Title: To George Washington from Richard Dobbs Spaight, 15 March 1794
From: Spaight, Richard Dobbs
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            No. Carolina 15th March 1794.

          In the Secretary of wars letter to me of the 18th of January giving me instructions to
            cause the money detained in the hands of the Marshall of this district to be delivered
            to the agent of the Spanish Commissioners, He informed me that the expences which had or
            might be incurred in the prosecution of the business were to be defrayed by the general
            government, upon accounts which shall be authenticated by me and transmitted to the
            accountant of the war office. Accordingly when I gave orders to
            the Marshal to deliver the money papers & other property taken from on board the
            Spanish brig St Joseph and then in his possession to the agent for the Spanish
            Commissioners; I likewise directed him to make out his account of the expences incurred
            by him in safekeeping the money, supported by proper vouchers and transmitt it, to me
            that I might send it forward to the war office.
          I now do myself the honor to enclose you a copy of his answer to my letter, declining
            to make out any account of his services but leaving it to the Government of the United
            States to make him such compensation for his trouble & expence as they may deem
              proper. I am sir &c. &c.

            R. D. Spaight


Title: From George Washington to Alexander Spotswood, 15 March 1794
From: Washington, George
To: Spotswood, Alexander

            Dear Sir,
            Philadelphia March 15th 1794

          Your letter of the 9th instt is at hand. Notwithstanding I have
            the best disposition to oblige you, & to promote the interest of your son John, yet
            it is impossible he can be contemplated by me as commander of one of the frigates
            (should the Bill now pending in Congress pass into a Law) because a number of the old
            Officers who served with great reputation through the whole of last war, thereby
            acquiring much experience, are tendering their services; &
            grounding their pretensions upon merit & the losses they have sustained.
          The most that can be done for your Son, would be to make him a second or third
            Lieutt—and even here I would not, at this time, be under any engagement until the matter
            is more unfolded than it is at present.
          Mr Brooke, your Son in law, being one, among a great many others, who recommended in
            very strong terms Mr Lawrence Muse as Successor to Hudson Muse, it was thought best to
            appoint him to the Collectorship of Rappahannock.
          My love in which Mrs Washington unites is offered to Mrs Spotswood & the family. I
            am—Dear Sir Your Affecte & Obedt Servt

            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Burgess Ball, 16 March 1794
From: Washington, George
To: Ball, Burgess

            Dear Sir,
            Philadelphia 16th March 1794

          At length your clover-seed, and chocolate Nut shells, are on Ship board for Alexandria;
            consigned to the care of Colo. Gilpin. The Vessel was to have sailed this day, but
            whether she is gone, or not, I am unable to say—she has been going every day for ten days, but I would not put your things nor my own Seeds
            on board until the last moment, lest they should get heated in the
            hold. yesterday they were embarked. It is to be regretted no opportunity offered sooner,
            but this is the first since I came to the City.
          The three bushels of clover seed, and freight of it to Alexandria (which is paid here)
            stands in Twenty three dollars—The Nut shells Fanny will accept as a present.
          I would thank you for causing the enclosed to be set up in Leesburgh; and if you chuse
            to send a Mare to either of the Jacks you are welcome or to the Horse. The family here join in love to you & Mrs Ball and I am—Dear Sir,
            Your Affectionate Servt

            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from One of the People, 16 March 1794
From: Anonymous (One of the People)
To: Washington, George

            Sir,
            [c.16 March 1794]

          I need not, I trust, make any apology for the freedom I now take in sending you these
            few lines—They are well intended, and cannot, I think, in reason, give any offence.
          The following truths are undeniable—There is a God—He is the supreme governor of the
            universe, both in a natural and moral sense—This God is holy, just, good, and merciful.
            Being holy, he cannot but hate sin; and being just, he cannot but
            punish obstinate sinners: But, being also good and merciful, he has provided a Saviour,
            through whom there is pardon for penitent offenders.
          This God is to be worshipped and adored by all intelligent creatures; not merely in
            their individual, but also in their social, or national capacity. We have national
            mercies to acknowledge, national sins to confess, and national judgements to
            depricate.
          This country has been repeatedly delivered from impending judgements: but we have been,
            and continue to be, unmindful of our Deliverer—While He has been adding mercy to mercy,
            we have been adding sin to sin.
          God is again threatening us with the calamity of war. What is our duty in this
            situation? To use, no doubt, all the natural means in our power to ward off, or repel
            the blow. But is this all? No, it is not. Let a heathen prince, the king of Nineveh,
            instruct us on this head. His city was threatened with
            destruction—He did not despise the threatening, nor trust to humans alone for its
            preservation. He proclamed a solemn fast, and exhorted the people “to turn, every one,
            from his evil way, and from the violence that is in his hands; adding, Who can tell if
            God will turn, and repent, and turn away from his fierce anger, that we perish not?” And
            the history informs us that “God saw their works, that they turned from their evil way,
            and God repented of the evil that he had said that he would do unto them; and he did it
            not.”
          Imitate the pious example of this prince.

              One of the people


Title: From George Washington to William Pearce, 16–17 March 1794
From: Washington, George
To: Pearce, William

            Mr Pearce
            Philadelphia 16th[–17] March 1794

          Your letter of the 11th with its enclosures came to hand at the usual time; but not so as that, enquiry co[ul]d be made into the prices of linnen,
            & you to be informed, by the Post of tomorrow (this day being Sunday)—Go on
            therefore, until you hear further from me, to get linnen as fast as
            it can be worked up. The 11½ d. linnen is as good as any for the boys, girls & small
            people, who do little or no work.
          I was affraid to make the interstices between the pieces of the treading floor of the
            new barn at Dogue run too open, lest the straw should work into them, & choke the
            passage of the grain to the lower floor; or to emit so much straw between them, to that
            floor, as to make the difficulty of cleaning the grain much greater. Avoiding these two
            evils, the floor can not be too open, provided the horses feet or legs are not
            endangered; & this is not likely to happen unless the pieces were so far apart as
            for the hoof to pass through, or turn. If the section, or part of a section which you
            have left an inch a part, is not apt to choke or pass too much straw through try another
            section at an inch and half & so on, section after section, until you hit the mark
            exactly; & then regulate all the sections accordingly. This had better be done
            whilst you have Wheat with wch to make the experiment: & without loss of time, as
            not only an immediate advantage is to be derived from the best
            distance the pieces can be placed asunder, but that I may know better how to order
              another.
          Let the drilled wheat have all the cultivation you can give it, with convenience, that
            the most that can, may be made of it.
          The Clover Seed, Furze & other articles, are on board the Sally Captn  for
            Alexandria, the first Vessel that has offered since the breaking up of the frost. It is
            much to be regretted that the delay has been so great, but it was impossible to avoid
              it.
          I would not, by any means, have you sow the Eastern shore Oats—if these are what you
            depend upon Colo. Gilpin to get; because these, besides being almost as light as bran,
            are rarely, if ever, free from the Onion or wild garlick; with which my fields abound
            too much already, from this very cause. I had rather the ground intended for this Crop
            should receive Buck wheat, or any thing else; or indeed nothing, rather than be sown
            with such Oats as are generally brought to Alexandria from the Eastern shore of
            Virginia. It is possible you may get some Oats from Notley Young Esqr. near George Town.
            These will be good.
          I send you a few seeds of the Nankeen Cotton. let them be planted the first day of May
            in light & rich ground, well prepared—Put four Seeds in a hill. I am Your friend &ca

            Go: Washington

            P.S. I have wrote Colo. Ball, & my Nephew Mr Robert Lewis, that they are welcome
              to send a Mare or two each, to either of the Jacks or the Horse.

            March 17th

            P.S. The Vessel is not yet gone which has my Seeds &ca on board; and as she has
              been going every day for ten days past, there is no saying when she will go. The Captn
                now says to morrow. He has promised to land them, if he can,
              as he passes Mount Vernon; if not they are to be landed at Colo. Gilpins Warehouse.
              the Captn has one Bill of Lading, and another goes by this days Post to Colo. Gilpin.
              The two small Kegs contain the French furse seeds—Nuts & Garden Seeds; the two
              last may be given to the Gardener; the other you & Butler will manage as you shall
              judge best.
            One of the Casks contains five bushls of Plaster of Paris, which try on some of the
              clover, to see the effect—at the rate of about 5 bushls to the acre—spread a breadth,
              & leave a breadth, alternately; to shew more clearly, if any, what effect it will
                have.

            G.W.


Title: To George Washington from Edmund Randolph, 16 March 1794
From: Randolph, Edmund
To: Washington, George

            [Philadelphia] March 16. 1794.

          E. Randolph has the honor of sending to the President a letter from Mr Short, received
              yesterday; and two books, containing his shares in the
            companies. Those in the James river company are a hundred, and in Potowmac fifty—See
            page 26. in the blue book, and 12. in the red book.

            [P.S.] A letter from the Superintendants of the people of St Domingo at Baltimore is
              also ⟨e⟩nclosed.


Title: To George Washington from Edmund Randolph, 16 March 1794
From: Randolph, Edmund
To: Washington, George

            [Philadelphia] March 16. 1794.

          E. Randolph has the honor of informing the President, that the expression as to the
            merchants is changed, so as to give no possible offense, even if published. But the fact is, that amongst others Colo. Sam: Smith, of congress,
            yesterday declared himself to be ruined.
          Cyphers, by way of figures, uniformly indicative of the same word, are not beyond the
            reach of possible discovery—But they have been
            always considered as safe enough, when combined with the usual precautions of
            conveyance. However, it cannot be foreseen, by how many ways the cypher may be obtained;
            and therefore it appeared adviseable to E.R., not to subject our candor to the danger of
            being blasted, by the opening of a letter, put into the hands of government.


Title: To George Washington from George Lee Turberville, 16 March 1794
From: Turberville, George Lee
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Richmond Co. Virginia March 16th 1794

          Full of diffidence—And conscious of the multiplicity of essential concerns that occupy
            every moment of your important Life, believe me I do a violence to my feelings when I am
            tempted thus to tresspass on yr Leizure but the interests of a deserving and amiable
            Wife, and of a promising family of Children impell me to begin.
          I sat out in Life with the fairest prospects, and for five years represented the County
            of Richmond, in Assembly. during that period (at least the latter three years of it), I
            cou’d have obtained almost any appointment I wanted, & I trust my Line of Conduct
            was such as will prove that disinterested & patriotic Conduct marked me whilst I was
            a public servant, for this I refer you to Doctor David stuart, and others who served
            with me. In 1790, I became a Martyr to the Gout, & was from that & the
            distressing situation of my Wife obliged to quit public Life. The loss of my house &
            one third of my property by Fire, in Books household Stuff, &c.
            &c. followed on in 1791. (Novr), & (as misfortunes seldom come single), I lost
            my own dear Mother in Janry following.
          My Father (but a young man at least not much turned of 50) marrying again in a few
            months blasted all my hopes, and altho I have a marriage
            settlement, which will enure to the benefit of me, or mine After my Father’s demise, and
            ensures to my Children, (a son & two Daughters) an ample fortune hereafter. Yet
            still I am left in great measure distressed and destitute, & totally incapable of
            affording to my Children that Education of which they are at this time of an age to
            receive, & which can never be recalled.
          Pardon me good sir for thus troubling you with private concerns, common to the rest of
            our Species, let it serve to inform you of the grounds of my present application &
            after informing you that Mr Madison, Mr New, Mr Nicholas of the lower house, indeed most
            of the Virga Delegation, & Messrs Munro, & Taylor of the senate will know me
            & my Character if you wish an enquiry thereinto, I will proceed to my
              requisition.
          I have heard that Mr Hudson Muse is about to be removed & indeed has actually been
            removed from his Office as Collector of Rappa. River Shou’d this
            be the Case permit me to be an Applicant for that Office—but not in Opposition—to Anyone
            who from servitude in that Line has Merited such an Appointment,
            but shou’d none of that order present themselves or be thought adequate, I hope that the
            services of one thrown into obscurity at present only by infirmities that forbid Active
            Life may be remembered—I served my Country from 16 yrs of age to 22. in the Army, (&
            by my early exposure have brought on premature old age)—from 24 yrs of Age to 30 I was
            in the Assembly, & in ⟨illegible⟩ all the time in both
            Capacities I acted at least (I trust) without reproach if not with approbation.
          Unfitted for Active Life I am still as able as ever to engage in sedentary business,
            & as I have others depending on me for support, & I am incapable from infirmity,
            & misfortune to do my duty, my Gout forbidding active exertion, I am induced to
            apply thus to you as my sole resource—Once more I sollicit yr pardon for this tresspass
            on yr Repose if the Appt I sollicit is conferred on me I shall know to whom Gratitude is
            due for to you alone I have applied, if not I shall be convinced greater merit than mine
              has obtained it, in either Case nothing can
            alter the Sentiments of my heart in regard to you, Sir, for the Respect &
            admiration, of every true American, of every Patriot, & of every admirer of human
            Virtue Must coincide with that of sir Yr Obedt & respectful servant

            George Lee Turberville

            If this or any other appointment suiting an inactive man, either on this side or the
              other of the Atlantic, I live in Richmond Co. Virginia.


Title: To George Washington from Pastor Americanus, 17 March 1794
From: Anonymous (Pastor Americanus)
To: Washington, George

            Gentlemen,
            Philadelphia, March 17, 1794.

          The reason of my presuming to address you on the subject of the culture of Wool, is,
            because it is a matter on which the gradual abolition of our National
            Debt depend, i.e. upon industry and population of America, as the same is held forth in
            the following observations. That it is the real fact, I shall now undertake to prove: so
            always, and provided, That you will patronize the following scheme—What say you,
            Gentlemen, to this matter?—Now this great principle of patriotism, I prove thus:
          Permit me, gentlemen, in passing, just to observe, that here, and no where else, lies
            all the life of our true policy—To cloath and feed ourselves, and
            our neighbouring nations. I take this as a postulatum that will
            without difficulty be granted.
          Therefore,
          Secondly, I shall, gentlemen, open myself fully on that important subject; not for the
            sake of telling you a long story (which I know the genuine patriots, are not
            particularly fond of) but for the sake of weighty instruction that I flatter myself,
            will necessarily result from our Shepherd’s scheme. It shall not be longer if I can help
            it, than so serious a matter requires. The American Shepherd addresses us in this
            manner: He says, the reasons for my preferring this Shepherd’s scheme, are: First, I is because I want to see a plan for improving the present
            condition of the poor white people. Next, It is because I wish to
            be beneficial to my country. Thirdly, It is because I wish to
            throw my mite into the best public treasury, and therein improve it.
          Come—help me raise the ever memorable Shepherd’s Hall, and the profit thereof will be
            commensurable to your public spirit: yes, and will be your exceeding great reward. I
            labour not for myself only, but for all them that patronize the said scheme.
          He says, too, the position by me maintained is, that this scheme is more excellent,
            than the Yankie’s Tontine bank; which is as follows:
          First, It is a scheme to increase the declining number of sheep
            in America, and make wool our staple commodity.
          Secondly, The short of the matter is this: Let it be supposed,
            that a number of well disposed persons appropriate a small sum of
            money each to the culture of wool.
          Thirdly, Again, let it be supposed, that 6000 sheep may be
            pastured three miles round the Shepherd’s Hall. Now here arises a necessary query to
            those well disposed persons, viz. What will three years produce of the said pasture
            be?
          That the culture of wool will produce an incredible treasury may be
            seen from the English manufactures. This scheme properly executed will make the American
            exports exceed her imports, which is the highest degree of our American patriotism.
            Q.E.D.
          Again, let it be supposed, that government will be propitious to the said Shepherd’s
            company, and given them a tract of land, &c. And that government will lend them a
            sum of money at 4 per cent. The reason whereof is, because the increase of the people
            will by industry reimburse the costs, and populate or furnish a barren part of our land
            with the best sort of people. Three things are here very remarkable: First, That the state will thereby obtain 4 per cent. Secondly, That government will thereby thus obtain a number of useful people.
              Thirdly, That government will thereby obtain the mechanic arts,
            and that this plan properly executed will employ a number of
            emigrants, viz. Shepherds, Ploughmen, and many other artificers, &c. in all an
            industrious and independent city.
          To conclude: The jealous Britons justly fearful lest they
            themselves should have lost their wool marts, made a law, viz.—That no English ram should be conveigled to North
            America; a plain proof of this, that we may make wool a staple commodity, and out-vie
            England: just in proportion to the differential quantity of the land in England, and the
            quantity of land in the United States of America. All that I would be understood to
            imply, is, that when the number of our sheep increase proportionable to the number of
            our acres of land; then we shall actually and de facto out-vie
            England, and thereby make ourselves independent, or not depend upon England, &c. or
            not depend upon manufactories. It is plain, therefore, that our imports of woollen
            drapery will thereby decrease, and our exportation of woollen drapery will thereby
            increase.
          What has been said, respective to the nature of the preceding scheme implies its
            importance. But the way to facilitate it will more fully appear in considering the
            formation of the articles of the company of the American Shepherds.
          N.B. Observe—that the subscription money is not to be paid until
            the said company shall be established with articles, and a power sufficient to take this
            matter in hand. When once a company can be established, with a fund sufficient to begin,
            there is no doubt but that it will have 6000 sheep in every county in
            each state: yes, 6000 sheep in every American township.
          To constitute the capital of the said company, subscriptions for shares therein, at one
            Spanish dollar each, payable after the articles of the said company are made, and when a
            sufficient number of persons have subscribed, they will have the right to form the
            articles of constitution of their company of American Shepherds.
          Any person, partnership, society, church, or body politic, may subscribe for as many
            shares as he, she, or they may think proper.
          Books, for the purpose of subscribers entering their names, &c. will be handed
            about by divers well disposed persons. I am, with fidelity and consideration, Gentlemen,
            your well disposed, and most neglected servant,

            PASTOR AMERICANUS.


Title: From George Washington to Alexander Hamilton, 18 March 1794
From: Washington, George
To: Hamilton, Alexander

            United States 18 Mar. 1794

          Pay to the Director of the Mint the within sum of sixteen
            hundred dollars—and also the further sum of one thousand dollars for the purposes of
            that establishment.

            Geo: Washington.


Title: To George Washington from Alexander Hamilton, 18 March 1794
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

            Treasury Department March 18th 1794

          I certify that the installments which according to the contracts respecting the Debt to
            France accrue in the present year are 1,500,000 livres on the 3rd of September, and
            1,000,000 of livres on the 5th of November: which, was there no anticipation, would be
            payable on those days respectively. The amount anticipated, there
            being some unsettled items, cannot be pronounced until a definitive settlement shall
            have been had.

            Alexandr HamiltonSecy of the Treasy


Title: From George Washington to the Newport, Rhode Island, Artillery Company, 18 March 1794
From: Washington, George
To: Newport, Rhode Island, Artillery Company

            Gentlemen
            [Philadelphia, c.18 March 1794]

          For your kind congratulations on the anniversary of my birth day, and the other
            obliging expressions of your address, I pray you to accept my grateful thanks.
          To cherish those principles which effected the Revolution, and laid the foundation of
            our free and happy Government, does honor to your patriotizm; as do the sentiments of
            comiseration for the sufferings of the unfortunate, and the good wishes for the
            happiness of the great family of mankind, to your philanthropy.
          Your prayer for me, is reciprocated by the best vows I can offer for your welfare.

            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from William Pearce, 18 March 1794
From: Pearce, William
To: Washington, George

          Letter not found: from William Pearce, 18 March 1794. In a
            letter to Burgess Ball of 23 March, GW mentioned “a letter I have just received from my
            Manager, Mr Pearce, dated the 18th instt.”


Title: To George Washington from John Barry, 19 March 1794
From: Barry, John
To: Washington, George

            Sir—
            March 19: 1794

          Finding that Government have partly determined to fit out Some Ships of War for the
            protection of our Trade against the Algerines, I beg leave to
            offer my self for the Comd of the Squadron conceiving my self
            competent thereto assuring your Excellency that should I be honored with your
            approbation, my utmost abilities and the most unremitting attention shall be exerted for
            the good of my Country, and also to approve my self Worthy of the high honor shown by
            your Excellency. Im your Obedient Humbl. Sert

            Copy
            J.B.


Title: To George Washington from Henry Knox, 19 March 1794
From: Knox, Henry
To: Washington, George

          Private.
          Sir,War Department March 19.
              1794
          As it is understood that the bill for fortifying the ports and
            harbours has passed into a law, I beg leave respectfully to lay before you the following
            thoughts upon the manner of executing this business.
          The operation of the federal Government upon the State Governors and State Officers it
            is well known has been in general rather irksome than otherwise as it has tended to
            lessen their patronage and influence, and perhaps in their opinion of course somewhat to
            impair their dignity, when compared with their situation under the confederation.
          The Governors are commanders in chief of the Militia of their respective states and as
            such were the last year called upon in the name of the President of the United States to
            perform certain unpleasant duties relatively to the preservation of
            our neutrality.
          These observations are made with this view that it would most probably be a
            conciliatory and grateful measure to them as Commanders of the Militia to be the Agents
            of the United States in a certain degree of the proposed fortifications. For instance
            the Engineers might be directed to consult and take the opinions of the Governors upon
            the points most proper to be fortified and to report to them the reasons on which their
            opinions should be founded, which opinions the Governors might confirm or reject and
            transmit the result to the Secretary of War in order to be submitted to the President of
            the United States. The Governors might also be requested to appoint some suitable person
            to superintend the erection of the works, the keeping of the accounts &c. and also
            of the mounting of such of the Cannon as are to be mounted in or furnished by the
            respective States—By an arrangement of this sort it is conceived that the Governors
            would be kindly brought to act by system to support the general government and that
            unless something of this nature should be devised that they might be displeased and
            disgusted—Some Agents must be appointed The Governors are on the spot and well
            acquainted with characters and really possess higher responsibility than any other
            individuals—It may therefore perhaps be expedient in an oeconomical as well as a
            political view to request their assistance on this occasion.
          Whether these ideas be well founded or not is respectfully submitted. I have the honor
            to be with perfect respect Your obedient Servant

            H. Knox


Title: To George Washington from Henry Knox, 19 March 1794
From: Knox, Henry
To: Washington, George

            Sir,
            War department March 19th 1794

          I have the honor to submit to you a return of the commissioned Officers who served in
            the Navy during the late War, including the Officers of the Marines, together with a
            list of applicants for Offices in the Navy made out by Mr Lear & the documents
            accompanying the same. I have the honor to be with perfect
            respect Your obedt Servant

            H. Knox


Title: To George Washington from William Maunsell, 19 March 1794
From: Maunsell, William
To: Washington, George

            Limerick [Ireland] March 19th 1794

          Your Excellency will be pleased to pardon the liberty I have taken in Sending you the
            inclosed two Letters, on the Culture of Potatoes from the Shoots, a discovery heretofore
            unknown, & which I have reduced to as perfect & Simple System of Agriculture, as
            any other Branch in that Science.
          Your Excellencys great Abilities as a Statesman, a Soldier, & the Founder of a
            great Empire, deserve every tribute of respect; you will please to Accept this Small one
            from me.
          As the providing the lower orders of the people with food at a cheap rate, is an object
            of great magnitude, so it shd be an object of great attention in every Legislator; as it
            will be the means of keeping them quiet, & contented in their present Situations; I
            am Satisfied your Excellencys Patronage of the Culture, will stamp a value on the
            discovery, & give it Currency in America.
          If we can cre[d]it tradition, Sr Walter Rawleigh first Introduced Potatoes, & their
            culture into great Britain & Ireland, from America, it is more than probable, that
            my mode of culture was practised at that early period; if not, I
            shall claim the merit of introducing a new Species of Agriculture, and of giving
            Existence, (if I may use the Expression) & value to what heretofore had been thrown
            away as useless.
          I do Suppose your Excellency is Patron of all the Agricultural Societys in America; your communicating my mode of Culture to them, with my best wishes
            for its Success, will be a high obligation conferred on me, by your Excellency; my
            exertions in reducing the Culture to a perfect System, was really disinterested,
            actuated only by the Love I bear to Society, as an Individual.
          May your Excellency live long, & enjoy good health, and be a wittness of the
            encrease of my mode of Culture in America for many years. I am
            with the highest & most profound respect your Excellencys most obedt Servt

            William Maunsell


Title: To George Washington from Edmund Randolph, 19 March 1794
From: Randolph, Edmund
To: Washington, George

            [Philadelphia] March 19. 1794.

          E. Randolph has the honor of inclosing to the President a letter and list, from Mr
            Fenwick, consul at Bourdeaux, stating the affair of the embargo there.
          The vessel from France, which arrived here yesterday brought no letters from Mr Morris,
            except triplicates and duplicates. But among these is his No. 34. which was missing,
            when the rest of his correspondence was sent in to the Senate.
          The committee at Baltimore for superintending the unfortunate people of St Domingo,
            were informed yesterday, that the further sum of two thousand dollars would be furnished
            to them. The President will therefore be pleased to have a warrant on the treasury sent
            to E.R.
          Mr Bradford brought the proclamation yesterday. Some amendments were suggested; and it
            is probable, that it will be completed to-day.

          The letter to the governor of Kentucky is completed; except a paragraph or two, which
            waits, until I finish the Spanish papers, to see, how much of the negotiation may be
            communicated. It will probably be completed to-day. The mail for Kentucky goes on
              tuesday.
          Mr Fauchet is to call upon me at 9 O’clock this morning, to speak about the embargo in
              France.


Title: From George Washington to William Tilghman, 20 March 1794
From: Washington, George
To: Tilghman, William

          Letter not found: to William Tilghman, 20 March 1794. Tilghman
            wrote GW on 23 March “acknowledging the receipt of your favors of the 10th & 20th
            instant.” This one-page ALS of “about 35 words” was sold at auction in 1938 (American Book Prices Current, 45 [1939]: xx, 361).


Title: From George Washington to Alexander Hamilton, 21 March 1794
From: Washington, George
To: Hamilton, Alexander

            United States, 21 Mar. 1794.

          Pay to the Secretary of State, in pursuance of the Act providing for the relief of such
            of the Inhabitants of St Domingo, resident within the U.S. as may be found in want of
            support, two thousand dollars; to be by him
            remitted to the Committee at Baltimore, appointed to superintend the unfortunate people
            of the above description at that place.

            Geo: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Alexander Hamilton, 21 March 1794
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

            Sir,
            Treasury Depart. Mar: 21st 1794.

          A law having passed to inable the President to cause a loan to be made in aid of the
            current receipts from the Public revenues, it is urgent that measures should be taken
            without delay for carrying it into effect.
          The enclosed statement shews the probable situation of the Treasury to the end of the
            ensuing quarter as far as materials are now possessed and manifests the necessity of an
            immediate aid by Loan.
          I therefore submit to the President the draft of a Power in the usual form to authorise
            the making of the Loan. With perfect respect &c.

            Alexander Hamilton. Secy of the Treasy


Title: To George Washington from Henry Knox, 22 March 1794
From: Knox, Henry
To: Washington, George

            Sir,
            War department March 22d 1794

          I have the honor to submit to your consideration the proposed draft of an introductory
            letter to the Governors of the respective States relative to the intended
              fortifications.
          If you should approve thereof, Copies shall be prepared for the distant States by the
            Mondays posts. I have the honor to be with perfect respect Your obedt Servant

            H. Knox secy of war


Title: From George Washington to Burgess Ball, 23 March 1794
From: Washington, George
To: Ball, Burgess

            Dear Sir,
            Phila. March 23d 1794.

          By a letter I have just received from my Manager, Mr Pearce, dated the 18th instt I
            find he had received no more at that time, than 131 bushls of the Buck Wheat you were to
            procure for me. I hope there will be no disappointment of the remainder. It would fall
            hard upon me, as I have not the quantity of Seed Oats necessary to carry my plan into
            affect this year; a failure of both would leave my grounds unoccupied.
          My love, in which Mrs Washington & the family unite is tendered to Mrs Ball &
              yours. I am—Dear Sir Your Affecte

            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from the Commissioners for the District of Columbia, 23 March 1794
From: Commissioners for the District of Columbia
To: Washington, George

            Sir,
            City of Washington 23d March 1794

          We inclose you a Certificate of your Purchase of Lots, and payment of the price, which
            by a late Act transfers the Title without the formality of Deeds—This is a Duplicate,
            the Original is lodged in the Office of the recording Clerk, to be entered by him, and
            will be returned to our Office.
          We were not unmindful of your intention of becoming a Purchaser of a Situation in the
            other end of the City—we enquired for the Spot you had fixed on, but could get no
            certain information of it, else it would have been mentioned in the exceptions from
            Greenleaf’s Choice; it was mentioned to him, and we have not only his promise, but his
            wish that we may dispose of the Ground you may chuse, let it be more or less—if you can
            rely on Mr Blodget’s description, it Shall be finished on Mr Greenleaf’s coming down,
            otherwise it may be kept open till we have the pleasure of seeing you here: at all
            Events, the Quarter of the Square No. 21 on the N.E. Corner, will not be disposed of,
            though we Suspect as it affords a north front and an East front only, Mr Blodget may be
              mistaken.
          The Season is already fine enough to resume the Survey of the City. we had an Idea to
            employ some Gentleman of Service and talents, and Mr Revardi had made so favorable an
            Impression on us, that we mentioned him to you for your Consideration—we do not wonder
            in your Situation, you should not always retain on your mind every minute Thing—one Mr
            Vermanet is here, he is said to have been an Engineer in the Time of the War—We have a
            letter from Mr Revardi which refers to some Conversation with Mr Blodget, and offers his
              Services; but unwilling to enter into engagements with any
            body, without your approbation, or enter on the work with a common Surveyor only we
            shall decline coming to any decission; ’till our next meeting about the 12th of April;
            when we Should with pleasure receive a line from you on this Subject. We are Sir very respectfully Your obed. hble Servts

            Th. Johnson
            Dd Stuart
            Danl Carroll


Title: To George Washington from the Commissioners for the District of Columbia, 23 March 1794
From: Commissioners for the District of Columbia
To: Washington, George

            Sir,
            City of Washington March 23d 1794

          Major Ellicott’s, Briggs’s and Benjamin Ellicott’s Letters of the 29th of June, and
            28th of February which you inclosed to Us assert so many untruths, artfully combined
            that an unusual lengthiness is required to draw the Circumstances into view which have
            happened for two or three years past.
          We certainly best know the real State of our own minds with regard to this Corps and
            Dermott, and of course know the falsity of the Suggestions which impute to us malicious
            or dishonourable Motives—nor did we enquire whether Mr Dermott was a Man of Courage as a
            necessary Qualification for the Division of Squares but we should have thought before
            the 28th of last month the Major’s Ideas of Mr Dermott’s prowess were corrected. Nor is the Major better grounded in his charge against Dermott of
            habitual Drunkeness, we were unwilling to take his Malice or the Mouthing of some of the
            people of George town as evidence of it we were well informed that he had now and then drank to excess and when inebriated that he is unruly and
            quarrelsome but we did not perceive that it’s frequency injured the business he was
            engaged in; we made inquiry and formed an opinion not that he was the most discreet nor
            faulty in this particular to a very uncommon degree; he has since tabled at Sims’s for
            near a year with Gentlemen of as much Sobriety and propriety of Conduct in every respect
            as any in George Town who Speak well of him—The Major would be far from gaining, by
            placing his moral Character in one Scale and Dermotts in the other—The Major is always
            giving verbal Evidence of his attachment to the Interest of the City but neither he nor
            any body introduced by him has purchased a Lot—Dermott says nothing about his attachment
            that we have ever heard, but out of his Savings on moderate wages, tho’ a Drunkard, has
            purchased Several Lots and is improving according to his Ability. The occasion and
            manner of Mr Dermott’s coming into Employment and the manner of his being dismissed
            differ widely from the Representation in the Letter. You may recollect that several
            Things in the Course of the Quarrel with L’Enfant strongly pointed to a duplicity and
            ill intentioned conduct of Ellicott—you may recollect too tho’
            Ellicott would save twenty shillings a day by discharging Dermott and putting a double
            and impossible duty on Fenwick—the Commissioners because of the extravagance of the
            Surveyors and their Slow Movements declared they would not pass the preceeding Accounts
            or have any thing to do with them in future unless those employed were on a different
            footing so far at least as that they should live at their own Expence.
          Mr Jefferson had intercourse with Ellicott on this Subject and the Major agreed; we
            presume, tho’ we do not know it, that more expedition was promised for about the time of
            a letter from Mr Jefferson, we received one from Major Ellicott
            dated 7th March 1792, to an extract of which we refer you. Mr
            Johnson did not attend the meeting when this Letter was received—Doctr Stuart did not
            even know Dermott by sight, but having heard of his being employed in the Farquair and
            afterwards in the Alexandria Academies—that he was a man of Science and going to the
            Southward, mentioned him and the Circumstances to Mr Carroll in Consequence of that
            letter of Elliotts—they both thought it best that Doctr Stuart Should endeavour to
            engage him—and he was engaged accordingly.

          The Temper and view of the Commissioners appear by their Letter of the 14 March 1792 to
            Major Ellicott (see the Extract).
          Major Ellicott cannot but remember that more than once he spoke of Dermott as the
            readiest Calculator he had met with; and though in the Succeeding Summer he employed him
            wholly, or nearly so, as an Overseer to overlook the Negroes in cutting down the trees
            in the Streets and Avenues, previous to the Sale in the fall and preparatory to it, he
            employed him in calculating the Areas and dividing the Squares.
          The Commissioners saw the impropriety of employing Dermott to overlook the cutting down
            the Avenues and Streets at his wages, and especially as he was an European, he had
            probably never had any thing to do of the kind: they perceived too, Dermotts uneasiness
            at his situation, and were glad to see that Ellicott had changed it.
          Major Ellicott asserts that he communicated his intention to discharge Dermott, to
            Doctr Stuart who pointedly opposed his dismission—Doctr Stuart neither remembers or
            believes it—nor does Mr Johnson or Mr Carroll recollect they ever heard any thing of it.
            On some joyous Occasion, We believe on the laying a Stone of the Bridge, Dermott was in Liquor and in that State intimated to Doct. Stuart that
            there were inaccuracies in the work, but so far from a disposition to pick up Matter
            against Ellicott, Doctr Stuart let Dermott know, that he should take no notice of what
            he said unless he would at a more Seasonable time address himself to the
            Commissioners—Dermott did not and nothing more was done at that time—Not long afterwards
            as Ellicott said, he had discharged Dermott: and as Dermott said Ellicott told him, that
            there was no present business for him but to be ready against the Axmen should go to
            Work in the Spring—Ellicott 29th January 1793 desires the Commissioners to order Dermott
            to deliver up Papers-–5th February Doctr Stuart and Mr Carroll write to Dermott to
            deliver them (see the Extracts)—the Commissioners then looked
            on Dermott as discharged without any inquiry into the Cause of it.
          Afterwards on his way to attend as a Commissioner Doctr Stuart met with Dermott in
            Virginia, who then again entered on the Subject of Errors—Doctr Stuard unwilling to Act
            at all on verbal information to him Singly, and thinking it necessary there should be
            some Examination, desired Dermott to address what he had to say in
            writing to the Commissioners and to attend, himself, the meeting in George town; he did
              so.
          Major Ellicott was expected to be at George town by a particular day—the Commissioners
            met and received Dermotts letter—they all thought it best to say nothing of it ’till
            Major Ellicott came; had resolved to mention it to him in a private way, and if mistakes
            were really committed to have them rectified, if it could be done, without saying a word
            about them—their motives need not be mentioned, and Dermott had a caution
            accordingly—The Commissioners waited from Monday ’till Friday in Expectation of Ellicotts coming, but the sickness of his wife
            kept him back—On friday the Commissioners gave orders to Mr Fenwick to remeasure in a
            Cursory way, the Squares pointed out and except in an Instance, where the number of one
            was mistaken, they were erroneous and some very considerably so.
          Major Ellicott however returned from Philadelphia on Monday Night before we
            Separated—he was undoubtedly soon notified of the inaccuracies and it is equally true
            that his answer was desired in writing—we do not recollect that he was limitted in time
            and if we remember right Thomas Curtis who was Measurer under Ellicott did the Same
            Service under Mr Fenwick—We desired the answer in writing to
            prevent shuffling and do not yet see that the Manner required would have given
            extraordinary trouble—The letters which passed between Us will shew the Temper and views
            of each—Indeed Major Ellicott in his verbal explanations to the Commissioners has taken
            liberties under a presumption of their ignorance and he deals with the same freedom
            towards others who are easier satisfied, and he is of so compliant a Temper that he
            would talk whole Days of altered Stakes, and altered figures and trifling inaccuracies
            but he was too Cunning to commit himself in writing.
          On Major Ellicott’s evading the delivery of the papers we went with Colo. Deakins to
            Prouts house, where he then kept his Office, and made a personal demand of them—he then told us that Dermott had stolen a plan of the City,
            describing it, Mr Johnson remarked it was a Severe charge for which he ought to be well
            grounded before he made it—Major Ellicott said he had stolen it; that it was in his
            trunk and he could prove enough to obtain a search warrant, and if we would break open
            his trunk we should find it—Mr Johnson replied that the End might
            perhaps be answered by milder Measures without going to that violence—on turning off he
            proposed to Doctr Stuart and Mr Carroll to send for Dermott immediately on their return
            and question him about the plat and if he denied his having it, to desire him to submit
            his trunk to their Search—it was agreed to—Dermott was sent for and attended: Mr Johnson
            asked him if he had the plat, describing it, he answered yes.
            where is it? in my trunk—the Commissioners wish to see it—I will bring it to you
            immediately Sir—Major Ellicott knows very well I have it, and that I would deliver it to
            him at any time that he’d ask for it—He expressed astonishment at Major Ellicott’s
            making, (in his expression) a fuss about it, for he knew, he offered to deliver him any
            Papers he had and that Major Ellicott said it was no Matter then, it would do as well
            some other time—(see Dermotts letter to Ellicott 6 Feby 1793)—He brought the Plat immediately, and believing it to be a public paper we ordered our
            Clerk to keep it—this was known publicly—Sometime after Major
            Ellicott’s last return from Philadelphia an Advertisement appeared in the George town
            paper in the name of Benjamin Ellicott, though said to be inserted by Joseph, offering a
            Reward for apprehending Dermott as a Thief in stealing the plat and in the same paper
            under the same Date a Letter was addressed by him to the Commissioners containing an
            infamous insinuation against them In consequence of our letter
            to Benjamin Ellicott, inclosed, he and Joseph attended—the plat was produced; Hallet’s
            Certificate, inclosed was put into Benjamin’s hands, and he was told the Commissioners
            had no wish to surprize him: The end of their inquiry was to
            discover to whom the Paper, important only from Circumstances, really belonged—Joseph
            said that the Letter was not to be justified that his Brother was sorry for it and would
            make any Concessions the Commissioners required—he was told the Commissioners did not
            want Concessions: they instantly withdrew and the paper was put up again—Dermott’s
            letter to Major Ellicott, as it imports on his receipt of the Commissioners Order to
            deliver papers, must evince that he came to the possession of the papers in the Course
            of his Service under Ellicott in a way not reprehensible and was willing to deliver all
            up, and on the Contrary it Seems that Ellicott rather sought for cause of Complaint than
            for the papers else he would have taken the Short way of inquiring of Dermott if he had
            any particular paper which he wanted—The charge of Theft against
            Dermott is in a way of being examined into in a Suit he has brought against Hanson the
            printer—the removal of the Corps has prevented a writ being served on some of them
            also—they will now have an opportunity of adducing their evidence before an impartial
              tribunal.
          Another Charge against Dermott was his changing and maliciously misplacing Stakes: we
            heard nothing of that ’till we perceived the greater part of a Succeeding Summer was
            spent in going over the work of the preceeding and then the excuse was that Some body
            had altered the Situation of Stakes and it must be maliciously done because the
            alteration was so systematic that the greater part of a Season was spent before it could
            be discovered—Dermott was said to know nothing of the System but it was Dermott because
            he was malicious and he was malicious because he did it—it was first Suspicion
            afterwards certain, it was first several stakes afterwards one and now amongst all
            Dermott’s Crimes this the most capital is omitted—Briggs at several times mentioned to
            Doctr Stuart his Suspicion that Dermott had altered the Stakes,
            the Doctor inquired if he had any proof of it Briggs acknowledged that he had not but
            suspected it the Doctr remarked it was a very delicate thing and that it would be unjust
            to act on Suspicion—when in Briggs’s altercation with the Commissioners he recurred
            again to the Story of the Stakes—as an evidence of Dermotts infamous Conduct Doctr
            Stuart lost his Temper and spoke to him very roughly—The truth is the Commissioners had
            their Suspicions too whether ill or well founded they cannot say but they suspected that
            the whole story was invented to cover a mistake which had happened accidentally or for
            want of care.
          If the charge of altering the work, of stealing or maliciously secreting a paper or
            misplacing a Stake was Substantiated the result would surely be against Dermott—We have
            seen Strong marks of Candour in this Man: we have no reason to suspect his telling us a
            lie. he shews an attention to the public interest in his divisions, has his business in
            good order and gives us and others such ready answers that he must have the clearest and
            most comprehensive view of his department—We had a good deal of trouble with Briggs
            before he was out of employ it was obviously necessary to return the length of line to
            the water and the width of the Streets to know whether the returns
            were accurate and what part was land and what was water but an affected misunderstanding
            of applications kept up a dodging for two or three meetings.
          We had determined to separate the platting and dividing Squares from the execution of
            the field work and were confirmed in it by Major Ellicott’s making a merit of his
            preparing the Divisions because it was, as he said, out of the line of his duty and he
            intimated too his not being therefore accountable for their accuracy the check has
            proved useful, several inaccuracies, not more than might be expected, have been
            discovered in time and been rectified.
          The more perfect the work done may be found the better we shall be pleased but the
            experience we have had in marking out the lots on the lines of Squares does not lead us
            into Major Ellicott’s opinion that his is the most accurate work of the kind, and he is
            mistaken if he supposes we shall impute all future embarrasment to the ignorance or
            negligence of his Successor for we know that lines designed to be paralel so far as they
            differ from a paralel will grow narrower or wider by extending their length; and that
            there will be the like increase of error by extending diverging lines partly run on
            undue quantity of difference.
          Is it possible that Major Ellicott believes his own insinuation that the Commissioners
            had any pleasure in the Baltimore publication against him? they had spoken their
            disapprobation of it severally and their joint letter to him of the 6th February last
            gave him, we believe, no new information on this head—Major
            Ellicott has good reason to be satisfied that we dispise libellous publications. We are
            sir with the truest Respect Your most obedt Servants

            Th Johnson
            Dd Stuart
            Danl. Carroll


Title: To George Washington from Betty Washington Lewis, 23 March 1794
From: Lewis, Betty Washington
To: Washington, George

            My Dear Brother
            March 23th 1794

          Your letter of the 17th Came safe to hand the inclos’d letter will meet with a
            Convayance in a few dayes by my Son George as he will Call on Robert in his way to
            Kaintucky he sets of in a few daye on Busness, at the same time takes Negroes to settle
            a Place there, and I believe in a few years intends liveing there as Chief of the
            Property he Possessis is in that Part of the World, I am
            inform’d that the Vessel that brings Harriots Box is in the River, we are Extreamly alarm’d here for fear of a War the Merchants here say that it is
            Inevitable I Expect it is to raise the Price of Goods which has allredy taken Place in
            regard to Westindia goods, I wish to here from you as I then shall be satisfied of the
            truth of it, I was in hopes I should never live to see any more of those troublesome
              times.
          My Dear Brother I am going to ask a great favour of you that is to give me a Mule, if
            you have one that you Can spear without disfirnishing your self if you Can let me have
            one & I will send for it. I am Joind in love by the Girls to
            you and my Sister Washington with the family your Affectionate Sister

            Betty Lewis


Title: From George Washington to William Pearce, 23 March 1794
From: Washington, George
To: Pearce, William

            Mr Pearce
            Philadelphia 23d March 1794

          The weekly reports, and your letter of the 18th instant, came regularly to hand.
          The insufferable neglects of my Overseers in not plowing as they ought to have done in
            the Fall, begins now to be manifest; for I perceive by the account given of the plowing,
            that I am driven to the alternative of putting my Oats into ground not half plowed,
            & prepared, & thereby little to expect from it; or, in order to do this, be so
            late in sowing, as to hazard an entire loss of the Crop, if the Spring is not very moist
            and dripping; for I have seldom succeeded with Oats unless they were sown before the middle of March.
          It did not occur to me in time, to advise running the rollers over your grass grounds,
            & even the Wheat, after the frosts had come fairly out of the earth; nothing would
            have recovered both more. The roots (even of that which had been thrown entirely out)
            would have been pressed in such a manner to the earth as to have shot forth fibres to
            restore the plant. now, I presume it is too late.
          I do not, in the first place believe Spring Barley is to be had in that part of the
            Country, as little of it is grown there; and in the next place, it is not likely it
            would succeed, as I tried it two or three years unsuccessfully. If it is to be had at
            all, it is most likely to come from Wayles the Brewer in Alexandria; and you might, as Oats are scarce, make another experiment, if Seed is
            to be had. How does the Winter Barley look?
          I am sorry to find Colo. Ball is so tardy in forwarding the
          B. Wheat—I shall remind him of it by tomorrow’s Post. What
            quantity of Wheat is supposed to be in the Straw at the several farms? Before it is all
            out at Dogue run, take up one section after another and new lay it; ’till you are able
            to ascertain the true distance the pieces ought to be asunder; for the reasons mentioned
            to you in a former letter; attending particularly to the circumstance I mentioned, and
            am apprehensive of, viz.—that of the straw working between & choaking.
          Mr Smith has, I believe, been furnished with fish from my landing, and if he will give
            as much as another, ought to have the preference; but before you
            positively engage, enquire what the other fisheries were disposed to sell at. 4/ pr
            thousand for the Herrings, and 10/ pr hundred for shad, is very low. I am, at this
            moment, paying 6/ a piece for every shad I buy. I am entirely
            against any Waggons coming to my landing; but there is one thing which Mr Smith, or any
            other with whom you engage, must perfectly understand, if they agree to take all (over what I want for my own use) that is, when the glut of the
            fish runs, he must be provided to take every one I do not want, or have them thrown on
            his hands: the truth of the case is, that in the height of the fishery, they are not
            prepared to cure, or otherwise dispose of them, as fast as they could be caught; of course the Seins slacken in their
            work, or the fish lye & spoil, when that is the only time I can make any thing by
            the Sein—for small hauls will hardly pay the ware & tare of the Sein & the hire
            of the hands—your account of the dificiency of Sein rope would have surprized me if it
            had not been of piece with the rest of the conduct which has waisted every thing I had,
            almost: whatever is necessary must be got, & I shall Depend upon your care and
            attention, now, to guard me against destruction of my property, while it is entrusted to
            your management.
          Secure a sufficiency of fish for the use of my own people from the first that comes,
            otherwise they may be left in the lurch, as has been the case heretofore, by depending
            on what is called the glut.
          What quantity of Wheat have you yet in the straw, according to the conjectures of the
            Overseers, at whose farms it is? If you can get Six dollars a barrel for the superfine,
            & thirty four shils. for the common flour, in good hands, let it go, at Sixty days
            credit.
          I have 25 Hds of Tobacco in the Warehouses in Alexandria; examine what condition they
            lye in, & see that they are safe. not having been able to obtain the price I set
            upon them they have lain there five or six years, at least. I have held these at a
            guinea a hundred, and would take it.
          Is your family arrived at Mount Vernon? you have said nothing
            about them in your last letters.
          The Vessel with the Clover Seed &ca left this City on Tuesday last, and is, I hope,
            with you before this—Another goes tomorrow, on board which I send you
            (directed to the care of Colo. Gilpin) nine bolts of Oznabrigs, finding it cheaper to
            buy here than in Alexandria.
          Enclosed you have a bond of Colo. Lyles, who lives on Broad Creek (between you &
            Alexandria)—receive the amount with interest to the day of payment, & place it to my
            credit. If the money is wanting for paying the Overseers, or for other purposes, it may
            be applied accordingly; otherwise, when more can be added to it, I will direct the
            application another way. Remember it is Virginia money you are to receive, that is
            dollars at Six shillings. The readiest way of getting to Colo. Lyles is in your own
            Boat; & by so doing you can touch at the fishing landings between, & learn their
            expectations with respect to the prices of Fish.
          I send you 3 lbs. of Lucern Seed to sprinkle over the spring lot, where the former
            grew. The ground ought to be well torn with a sharp toothed harrow, in order to prepare
            it for the Seed, otherwise much of it will miss.
          With Colo. Lyles bond I send you a letter to him, which seal before delivery; you have
            also a statement of the account, as far as I have any knowledge of it. Receive nothing
            short of the whole sum which is due; unless you have no other means of discharging any
            demands upon me, for receiving a bond in driblets, is, in a manner, sinking it; and the
            amount of this bond, if it can be spared from other uses, I want to apply in discharge
            of another bond, which is also carrying interest. I am Your
            friend &ca

            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from the Democratic Society of Washington County, Pennsylvania, 24 March 1794
From: Democratic Society of Washington County, Pennsylvania
To: Washington, George

            To the President and Congress of the United States of America.
            Washington [Pa.] March 24th 1794.

          The Remonstrance of the Democratic Society of the County of Washington, in
            Pennsylvania, Respectfully sheweth

          That your Remonstrants are entitled by nature and by stipulation, to the undisturbed
            Navigation of the river Mississippi, and consider it a right inseperable from their
              prosperity. That in colonizing this distant and dangerous
            desart, they always contemplated the free enjoyment of this right, and considered it as
            an inseperable appendage to the Country they had sought out, had fought for, and
            acquired. That for a series of years during their early settlement, their petetions to
            government to secure this right, were answered by its alledged weakness, and your
            Remonstrants taught to expect, that the time was approaching fast, when both power and
            inclination would unite to establish it on the firmest grounds. In this anxious
            expectation they waited, and to the insolence of those who arrogated its exclusive
            exercise, they patiently submitted, till the government of America had so strengthened
            itself as to hold out an assurance of future protection to all its citizens, and of
            redress for all their wrongs.
          That protection has not been extended to us, we need only refer to our present
            situation, and that that situation has not been concealed from, or unknown to, Congress,
            we appeal to its Archives. We have, without ceasing, deplored to you our degraded
            situation, and burdened you with our humble petitions and requests. But alas! we still
            experience, that the strong nerved government of America, extends its arm of protection
            to all the branches of the Union, but to your Remonstrants. That it is competent to
            every end, but that single one, by which alone it can benefit us: the protection of our
            Territorial rights. It is competent to exact obedience, but not to make that return
            which can be the only just and natural exchange for it.
          Long have your Remonstrants been anxiously in quest of the obstacles that have stood in
            your way to the establishment of this our right; And as long has their pursuit been
            fruitless. Formal and tardy negociations have no doubt been often projected, and have as
            often miscarried. It is true, some negociations were once attempted, that were neither
              formal nor tardy, and gave an early
            shock to our encreasing population and to our peace of mind; but your Remonstrants are
            constrained to be of opinion, that the neglect or local policy of American councils, has
            never produced one single effort to procure this right. Could the Government of America
            be for Ten years seriously in pursuit of the establishment of a grand Territorial right,
            which was arrogantly suspended, and return to that quarter of the Union to whom it was all-important, but an equivocal answer? We
            think it high time that we should be thoroughly informed of the situation on which your
            negociations, if any, have left this right: for apathy itself has grown hopeless from
            long dissappointed expectation.
          Your Remonstrants yield not in patriotism to any of their fellow-citizens: but
            patriotism, like every other thing, has its bounds. We love those states from which we
            were all congregated, and no event (not even an attempt to barter away our best rights)
            shall alien our affections from the individual members who compose them: But attatchment
            to governments cease to be natural, when they cease to be mutual. To be subjected to all
            the burthens, and enjoy none of the benefits arising from government is what we will
            never submit to. Our situation compels us to speak plainly. If
            wrechedness and poverty await us, it is of no concern to us how they are produced. We
            are gratified in the prosperity of the Atlantic states, but would not speak the language
            of truth and sincerity, were we not to declare our unwillingness to make any sacrifices
            to it, when their importance and those sacrifices result from our distresses. If the
            interest of Eastern America requi⟨res⟩ that we should be kept in poverty, it is
            unreasonable from such poverty to exact contributions. The first, if we cannot emerge
            from, we must learn to bear; but the latter, we never can be taught to submit to.
          From the General Government of America, therefore, your Remonstrants now ask
            protection, in the free enjoyment of the navigation of the river Mississippi, which is
            withheld from them by the Spaniards. We demand it as a right which you have the power to
            invest us with, and which not to exert, is as great a breach of our rights, as to
            withhold. We declare, that nothing can retribute us for the suspension or loss of this
            inestimable right. We declare it to be a right which must be obtained; and do also
            declare, that if the General Government will not procure it for us, we shall hold
            ourselves not Answerable for any of the consequences that may result from our own
            procurement of it. The God of nature has given us both the right and means of acquiring
            and enjoying it: and to permit a sacrifice of it to any earthly consideration, would be
            a crime against ourselves and against our posterity.

              Teste.W.
                McCluneySecretary.
              By order of the
                SocietyJames MarshelPresident.


Title: To George Washington from Alexander Hamilton, 24 March 1794
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

            Sir,
            Treasury Dept. Mar. 24 1794

          A Committee of the House of Representatives appointed to enquire into the state of the
            Treasury Department, is charged among other things to enquire into the authorities from
            the President to the Secretary of the Treasury respecting the making and disbursement of
            the Loans made under the act of the 4th and 12 of August 1790. You will perceive by the
            enclosed copy of a paper of this date delivered to the Committee, the opinion I
            entertain of the proper limits of a Legislative enquiry on that subject.

          But in the event of a determination that the enquiry should be general it becomes
            proper to fix with the President the true view of facts.
          The real cause of the transaction has been this. Before I made the disposition of any
            Loan I regularly communicated to the President my ideas of the proper disposition,
            designating how much it would be expedient to pay to France—how much to draw to the
            United States—and always received his sanction for what was adopted & afterwards
            carried into execution. The communication & the sanction were verbal whenever the
            President was at the seat of Government. In a case of absence they were in writting.
            This will appear from my Letters of the 10th &
          14. April 1791 and from the President’s answer of the 7 of may following. My Letters of
            the 29 July & 22d of September 1791, and of the  of August & 22d of September 1792 contain a further illustration of the
            general spirit of proceeding in the case, in regard to the consultation of the
            President.
          The sanctions of the President were sometimes expressly and always, as I conceived in
            their spirit, founded in a material degree on the confidence, that the measures proposed
            were guided by a just estimate on my part of circumstances, which from situation must
            have been best known to me—and that they would be always in conformity to the Law. With
            the most perfect respect &c.

            Alexander HamiltonSecy of the Treasy


Title: From George Washington to William Lyles, 24 March 1794
From: Washington, George
To: Lyles, William

            Sir,
            Philada 24th March 1794.

          Mr Pearce, my Manager will present this letter to you; with your Bond—for payment. I
            should be obliged to you for making it. He is furnished also with a statement of the
            receipts, as far as I have any knowledge of them. I am, Sir Your
            Obedt Hble Servt

            Go: Washington


Title: Proclamation on Expeditions Against Spanish Territory, 24 March 1794
From: Washington, George
To:

          [Philadelphia, 24 March 1794]
          by the
            PRESIDENT of theUNITED STATES of AMERICAA PROCLAMATION.
          WHEREAS I have received information that certain persons in violation of the laws,
            presumed under colour of a foreign authority to enlist citizens of the United States and
            others within the state of Kentucky, and have there assembled an armed force for the
            purpose of invading and plundering the territories of a nation at peace with the said
            United States: And whereas such unwarrantable measures, being
            contrary to the laws of nations and to the duties incumbent on every citizen of the
            United States, tend to disturb the tranquility of the same, and to involve them in the
            calamities of war: And whereas it is the duty of the Executive to take care that such
            criminal proceedings should be suppressed, the offenders brought to justice, and all
            good citizens cautioned against measures likely to prove so pernicious to their country
            and themselves, should they be seduced into similar infractions of the laws;
          I have therefore thought proper to issue this proclamation hereby solemnly warning every person not authorised by the laws, against enlisting any
            citizen or citizens of the United States, or levying troops, or assembling any persons
            within the United States for the purposes aforesaid, or proceeding in any manner to the
            execution thereof, as they will answer the same at their peril: And I do also admonish
            and require all citizens to refrain from enlisting, enrolling or assembling themselves
            for such unlawful purposes and from being in any wise concerned, aiding or abetting
            therein, as they tender their own welfare, in as much as all lawful means will be
            strictly put in execution for securing obedience to the laws, and for punishing such
            dangerous and daring violations thereof.
          I do moreover charge and require all courts magistrates and other officers, whom it may
            concern, according to their respective duties, to exert the powers in them severally
            vested to prevent and suppress all such unlawful assemblages and proceedings and to bring to condign punishment those who may have been guilty thereof,
            as they regard the due authority of Government, and the peace and welfare of the United
            States.
          In testimony whereof, I have caused the seal of the United
            States of America to be affixed to these presents, and signed the same with my hand.
            Done at the City of Philadelphia, the twenty fourth day of March, one thousand seven
            hundred and ninety four, and of the Independence of the United States of America, the
            eighteenth.

            Go: WASHINGTON,

            By the President,

            Edm: Randolph,


Title: To George Washington from Edmund Randolph, 24 March 1794
From: Randolph, Edmund
To: Washington, George

            [Philadelphia] March 24. 1794.

          E. Randolph has the honor of inclosing to the President the fair copy, as well as the
            rough draft of the Proclamation. It was transcribed upon the supposition, that the
            President would direct it to issue in the form, which the three other gentlemen had
            approved; and the rough is sent; in order that the President may decide, whether there be any propriety in the two amendments, which have been
              suggested.


Title: To George Washington from Harriot Washington, 24 March 1794
From: Washington, Harriot
To: Washington, George

            Fredericksburg [Va.] March 24, 1794

          I received the box which contained the thing’s My dear Uncle was so kind as to send me,
            how shall I express my gratitude to my beloved Uncle for so much kindness. I hope my dear Uncle will not be displeased if I beg him for as much
            money, as will make my great coat, & will purchase thread and tape to make my
            linnen, I am affraid you will attribute my not making my great coat to laziness, but I
            can assure you I would make it with a great deal of pleasure, as it wuld save you the
            trouble of sending money, if I could get it cut out. but there is not a Taylor in town
            that will cut it out unless we will consent to let them make it. I was very much in want
            of a few thing’s some time ago, & was obleiged to borrow 24 shilling’s from Aunt
            Lewis. she is in want of money just now and wishes me to pay her; I shall be much
            obleiged to you for as much as will do that. Aunt Lewis join’s
            me in love to you and Aunt Washington. I am my dear Uncle Your affectionate Neice

            Harriot Washington.


Title: To George Washington from William Gordon, 25 March 1794
From: Gordon, William
To: Washington, George

            My Dear Sir
            St Neots [England] March 25. 1794

          The goodness of my intention will apologize for the present letter. The purport of
            which, I conceive, may not be known to any American. You may possibly
            be under the disagreeable necessity of appointing military officers for active service
            in dangerous warlike undertakings. I have a great regard for Genl Otho Williams, &
            am under peculiar obligations to him; but if what our deceased friend Genl Greene told
            me, has not been mentioned to You, it is proper, I apprehend, to acquaint You with it.
            When conversing about him the words of Genl Greene were nearly to this purpose—“Williams
            does not want for courage, he will fight any thing; but he has no fortitude, &
            cannot bear up under disasters; he was so dispirited by the rapid pursuit of Cornwallis
            before he joined me, that I would have beaten him with forty old squaws.”
          You had the blessing of being endued from above, with both courage & fortitude.
            Greene’s distinction between the two qualities pleased me so much, that I have never
            forgotten it. Wishing your Excellency all that special wisdom which is wanted, for
            guiding the state helm in this critical period; & that You may have the guidance of
            the supreme Governor of the universe, I remain Your affectionate friend & humble
            Servt

            William Gordon

            Mrs Gordon joins in most cordial regards to Self &
              your Lady.
            P.S. My friend the Revd Mr Hickman who is intrusted with this has one of an earlier
              date, together with Flower upon the French Constitution of 1791, a present from the
              author, if sent in time.


Title: To George Washington from Henry Knox, 25 March 1794
From: Knox, Henry
To: Washington, George

            Sir.
            War Department, March 25 1794.

          I have the honor to submit, the copy of a letter intended to be sent to the Secretary
            of the Treasury, relatively to arrangments to be made, for procuring the Iron Cannon and
            shot; contemplated in the Act, entitled, “An Act to provide for the defence of certain
            Ports and Harbors in the United States.”  I have the honor to be
            Sir, with the greatest respect, Your most obedt Servt

            H. Knox


Title: To George Washington from William Pearce, 25 March 1794
From: Pearce, William
To: Washington, George

          Letter not found: from William Pearce, 25 March 1794. GW wrote
            Pearce on 30 March that “The Reports, and your letter of the 25th instt have been duly
            recd.”


Title: From George Washington to the United States Senate and House of Representatives, 25 March 1794
From: Washington, George
To: United States Senate and House of Representatives

            Gentlemen of the Senate, and of the House of Representatives,
            United States 25. March 1794.

          The two letters, which I now forward to Congress, were written by a Consul of the
            United States; and contain information, which
            will probably be thought to require some pecuniary provision.

            Go: Washington


Title: Cabinet Opinion on Enforcing the Embargo, 26 March 1794
From: Cabinet
To: Washington, George

            [Philadelphia, 26 March 1794]

          At a meeting of the heads of departments, and the Attorney general of the U.S. at the
            President’s, on the twenty sixth day of march 1794.
          The resolution of congress, of this date, being submitted to them by the President, for
            their opinion as to the best Mode of executing the same;
          It is advised unanimously, that the governors of the several States ought to be called
            upon, to enforce the said embargo by the militia, whensoever it may be necessary to
            appeal to force.

            Edm: Randolph
            A. Hamilton
            H. Knox
            Wm Bradford.


Title: To George Washington from Frederick Frelinghuysen, 26 March 1794
From: Frelinghuysen, Frederick
To: Washington, George

            Sir,
            [Philadelphia] Wednesday Morning 26. Mar. 1794

          After repeated disappointments, a Barrel with the heavy Oats has
            at length arrived, containing 3½ bushels. It is at Mr Pearson
            Hunt’s Store, in Water-Street, near Market Street, where it will be delivered to your
              order. I am, Sir, Your most obedient Servant

            Fred: Frelinghuysen.


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

            [Philadelphia] March 26. 1794.

          The Secretary of State has the honor of sending to the President the translation of a
            declaration from Spain; And the President
            will be pleased to say, whether it be important enough to be sent to Congress.


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

            [Philadelphia] March 26. 1794.

          The Secretary of State has the honor of returning to the President Govr. Clinton’s
            letter &c. It was the opinion, that the Speech of Ld Dorchester, tho’ important, is
            sufficiently promulgated in the Newspaper.
          The gentlemen have agreed to the letter to the governor of Kentucky, without any
              amendment.
          They have suggested an amendment to the third paragraph of the proposed message; which
            will be corrected, to be laid before you tomorrow.


Title: Cabinet Opinion on the Conyngham and the Pilgrim, 27 March 1794
From: Cabinet
To: Washington, George

            [Philadelphia, 27 March 1794]

          At a meeting of the heads of departments and Attorney general. March 27. 1794.
          The Secretary of War, the attorney general and the Secretary of State advise, that the
            Conyngham be not delivered up to the British owners; the secretary of the treasury
            dissenting.
          The Secretary of the Treasury, the Secretary of war, and the attorney general advise,
            that the Pilgrim be delivered up to the British owners; the Secretary of State
              dissenting.

            Alexandr Hamilton
            H. Knox
            Wm. Bradford.
            Edm: Randolph.


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

            Sir.
            Phil: 27 Mar. 1794

          As soon as I recd the communication of your arrangements, for laying an Embargo on the
            trade of this Port, I issued instructions to the Commanding Officer at Fort Mifflin upon
            the subject; and of those instructions I have now the honor to inclose you a copy. I am, with perfect respect, Sir Yr most obed. H. Servt.


Title: To George Washington from Edmund Randolph, 27 March 1794
From: Randolph, Edmund
To: Washington, George

            [Philadelphia] March 27. 1794.

          The Secretary of State has the honor of informing the President, that the gentlemen are
            of opinion, that the rates of the ships be the same, as those marked
            out by law; and that they ought to be built instead of being purchased. But whether they had better be built by contract,
            general or particular, they prefer reserving, until information can be obtained from
            those, skilled in the art.


Title: To George Washington from Edmund Randolph, 27 March 1794
From: Randolph, Edmund
To: Washington, George

            [Philadelphia] March 27th 1794.

          Message proposed by E. Randolph, some days agoto the
            President; but now rendered unnecessary byCongress having proceeded to vigorous
              measures.
          Although I cannot doubt, that from the sources of information possessed by Congress
            themselves, and the communications, which I have occasionally made to them, they feel
            the crisis in our public affairs; yet at no time have I seen the necessity of exercising
            the right of recommendation, more strongly than present.
          It is now almost five years, since our government was organized. Its sufficiency for
            the happiness of the Union has been tried; and stands approved by the friends of liberty
            and order. No people can ever have a deeper or more solemn interest in defending with
            firmness and with zeal their country already flourishing under the influence of such a
            Constitution; no people can, with better reason expect, from the progress of its
            operation, the completion of their welfare, and none ought to be more cautious, in
            trusting themselves to uncertain changes.
          Notwithstanding, after an honorable and scrupulous conduct towards all nations, we have
            arrived at the hour of suffering and of danger. Many of our fellow Citizens are now
            languishing in slavery and chains, our commerce has been ravaged, our Seamen dispersed
            by captures in foreign lands, or compelled into foreign service; and our peace
            threatened.

          The fate of our brethren groaning under a cruel bondage, will, I am persuaded, receive
            a sincere attention.
          To prevent a repetition of insult and violence; to meet the increasing hostility
            against us; and to be indemnified for the past; are cares, great indeed, in themselves,
            but involving the highest responsibility to our Constituents.
          We can never hope to obtain the respect which is due to us; to secure our peace or an
            exemption from plunder but by demonstrating our means to resist. The stability of public
            credit, and an adequate and regular revenue, constitute an essential article in the work
            of defence. You, Gentlemen, who so well understand the capacity of our fellow Citizens
            for taxation, and the calls of justice, honor and good faith, will adapt the fiscal
            arrangements accordingly. I trust too, that, when a question shall arise on the form,
            which the public force shall assume for our defence, it will not be forgotten, that
            principles of real efficiency ought to be consulted, and that it is our policy, and
            ought to be our character, to bid defiance to invasion from any of the powers of the
            earth.
          Without preparations, like these, the demand of retribution for past injuries would be
            an absurd waste of time. It will be treated with contempt if we remain in that painful
            situation of public weakness, which first invited attack.
          I must, therefore, lay before Congress my sense of this awful period, record to my
            fellow Citizens, that I have not neglected it; and declare again, that my co-operation
            with your labors shall be prompt, and persevering. There are certain moments in human
            affairs, when harmony among the persons, administering them, create an irresistable
            energy; and to cultivate it is patriotism. That this is the moment in the affairs of the
            United States, must be pronounced by all.
          When we shall be armed against the events of war, peace, that blessing to our rising
            Nation, will be at our command; and it shall be my constant effort to cherish it, with
            all the world.


Title: To George Washington from Alexander Hamilton, 28 March 1794
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

            Treasy Dept. Mar. 28 1794.

          The Secretary of the Treasury presents his respects to the President of the U. States
            and encloses herewith the draft of a passport for Capt. Montgomery, to which (if found
            right) the President’s signature is requested, in order that the vessel may be
              dispatched.


Title: Bartholomew Dandridge, Jr., to Henry Knox, 28 March 1794
From: Dandridge, Bartholomew Jr.
To: Knox, Henry

            [Philadelphia] 28 March 1794

          By the President’s order Bw Dandridge has the honor to inform the Secretary of War that
            the President thinks the fortification of New York much more difficult to be
            accomplished than that of any other place intended to be fortified—he therefore thinks
            it proper that the most skilful of the engineers should be selected for that
              purpose.


Title: To George Washington from Henry Knox, 28 March 1794
From: Knox, Henry
To: Washington, George

            Sir.
            [Philadelphia] March 28 1794

          The enclosed, being the opinion of the Secretary of State, and the Secretary of the
            Treasury, I pray your directions whether the three French Gentlemen shall be employed as
            temporary Engineers—They are to be with me at 12 o’clock. The
            same direction is requested with respect to three Artillerists now at
              Baltimore. I have the honor to be Sir, With the greatest
            respect, Your most obt Servt

            H. Knox


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Mifflin, 28 March 1794
From: Mifflin, Thomas
To: Washington, George

            Sir.
            Phil: 28 Mar. 1794

          The Secretary at war, has transmitted to me, by your instructions, a copy of a law
            relatively to the fortification of the Ports and harbours therein mentioned; and he has,
            at the same time, communicated your request, that, as Commander in Chief of the Militia
            of Pena., I would take upon me the general direction of the business, as far as respects
            the works to be established within this State.
          I undertake the proposed trust with great chearfulness; and you may
            be assured, Sir, that on this, and on every other occasion, I shall be happy to
            facilitate the execution of the duties of your arduous station.
          Permit me to take the present opportunity of transmitting for your information, a copy
            of an Act of the Ge[nera]l Ass[embly] of Pena., entitled “An Act[”] &c (define
              law) of an Act for laying out a town at Presqu’ Isle, and of the proceedings which have been instituted, for the purpose
            of carrying those laws into effect.
          I have, likewise, inclosed a statement of the number & condition of the Cannon,
            belonging to the State of Pena., that are above the calibre of Eighteen pounds, and fit
            to be appropriated to the Fortification of the Port of Philadelphia. I am, with perfect respect, Sir—


Title: To George Washington from Edmund Randolph, 28 March 1794
From: Randolph, Edmund
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Philadelphia March 28. 1794. ½ past nine.

          I do myself the honor of inclosing to you two letters from the Minister of the French
              Republic.
          Upon the first, the opinion of the gentlemen was against mine, that a passport ought
            not to be granted. I thought it so urgent, a case, that ⟨I⟩ sent the letter immediately
            to them.
          This moment I have received another letter from Mr Fauchet. He represents his
            embarressment so strongly, that I cannot forbear to lay both letters before you without
              delay.
          I understand, that the vessel had actually cleared out and got as far as Newcastle,
            when she was stopped. I have the honor, sir, to be with the
            highest respect yr mo. ob. serv.

            Edm: Randolph

            The translations of the letters are sent.


Title: From George Washington to the United States Senate and House of Representatives, 28 March 1794
From: Washington, George
To: United States Senate and House of Representatives

            Gentlemen of the Senate, and of the House of Representatives.
            United States 28. March 1794.

          In the execution of the resolution of Congress, bearing date the 26. of March 1794, and
            imposing an embargo, I have requested the Governors of the several States to call forth
            the force of their militia, if it should be necessary for the detention of vessels. This
            power is conceived to be incidental to an embargo.
          It also deserves the attention of Congress, how far the clearances from one district to
            another, under the law as it now stands, may give rise to evasions of the embargo. As
            one security, the Collectors have been instructed to refuse to receive the surrender of
            coasting licences for the purpose of taking out registers, and to require bond from
            registered vessels, bound from one district to another, for the delivery of the cargo
            within the United States.
          It is not understood, that the resolution applies to fishing vessels; although their
            occupations lie generally in parts beyond the United States. But
            without further restrictions there is an opportunity of their priviledges being used as
            means of eluding the embargo.
          All armed vessels, possessing public commissions from any foreign power (letters of
            marque excepted) are considered as not liable to the embargo.
          These circumstances are transmitted to Congress for their consideration.

            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Henry Knox, 29 March 1794
From: Knox, Henry
To: Washington, George

            Sir.
            [Philadelphia] March 29th 1794

          I have the honor to submit to your consideration, a letter just received from Major
            Gaither dated at St Mary’s the 8th instant. I am, most
            respectfully, Sir, Your obedient Servt

            H. Knox secy of war


Title: From George Washington to Edmund Randolph, 29 March 1794
From: Washington, George
To: Randolph, Edmund

            Sir
            Philadelphia 29 March 1794

          It is to be regretted that the Snow Camilla had not got off before she was arrested by
            the Revenue Officer. To permit it now as she is a loaded Vessel might be a delicate, if
            not an unjustifiable measure, under the Act of Congress laying an Embargo.

          Whether the representation of the French Minister in his second
            application is of weight sufficient to induce a departure from the obvious meaning of
            the Embargo, is worthy of consideration, under the peculiar circumstances which are
              related.
          I am well disposed, and think we ought to
            comply with Mr Fauchets request, if it can be done without envolving unpleasant
            consequences. I am &ca.


Title: To George Washington from Edmund Randolph, 29 March 1794
From: Randolph, Edmund
To: Washington, George

            [Philadelphia] March 29. 1794.

          E. Randolph has the honor of informing the President, that Mr Hammond has given him a
            duplicate of the letter to the governor of Jamaica, concerning Barney; but that Colo.
            Hamilton says, that the cutter going to Charleston is too infirm to proceed to
              Jamaica. The President will therefore be pleased to determine
            whether it be worth while to send a cutter from Baltimore for this special purpose, at this late day; when Barney’s fate must be decided one way or the other, before she can arrive.