ourselves, heirs, executors & administrators, to convey in Trust, to the President of the United States, or Commissioners, or such person or persons as he shall appoint, by good and sufficient deeds in fee simple, the whole of our respective Lands, which he may think proper to include within the lines of the federal City for the purposes and on the Conditions following—
The President shall have the sole power of directing the Federal City to be laid off in what manner he pleases. He may retain any number of squares he may think proper for public Improvements, or other public uses, and the Lots only which shall be laid off shall be a joint property between the Trustees on behalf of the Public and each present Proprietor, and the same shall be fairly and equally divided between the Public and the Individuals, as soon as may be, after the City shall be laid off.
For the streets, the Proprietors shall receive no compensation, but for the squares, or Lands in any form which shall be taken for Public buildings or any kind of Public Improvements, or uses, the Proprietors, whose Lands shall be so taken shall receive at the rate of twenty five pounds ⅌ Acre, to be paid by the Public.
The whole wood on the Lands shall be the Property of the Proprietors: But should any be desired by the President to be reserved or left standing, the same shall be paid for by the Public

at a just and reasonable valuation, exclusive of the Twenty five pounds ⅌ Acre, to be paid for the Land, on which the same shall remain.
Each Proprietor shall retain the full possession and use of his Land, untill the same shall be sold and occupied by the purchasers of the Lotts lain out thereupon, and in all cases where the public arrangements, as the streets, lotts &c. will admit of it, each Proprietor shall possess his buildings and other Improvements and grave yards, paying to the public only one half the present estimated value of the Lands, on which the same shall be, or twelve pounds ten shillings ⅌ Acre—But in cases where the Arrangements of the Streets, lotts, Squares &c. will not admit of this, and it shall become necessary to remove such buildings Improvements &c. the Proprietors of the same shall be paid the reasonable value thereof, by the Public.
Nothing herein contained, shall affect the Lotts which any of the Parties to this Agreement many hold in the Towns of Carrollsburgh or Hamburgh.
In Witness whereof we have hereunto set our hands and Seals, this thirtieth day of March 1791.


Title: Proclamation, 30 March 1791
From: Washington, George
To:

[Georgetown, Md.] Mar. 30. 1791.

Whereas by a proclamation bearing date the 24th day of January of this present year, & in pursuance of certain acts of the States of Maryland & Virginia, & of the Congress of the U.S. therein mentioned, certain lines of experiment were directed to be run in the neighbourhood of George town in Maryland for the purpose of determining the location of a part of the territory of 10. miles square for the permanent seat of the government of the U.S. & a certain part was directed to be located within the said lines of experiment on both sides of the Potomac & above the limit of the Eastern branch prescribed by the sd act of Congress:
And Congress by an amendatory act, passed on the 3d day of the present month of March, have given further authority to the President of the U.S. “to make any part of the territory below the said limit & above the mouth of Hunting creek, a part of the said district, so as to include a convenient part of the Eastern branch, & of the lands lying of the lower side thereof, & also the town of Alexandria.”
Now therefore for the purpose of amending & completing the location of the whole of the said territory of the ten miles square in conformity with the said amendatory act of Congress, I do hereby declare & make known that the whole of the said territory shall be located & included within the four lines following, that is to say:
Beginning at Jones’s point, being the upper cape of Hunting creek in Virginia, & at an angle in the outset of 45. degrees West of North: & running in a direct line ten miles for the first line: then beginning again at the same Jones’s point, and running another direct line at a right angle with the first across the Potomack, ten miles for the second line: then from the terminations of the said first & second lines, running two other direct lines of ten miles each, the one crossing the Eastern branch aforesaid, & the other the Potomac, & meeting each other in a point.
And I do accordingly direct the Commissioners named under the authority of the said first mentioned act of Congress, to proceed forthwith to have the said four lines run, & by proper metes and bounds defined & limited, & thereof to make due report

under their hands & seals: and the territory so to be located, defined & limited, shall be the whole territory accepted by the said acts of Congress as the district for the permanent seat of the government of the U.S.
In testimony whereof I have caused the seal of the U.S. to be affixed to these presents, & signed the same with my hand. Done at Georgetown aforesaid the 30th day of March in the year of our Lord 1791. and of the Independence of the U.S. the fifteenth.


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Jefferson, 31 March 1791
From: Washington, George
To: Jefferson, Thomas

Dear Sir,
Mount-Vernon March 31st 1791.

Having been so fortunate as to reconcile the contending interests of Georgetown and Carrollsburg, and to unite them in such an agreement as permits the public purposes to be carried into effect on an extensive and proper scale, I have the pleasure to transmit to you the enclosed proclamation, which after annexing your counter signature and the seal of the United States, you will cause to be published.
The terms agreed on between me, on the part of the United

States, with the Landholders of George town and Carrollsburg are. That all the land from Rock creek along the river to the eastern-branch and so upwards to or above the Ferry including a breadth of about a mile and a half, the whole containing from three to five thousand acres is ceded to the public, on condition That, when the whole shall be surveyed and laid off as a city, (which Major L’Enfant is now directed to do) the present Proprietors shall retain every other lot—and, for such part of the land as may be taken for public use, for squares, walks, &ca—they shall be allowed at the rate of Twenty five pounds per acre—The Public having the right to reserve such parts of the wood on the land as may be thought necessary to be preserved for ornament &ca. The Landholders to have the use and profits of all their ground until the city is laid off into lots, and sale is made of those lots which, by this agreement, become public property. No compensation is to be made for the ground that may be occupied as streets or alleys.
To these conditions all the principal Landholders except the purchaser of Slater’s property who did not attend have subscribed, and it is not doubted that the few, who were not present, will readily assent thereto: even the obstinate Mr Burns has come into the measure. The enlarged plan of this agreement having done away the necessity and indeed postponed the propriety, of designating the particular spot, on which the public buildings should be placed, until an accurate survey and subdivision of the whole ground is made, I have left out that paragraph of the proclamation.
It was found, on running the lines that the comprehension of Bladensburg within the district, must have occasioned the exclusion of more important objects—and of this I am convinced as well by my own observation as Mr Ellicott’s opinion. With great regard and esteem I am dear Sir Your most Obedient Servant

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Henry Knox, 31 March 1791
From: Knox, Henry
To: Washington, George

Sir,
War Department [Philadelphia], 31st March 1791

I had the honor to inform you on the 27th of the murder of certain friendly Indians at the Big beaver Creek, on the 9th instant.
I enclose a Proclamation of the Governor of this State, relative to that affair. I assured him of the readiness of the General Government, to pay the reward offered upon the conviction of the Offenders. The Governor has directed the Magistrates to make inquisition into the transaction; and to transmit Affidavits thereon—Upon the receipt of proper Affidavits and finding the affair as has been stated, he will demand the Offenders.
I have written to Major Genl St Clair to take every step to avert the evil consequences of this murder of the Indians, by sending for the Relations of the deceased, and the Chiefs of the tribes to which they belonged, and making ample satisfaction for the loss of property sustained.
But it is to be exceedingly apprehended, that the wound will not be easily healed. For on the 18th instant, the Indians killed one Man and took three Prisoners besides horses, within two miles of Fort-Pitt, on the west side of the Allegheny River.
The Cornplanter writes me from Fort-Pitt on the 20th instant, and thinks the indians who committed this mischief, were those who escaped from Big beaver on the 9th instant, and that they belonged to the Delawares.
The Cornplanter’s assurances are highly friendly—He had sent Big-tree off on that day to the Miami Indians—and was to set off the next day, accompanied by Lieutt Jeffers for his own

Country. I am glad Mr Jeffers accompanies him; as it will serve to strengthen his friendship, and may prevent his being injured by any of our parties.
The Governor of this State has this day requested the loan of Two hundred Arms and a proportional quantity of Ammunition, at Fort Pitt for the Militia, with which I readily complied in your behalf.
I shall not be able to give any account of the success of recruiting either the Levies or Regulars until next week, but the Reports are good.
Arrangements are made for the supply of the Levies, both at Winchester, and Hagers Town, with Rations; and as soon as I shall receive the information of the Officers, the recruiting service in Virginia, and Maryland shall commence. I have the honor to be Sir, With the highest respect, Your Obedit Servt

H. KnoxSecy of War


Title: To George Washington from Tobias Lear, 31 March 1791
From: Lear, Tobias
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Philadelphia March 31st 1791

Since I had the honor to write to you on the 27th Instant, nothing of a public nature, worthy notice, has come to my knowledge.
I have heard nothing yet from Mr Fraunces, and his son can give me no information relative to his coming. However, no inconvenience is felt at this time from the want of him; for as no large entertainments are now made, such arrangements are taken as render the keeping and delivery of such things as are consumed in the family—very convenient and infinitely more œconomical than has hitherto been the case. Mr & Mrs Hyde have left the family. They talk of taking a house a small distance from the City, and keeping a tavern. I think they now see very fully their folly in quitting the family. But as it regards your interest I am pursuaded it is best that they have done it.
We have not had the pleasure to hear from you since your crossing the Bay, but are in hopes that the Post of this evening will give us accounts of your safe arrival either at Annapolis or George-Town. Mrs Lear unites in sentiments of respect veneration & affection for you, with, Sir, Your Obliged & very humb. Sert

Tobias Lear.


Title: From George Washington to the Emperor of Morocco, 31 March 1791
From: Washington, George
To: Emperor of Morocco

Great and magnanimous Friend.
[31 March 1791]

Separated by an immense Ocean from the more ancient Nations of the Earth, and little connected with their Politics or Proceedings, we are late in learning the Events which take place among them, and later in conveying to them our Sentiments thereon.
The Death of the late Emperor, your Father and our Friend, of glorious Memory, is one of those Events which, though distant, attracts our Notice and Concern. Receive, great and good Friend, my sincere Sympathy with you on that Loss; and permit me at the same Time to express the Satisfaction with which I

learn the Accession of so worthy a Successor to the Imperial Throne of Morocco, and to offer you the Homage of my sincere Congratulations. May the Days of your Majesty’s Life be many and glorious, and may they ever mark the Aera during which a great People shall have been most prosperous and happy under the best and happiest of Sovereigns.
The late Emperor, very soon after the Establishment of our Infant Nation, manifested his royal Regard and Amity to us by many friendly and generous Acts, and particularly by the Protection of our Citizens in their Commerce with his Subjects. And as a further Instance of his Desire to promote our Prosperity and Intercourse with his Realms, he entered into a Treaty of Amity and Commerce with us, for himself and his Successors, to continue Fifty Years. The Justice and Magnanimity of your Majesty leave us full of Confidence, that the Treaty will meet your royal Patronage also; and it will give me great Satisfaction to be assured, that the Citizens of the United States of America may expect from your Imperial Majesty the same Protection and Kindness, which the Example of your Illustrious Father has taught them to expect from those who occupy the Throne of Morocco, and to have your Royal Word, that they may count on a due Observance of the Treaty which connects the two Nations in Friendship.
This will be delivered to your Majesty by our faithful Citizen Thomas Barclay, whom I name Consul for these United States in the Dominions of your Majesty, and who to the Integrity and Knowledge qualifying him for that Office, unites the peculiar Advantage of having been the Agent through whom our Treaty with the late Emperor was received. I pray your Majesty to protect him in the Exercise of his Functions for the patronage of the Commerce between our two Countries, and of those who carry it on. May that God, whom we both adore, bless your Imperial Majesty with long life, Health, and Success, and have you always, great and magnanimous Friend, under his holy keeping. Written at Philadelphia the Thirty first Day of March, in the Fifteenth Year of our Sovereignty and Independence, from Your good and faithful Friend

Go: Washington
By the PresidentTh: Jefferson.


Title: From George Washington to William Deakins, Jr., and Benjamin Stoddert, 1 April 1791
From: Washington, George
To: Deakins, William Jr.,Stoddert, Benjamin

Gentn,
Mount Vernon April 1st 1791.

Being accustomed to write to you respecting the grounds for the fedl City, I continue the practice.
It may be tuesday or Wednesday next before I shall leave this place, by which (say by mondays Post) I should be glad to hear what progress has been made, and what still remains to be done, in the business which so happily commenced on tuesday last under the accommodating spirit which then prevailed.
The subscription paper has been, I presume, deposited in the hands of the Commissioners, for the purpose of drawing conveyances—I should be glad nevertheless to receive a copy of it with the names of the subscribers annexed thereto for my own satisfaction—The general tenor of the agreement was I well remember pleasing to me, and, in my opinion reciprocally beneficial to all the parties, but I do not now recollect with precision whether it is fully expressed that the lots left to the disposal of the several proprietors by the conditions of their grants are subject to all the rules and regulations (with respect to the buildings &ca &ca) as the public ones are. This unquestionably ought to be the case—it was evidently my meaning that they should be so—and unless it is so, one of the great objects—to wit—uniformity and beauty—may be defeated.
The Mail of Wednesday brought me a letter from Mr Jefferson dated the 27th ulto in which is the following paragraph “A bill was yesterday ordered to be brought into the house of representatives here for granting a sum of money for building a federal-hall, house for the President &c.” This (though I do not wish that it should be expressed as my sentiment) unfolds most evidently the views of P——, at the same time that it proves in a striking manner the propriety of the measure adopted by the Georgetown and Carrollsburgh proprietors on Wednesday last—as also the necessity of their compleating the good work they have begun in a speedy, and in an effectual manner that the consequent

arrangements may take place without delay. with esteem & regard I am—Gentn Yr obedt Hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Fenwick, 1 April 1791 [letter not found]
From: Fenwick, Mason, & Company
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Fenwick, Mason, & Co., 1 April 1791. On 7 July Tobias Lear referred Fenwick, Mason, & Co. to the firm’s letters to GW “of the 9th of July and 10th of August 1790, and of the 1st of April 1791.”


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Jefferson, 1 April 1791
From: Washington, George
To: Jefferson, Thomas

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon, April 1st 1791

I have had the pleasure to receive your letter of the 27th ult. with the papers which accompanied it.
Referring to your Judgment whether a commission, similar to that intended for Mr Barclay, may be given without the agency of the Senate, I return both papers to you signed, in order that the one you deem most proper may be used.
Your opinions respecting the acts of force which have already taken place, or may yet take place on our boundaries, meet my concurrence, as the safest mode of compelling propositions to an amicable settlement and it may answer a good purpose to have them suggested in the way you mention. Should this matter assume a serious aspect during my absence I beg you to communicate particulars with all possible dispatch.
The most superb edifices may be erected, and I shall wish their inhabitants much happiness, and that too very disinterestedly, as I shall never be of the number myself.
It will be fortunate for the American public if private Speculations in the lands, still claimed by the Aborigines, do not aggravate those differences, which policy, humanity, and justice concur to deprecate.
I am much indebted to your kind concern for my safety in travelling—no accident has yet happened either from the high hanging of the carriage, or the mode of driving—The latter I must continue as my Postilion (Giles) is still too much indisposed to ride the journey.

It occurs to me that you may not have adverted to Judge Putman’s being in the Western Country at present. Perhaps General Knox can furnish you with the Maps you want, or they may be found among those that are in my study in Philadelphia.
I expect to leave Mount Vernon, in prosecution of my Southern tour, on tuesday or Wednesday next—I shall halt one day at Fredericksburgh and two at Richmond—thence I shall proceed to Charlestown by the way of Petersburg, Halifax, Tarborough, Newbern, Wilmington, & George Town, without making any halts between Richmond & Charleston but such as may be necessary to accommodate my journey. I am sincerely and affectionately Yours

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Henry Knox, 1 April 1791
From: Washington, George
To: Knox, Henry

Sir,
Mount-Vernon April 1st 1791

Your letter of the 27th Ultimo was received last evening. Your proceeding upon the intelligence therein contained (which I think truly alarming) meets my entire approbation, and appears to promise as good effects as the limited sphere of action, allotted to the general government, in cases so deeply effecting its dignity and the happiness of the citizens will allow.
Should you suppose that additional instructions to General St Clair or any other measures within the reach of propriety may have a tendency to appease the friends of the murdered Indians, I wish you to confer with the Heads of departments and to carry into immediate effect the result of your deliberation.
The letters which have already been written to you, on the subject of officering the Maryland and Virginia battalions of

levies will shew the difficulties produced by Colonel Lee’s declining; and the necessity of exertion to repair the delay which it must occasion.
I shall endeavour to obtain information of some officers for the Virginia battalion—but it will not be possible for me to act upon it until I learn what may be determined between you and Colonel Hall—indeed it is my wish as it regards dispatch, that your determination, may render any future interference on my part unnecessary.
To prevent clashing in the measures we may adopt to officer the battalion of this State, if any thing satisfactory results from my enquiry, I will give immediate information of it. I am Sir Your obedt Servt

G.W.


Title: To George Washington from Tobias Lear, 1 April 1791
From: Lear, Tobias
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Philadelphia April 1st 1791.

I was, by the post of last evening, honored with your letters of the 27th & 28th Ultimo and the enclosures contained in the latter.
We have not yet received any account of Fraunces. As measures were taken before your departure, to give him an opportunity of coming again into the family if he chose to accede to the terms & conditions upon which he might return, nothing has since been done towards engaging any particular person until we learn somthing further from Fraunces. But I have not failed to pursue my inquiries in a general way whenever opportunities have offered. Nothing has transpired respecting Holker’s man; and no applications have lately been made that have the least prospect of answering the purpose. Should Fraunces not incline to comply with the stipulations which will be made for his coming, I shall then pursue the object without relaxation until a proper person & one in whom Mrs Washington fully concurs and can confide, is obtained. As much in the way of œconomy and regularity in the family will depend upon a good Housekeeper,

no pains will be spared to get such an one. Mrs Washington being better acquainted with the qualifications requisite in such a person than I am, her judgment must be my guide in whatever I may do towards obtaining this Character. We need not be in haste to fix upon persons unless such should offer as may appear to be in every respect properly qualified: for in the present state of the family we feel no particular want of such persons. To obtain them before your return will be the only wish, in point of time that we have.
The Boxes &c. which were in the Garden were all removed the day after your departure, and from that time to this there has been a man employed in the Garden (sent by Mr Morris, and Mrs Washington tells me by your desire, you having informed Mr Morris that it would be at your expense) in trimming the trees—putting in order the Borders—grass plats—walks &c. He says he shall complete everything tomorrow; and from that time I think it will be very hard if it cannot be kept in the nicest order by our own people. The top of the Urn which fell off (it was not broken, being annexed to the Urn by an iron spindle) is put on as before.
I shall be particularly attentive to your directions relative to furnishing Mrs Washington with money; and I should be extremely unhappy, if she should have cause to apply to me through an inattention on my part in asking if it is wanted.
The Washer woman who was employed before Jacob’s wife came into the House has been discharged—and the woman in the Kitchen may be discharged also, there will be no want of one there at least before your return. But nothing can be expected from Richmond—he is an idle ignorant boy, and they tell me (I believe with truth) that he is of no manner of service there.
The Pad belonging to the Waggon harness is sent by the Stage of this morning—The carriage of it is paid. But as it will not reach Alexa. ’till monday evening, I presume you will hardly get it before you leave that part of the Country.
I enclosed Colo. Blaine’s letter to Genl Knox immediately upon receiving it, with the extract from your letter relating to it.
If Colo. Cannon comes to this place I shall say to him what you request—and what he appears richly to deserve.
Mrs Washington gave us a gloomy history from your letter, of your crossing the Bay. Its termination without material damage

brightened the scene which commenced in a pretty dark manner. We had a very severe thunder-gust here on Thursday evening, and were not without our apprehensions that you might be crossing the Bay at that time, which proved too true. The failure of your horses or a part of them will be a serious inconvenience. The high flesh & want of exercise previous to your depa⟨rture⟩ must have been a great disadvantage to them.
Mrs Washington has been pretty well since you left us—Nelly has been as usual—and Washington for several days past has been confined with a very severe cold, but is now recovering. Mrs Lear & our little boy are in fine health. She begs that her best respects may be presented to you. My friends at Mount Vernon and in its vicinity are remembered by me with affection and have my best wishes. I have the honor to be with the highest respect & most sincere attachment—Sir Your Obliged & very hble Sert

Tobias Lear.