Title: From George Washington to William Skilling, 22 July 1784
From: Washington, George
To: Skilling, William

Wm Skilling,
Mount Vernon 22d July 1784.

I have just received your letter of the , & this answer will be lodged on the road by Colo. Bassett. I cannot afford to give the wages you ask, nor can I find out the meaning of Mr Randolphs offering you Sterlg money, as it is altogether unusual, & little understood by workmen—& subject to misunderstandings & disputes.
Colo. Bassett is sure there must be a mistake in the case—for that you only asked him thirty pounds & two pr of shoes per annm—& upon informing you that he stood in no need of your services, you desired him to mention the matter to others. In consequence, he spoke to Colo. Richd Randolph, & mentioned your terms, upon which he—(Colo. Randolph) wrote to you. How it should happen therefore that he should put in Sterling, he cannot conceive.
I am willing to allow you £30 curry estimating Dollars at 6/—(& other specie in proportion)—& two pr of Shoes pr Ann. If you incline to take it, you may come as soon as it is convenient; but whether you do, or do not incline to take it, write me word immediately by the post, the Stage, or some safe hand, that I may know whether to look out elsewhere or not.
You know perfectly what kind of living you will meet with here, & the advantages—I shall not therefore, enumerate them: nor shall I at this time point out the sort of work you will

be employ’d in. It may be to ditch, to Garden, to level & remove Earth—to work alone, or with several others—& in the last case, to keep them closely employ’d as well as yourself—The work however will either be at the home house, or at the plantations adjoining; most probably the former—I again repeat the necessity there is for your letting me hear from you that I may know whether to look out elsewhere or not. I am &c.

G: Washington


Title: To George Washington from George Augustine Washington, 25 July 1784
From: Washington, George Augustine
To: Washington, George

Hond Uncle
Barbadoes July 25th 1784

In my Letter to You, by the fair American, which was the first; and only conveyance I have had of writing, I intimated my apprehensions of this Climate, and the probability their was of my changeing it for that of Bermuda, which I very sincerely lament not having given the preferrence in the first instance, as I have experienced the utmost inconvenience, and I fear injury from this —I have now been here about five Weeks, during which time (about that number of days excepted) I have been intirely confined to the House by incessant heavy rains; and the approaching season affording no hopes of its being better[.] am at this time imbarking in a Vessel for some of the Leeward Islands, with a hope should She not go to Bermuda (which their is a probability of) that some other conveyance may be met with, I shall have this to comfort me that their cannot be a more unfavorable Climate for my complaints, I belive in any part of the world, I find myself a good deal reduced by several severe fits of the Colic I have lately had—I hope to find Bermuda a more settled Climate where I shall be able to use some exercise, which I am sure is necessary, and which I am here totally deprived of—the expectation of finding Bermuda an agreeable Climate, induces me to hope that I shall derive the wished for advantages from it, I leave this here, to go by the Vessel in which I came; She goes for New York; but can hardly immagine She will arrive their sooner than I hope to reach Bermuda from whence I shall take the first opportunity of giving You full state of my situation which the hurry I am in at present (preparing for my departure and interupted by company,) must be my apology for this incorrect one —not having time to write more,

must beg the favor of You to offer my most affectionate love to Mrs Washington and Miss F. Bassett whose goodness will induce them to consider my situation as I can truely assure them inclination was not wanting—they, and other friends may expect to hear from me on my arrival—my prayers and sincerest good wishes attend You all—with sentiments of the purest regard and esteem I am Your affectionate Nephew

Geo: A. Washington


Title: To George Washington from Henry Knox, 26 July 1784
From: Knox, Henry
To: Washington, George

My dear sir.
Dorchester [Mass.] July 26th 1784

A fear of intruding upon your more important concerns has prevented my writing to you since my return. I found here your kind favor of the 2d of June, with its enclosure for General Putnam which I delivered.
The measures taken by Congress respecting the western posts must defeat themselves by their own imbecillity. I cannot say but that I am well satisfied to be excluded from any responsibility in arrangements which it is impossible to execute. The attempt, to employ militia for twelve months in an arduous operation of conveying the Stores & making permanent establishments in that difficult country after the experience we have had of those kind of troops characterizes itself.
Agreably to the orders of Congress I sent Colonel Hull to General Haldimand to request that he would immediately deliver up the posts on our frontiers. If he should comply and fix a short day, which it is probable for his convenience he would, we should be ridicuously embarrassed not having a man for that purpose.
I presume that General Lincoln informed you the alterations of the Cincinnati are generally satisfactory in this state. The opposition to it is dead. One or two persons it is said however still grumble—Our State Society on the 4h of July was respectably full, and adopted it unanimous one vote excepted.
General Lincoln, Mr Partridge, and mys[el]f are going at the

request of the Legislature of this State, to examine what encroachments have been made by the british on its eastern boundary. We shall set out on this business in a few days. Mrs Knox joins me in presenting our affectionate respects to Mrs Washington I am my dear General Your truly affectionate Humble Servant

H. Knox


Title: To George Washington from Tench Tilghman, 27 July 1784
From: Tilghman, Tench
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Baltimore [Md.] 27th July 1784.

Since I had the honor of writing to you a few days ago, I have met with a House Joiner, in a Ship just arrived from Ireland—He says much for himself, and the Captain says he is a well behaved Man. His price is £22.10/ Curry for 3 years and the Expences from hence to Alexandria by the Stage £1.14.8—I send him to the Care of Colo. Fitzgerald—I could not get his Indentures

properly assigned in time to send with him, but you shall have them in a few days. His name is Branning.
I was in treaty for a Brick layer, but he was prevailed upon to remain here—I am in hopes to get one of that Trade in a few Weeks, as Vessels are daily arriving.
I beg your Excellency to give yourself no trouble about an immediate remittance—desire Fitzgerald or some of your Freinds in Alexandria to put you up a draft upon this place whenever they find an opportunity.
I hope you will have no occasion to repent of your Bargain. I have the honor to be with perfect Respect and Esteem Yr Excellency’s Most Ob. and hble Servt

Tench Tilghman


Title: From George Washington to Wakelin Welch, 27 July 1784
From: Washington, George
To: Welch, Wakelin

Sir,
Mount Vernon 27th July 1784

Your letter of the 26th of Jany, & duplicate thereof, both coming by the way of James river, were long getting to hand.
I return the Power of Attorney signed before the first Master & Mariners I could find, bound for the Port of London; and trust that no further difficulty will arise to prevent your drawing the money which had been deposited in the Bank, out of the same & placing it to my credit upon the most advantageous terms.
I have not an ounce of Tobacco growing this year—whether I shall return to that species of Agriculture again, or not, will depend altogether upon the price that article is most likely to bear from the general State of the trade, of which, you who understand the matter better than I do, can best determine; & would do me a favor to signify for my information.
Not having, that I recollect, received the particulars of my Accot currt with your House; I should be glad to have it forwarded

to me, together with that of the late Mr Custis’s, as soon as convenient.I am Sir &c.

G: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Clement Biddle, 28 July 1784
From: Washington, George
To: Biddle, Clement

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon July 28th 1784

The Mulatto fellow William who has been with me all the War is attached (married he says) to one of his own colour a free woman, who, during the War was also of my family—She has been in an infirm state of health for sometime, and I had conceived that the connection between them had ceased—but I am mistaken—they are both applying to me to get her here, and tho’ I never wished to see her more, yet I cannot refuse his request (if it can be complied with on reasonable terms) as he has lived with me so long & followed my fortunes through the War with fidility.
After promising thus much, I have to beg the favor of you to procure her a passage to Alexandria either by Sea, by the passage Boats (if any there be) from the head of Elk, or in the Stage as you shall think cheapest & best, and circumstances may require—She is called Margaret Thomas als Lee (the name which he has assumed) and lives at Isaac & Hannah Sills, black people who frequently employ themselves in Cooking for families in the City of Phila. I am—Dr Sir Yr Most Obedt Hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Tench Tilghman, 29 July 1784
From: Washington, George
To: Tilghman, Tench

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon July 29th—84.

Your favor by Captn Bradstreet came to hand too late in the Afternoon of yesterday to send up for the Carpenter. The bearer now comes for him. Be so good as to let me know the amount of the expences you may have been at, on his acct, and I will thankfully repay them at meeting, or before, if an oppertunity presents. With sincere esteem & regard I am—Dear Sir Yr Most Obedt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Jacob Read, 30 July 1784
From: Read, Jacob
To: Washington, George

Sir
Annapolis [Md.] 30th July 1784

The very Short Stay the post makes at Annapolis precludes me the pleasure of acknowledging in the Manner I wou’d with the receipt of your favour of the 28th and of giving you the Information

that an hours leizure might enable me to extract from the public dispatches &ca.
Having Several public Letters to finish for South Carolina & Which I must dispatch by this post I pray you’l be so good as pardon the hurry with Which this Letter will Necessarily be Stamped.
I beg your Acceptance of my grateful thanks for the kind reception given to the Gentlemen of my recommendation.
This days post brings us dispatches from our Ministers abroad and a Copy of his Britannic Majesty’s ratification of the Definitive Treaty. The Instruments of Ratification were exchanged on the 12 th of May at passy —we have also a New proclamation for regulating the West Indian trade of the U.S. I have not time to make any extract or Copy from this but you Shall have one (if on perusal worthy notice) by the next post.
The paper I do myself The Honour to Inclose you has the British King’s Speech to his New Parliament. Almost An Unanimous Address in the Lords & 168 Majority for Pitts’s Administration & Measures in the Commons.
I pray My Compliments to Mrs Washington I forwarded her Letter to Miss Sprigg immediately on the receipt by a careful Servant.
I believe Mr Jay is arrived at New York as one of the public Letters was directed “by The Honourable John Jay” on the Cover—I again request you’l pardon the haste with Which I am obliged to finish this and believe me to be With the Utmost respect & regard Your Excellencys Most obedt & most Humle Sert

Jacob Read


Title: To George Washington from Thornton Washington, 1 August 1784
From: Washington, Thornton
To: Washington, George

Respeckted Sr
Stonehous [Va.] August the 1—1784

after my most respectkfool compliments to your self and lady I must beg lieave to lay before your considerashion A matter that interests me in A verry particular manner the plantashion whareon I now live sayd to contain two hundread acrees I purchast of my father for which I have his obligation for the mentaining me in the fool wright of. it is the land purchast of Colo. Phillup Pendleton I am informd was your property and that the title is still in your hands Mr James Nourse ferther informd me that he had wrought to you on that subjeckt and that you had informd him that you had nither ever recievd eany thing in considerashion of the sade land and that you had never past A deed or eany thing binding on you for the convayance of the sade lands I have already been at the expence of refiting the hous and puting on the plantashion near twenty thousand new rales cheef of which I got of my one land without ever makeing eany considerable use of that part of my land more than pastureage I was Just going to put up A verry large barn for the resepshion of A crop of Tob. which will not admit of delay this is the reson of my wrighting[.] Cousin Bushrod Washington was at my hous yesterday who informd me of your intenshions of visiting this place in a short time though as I had workmen on expencees and all my timbers ready to hall togather and they got of the plantashion now in question I wood not wish to do one hands turn more untill I hear from you if I mentain the land I now live on it wood by no meens soot to put it on the other and if I am not to continue in posseshion of the above menshiond Land I wood wish to get amediately about a hous to remoove to as I wood not wish to be on rent or from doing some thing to wards makeing my removal comfortibble I most ernistly request of you that you will give me A final answar as I expeckt ferther to be at the sweet springs about the time of your comeing into this neighbourhood so that I shall not see you as thar is money now provideing for the payment of this land by my fathers Execkiters and I shall be payd for the Land if you should not make A convayance of the same I am intirely easy about it could I be on A certainty what to be at I think to set out to the springs in A few days I wood tharefore wish to set

the to work on A dwelling hous before my departure I mus agane beg my Dr Sr that you will be positive in yor answar and if possubble lieave me no room to doubt wheather or not you meen to mentain the land I remain Sr with all duty and respeckt to your self and La[d]y your Verry obediant servant

Thornton Washington


Title: From George Washington to Charles Washington, 2 August 1784
From: Washington, George
To: Washington, Charles

Dear Brother:
Mount Vernon, August 2, 1784.

The enclosed came to my hands from Philadelphia last night. I am sorry to find by George’s letter to me, that he had not received the benefit from the Sea Air he expected, but as his passage was not good and he in a manner but just landed, no Judgment at the time he wrote could be well formed of the effect the voyage would have upon his complaint; as he writes you himself there can be no doubt of his giving you an acc’t of his health and present intentions, I shall add nothing further therefore on this subject.
I still hold to my resolution of setting off the first of September for the Western Count[r]y, and if I am not obliged (in business) to go by the way of Fredericks Town in Maryland to the Springs, I shall most assuredly spend a night at  with you. Mrs. Washington joins me in best wishes for you, my sister and the family, and I am, etc.


Title: From George Washington to Clement Biddle, 4 August 1784
From: Washington, George
To: Biddle, Clement

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 4th August 1784

Since my last to you, I have obtained from Baltimore (by means of Colo. Tilghman) a House-Joiner—and as the season for working in mortar will soon be over; & that of intermitants is approaching—I pray you to decline purchasing either the Joiner or Bricklayer formerly requested. I am Dr Sir &c.

G: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Pierre-Charles L’Enfant, 4 August 1784
From: L’Enfant, Pierre Charles
To: Washington, George

your Excellency
philadelphia—august the 4th 1784

having since my arrival at this place been informed that a number of foreigner claimes the Reight to be reconnised Cincinnati, and being all so confident that many of those who applayed to the marquis de la fayette and whose demands were rejected by a colected body of members of the society as Expressed in my last account of our prociding. and considering a great number of person which held commission in the continantal army must al since the begining of the war, and who without leave absented themselves, retourning to thier contry, or remaining in america on & trading way assuming now and then the character of officer watching for the opportunity of gething mony, or anny Rewards what so Ever, such as are due only to lasting services.
I in the name of the comity held at the marquis de lafayette hotel on the ten day of march last, beg from the general assembly that no persons not comprehended in thier resolution of the same date, or not Especially recommanded by a majeur parts of the french members stil remaining in america, could Be admited in to the association if not suported by such an hotority, and if proveided with sufficient recommendation thier petition to Be presented By me to the assembly. Being directed to this by the mentioned commity, until a fixed numbers of thier representative be admited to set in the general assembly.

With great respect I have the honnour to be your Excellency most obeidient and humble servant

P. L’Enfant


Title: From George Washington to Tench Tilghman, 4 August 1784
From: Washington, George
To: Tilghman, Tench

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon Augt 4th 1784.

The House Joiner you bought for me has arrived. I like his age, professions, and appearance very well and am obliged to you for procuring him. His Indentures may be sent at any time.
As the Season for working in Mortar will soon be over, and that of intermittants is now approaching, I pray you unless a very good Bricklayer should offer, not to purchase one for me after the 15th of this month.
The Fan from Mr Thos Peters is also arrived, for which be so good as to thank him in my behalf. The handle of it is lost. Whether it did not get on board the Packet, was not delivered by the Master of it, or mislaid at Colo. Fitzgeralds is unknown as the Vessel had returned before I sent up and enquiry could be made.
Enclosed are Bank notes for Ninety dollars, with which please to pay yourself and apply the overplus towards the payment for the Fan had of Mr Peters. As the bill of cost did not accompany it, and my recollection of the price (if I ever heard it) has failed me, I do not know whether this Sum is sufficient for both purposes; if not, the balle shall be paid as soon as it is made known to Dr Sir Yr obedt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from John Ariss, 5 August 1784
From: Ariss, John
To: Washington, George

Sir
Berkeley County [Va.] 5th Augst 1784

Permit me to Address your Excellency for a place to live at during Mrs Ariss and my Own Life. I am under the Necessity of Giving Up the place I now live at at the End of this Year, and have not as yet provided my Self with a place, nor do I know of any to be had in these parts, my Infirm Crazy Indisposition puts it Out of my Power to go any Great distance[.] Your Excellency may possibly Assist me with a place to live at. Mr Henry Whiting who is a Tenant on your Land on Bullskin Intends to make an offer of his Lease to your Excellency this Fall. This place would Suit me provided it is to be Let out again. Indeed One half would be Sufficient but Rather than be Obliged to move to any Great Distance I would take the Whole I shall always make it a point to pay my Rent when it becomes due. if This place is not to be had perhaps you may have Some other to let that may Suit me. I am Sir Your Excellencys Most Obliged and Most Humble Servt

Jno. Ariss


Title: To George Washington from Jacob Read, 6 August 1784
From: Read, Jacob
To: Washington, George

Sir
Annapolis [Md.] 6th August 1784

The Inclosed Copy of a Letter which I do myself the honour to inclose to you will perhaps give you some as Curious information as any you have had for a long time on the subject of Pollitics on the other side of the Water—The Intelligence is I believe to be relied on—You will do me the favour to return the ⟨sd⟩ Letter by next post and I must request you will not let it by any means transpire, I make the Communication to Your Excellency as Waranted by your general permission to see the Secret papers & Journals of Congress[.] as I shall destroy the Copy as soon as again in my possession I must also request that no Copy be taken—the Proclamation mentioned in my last on the subject of the Trade of the U.S. with the West Indies is almost verbatim with those formerly issued & is fully explained in the Copy of the letter Inclosed.
We shall loose the Two Gentlemen from New England in the next week their private affairs requiring their return to the Eastward  and as neither Deleware New York nor Connecticut Can be gotten to Attend I fear we shall have no more Committee of the States. this in the present Situation of European & Indian Affairs is really allarming—the delegates from Rhode Island always declared they woud not Attend.
If the Committee shoud dissolve or adjourn I shall go to Rhode Island where my mother is for her Health  and shall be happy to Execute any Commands you may have to the Eastward. I am with the sincerest regard & most perfect respect Sir your Excellency’s most obliged & Most obedient Servt

Jacob Read


Title: To George Washington from Warner Washington, 7 August 1784
From: Washington, Warner
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
7th Augt 1784

At the request of Mr Henry Whiting a Neighbour and Relation of mine I write to you in his Name to beg you would be kind enough to allow Him to give up his Lease as the keeping it two Years longer would he says, be certain ruin to Him. He does not desire to make any advantage from it, either by selling or any other way neither does he make one farthing towards paying his Rent—I am informed Mr Ariss is desirous of taking the place and has wrote to you, should you think proper to let Him have it I am satisfied He would make you a better Tenant in every respect.
I understand you intend up the begining of next Month, pray let us have the pleasure of seeing you—I am Dr Sir Yours Affectionately

Warner Washington

Mr Whiting will pay the whole Rent that will be due to you, this Fall.


Title: From George Washington to John Ariss, 8 August 1784
From: Washington, George
To: Ariss, John

Sir,
Mount Vernon 8th Augt 1784

In answer to your letter of the 5th, I have to inform you that I have no untenanted Lands in the Counties of Berkley or Frederick, except two lotts Nos. 5 & 6—the first containing 346½ acres, & the 2d—224½—in the latter, which I bought at the Sale of Colo. George Mercers Estate, in the year 1774—& for which I have had many persons applying to become Tenants. My intention was, after I had reviewed & laid those Lotts off into proper sized Tenements, to have appointed a day on the premises to let them.
If you choose to examine these Lots, & will, if either of them shou’d suit you, offer a good rent, it may (if I should not upon recollection find myself under a promise to give notice of the letting of them) supercede the necessity of this measure. I expect to be at my Brother’s on my way to the Berkeley Springs, the 2d of next month (at night)—where you may deposit a letter, which shall receive an answer from thence, to any proposals you may incline to make.
With respect to Mr Whiting, I know nothing of his intentions—unless they be, as it shou’d seem, to work my Lands as long as he will be permitted without paying rent. If the nonperformance of Covenants, on the part of the Tenant, can be construed into a forfeiture of his Lease—Mr Whiting I persuade myself will have candor enough to confess that his comes under this predicament.I am &c.

G: Washington


Title: From George Washington to William Gordon, 10 August 1784 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Gordon, William

Letter not found: to William Gordon, 10 Aug. 1784. On 30 Aug. Gordon wrote to GW: “Your obliging letter of the 10th instt was recd the last thursday.”


Title: From George Washington to Jacob Read, 11 August 1784
From: Washington, George
To: Read, Jacob

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon Augt 11th 1784.

I return the letter you were so obliging as to send me & thank you for the perusal of it—no copy has been taken—nor will any part of its contents transpire from me.
Although Mr Ls intelligence may come from a man of information, and tho’ it is undoubted, that the British Cabinet wish to recover the United States to a dependence on that government, yet I can scarcely think they ever expect to see it realized, or that they have any plan in contemplation by which it is to be attempted; unless our want of wisdom, and perseverence in error, should in their judgment render the effort certain.
The Affairs of Ireland, if our accts from thence are to be relied on, are in too turbulent a state to suffer G. Britn to enter very soon into another War with America, even if her finances were on a more respectable footing than I believe them to be, and her prospect of success must diminish as our population encreases, and the governments become more consistent—without the last of which indeed, any thing may be apprehended.
It is however as necessary for the Sovereign in Council, as it

is for a General in the field, not to despise information; but to hear all—compare all—combine them with other circumstances, and take measures accordingly—Nothing I acknowledge would sooner induce me to give credit to a hostile intention on the part of G. Britain than their continuing (without the shadow of reason, for I really see none they have) to withhold the Western Posts on the American side the line from us; and sending, as the Gazettes mention, Sir Guy Carleton over as Vice Roy to their possessions in America; which it seems is to undergo a new organization.
The opinion I have here given you will readily perceive is founded upon the idea I entertain of the temper of Ireland—the imbicility of G.B.—and her internal divisions; for it is with pain I add, that I think our Affairs are under wretched management—and that our conduct, if Great B: was in circumstances to take advantage of it, would bid her hope every thing; while other Powers might expect little from the wisdom, or exertion of these States.
I thank you for your proferred Services to the Eastward—I have nothing at this moment to trouble you with, but wishing you may find the air of Rhode Island salubrious & beneficial to your Mother I have the honor to be with Great Esteem—Sir Yr most Obedt and very Hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Tench Tilghman, 11 August 1784
From: Washington, George
To: Tilghman, Tench

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon Augt 11th—84.

I shall essay the finishing of my Green Ho. this fall; but find that neither my own knowledge, or that of any person abt me, is competent to the business.
Shall I, for this reason, ask the favor of you to give me a short detail of the internal construction of the Green House at Mrs Carrolls?
I am perswaded now, that I planned mine upon too contracted a Scale—My House is (of Brick) 40 feet by 24 in the outer dimensions—& half the width is disposed of for two rooms back of the part designed for the Green House; leaving

not more than about 37 by 10 in the clear for the latter. As there is no cover on the walls yet, I can raise them to any height.
The information I wish to receive is on the following points.
The dimensions of Mrs Carrolls Green House?
What kind of a floor is to it?
How high from that floor to the bottom of the Window frame?
What height the Windows are from bottom to top?
How high from the top to the Cieling?
Whether the Cieling is flat? or of what kind?
Whether the heat is conveyed by flues and a grate?
Whether the grate is on the out, or inside?
Whether the Flues run all round the House?
The size of them without, and in the hollow?
Whether they join the Wall, or are seperate from it?
If the latter, how far are they apart?
With any other suggestions which you may conceive it necessary to give.
I should be glad to hear from you on this subject soon, as I shall leave home on or before the first of Next Month on a journey to the Westward, and wish to give particular directions to the workmen before I go. I hope you will excuse the trouble the solution of these enquiries will occasion. I am—Dr Sir Yr most Obedt Hble Servt

Go: Washington

P.S. I have received the Carpenters Indentures.


Title: To George Washington from George Augustine Washington, 11 August 1784
From: Washington, George Augustine
To: Washington, George

Honor’d Uncle
Bermuda Augt 11th 1784

Anxious to procure a conveyance to write my friends I called on the Naval Officer to make the inquiry, where I met with a

Capt. clearing out for Philadelphia but could not think of suffering Him to depart without informing You of my arrival tho’ I have only time to write a line—happy should I be could I inform You of my recovery, but the fatigues of my passage to the West Indies and the inconvenience I experienced from the Climate and my passage to this place has greatly reduced and injured me, but this being a more settled climate than the West Indies I flatter myself with the hope of experiencing relief from it, but as yet I cannot judge as I arrived only the 6th Inst.—nothing would afford me greater relief than to hear from You and my friends—their is a Vessel which is expected to leave this in eight or ten days for New York which will return, if Letters were forwarded to the care of the Governor I should get them, as I shall request the Capt. to call on Him, but to render it still more certain if they were put under cover to Colo. Biddle as a conveyance may offer from Philadelphia, if not to be forwarded to the Governor where I hope this Vessel will certainly go. I will also beg a few lines to be forwarded to Norfolk as their are often conveyances from that place—my anxiety to hear from You and my friends will I hope apologise for the request—I shall write Mrs Washington and Miss Fanny Bassett by the conveyance to Norfolk who with all other friends beg most affectionately to be rememberd—my constant prayers attend You all—most sincerely I am Your affectionate Nephew

Geo: A. Washington


Title: To George Washington from Francis Mentges, 12 August 1784
From: Mentges, Francis
To: Washington, George

Sir
Philadelphia, the 12th Augt 1784.

Having been in expectation of being appointed to command the Troops to be raised by this state  but the arrival of Colonel Harmar (who will get the appointment) disappointed my hopes —I have now no other resource left but to return to Europe and Seek to be employed in the service of the Elector of Palatine or by the Emperor. I therefore take the liberty to request of your Excellency a testimony of my Services from the beginning of 76 to the end of the war which I shall esteem the greatest favour.I have the honor to be with the Highest esteem Your Excellencys Most obt Servt

F. Mentges


Title: To George Washington from Jacob Read, 13 August 1784
From: Read, Jacob
To: Washington, George

Sir
Annapolis [Md.] 13th August 1784

This days post brought me your favour of the 11th, which I have the pleasure of Answering from Annapolis—having been prevented leaving Maryland by a Variety of Occurrencees in the last Week—I think however I Shall at all events get away in the Course of the next week & probably So early as to Compleat my Journey to Philadelphia.
I thank you for your Opinions, they Concur perfectly with my own Sentiments on those Subjects and I am Sorry to add there is too much truth in your Observation on the Management of our Affairs—Let the Blame fall where it ought, on those whose Attachment to State Views, State Interests & State prejudices is so great as to render them eternally opposed to every Measure that Can be divised for the public good.
The evil is not however as yet intirely incurable. I hope and trust the Next Congress will be more wise & be able to avert the Mischiefs, that appear to me to threaten the Union—If that Cannot be done we must look about & see if some more Efficient form of Government Cannot be divised—I have long entertained my doubts of the present form even if the States were all disposed to be honest & am sorry to say such a Conclusion wou’d however be against premises, I will determine nothing Rashly, & hope for the best. my most strenuous endeavours shall not be wanting to secure the peace & stability of the federal Union & the government as long as it is possible but I own I shall not hesitate to join in attempting another When I see from experience that we have instituted is not adequate to the purposes for which it was ordained—Congress either Has too little, or too much power. to be respected they must be enabled to enforce an Obedience to their Ordinances—else why the Farce of Enacting what no State is bound to Execute. If this is denied Congress is I think an Unnecessary & useless Burden & shoud not hold from the Individual States a great many powers, which they Cant exercise & had better be Remitted to the Individual Sovereignties—of this more at another time—I ask Your Excellencies pardon for so long trespassing on your patience at this time without treating the subject more Copiously & Conclusively.

Col. Hy Laurens is arrived at New York in 7 weeks from London & brings advices that the King & Ministry of great Britain are very favourably disposed towards the U/S & wish to have a liberal Commercial treaty.
The Marquis de la Fayettee came to Philadelphia on the 9th Inst. advices from our Ministers abroad by his hands were by him delivered to Mr Mifflin at N. York & are not yet come to hand.
What think You of the State of New York undertaking to hold a Treaty of its own Authority with the Six Nations in defiance of our Resolves and the Clause of the Confederation Restricting the Individual States—The Governour is actually now at Albany for the purpose—Such a Step will Render all our Endeavours abortive & be attended with worse Consequences with Respect to the Indians than almost any other that State Cou’d take—tis said to be under an express Law of the State—If this Conduct is to be pursued our Commissioners are Rendered useless.
As long as the Savages believe there are distinct Independent & perhaps Jealous powers to treat with them they will Certainly avail themselves of the Circumstance much to the disadvantage of the Union—New York has taken no Steps with Regard to the Troops Required for Garrisoning the N. Western frontier.
I beg my best Respects to your Lady & that you will always believe me to be with the greatest Regard & most perfect Esteem Sir Your Excellency’s most obliged & most obedient Servant

Jacob Read

P.S. The Committee of the States is broken up, the Members from the Eastern States & from New Jersey having gone off on Wednesday in a most extraordinary manner.


Title: To George Washington from William Smith, 13 August 1784
From: Smith, William
To: Washington, George

Most worthy Sir
Vienna, Eastern Shore of MarylandAugt 13th 1784

Being at this Place, on a Journey for the Purpose of collecting in the former Subscriptions, & raising some new Ones for our College, I met the Bearer, Mr David Arell, who lives at Alexandria, & gives me an Opportunity of enclosing & forwarding for your Perusal, the printed Account of Washington-College, the List of Subscribers & present State of the Seminary. The Design of the Publication is obvious from the Title-Page &c. With the Advice of Govr Paca & others of the Visitors, we have also a Lottery on Foot, which may be at least an excusable Means of drawing some Aid from some, whose public Spirit might not otherwise induce them to subscribe. Enclosed is the Scheme of the Lottery, which we have Reason to hope may be full by Novr the Time mentioned. We have disposed of a considerable Number of Tickets in Baltimore, & on this Shore, the different Counties take their Proportion.
If your Excellency could think of any friend to Learning in Alexandria, who might be engaged to dispose of some of the Tickets & would by Post, via Philada directed to me at Chester in Maryland, favor me with the Name, we would forward the Tickets by the Stage.
Your Goodness, I know, will excuse this Trouble, which I would not dare to give you, if your Wishes for the Prosperity of this College were not publickly known—The Building rises fast, & will be covered in this Fall, if our Subscriptions can be tolerably collected. We have near forty Workmen employed, & our Expence is at about £100 pr Week, which occasions myself & some others a good Deal of Labor & Care, to keep all afloat. I

have the Honor to be with the most perfect Regard Your most obedt humble Servt

William Smith

P.S. I shall be at Philada from the 24th Augt to 1st Septr. If you should honor me with any answer, wch may reach Philada about that Time, it may be sent to the Care of General St Clair Philada.


Title: To George Washington from Jean Le Mayeur, 14 August 1784
From: Le Mayeur, Jean-Pierre
To: Washington, George

sir
new york august 14. 1784

among the many civilities I had the honor of reciving in your Excellencys family  there was one which little master George frequently showed in lending me his blue horse when I had occasion to ride—I have been so fortunate since my return to this City as to meet with a little red horse which I beg to have the pleasure of presenting to him as a token of my regard. this little horse is just big Enough for the little house which master George and myself built upon the side of the hill.
I shall always remember with singular pleasure and Gratitude the marks of a kind and generous regards which have been Evident in the attentions I have had the honor of Experiencing from your Excellency and Lady Washington.
I beg leave to present my most respectfull regards to Lady Washington to the amiable sutor to major Washington of whom I hope she has recived some newse, to mrs Stuede, Mr and Mrs Leon Washington. I have the honor to be with parfect Respect of your Excellency your most humble & obeisant serviteur

docr Le mayeur


Title: To George Washington from George Augustine Washington, 14 August 1784
From: Washington, George Augustine
To: Washington, George

Honor’d Uncle
Bermuda Augt 14th 1784

On the 11th Inst. I wrote You a few lines by an accidental conveyance which left this for Philadelphia—You are before this I hope acquainted with my having left the West Indies destined for this place as I wrote You on the day of my departure. I much lamented the necessity, as nothing was omit’ed to render my time agreeable, and I experinced as much pleasure as the situation of my health and absence from my freinds would permit, but a short time gave me reason to doubt, and daily experience then convinced me that no climate could be more improper, as I sensibly felt an increase of indisposition—from the 23d of June which was the time of my arrival untill my departure on the 25th Ulto (four or five days excepted) their fell powerful rains almost incessantly which interupted every persuit which could be conducive to health, my fealings urged me to leave it even sooner than I did, but inclination aided by the hope of a more favorable change induced me to continue—the present and two ensuing months being consider’d the most disagreeable, I could not hazard the consequences which experience convinced me would result from it—as yet (tho’ I have been here but eight days) I have no cause to complain of the climate tho’ I have been a part of the time much indisposed owing in some measure I hope to the fatigues of my passages from which I have experienced the contrary effects, to what I hoped, what with the fatigues of my passage to & from the West Indies, I am at present much reduced but a perfect relyance on divine Providence gives me the greatest hopes of restoration—the pain in my Breast, & sides, continue as heretofore intirely unattended with the symptoms usual in consumptive complaints, I theirfore divest myself of all apprehensions of that nature, and should I not derive such essential benefit from the climate, as to promise me the fairest prospects of recovery, I shall return in November,

as the ease and satisfaction I enjoy among my friends, when compared with the many inconveniencies I have to encounter will I am persuaded render the climate of my own Country equally efficatious, and was it not for a determination of complying with the wishes of You and my friends which I am convinced proceeded from the purest motives of affection, I should not have hesitated to have returnd from the West Indies—The difficulty of procuring fresh provision and the prises are astonishing, the expences in the West Indies which I thought could not be exceeded are not to be compair’d to this place, it is seldom any thing is to be procured but Fowles—Ducks which are more plentiful than any thing else are seldom got for less than 2/6 and sometimes ½ Dollar and Dunghill fowls ⅓ of Dollar and every thing in proportion—Horse hire 1 Dollar ⅌ day the Inhabitants are very hospitable and have treated me very politely, and I hope the climate will prove salubrious, which is all that can recommend the place, what I have seen of it is in a perfect state of nature, and appears as little favord by the hand of Providence as any place I ever saw—during the hurricane Months conveyances from this are not very frequent but shall not omit writing by any that may offer could I but hear from You and my friends I should be greatly relieved from many anxious thoughts that I cannot possibly devest myself of—any letters that my friends may be so good as to favor me with will probably meet with a conveyance if they are recomd to the care of Saml Birks & Co: Norfolk who have connections on this Island, their is also a conveyance which will offer from New York that I mention’d in the few lines I wrote You the other day by the way of Philadelphia—should my worthy friend the Marquis be with You I beg to be rememberd to him in the most friendly terms. I should have wrote Him but apprehending from a peeice of information I recieved from a person immediately from Philadelphia, that He had not accomplished His visit, He mentiond that accounts had been recieved of His having saild but from a desaster that befel the Vessel He was obliged to return —to all inquiring friends I beg particularly to be rememberd—the sinceerest good wishes of a truely grateful heart attend You—most sinceerly I am Your dutiful & affectionate Nephew

Geo: A. Washington

P.S. If You wish a supply of Orange, Lemmon & Lime Trees for Your Green-House, I will procure what ever you wish and bring them with me.


Title: From George Washington to Chastellux, 20 August 1784
From: Washington, George
To: Chastellux, François-Jean de Beauvoir, marquis de

My Dr Sir,
Mount Vernon 20th Augt 1784

The Marqs de la Fayette, who I had been long looking for with the eyes of friendship and impatience, arrived here on Tuesday last  and presented me your favor of the 16th of June.
I thank you My Dr Sir, for every testimony of your recollection of me, and every fresh assurance you give me of the continuation of your friendship is pleasing: it serves (to borrow an Indian phraze) to brighten the chain, & to convince me that you will not suffer moth or rust to injure or impair it. We talk of you often, and tho’ we wish in vain to have you of our party, we do not fail to drink your health at Dinner every day. I will not give up the hope of seeing you at Mount Vernon, before I quit the stage of human action—the idea woud be too painful—I must indulge a contrary one.
As I have no communications at this time that are worthy of your attention, and a house full of company to claim mine. I shall, as the Ship by which I write has Spread her canvas wings, only add new assurances of what I hope you were before perfectly convinced, that I am with the greatest esteem & regard—My D. Sir Yrs &c. &c.

G: Washington


Title: From George Washington to James Crane, 20 August 1784
From: Washington, George
To: Crane, James

Sir,
Mount Vernon 20th Augt 1784

The enclosed letter which is left open for your perusal, will give you my sentiments respecting the sale of the Widow Bartletts Lease. Please to seal, before you send or deliver it. I shall have no objection to a transfer of the purchaser, if likely to fulfill the objects I had in view—& the conditions of the Lease are complied with. I am Sir &c.

G: Washington


Title: From George Washington to William Drew, 20 August 1784
From: Washington, George
To: Drew, William

Sir,
Mount Vernon 20th Augt 1784

My inducements to lease Land were, to encourage emigration & to improve my property by planting industrious settlers on it; who, while they were working the soil would, for their own convenience, add value to the Tenements by buildings &c.—with this view I restrained the sale of my leases without my consent.
Having premised this, I wou’d next ask if you mean to build & reside on the Land, you express a wish to purchase from the

widow Bartlett? If you do, I should be happy in having you for a tenant, but if you intend it only for a quarter, under the management of an overseer, I must withhold my consent, because (tho’ I am far from making any personal application) instead of improvements which wou’d add value to the Farm; I should expect, in such a case, to have it destroyed by incessant working; & rendered of no value by the time the lease might fall in—which would be defeating the principal objects I had in view from the grants of them, & injuring myself. I am Sir &c.

G: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Duportail, 20 August 1784
From: Washington, George
To: Duportail, Antoine-Jean-Louis Le Bègue de Presle

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon 20th Augt 1784

The Marqs de la Fayette who arrived at this place on tuesday last, gave me the pleasure of receiving your letter dated at Paris the 16th of June—& of learning from it, that you had not relinquished the idea of visiting a Country, on whose theatre you have acted a conspicuous part. Be assured Sir, that at whatever time, & under whatever circumstances this may happen, I shall be among the first to give you a welcome reception.
Several circumstances conspired to prevent my making the tour with the Chevr de la Luzerne, to the Great Cataract of Niagara; but that which had most weight with me, indeed which an insurmountable objection, was, the British (without even the colour of pretence), holding that, & the intermediate

Post of Oswego. I did not choose to make the trip upon curtesy; nor to place myself in a situation where either a denial or any indignity might be offered in the prosecution of it.
I pray you to offer my best wishes to any of the Gentlemen of your Corps with whom I have the pleasure of an acquaintance, when you see them. Mrs Washington thanks you for your kind remembrance of her, & begs you to accept her compliments. I am Dr Sir, with great esteem Yrs &c.

G: Washington


Title: From George Washington to La Luzerne, 20 August 1784
From: Washington, George
To: La Luzerne, Anne-César, chevalier de

Sir,
Mount Vernon 20th Augt 1784

The letter your Excellency did me the honor to write in the moment of your departure from this Country, conferred the highest honor upon me, & is not more flattering to my vanity, than it is productive of my gratitude.
I shall ever reflect with pleasure Sir, on the readiness with which your communications to me have been made; & the dispatch & ability with which you have conducted business in the line to which I was called—and what will render these reflections more precious, is that you have accompanied them with marks of friendship & confidence which were as pleasing as they are honorable.
When I add Sir, that you have impressed me with sentiments of sincere respect and attachment, I do not speak the language of my own heart only; it is the universal voice, and your departure will always be regreted. The only consolation left us is, that you are gone to receive the smiles & approbation of a Prince, who knows full well how to distinguish, & how to reward merit.
It would give me great pleasure to make you a visit in France—to pay my respectful homage to a Sovereign to whom America is so much indebted—and to renew the friendships which I have had the honor to contract with so many respectable characters of your Nation, but I despair—my fortune has been injured by the war, & my private concerns are so much deranged, as to require more time to recover them than comports with the years of a man who is sliding down the stream of life as fast as I

am—But whether I am in this or that Country, or wheresoever I may be, nothing will lessen the respect, or shake the attachment with which I have the honor to be Dr Sir Yrs &c. &c.

G: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Rochambeau, 20 August 1784
From: Washington, George
To: Rochambeau, Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de

My dear Count,
Mount Vernon Augt 20th 1784.

I thank you for your favor of the 16th of June by the Marquis de la Fayette, who arrived here three days ago—and for your other letter of the 4th of May which, also came safe, permit me to offer you my sincere congratulations on your appointment to the Government of Picardy. It is an honorable testimony of the approving smiles of your Prince, & a just reward for your Services & merit. Should fortune ever put it in my power to come to France, your being at Calais would be an irrisistable inducement for me to make it a visit.
My letters from Philadelphia (public & private) would give you a full acct of every matter & thing respecting the Society of the Cincinnati, and upon what footing all claims to the order were, thereafter, to be decided—to these referring, I shall save you the trouble of reading a repetition. Considering how recently the K—g of Sw-d-n has changed the form of the Constitution of that Country, it is not much to be wondered at that his fears should get the better of his liberallity at any thing which might have the semblance of republicanism, but considering further how few of his Nation had, or could have, a right to the Order, I think he might have suffered his complaisance to have superceded his apprehensions.
I will not trouble you with a long letter at this time, because I have nothing worthy of communication. Mrs Washington who is always pleased with your remembrance of her, and glad to hear of your welfare, prays you to accept her Compliments & best wishes; mine are always sincere—and offered (tho’ unknown) to Madame Rochambeau—the Viscount your Son—& any of the Officers of the army you commanded in America who may be with you, & with whom I have the honor of an acquaintance.

With great esteem & regard I am My dear Genl Yr Most Obedt & Most Hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Stephen Sayre, 20 August 1784
From: Sayre, Stephen
To: Washington, George

Sir
George Town [Md.] August 20th 1784

The importance of clearing the river & the necessity of doing so immediatly induces me to offer Some thoughts on it to your Excellencys Consideration to prevent the Fatall consequ[e]nces of delay. I wish any kind of Navigation or Mode of bringing down productions by Water May be adopted, that no time may be lost in removing prejudices, which are worce than the Rocks in our way, or advantages lost in application to bodies of Men who may Never agree—Governor Johnson & his friends, I am told, are more than Confident they Shall clear the Seneca Falls within a few weeks—let them do so—my opinion is that, with a few hundered pounds, the great & little Falls may be mead equally Navigable, to anything they will be able to do at the Seneca. It is difficult, in a letter, to explain the Various things which different parts would require, but whereever the waters were too rapid anchors made to fitt the Purpose by taking hold of Solid Rocks Chains & boats, Properly placed, & a few Bouys to direct the Channel would be all that is wanting except in two places, where Some part of the Rocks must be blown to make the decent Some what gradual, wide enough to let 2 Boats pass, the decending one to force up the other, which is infinitly more Simple & more certain of Perpetuall use then any Lock can be—If I am well informd as to the Shanadoah Falls, boats may assend & decend there without removing any Rocks; a force like this, on the same Simple plan, will then make them Navigable also.
I am clearly of opinion that a practicable Navigation may be immediate, & done by a few Gentlemen as a Company—looking forward either to improve it or apply to the Legislatures of the two States to incorporate them, & others who may wish to do it on a more large & expencive Scale. If you have doubts as

to this being done—I mean a practical navigation. I should be hapy to attend you on the Spot, when I could point out the mode of doing it with great facility.
If your Excellency has no hops as to this expedient I offer the following thoughts, as to raising the Money, for the most extensive Improvements A board of respectable Trustees, being named & incorporated vacancies to be supplyd so as to make it perpetuall &c. &c. any given Sum will probably be subscribed by Classing People of the same age—The benifits or profits arising from the Toll to be paid annually to the Survivors of each Class in Proportion to their Stock.
For instance, suppose persons class’d as follows

                  50 from 35 to 40
                  at 250 dollars
                  each
                  Drs 12500

                  50 from 30 to 35
                  at 250
                  do
                  12500

                  50 from 25 to 30
                  at 250
                  do
                  12500

                  50 from 20 to 25
                  at 250
                  ditto
                  12500

                  50 from 15 to 20
                  at 250
                  do
                  12500

                  50 from 10 to 15
                  at 250
                  do
                  12500

                  50 from 5 to 10
                  at 250
                  do
                  12500

                  50 Children under 5 Years
                  at 250,
                  do
                  62500

                   Capital Stock in Dollars.

                  150000

The trustees to make no dividend for the first five years, & none to the Class of Children till after 15 Years; because children do not want it Sooner. & they are likely to lie longer on the Toll, which is to be liberated only on the death of all, but ought to be lightened as the Classes fall off—I should imagine that sixpence ⅌ Ton on Goods would be a suffiecent inducement for subscribers, and that only one place of Payment, & that below the lowest fall ought to be established—I conceive the fund would fill rapidly from the great hops of a high Interest, its security, its certain encrease & from certain death, which must Soon double the Sum to the Survivor—The dead want no money—the living are sure of It. If any of the Capital remains, even after finishing the work, it may be apply’d to a further Navigation, or if the Trustees, looking forward to public Improvements, want money, they may open fresh Subscriptions & render many other parts of this vast Continent Solid & enviable Services—the act therefore ought to invest them with a power of doing so.
Your Excellencys good sense will decide as to the numbers of

each Class, or whether it will not be necessary to have more Children—I think it would; for who would not wish to provide for a Child at the price proposed.
I should like to try the experiment of Subscription on condition that the States sanctify the measure, and am Sure if you will take the lead in it, with some respectable Gentlemen in the Neibourhood, no money would be wanting. I am with all possible respect & veneration most devotedly Your Excellencys very humble Servant

Stephen Sayre


Title: From George Washington to Reuben Harvey, 25 August 1784
From: Washington, George
To: Harvey, Reuben

Sir,
Mount Vernon 25th Augt 1784

Captain Stickney has presented me with your favor of the 25th of May—together with the mess-beef & ox tongues, for which you will please to accept my best thanks.
I do not raise Tobacco on my Estate nor am I possessed of a pound at this time; otherwise I would with pleasure consign a few Hogsheads to your address, under full persuasion, that no person would do me more justice in the sale of them. Wheat or flour of the last year’s produce, is either exported or consumed; that of the present year, is not yet got to market—what prices they will bear in this Country is not for me to say: but tho’ I do not walk in the Mercantile line, except in wheat (which I manufacture into flour)—I should nevertheless, thank you for any

information respecting the prices of these articles. With very great esteem & regard I am Sir &c.

G: Washington


Title: From George Washington to James Mercer, 25 August 1784
From: Washington, George
To: Mercer, James

Dear Sir,
Mount Vernon Augt 25th 1784.

My Sister handed me your favor of the 18th.1 thank you for the advice respecting the mode of conveying a title for the Lands I purchased at your Brother’s Sale, & will pursue it; but necessity will oblige me to postpone the matter until I return from my Western jaunt; as, from Company & other circumstances, no leizure is left me to rummage for Papers before.
My letter to your Brother John Mercer, would have informed you, that I apprehended there were omissions in the account I transmitted, to my prejudice, as I had not been able to make any statemt of my Books, or to assort my Papers (wch by frequent removals to get them out of the enemy’s way, were in sad disorder) since my return. I am much obliged to you for the Memm taken from your journal, especially as I am in a way to be a considerable sufferer from my advances to obtain, & Survey the Grant of 200,000 Acres of Land under Dinwiddies proclamation. Many of the Grantees never having paid me a Shilling.
The enclosed letter will give you every information in my power respecting Vanbraam—when you have read it please to return it to me, as it has received no acknowledgement yet. With very great esteem & regard I am—Dr Sir Yr most obt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to William Smith, 25 August 1784
From: Washington, George
To: Smith, William

revd Sir,
Mount Vernon 25th Augt 1784

Your letter of the 10th from Vienna, was more than ten days on its passage to me. It found me with company, & busily preparing for a journey which I am about to commence in a few days to the westward. I did not fail however to mention the purport of your wishes to Mr Arell who was the bearer of your packet to me. He offering his services to dispose of your lottery tickets—I do not know where two or three hundred could be better placed in Alexandria, & if you will send him that number, he has promised me that his ex[er]tion for the sale of them shall not be wanting.
I thank you for your printed account of Washington College. My best wishes will always attend it, and I am with great respect, Revd Sir Your mo: obedt humble Servt

G: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Walker, 25 August 1784
From: Washington, George
To: Walker, Thomas

Dr Sir,
Mount Vernon 25th Augt 1784

In April last I wrote you a letter, of which the enclosed is a copy—having received no reply to it, nor seen any meeting of the company summoned in the papers, I am lead to suspect it never got to hand—for this reason, and because I think a meeting of the company indispensably necessary, I have transmitted a copy. I am upon the eve of a journey as far as the Kanhawa, from whence I may not be returned ’till sometime in Novr—but I would not wish to have the meeting delayed on that account. I am &c. &c.

G: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Unzaga y Amézaga, 26 August 1784
From: Unzaga y Amézaga, Luis de
To: Washington, George

May it please your ExcellencySir
Havana 26th August 1784.

Immediately after General Stewart’s arrival here, he handed me your Excellency’s esteem’d favor of the 5th Feby this Year recommending me this gallant Officer, who remain’d here untill he finish’d settling his outstanding accts with the Inhabitants, wch without doubt were many, from the free Commerce carried on during the late War wth the Inhabitants of this Island.
I have procur’d General Stewart to be serv’d in all his Solicitations, & honor’d him all in my power, wch I have no doubt he will inform your Exy of, & repeating to your Exy the desire & wish I have of serving You—I remain &c.

Luis de Unzaga y Amezaga


Title: From George Washington to David Griffith, 29 August 1784
From: Washington, George
To: Griffith, David

Dr Sir,
Mount Vernon 29th Augt 1784

Colo. Fitzhugh informs me that the Academy at George town is upon a good establishment—that the Gentn at the head of it is very capable, and clever in conducting of it—that the school is in high estimation, & that the terms are £25 for board, & £6.10 for teaching, Maryland Curry. Under these circumstances, let me pray you to inform Mr Nourse that I think it a desirable place to fix my Nephews at—Colo. Fitzhugh adds—that as Mr Balch is a particular friend of his, he will write to him on the subject as I should prefer having them boarded at his house to that of any other in town. I am Dr Sir &c.

G: Washington


Title: To George Washington from William Gordon, 30 August 1784
From: Gordon, William
To: Washington, George

My dear Sir
Jamaica Plain [Mass.] Aut 30. 1784

Your obliging letter of the 10th instt was recd the last thursday. With the greatest pleasure I read of the health & welfare of Self & family. I was glad, that the Boston Paper came regularly; & that you may be perfectly satisfied with its continuance, inform You that it costs me nothing being admitted to the benefit of clergy—that the very covers which save my using my own paper when I write you letters cost me the same, the printer refusing to take any thing for them—that I have no further service for it when I have lookt over it—& that Mumford the Postman takes it every monday at my door in his way to Providence. The sending it serves as an amusement & relaxation on a day when from the work of the preceeding I am unfitted for close application.
The Friendship You discover in your second paragraph, for with me it shall not pass for mere politeness, calls for the warmest returns; & added to the pleasure with which I was feasting my mind, in the contemplation that through the aide of a Boston Merchant fully conversant with the business I had procured a quintal of the best fish that Marblehead afforded, & which only waited an opportunity of being put on board for Alexandria for your Excellency’s table. It is to go by the first ship that offers which I expect will be ere this can get to Mount Vernon. Whenever received view it as a small tribute, the mite of affection for services done to an insignificant individual, a rising & growing country, & the rights & liberties of mankind. I formed my purpose of thus expressing my gratitude, when I heard you while at dinner speak in praise of salt fish.
Mrs McCauly Graham expressed her obligation to you, upon

reading the paragraph respecting her. Mrs Haley is at Newport. You will have my wishes & prayers for your safety & success, whenever you put your pack saddles upon the beasts of burden & proceed upon your western expedition. That the class of settlers should pay more attention to convenience than right, is not to be so much wondered at, as that men in a superior form should have paid off their bonds to You for hard cash with depreciated notes at the rate of about a shilling in the pound, & at a period when You was hazarding your life for their liberties & property. But numbers have pretended great patriotism, while they have been destitute of common honesty, & were aiming only at private interest under the mask of public virtue. Thus it has been in all countries & in all ages; & the more the pity.
Your family, I judge, is increased by the presence of the Marquis. My most respectful compliments to him. You wished to get rid of all your Negroes, & the Marquis wisht that an end might be put to the slavery of all of them. I should rejoice beyond measure could your joint counsels & influence produce it, & thereby give the finishing stroke & the last polish to your political characters. Could it not be contrived that the industrious among them might be turned into copy-holders on the lands of their present masters, & by having a special interest in the produce of their labors be made ⟨mutilated⟩ more profit than at present? A⟨nd c⟩ould not this in its consequences excite the lazy to exertions ⟨tha⟩t might prove highly beneficial? I am not for letting them all loose upon the public; but am for gradually releasing them & their posterity from bonds, & incorporating them so in the states, that they may be a defence & not a danger upon any extraordinary occurrence.
Mrs Gordon unites in best wishes for your Excellency, your Lady, Dr Stewart & Lady, the grandchildren, Mr & Mrs L. Washington. When you see him pray remember me to Dr Craik. With the ⟨sincerest⟩ regard I remain my Dear Sir Your affectionate friend & humle Servt

William Gordon


Title: From George Washington to Jean Le Mayeur, 30 August 1784
From: Washington, George
To: Le Mayeur, Jean-Pierre

Sir,
[Mount Vernon] 30th Augt 1784

Your letter of the 14th accompanying the horse for little Washington came safe. It is not in my power to describe his delight, which is the best proof of his thanks to you—he finds beauty in every part, & tho’ shy at first, he begins now to ride with a degree of boldness which will soon do honor to his horsemanship.
Mrs Washington & all the family join me in best wishes for you. Mrs Lund Washington has added a daughter to her family—Miss Bassett is on a visit to her friends in the lower parts of this State—& I shall set off tomorrow on a tour to the Western Country. I shall always be happy to hear from you, & only wish for opportunities to make you amends for the attentions you have shewn me. This letter will be handed to you by the Marqs de la Fayette to whom I have mentioned you as one to whom I am under obligations. I am Sir, &c.

G: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Joseph Wright, 1 September 1784
From: Wright, Joseph
To: Washington, George

Phila. Septr 1st 84

J. Wrights respectful Compliments await Genrl Washington, and hopes he will not recollect how Long a Time has elapsed since this was to have been sent; as it was owing to its requiring some Alterations and there was no Bronze (the Stuff with which it is Covered) in America at that Time, He Begs Leave to assure Mrs Washington, that he has not forgot his Promise respecting the Large Bust, but hopes she will be as kind in excusing his delay, as she has been generous in her Frienship, and Promoting his Attempt.


Title: From George Washington to Daniel Morgan, 4 September 1784
From: Washington, George
To: Morgan, Daniel

Dr Sir,
[Berkeley County, Va.] 4th Septembr 1784.

Colo. Kennedy has owed me £28 these many years. Enquiring yesterday where he lived—& into his circumstances—I was told that he had lately sold land or houses in Winchester, to you; & that it might be in your power to obtain the balance which appears upon the enclosed accot due to me. If this should be the case, you would very much oblige me, as the money has been long due & I have always found it very difficult to get any from him. I am Dr Sir &c.

G: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Edward Snickers, 4 September 1784
From: Washington, George
To: Snickers, Edward

Dr Sir,
Berckeley [Va.] 4th Septr 1784

Several persons have been with me this day to rent the Land I bought at the sale of Colo. George Mercer’s Estate; but I find it

is essential that some one, or more of them, should engage for the whole rent; or, that I should delay renting it until the Land can be divided to the best advantage—so as that each Lot may have water, & a proportionate quantity of good Land. for these reasons I mean to avail myself of the kind offer you made me yesterday, of letting the two Lots (I bought as above) to the best advantage on my behalf.
Enclos’d is a plan of the Land wch may be some guide for you. I have told Williams who is a liver on one of the lots, that I have no objection to his having an hundred acres or more, provided he will give as much as another, & the laying it off does not hurt the other part. As to the rents, I suppose the same which Mr Burwell has, must govern—to wit—ten pounds & the Taxes, for each 100 acres —in other respects, my printed leases, one of which I enclose you, are to be shewn to the Tenants, & must be your rule & their terms —I do not mean to give Leases for lives; indeed I do not incline to exceed ten years: but if it shou’d be thought by the tenants, & this should be your opinion also, that ten years is too short to make the buildings & other improvments which are required by the printed copy I send you, I would lengthen them to 14 years.
There is one thing I think it necessary to caution you upon: my object being to have my Lands improved by an industrious class of reputable people, I would not lease any of them to persons who do not mean to reside thereon; or to those who have lands adjoining—because in either case I should expect to have my land hard worked (perhaps totally ruined), without those aids or improvements which are to be expected from residents, whose convenience & comfort wou’d call for many things, which never would be furnished Negro Quarters.
After you have done the needful, & hear of my return home, I shall thank you for information respecting this business. I am Dr Sir &c.

G: Washington


Title: Certificate for James Rumsey, 7 September 1784
From: Washington, George
To:

[Bath, Va., 7 September 1784]

I have seen the model of Mr Rumsey’s Boats constructed to work against stream; have examined the power upon which it acts; have been an eye witness to an actual experiment in running water of some rapidity; & do give it as my opinion (altho’ I had little faith before) that he has discovered the art of propelling Boats, by mechanism & small manual assistance, against rapid currents: that the discovery is of vast importance—may be of the greatest usefulness in our inland navigation—&, if it succeeds, of which I have no doubt, that the value of it is greatly enhanced by the simplicity of the works; which when seen & explained to, might be executed by the most common Mechanic’s.
Given under my hand at the town of Bath, county of Berkeley in the State of Virga this 7th day of September 1784.

G: Washington


Title: To George Washington from John Rumney, Jr., 8 September 1784
From: Rumney, John Jr.
To: Washington, George

Sir
Whitehaven [England] 8th Septr 1784

Having only arrivd a few Days ago, I have not opportunity of communicating to your Excellency as I could wish, the Particulars of the Enquiries you were pleas’d to honor me with. You may rely, Sir, on my Diligence in executing your Commission & giving you the earliest Advice. I have wrote to Newcastle abt a Bricklayer, that Place furnishing Mechanicks in that Branch preferable to any other in those Parts. As we shall have a Ship sailing in Jany for Alexandria I hope to send both by her. I write this by the Hope Ct. Cragg a fine new Ship, which my Partners & I send out, to Potomack. in which Vessel my Friend & Partner Mr Robt Sanderson goes, I shall esteem it a particular Favor, your Excellency’s honoring him with your Notice. I sincerely thank you, Sir, & Mrs Washington for the genteel Present of Sea Stock sent me off by your Boat. I remain with the greatest Esteem & Respect Your Excellency’s most oblig’d & h’ble Servt

John Rumney


Title: To George Washington from Rochambeau, 9 September 1784
From: Rochambeau, Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de
To: Washington, George

My Dear General
Paris the 9th September 1784.

I have the honour of Sending to you the new promotion Which has been done lately for the order of Cincinnatus according to the resolutions of the last meeting of the general Society. I also inclose in it the copy of a letter from M. le Mal de segur bearing the permission of his majesty for these new aggregated. you will See by it, at the Same time, that his majesty Stops all kind of farther demand, Which will disingage you, my Dear General, of great many demands Which certainly have been very troublesome to you.

I profit With the liveliest pleasure of all—these opportunities for giving to you the new assurances of the respect and inviolable attachment With Which I am my Dear General, Your most obedient and Very humble servent

le cte de Rochambeau

the Prince henry, Brother of the King of Prussia Which has dined at my house has Seen your Picture with great pleasure.


Title: To George Washington from Kersaint, 12 September 1784
From: Kersaint, Armand-Guy-Simon de Coëtnempren, comte de
To: Washington, George

Sir
york. [Va.] 12 Sept. 1784

It is with every imaginable Regret that I renounce representing in person to your Excellency, the Lettre which I have the honor of addressing to you —Charged by the King to visit these States at the head of a Squadron, I considered as the

highest Satisfaction connected with this mission, that of finding myself within the reach of presenting to your Excellency the homage of the Military Marine of France, and my Respect, and my particular Admiration—Adverse causes oblidge me to quit this Bay without having enjoyed that honor, and to quit America without having satisfied My most lively Desire, that of assuring your Excellency in Person of my Veneration & of the Respectful Sentiments with which I am Sir your Excellency’s most Humble and most obt Servant—


Title: To George Washington from Battaile Muse, 12 September 1784
From: Muse, Battaile
To: Washington, George

Honorable Sir,
Sept. 12th 1784

I have been Informed that you have a Considerable Sum of money due in Berkeley Frederick and Fauquier Counties from your Tenants—altho a Very disagreeable Office—I beg leave to solicit your Favour in Leting me have the Collection It being Convenient with Colo. Fairfax’s Collection As I attend the Courts and Sheriffs through which channel I expect some of the business will Pass[.] I am Oblig’d Frequently at Belvoir when I could make returns of the business. Should you think Proper to Intrust me with the business I shall be Very Perticular

in attending to your Commands for a Proof of which I refur you To your Brother Colo. Charles Washington the Two Mr Mercers and my General Character in business of that nature. I have the Honour to be Sir your Most Obedient Humble servant

B. Muse


Title: To George Washington from John Woddrop, 16 September 1784
From: Woddrop, John
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Glasgow [Scotland]Thursday the 16th day of September, 1784.

I having done myself the honour for to write to your Excellency on the 27th of July the last year, and to transmit along therewith a list of the different Manufacturies in the linen branch of bussiness in Scotland, and as I did do so with a vow to be of some use to the States of America, and also to serve the Mississippi Company, of which Company my brother Robert Woddrop, late factor & Merchant at Wiccocomica in Northumberland County in the State of Virginia, was a Member —I now do myself the honour to write to you at this time, and I do accompany the same with a letter from Thomas Ogden, Esquire, a very a considerable trader in the Woollen Manufactury, which Gentleman appearing to be very willing to be introduced into a connection with your Excellency and with the other Gentlemen who compose the Mississippi Company, and as I presume that a person of Mr Ogdens General, & Fair, & Fine Charractor, being of a very amiable & a just and most Honorable Charracter, as well as of great knowledge and of the most approven abilities, & Competent in the line of the branch of the Woollen &ca Manufactury, & whose house furnishes all the most approven & respectable houses in Great Britain with Woollen Goods, and also foreign places, as will appear by his letter, now

sent to your Excellency herewith, which is dated the 4th of the last month, and accompanying the same you have also a Number of Paterns of that Gentleman’s Manufactury, and I presume that your Excellency, & your friends, will be the better able to form a true knowledge of which part of such paterns will answer with you, if this should be of any use to the States of America, in General, or to your own connections &ca and meet the Approbation thereof, I will hold myself happy in having done so. At the same time, I am still ready to continue any farther tender of my services to the States of America, in General, & cheerfully, and most willingly to become a Citizen of these States, and if your Excellency & your friends approve of this offer, I will come out to these States in the Course of the next year, please God I am alive till then. I hope that neither that Country that Adopts me, nor that Country that give me birth, will ever need to be ashamed of me. The Manufacturers in the White Linen branch of bussiness and of the Lawn Muslin, Silk Gauze, & printed Linens, Fustains, &ca in this part of the Kingdom of Great Britain, and in many other places throughout Great Britain, are in a General ferment about the tax lately laid on these articles[.] Both the Master Manufacturers, Journymen, &ca and all who any manner or wise have their dependance on that branch of bussiness, cry down the tax, & all parts in this Country, wherein any Connection is with such a bussiness, are actually forming Committees to procure redress and a repail of that cursed tax, as they do all of them term it at Manchester in England, &ca. They are in a similar case & condition, and all of them reprobating the East India Compy whom they are naming the blood Suckers of the Poor in all parts of this country. There Cursed tea, they say, shed the blood of our American friends &ca, and that having done all they could to extirpate millions of the Natives in the Regions of the East, they want to Compleat their Murders by a Starvation of many thousand of English & Scotch Weavers &ca. Theory is, in General, Anihilate that most abominable East India Company. Or Else let them be conveyed over to their brave friends & Country Men in America. I have Conversed with many of them since the Wednesday Evening of the twenty Eight day of July last, this very present year, on which evening a Great and a numerous multitude of these manufacturers did assemble in the Park, or the Green, of

this City, but our Lord Provost, (Patrick Colquhoun, Esqr.) found means to pacify them on that evening. In this Country there is appearance of a plentiful harvest, but it’s thought it will be late about this part of our Country.
Any answer to this letter your Excellency may think proper for to send to me from your Most Worthy & Most Inestimable Person, or any otherwise you do me the honour to hear from your Excellency, will be received by me with all the due respectfulness such a honour is intitled to. With due respect, I have the honour to be, Sir, your Most obedient, And your Most Humble Servant

John Woddrop.


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Harrison, 17 September 1784 [letter not found]
From: Harrison, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Benjamin Harrison, 17 Sept. 1784. On 10 Oct. GW wrote Harrison: “I had the pleasure to receive your favor of the 17th ulto.”


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Freeman, 23 September 1784
From: Washington, George
To: Freeman, Thomas

Sir,
[23 September 1784]

The situation of my affairs on the Western Waters in the State of Pennsylvania & Virginia, requireing a Superintendant; & you having been pleased to accept the appointment, I must beg leave to point out to you the performance of such duties as are particularly necessary.
These will be to settle Tenants upon my Land; collect the rents which will arise therefrom—the Debts which will proceed from the sale of my copartnership effects—such others as may be due to me from persons living as above; and in general, to act & do (where no particular instruction is given) in the same manner as you would for yourself under like circumstances; endeavouring in all cases by fair & lawful means to promote my interest in this Country.
My Land on the Ohio & Great Kanhawa will be rented on the terms contained in a printed advertisement herewith given you; & as my disbursements will be great, I should prefer the last mentioned therein, to the other two—as the immediate profit arising therefrom is greatest —It is my wish also that each tract cou’d be rented on the same tenure, tho’ I do not bind you thereto.
The remainder of my untenanted Lands in the tract commonly called & distinguished by the name of Washington’s bottom, may be rented on the best terms you can obtain, until the close of the year one thousand seven hundred and ninety four—and no longer. Less than what I am to get from the other Tenants on the same tract (after allowing them three years free from the payment of rent) I should not incline to take: More I think ought to be had, & may be got.
My tract at the Great Meadows may be rented for the most you can get, for the term of ten years: there is a house on the premises—arable land in culture, & meadow inclosed; much of the latter may be reclaimed at a very moderate expence; which, and its being an excellent stand for an Inn-keeper, must render it valuable.
All my rents are to be fixed in specie Dollars (Spanish coin); but may be discharged in any Gold or Silver coin of equivalent value: the Tenants in all cases are to pay the Land-tax, which, to

prevent disputes, is to be expressed in the Leases; and it will be a necessary part of your duty to visit them at proper & convenient periods, to see that the Covenants, to the performance of which they are bound, are strictly fulfilled & complied with.
Where acts of providence interfere to disable a Tenant, I would be lenient in the exaction of rent; but when the cases are otherwise, I will not be put off; because it is on these that my own expenditures depend—& because an accumulation of undischarged rents is a real injury to the Tenant.
In laying off & dividing any of the Lands herein mentioned into Lots & tenements; particular care must be had that they are accurately surveyed—properly bounded—& so distributed as to do equal justice to the several Grantees, & to the Grantor—that a few may not injure the whole; & spoil the market of them.
If you should not have offers in a short time for the hire of my Mill alone, or for the Mill with 150 acres of land adjoining; I think it adviseable in that case to let it on shares; to build a good & substantial Dam of Stone where the old one stood—& to erect a proper forebay in place of the trunk which now conducts the water to the wheel—and, in a word, to put the House in proper repair. If you should be driven to this for want of a tenant; let public notice thereof be given, & the work let to the lowest bidder; the undertaker finding himself, & giving Bond & security for the performance of his contract. The charge of these things must be paid out of the first monies you receive for rent, or otherwise.
If I could get fifteen hundred pounds for the Mill & one hundred acres of Land most convenient thereto, I would let it go for that money.
As a compensation for the faithful performance of all these services, I agree to allow you five pr Ct for all the money which shall be collected & paid to me, or for my use; whether arising from rents, Bonds, Notes or open accounts; or from the sale of wheat or Flour taken for rents & converted into cash. Also twenty shillings Pennsa Curcy for every Tenant which shall be fixed on any of my Land, & who shall receive a Lease for the same on the terms mentioned: and the further sum of two dollars for every Lott which you shall lay off for such Tenants, together with such reasonable expences as may be incurred

thereby. Given under my hand at the plantation of Mr Gilbert Simpson this 23d day of Septembr 1784.

G: Washington

Note—There are four stacks of Hay on the Plantation, my sole property; & half of the grain to be disposed of for, & on my behalf—as also a young Stallion whose covering, or final sale I am to be benefitted by.

G: Washington


Title: To George Washington from David Humphreys, 30 September 1784
From: Humphreys, David
To: Washington, George

My dear General
Paris Septr 30, 1784

I was obliged to close my last Letter of the 18th of Augst so abruptly that I had not even time to tell you how much satisfaction it would afford me, should I be able by my communications to contribute in any degree to your amusement or information, as you were pleased to intimate—permit me now to assure you, that the delightful employment of thus conversing with my dearest General, under the restrictions which his prudence has had the precaution to suggest, will always be my highest gratification—and permit me at the same time to request that the following preliminaries may be understood: that my inclination as well as duty will prompt me to the fullest disclosure of my feelings & observations which may consist with propriety & prudence; that you will not, however, in this correspondence

expect too much entertainment from Letters which must sometimes be written in haste & perhaps on nugatory subjects; that you will in reading rather consider the intentions of the heart which dictates than the abilities of the hand that writes; and that you will impose it as a law upon yourself, not to be particular or to take any trouble in answering them but only by sometimes just repeating in three plain words that you still retain the same sentiment of friendship for me, which your actions as well as your words have taught me to believe existed in your breast.
And now that I am speaking of friendship, I will take the liberty of adding a few observations upon it—It seems to me that purity of heart, congeniality of disposition, sympathy of feelings, & an ardent desire to promote the happiness of the parties concerned are the constituents of this amiable passion; from thence it follows that these requisites being in the mind, inequality of age or circumstances is by no means an insurmountable obstacle to the existence of it. On the contrary those who have no objects of emulation or envy to obstruct the natural current of affections may expect to meet more candor, more disinterestedness, & more sincerity in each other; than those who are rivals in the various pursuits of life, whose views & interests often counteract each other, & who must in consequence view each others success with a jealous eye—happily nothing of this kind can ever take place between us—your course of glory is accomplished—you are safely landed in Port—& conscious I am, that influenced by friendship alone, it is the first wish of my heart to see some writer assume the pen, who is capable of placing your actions in the true point of light in which posterity ought to view them. That there is no one better able to perform this task than yourself, I am more & more convinced by reflecting on the subject myself as well from hearing the sentiments of others upon it—I have even gone so far as to revolve in my own mind the manner in which such a plan could be most happily executed. This I think would be by arranging the various Events into Campaigns, or particular Epochs—selecting from your Orders, Letters & Documents, everything that is the most interesting concerning these Events, either by extracting the substance or inserting the whole of such Papers as tended most to elucidate the Subject. I am my Dear Genl with every sentiment of affection Your friend

D. Humphreys.


Title: To George Washington from Daniel Morgan, 30 September 1784
From: Morgan, Daniel
To: Washington, George

Dr Sir
30th Septr 1784

I was Honored with your letter Enclosing an accompt against David Keneday. He had drawn every Shilling from me Long since, and I fear the debt is in a bad way. However I have kept the accompt & order, and If I can get by any barter or turn over so much in my hands I will secure it for you, and shall at the same time be happy to have it in my power to serve you and shall in future think myself Honored by any commands you chose to lay upon me. I have the honor to be with great regard your obedt Hble servt

Danl Morgan


Title: From George Washington to John Preston, 1 October 1784 [letter not found]
From: Preston, John
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: to John Preston, 1 Oct. 1784. On 6 Nov. Preston wrote GW: “In consequence of receiving your Excellency’s favour dated Rockingham Octr 1st 84. . . .”


Title: To George Washington from James Craik, 2 October 1784
From: Craik, James
To: Washington, George

Mount Vernon Octr 2d 1784

I have thought it might be more satisfactory to leave you the different Accounts I received respecting the Communication between the waters of the Yoheogany & the North Branch of Potowmack, that you might from a view of the whole Collect an opinion for yourself —it appears to me that the land Carriage from the Forks of Yoheogany to Cumberland which from a variety of Accounts will not be more than thirty miles is to be preferred to Sixty miles of difficult Navigation up the little Crossing, and twenty miles land Carriage afterwards, which is the distance from the little Crossing on the Turkey foot Road to Cumberland—If the Communication is to be carried on by the little Crossing, the Turkey Foot Road is to be preferred to Braddocks old Road, as it is infinitely better and above two

miles shorter. Indeed I found the whole Turkey foot Road across the mountains much better & nearer than Braddocks Road, that if there were good entertainment no one could hesitate in the choice.
I delivered your letter to Colo. Stenson, who informed me he had a few day’s before engaged his mare to Captn Tauneyhill, but offered me a horse Colt far above its value. He says he expects to be at Alexandria this month when he will endeavour to let you have some money. Colo. Bell will also be down & has promised to go and view the Falls of Yoheogany and report to you particularly on them —On my arrival at Colo. Warner Washingtons I wrote to your Brother Charles who next day called on Mr Gaunt, when he informed him that he was still in the mind of purchasing the Land and requested that you would leave your terms in writing and that if they were not very high he would take the land upon your word he said he knew what you gave for it —As you attend your Rout down I desird Bushrod to request him to come down to you as Soon as possible, which was his first intention. I have the Honour to be with the utmost Respect & affectn your Excellys Most obedt huml. Sert

Jas Craik

P.S. I have recd of Mr Lund Washington Twelve Pounds Seven Shillings & Sixpence being the Expences down, the General Account of Expences must be defer’ed untill I have the pleasure of Seeing you.


Title: To George Washington from Edward Newenham, 2 October 1784 [letter not found]
From: Newenham, Edward
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Edward Newenham, 2 Oct. 1784. On 20 Mar. 1785 GW wrote to Newenham: “I regret very much that your letters of the 2d & 13th of October should have been detained.”


Title: To George Washington from Sarah Bomford, 8 October 1784 [letter not found]
From: Bomford, Sarah
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Sarah Bomford, 8 Oct. 1784. On 15 Mar. 1785 GW wrote to her: “I have had the honor to receive your favor, & duplicate, of the 8th of Octor.”


Title: To George Washington from Lafayette, 8 October 1784
From: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de
To: Washington, George

My dear General
Albany October the 8th 1784

Every where I Have Met with delays—but so Agreable were they in their Nature that I Cannot Complain of them—it is not Quite the Case with the Indian treaty—Altho’ the Hope to Be Useful Has kept me there longer than I Had Expected—my presence at the oppening of it Had Been desired—Many Circumstances kept it off—at last it Began, and My influence with the indians was found Greater than I myself Could Expect—I was therefore desired to Speak—to Hearken to Answers—I took the liberty to Caution the Commissioners Upon Such Points as You Had Mentionned me—and did not leave the Ground Untill they thought they Had No farther Occasion for me—But as the Business is just Begining, I Cannot Give you any farther Intelligence, But that Grat deal of intrigue is Carried on By some tory indians of Brant party, and that the Whigg and tory distinctions Are kept up Among those tribes to an Amazing degree of private Animosities.
This day, My dear General, I am Going towards Hartfort, Boston, and Newport where the french ships Now are—and (as, if I went By land, I would Be So much kept of By my friends as to Be very late on our Appointed Meeting,) I intend Submitting Myself to the little Inconvenience of Going By Water from Rhode island to Williamsburg where I Hope to Be About the 26th and where I Will Be Happy to Receive the orders of My dear General.
Waiting Upon the Assembly in Richmond, and Visiting frederisburg on My way to Mount Vernon would Be My plan—But Expect Your orders to know where I am to Meet You—it is possible You Had Rather Not Go to Richmond—in a word, My dear General, as Your Paternal goodness to me Cannot Stand Upon any Kind of Ceremony, Give me Your orders—tell me what I Had Best to do—and I Shall Be As You well know Happy to obey them.
One thing, My dear General, I Very much wish You Might

grant Me—as the time of my stay in Virginia will depend Upon Your Advice Respecting french letters which I am to Receive there, as it will Be then a last Visit for this American trip of Mine—I Will Be Happy My dear General, if without Inconvenience to Yourself You may Come with me So far, at least, as Philadelphia where Your friends depend Upon me to Have an Opportunity to See You.
Could You Pay the Virginia Visits With me, Could I meet You Some where, or Frederisburg I Suppose, where in that Case I would Go Before I visit Richmond, it Should be to me a most Heartfelt Happiness.
I Beg Your Pardon, My Beloved General, But I want to See You, and No Heart Can Better feel the pleasure to Be with You than the filial Heart of Your Respectfull and affectionate friend

lafayette

the chevalier Begs leave to Be most Respectfully presented to you —We unite in Respects to Mrs Washington and Compliments to Mr Washington and Children—if you Hear from George, I Beg You will let me know it.


Title: To George Washington from George Augustine Washington, 9 October 1784 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George Augustine
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from George Augustine Washington, 9 Oct. 1784. On 25 Nov. GW wrote to William Washington: “From a letter dated the 9th of last month from my Nephew Geo: Augte Washington. ...”