Title: From George Washington to Tobias Lear, 25 September 1793
From: Washington, George
To: Lear, Tobias

            My dear Sir,
            Mount Vernon Sepr 25th 1793

          I have not written to you since we parted, but had just sat down to do it when your
            letter of the 13th instt was brought to me from the Post Office in Alexandria.
          It gave Mrs Washington, myself and all who knew him, sincere pleasure to hear that our
            little favourite had arrived safe, & was in good health at Portsmouth—We sincerely
            wish him a long continuance of the latter—that he may always be as charming &
            promising as he now is—that he may live to be a comfort & blessing to you—and an
            ornament to his Country. As a token of my affection for him, I send him a ticket in the
            lottery now drawing in the Federal City; and if it should be his fortune to draw the
            Hotel, it will add to the pleasure I feel in giving it.
          We remained in Philadelphia until the 10th instt. It was my wish to have stayed there
            longer; but as Mrs Washington was unwilling to leave me amidst the malignant fever which
            prevailed, I could not think of hazarding her & the Children any longer by my
            remaining in the City—The house in which we lived being, in a manner blockaded by the
            disorder which was becoming every day more & more fatal. I therefore came off with
            them on the above day, and arrived at this place the 14th without encountering the least
            accident on the Road.
          You will learn from Mr Greenleaf that he has dipped deeply in the concerns of the
            Federal City; advantageously I think for himself, and I am pleased with it on public
            ground also; as it may give facility to the operations at that place, at the same time
            that it is embarking him in a measure which, although it cannot well fail under any
            circumstances that are likely to happen, may be considerably promoted
            by men of Spirit with large capitols. He can, so much better than I, detail his
            engagements, & the situation of things in and about the City, that I shall not
            attempt to do it at present.
          Mrs Washington having decided to let Nelly Custis have her Watch & Chain, is
            disposed to receive substitutes in lieu there of at about Twenty five guineas price; and
            leaves the choice of them to you. The plainness of the Watch &ca will be no
            objection. One hundred and twenty dollars in Bank notes are enclosed for the purchase of
              them.
          If it should be convenient, and perfectly safe for you to engage for me, on reasonable
            terms, a compleat Black Smith, you would oblige me by doing so. As there are laws in
            England prohibiting such engagements under severe penalties, and such may exist in other Countries, you will understand me
            clearly, that, for no consideration whatsoever would I have you run the smallest risk of
            encountering them. You know full well what kind of a Smith would suit my purposes—it is
            unnecessary therefore for me to be particular on this head. He must, however, have a
            character on which you can rely not only as a compleat workman for a Farm, but as an
            honest, sober & industrious man. If he comes on Wages they must be moderate; &
            with, or without wages he must be bound to serve me three years, four would be
            better.
          Mrs Washington thanks you for your kind recollection of her request respecting Lincoln,
            and desires me to assure you of her sincere love for him—in which I Join—and of her
            friendship & regard for you. In whatever place you may be, or in whatever walk of
            life you may move, my best wishes will attend you, for I am & always shall be Your
            sincere friend and Affectionate Servant

            Go: Washington

            P.S. I have just received a letter from the Earl of Buchan in which he says my letter
              intended to accompany the Portrait had got safe to his hands, but that he had seen
              heard nothing of the Picture. If you should, while in New York see the Painter of it,
              be so good as to mention this circumstance to him, & enquire into the cause of the
                failure.
            The District attorney of New Hampshire has sent his resignation—I am entirely unacquainted with the characters in that line,
              in that State, and would thank you to name the person whom you
              think best qualified to succeed Mr Sherburne, & most likely to give general
              satisfaction.

            G. W——n


Title: To George Washington from William Powell, 25 September 1793
From: Powell, William
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            New Haven Septr 25th 1793

          Inclosed I have the Honor of forwarding you, the address of a number of the principle
            Merchants, Traders & other respectable Inhabitants of this City, in my favor for the
            Office of Collector of this district, who’s credibility will bear examination. I have the honor to be with the highest respect Sir Your most
            Obedient & most humble Servant

            Willm Powell


Title: From George Washington to Harriot Washington, 25 September 1793
From: Washington, George
To: Washington, Harriot

          Letter not found: to Harriot Washington, 25 Sept. 1793. On 16
            Nov., Harriot Washington wrote to
              GW: “I receiv’d My Honor’d Uncle’s letter of the 25 of September.”


Title: From George Washington to Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 25 September 1793
From: Washington, George
To: Jr., Oliver Wolcott,

          (private)
          Sir,Mount Vernon 25th Septr
              1793.
          Your Letter of the 20th instant came duly to hand. I am much
            obliged to Colo. Hamilton for sending me a copy of the Memorandum, describing the mode
            of treating the prevailing fever in his case—& to you for transmitting it. It gave me sincere pleasure to hear that he & mistress
            Hamilton have got so happily over the disorder—and I hope—Mrs Wolcott & yourself will escape it. The enclosed for Colo. Hamilton,
            you will be so good as to forward.
          An old acquaintance of mine—a respectable character & a staunch friend to the
            Government of the U. States, has requested of me what you will find in his Letter
              enclosed. I am anxious to comply with it—but do not,
            under existing circumstances, well know how to draw the money with regularity from the
            Treasury, on my own account; and therefore take this method of
            expressing my wish, and leaving it to your judgment to carry it into execution. my compliments to Mrs Wolcott—with esteem & regard, I
            am Sir, Your very humble Servant

            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Blackburn, 26 September 1793
From: Blackburn, Thomas
To: Washington, George

              Dear Sir
              Rippon Lodge [Va.] Sepr 26th
                1793.

            I take the Liberty of inclosing for your Perusal, some Extracts from a Letter I have
              just received from a Gentleman of Barbados; the Purport of which appears to me to be
              interesting to the United States of America: and as it may possibly not yet have come
              to your Knowledge, I think it my Duty to forward to You the Intelligence without
              Delay; submitting it entirely to your better Judgment, whether it deserves your
              Attention. The Writer of the Letter, is a Gentleman in the medical Line, with whom I
              had the Pleasure of making an Acquaintance, when in Barbados the last Winter, and his
              Veracity I think may be certainly depended on.
            I hope by the Return of my Messenger to hear that you & your Lady are in good
              Health—Mrs Blackburn joins me in most respectfull Compliments to both. I am, with the most perfect Esteem, Yr obedt humble Servt

              T. Blackburn


Title: Enclosure: Extract of a Letter from a Gentleman in Barbados, 9 August 1793
From: Unknown - Gentleman in Barbados
To: Blackburn, Thomas

              [Barbados] August 9th 1793

            I heartily congratulate your Country on your peace with the Savages; for, from what
              you tell me, I presume the Indian War is terminated—may this be your last War! but we
              are not without serious Apprehensions of a rupture between G. Britain & you. Without troubling You with a detail of many idle & unsupported
              Tales in circulation, it may be of Use to be informed, that on Tuesday last, (the 6th
              Instt) an Express arrived from the Governor of Bermuda, requesting Supplies of
              Ammunition &c., as he apprehended an immediate Attack from America. The Capt. of
              the Vessell sent Express, deliver’d his letter & message before a large Company at
              Pilgrim; for Governor Parry having left Barbados on the 21st of July, Mr Bishop, who
              succeeded him, as President, ⟨ha⟩d made this his first publick Day and had ⟨mutilated ⟩ out above eighty Cards—the News of course circulated over our little Island, with great rapidity; and was
              received with the most unfeign’d concern—Among others, Sir Philip Gibbes was a Guest
              at Pilgrim that Day, and on the next he came to me by 10 in the Morning & passed a
              long Day with me. We were quite alone—This gave me an
              Opportunity of discussing the subject with him, & as he is perfectly acquainted
              with the people in power at Home, what he offers deserves the most serious
              Attention—Mr Pitt, he is positive, is not willing to quarrall with America, & this
              pacifick temper is confirmed by his Mother, the avowed Friend of America, and to whose
              Opinion he pays great Deference: nothing therefore
              short of real unrepair’d Injury, will provoke the Minister to War, and from the
              Confidence we have in Wisdom & Integrity of your President & Congress, we take
              for granted that they will labour to obviate this. But your common People are rather
              licentious, and as appears by some of your papers, betray the greatest partiality to
              France—Add to this that the King is unrelentingly vindictive, & woud rejoice to be
              ⟨ j⟩ustified in sending Sword & Fire among you on⟨ce⟩ more.


Title: From George Washington to Joseph Harper & Company, 27 September 1793
From: Washington, George
To: Joseph Harper & Company

            Gentlemen,
            Mount Vernon. Septembr 27. 1793.

          Your Letter of the 10th instant enclosing a Memorial dated the 9th, never came to my
            hands until yesterday.
          I shall transmit both to the Secretary of State, to whom it would have been more
            regular for you to have applied in the first instance.
          The proofs will be necessary for his inspection & information (if the matter has
            not been acted upon by the American Minister at Paris) that he may be enabled to report
            the case fully for my consideration.

            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to William Wootton Brewer, 29 September 1793
From: Washington, George
To: Brewer, William Wootton

            Sir,
            Mount Vernon 29th Septr 1793.

          A Letter from you of the 20th inst: has been received, stating the distressed &
            truly affecting situation in which you are. Could my
            ability to do it, keep pace with my sincere desire to relieve the wants of the
            distressed, the request made in your letter to me would be chearfully complied with; but
            the numerous & pressing calls upon me for pecuniary aid from real objects of
            charity, & from those who are more immediately within my own knowledge, are such that I am under the necessity,
            however repugnant to my feelings, of declining to comply with your request but I can have no doubt however, that all those who are
            acquaintd with your merits and knowing to the circumstances as stated in your letter
            would readily contribute to make up such a sum as you require to commence business with.
            sincerely wishing that you may find means to extricate
            yourself from your present embarrassments, as represented in your Letter, I am Sir,
            &c.


Title: To George Washington from Charles Carter of Ludlow, 29 September 1793
From: Carter, Charles (of Ludlow)
To: Washington, George

            Dr Sr
            Fredg 29th septr 93

          I by Mr Fitz[hugh] of Chatham, reced your kind and Affectionate Letter. ten thousand times I am obliged by this mark of friendship ever
            greatfully shall I hold it in remembrance. I have the satisfaction to tell you, that by
            letter of the 15th from my sons, they had got their money, and have by this post,
            directd them, to let the hundred Dollars you so obligeingly directed the Comptroller Mr
            Wolcot to pay, lay in case by any unforeseen accident they should be in want, which hope
            will not be the case. as the sum reced by them of 45£ Va C. this by no means lessens my
            obligations to you my Friend. I have a letter of the 23d they then were well, but poor
            Charles, was attending to Mrs Hutchison, & Burgess Ball in the Putrid fever, so that
            my fears are great. I hope for the best, and must
            submit to the devine will.
          My best wishes in which Mrs Carter most affy joins me attend Mrs Washington and all at
            Mt Vernon & with esteem & regard I am Dr Sr your much obliged Obt &
            Affectionate Hble St

            Chs Carter


Title: Bartholomew Dandridge, Jr., to Jonathan Shaw, 29 September 1793
From: Dandridge, Bartholomew Jr.
To: Shaw, Jonathan

            Sir,
            Mount vernon 29 Septr 1793

          Your Letter, of the 23d instt has come to the hands of
            the Presidt who has directed me to acknowledge the receipt of it[.] Your situation
            therein described is indeed unfortunate, & such as He could wish to better (as
            nothing gives him more pleasure than to relieve the wants of the distressed, & to
            encourage industry)—did He conceive it to comport with the various pecuniary calls which
            he of necessity is obliged to answer, besides objects which are daily presenting
            themselves & demanding assistance; but so very numerous & urgent are they, that
            it is impossible that all can be accomodated. These circumstance put it out of his power
            to afford you the aid you ask, which, in other circumstances, it would give him pleasure
            to grant. I am Sir &ca

            B. D.

            P.S. The two Certificates sent are returned agreeably to your desire.


Title: To George Washington from Beverley Randolph, 30 September 1793
From: Randolph, Beverley
To: Washington, George

              Dear Sir
              Chatham [Va.] Sepr 30. 1793.

            When I had the Pleasure to see you at Mount Vernon, you express’d a wish to be
              furnishd, with the Information received, by the Commissrs for treating with the
              western Indians, from Capt. Wellbank; I therefore inclose you an Extract from my
              private Journal, which I believe contains the whole of the communication of any
              Importance made by that gentleman.
            Supposing that the present occlusion of the Public offices in consequence of the
              dreadful malady which afflicts Philadelphia, would probably prevent your receiving a
              copy of the Commiss⟨rs⟩ Report. I have also extracted for your Perusal the substance
              of what pass’d between the Indians & the Commissrs from the 29th of July to the
              16th of August. together with a full copy of the message received
              on that Day and the Commissrs Reply thereto. with
              Sentiments of real Respect I am Dr Sir Yr most obdt Servt

               Beverley Randolph


Title: Enclosure: Journal Extract about George Welbank’s Information, 13 August 1793
From: Welbank, George
To:

            August 13. Capt.
              Wellbank call’d to see the commissrs & dined with them. As he had lived among the
              Creek Indian & was conversant with the Cherokees we made inquiry into the causes
              of their present Dissatisfaction. His information was in substance as follows. That
              formerly the Creeks in general Council declared that they were
              willing to confirm to the United States the Lands ceded to them by Treaty as far as
              the north Fork of the Oconee but not to the South Fork. The Difference between a cession to one Fork & the other he says comprehends a
              tract of Country about 300 miles long by 70 to 30 miles broad according to the courses
              of the Rivers. That in June or July 1791 McGillivray wrote to general Knox informing
              him that the Creeks would not agree to relinquish their Lands Southward of the north
              Fork. Capt. Wellbank repeated the following as a Passage in McGillivrays Letter. “At
              our last meeting the articles of the Treaty were
              explain’d to the nations at large with Respect to the Apilachee or main South Branch
              of the Oconee it turnd out as I told you it would at New York. They will not agree to that but unanimously agree to the
              North Fork & hope Congress will require no more.” And then he goes on, said
              Wellbank to describe the Country between the two Forks mentioning the Qualities of the
              Land as well as its extent. He farther said that Thos. Gegg who is in the commission
              of the Peace but resides in the cherokee nation gave
              him a copy of the Letter which is said to have been transcribed from a South Carolina
              News Paper. The Dispute relative to the Lands lying
              between the two Forks of the oconee is assigned by Capt. Wellbank as the sole cause of
              the Creeks having refused to run the boundary line between them & the United
              States Wellbank farther inform’d that after the Treaty at new york when McGillivray
              was at new orleans the spanish governour blam’d the Creeks for giving up so much of
              their Country to the united states. McGillivray said the chiefs had done it. that the
              governour of New orleans sent among the Creeks Capt. Oliver a Frenchman [in] the
              Spanish Service who asked the chiefs why they had given away so much of their Land the
              chiefs laid the blame on McGillivray & he to excuse himself said that when the
              Treaty was made he was in an interior Part of an Enemy’s country & was compeld to
              give up the Land. That the gr. of New orleans told McGillivray he could not serve two
              masters he must therefore renounce the Spaniards or the united States; McGillivray
              then renounced the latter & was going to burn the Commission of Brigadier which he
              received from the President but the gr. told him that would be improper, if he meant
              to relinquish it he should return it inclosed in a Letter. These Facts Wellbank says are known to Richard Findleston a
              half breed of the Cherokee nation now living on Cumberland &
              was at New Orleans when McGillivray was there. Capt.
              Wellbank declared that Bowles had not arrived in the Creek Country to his Knowlege as
              had been reported but that he was really friendly to the united States. He inform’d us that the Spaniards had built a Fort of some
              strength at the Walnut Hills within the Territory of the United States. that when they
              began their work the Creeks were about to strike them supposing them to be Americans
              but on finding them to be Spaniards they permited them to proceed.
            Capt: Wellbank says the Cherokees object to the Treaty with Govr. Blount for the following Reasons
            1st That one Line is stated to pass forty miles beyond
              Nashville when they agreed only for ten miles & that in the Interpretation they
              were told it was ten miles.
            2d That the Govr promised them 2000 Dollars annually,
              that they demanded 3000 that the govr. said he had not authority to grant so much but
              would apply to Congress to allow the third thousand Dollars, when in fact the Treaty
              only stipulated the annual Payment of 1000 Dollars contrary to the Interpretation to
              them.
            3. That they never agreed to the Road or to the
              navigation of the Tenessee as mentioned in the 5th Article.
            4th That they did not agree to submit to Congress the
              Regulation of their Trade as mention’d in the 6th article.
            5th That the Interpreters were bribed by govr. Blount in
              consequence of which Carey had fled the Country. Capt. Wellbank says that Thompson
              (who is an Indian) the other Interpreter stands his ground but has in Effect
              acknowleged the bribery. Thompson said his Fee was 80 guineas. He told some of his
              acquaintance that he expected to bring in the Value of two Negroes as he had so much
              due for private services. Wellbank says he charged Carey with Bribery. In Excuse he
              said he told Thompson that he did not interpret truly but Thompson checkd him saying
              hold your Tongue it is none of your Business I am a native of the Land Carey spoke
              this in the presence of Sir Jno: Nesbit & another gentleman of South Carolina. Capt. Wellbank thinks that the united states have not
              received Just Information of the Dispute with the Cherokees. All the Persons employed
              he says are Land Jobbers interested to misrepresent. He also says that as soon as govr
              Blount was appointed governour of that Territory genl Pickens told
              the Cherokees that a worse man for them could not have been appointed that he loved
              Land & would all theirs. Capt. Wellbank farther inform’d that three stations are
              erected in the Ch⟨ero⟩kee Country over the Line settled by Treaty. He particularly
              mention’d Major Craigs Station at nine mile Creek 20 or 30 miles from Knoxville.
            Augt 14th Capt. Wellbank again dined with us. In the
              Course of Conversation he said that the Business which brought him to the northward
              was of a commercial Nature relative to the supplying the Indians with goods. That the Creeks were dissatisfied with the high Price
              of the goods they received from the Spaniards but they would soon obtain Relief for
              the Chiefs had petitioned the King of Great Britain to have them supplied by his
              subjects. That an act of Parliament had passed for the purpose &——a Port about
              seven miles westward of the mouth of Apelichicola River was to be the Place of Entry.
              That the House of Panton Leslie & Co: at the close of the war in 1783 obtain’d
              Permission from the King of Spain exclusively to supply the Indians with goods for the
              Space of ten years which would expire this Summer.
            Capt. Wellbank farther inform’d us that the bloody fellow & other Chiefs who went
              to Philadelphia to represent the grievances of their nation reported on their Return
              that the President or authority of the States promised Redress. That the nation waited
              six months & found none. The bloody Fellow then said Congress are Liars general
              washington is a Liar & governour Blount is a Liar.


Title: From George Washington to Edmund Randolph, 30 September 1793
From: Washington, George
To: Randolph, Edmund

            Dear Sir,
            Mount Vernon Sepr 30th ’93

          The continuation, and spreading of the malignant fever with which the City of
            Philadelphia is vis[i]ted, together with the absence of the heads of Departments
            therefrom, will prolong my abode at this place until about the 25th of October—at, or
            about, which time I shall, myself, (if the then state of things should render it
            improper for me to carry my family) set out for that City, or the vicinity, say
            German-Town.
          I shall be obliged to you therefore, if you remain at your Post, which I by no means
            wish you to maintain at the hazard of taking the fever, to keep me advised of the
            existing state of things in that quarter—& moreover that you would be so obliging
            (if it should be thought unsafe for me to go into my own house in the City at the time
            abovementioned) to inquire whether a tolerably convenient lodging for myself, one
            Gentleman of my family, with three Servants and as many horses could be had in or near
            German Town. To prevent any misunderstanding of my meaning, I declare explicitly, that
            it is hired lodgings only I will go into—for, unless such can be
            had, I would repair to one of the most decent Inns.
          I have given notice to the heads of departments of these my intentions, requesting
            their attendance accordingly. The time and Place
            mentioned.

          Have you ever examined with attention, and with an eye to the case, whether the
            Constitution, or Laws of the Union, give power to the Executive to change the place of
            meeting of the Legislature in cases of emergency in the recess? for example, whether the
            spreading of the fever which is so fatal in Philadelphia, thereby endangering the Lives
            of the members who might assemble there the first Monday in December next, is a case
            that would come under any provision in either. If you have not, I pray you to do it, and
            give me the result of your opinion.
          Mr Jefferson upon a superficial view of the subject, when here, thought there was no
            power in either to do this; but the Laws were not examined carefully, and the
            Constitution is, I believe, silent respecting it. Mrs
            Washington joines me in best wishes for you, Mrs Randolph, & family. I am, dear Sir,
            your Affect. Servt

            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from William Claiborne, 1 October 1793
From: Claiborne, William
To: Washington, George

            Sir,
            Richmond October 1st 1793

          On the 28th of Feby last, I was informed by The Honr. samuel Griffin, That Ferdinand
            Leigh Claiborne my Eldest son had Obtained an Ensigncy in the Armey of the United
            States—From my Sons great anxiety to Serve his Country in that Capacity I consented, and
            in expectation of his being Called into imediate Service, at my request, he disengaged
            himself from a very Lucrative Business—Not long after, I received information from My
            friend Mr Griffin that it was probable he would not be Commissiond untill the event of
            the then proposed Treaty with the Indians was Known,
            From Feby then to the present time, My Son has remained in great anxiety, unwilling to
            commence Trade again, untill his destiny was fixed; He is a Youth
            accustomed to Business from Early life and so great is his Aversion to Continue any
            longer in a State of idleness, that he has thoughts imediately of entering into the
            Mercantile line, which will prevent his future Acceptance, shoud a Commission be offer’d
            him; But on the other hand, such is his inclination to become a Millitary Character (and
            as its his wish I hope he may be gratified) that if there remain’d Even a probability of
            his Services being wanting in a Short time he would keep himself in readiness to
            Act.
          Pardon then Sir, the Liberty I am about to take, My Sons hapiness in life, is my
            greatest Care—His absence would be felt Sensibly, because he is a Comfort to me in my
            Old Age, but that, ah; even his death might happen without my
            regret, provided it be in his Countrys Cause—He is in his Twenty Second Year and in as
            much as industry alone, would make him a Useful & worthy Member of Society, (which
            is the higth of my ambition, & idleness the reverse[)], I wish to see him again in
            Some Kind of Business—Condicend then Sir, to direct One of your Secretarys to Answer
            this letter, and Notify me, whether or not he will be Commissiond, & when, and you
            will Confer on me a distinguishable & Memorable honor, and for which I shall ever be
              thankful—I have the honor to be With every Sentiment
            of Esteem & respect, yr Most Obt & very hble Servant,

            William Claiborne


Title: To George Washington from Elizur Goodrich, 1 October 1793
From: Goodrich, Elizur
To: Washington, George

            May it please Your Excellency
            New Haven Octr 1 1793

          The office of ⟨mutilated ⟩ in ⟨mutilated
            ⟩ being vacant by the death of ⟨mutilated ⟩ Esquire I have the
            honour respectfully to solicit that your Excellency would be pleased to confer on me the
            appointment to succeed him. Should your Excellency
            consider a complyance with my application, consistent with the public Good I should
            accept the appointment with unfeigned Gratitude and make it my endeavour to discharge
            the duties of the office with fidility and for the benefit of my Country. I am with the
            greatest Veneration and respect your Excellencys humble Servant

            Elizur Goodrich


Title: To George Washington from Henry Knox, 1 October 1793
From: Knox, Henry
To: Washington, George

            sir
            Elizabeth Town N. Jersey Octr 1. 1793.

          I shall go through New York tomorrow for Boston as my days of quarantine expire today.
            I hope to be in Philadelphia by the 25th instant.

          The french fleet excepting the Ambuscade will sail tomorrow from New York upon some
            cruise unknown.
          The surviellant saild on the 29th ultimo for France with dispatches from Mr Genet. and
            such is his desire that they should arrive safely, that he will in a day or two dispatch
            the Ceres, an armed brig with duplicates—It is said the
            fleet is to Winter in New York. still the fever rages in Philadelphia, and still the
            neighbouring towns take all possible precautions for their own safety. I am Sir with
            perfect respect and attachment Your humble Servant

            H. Knox


Title: To George Washington from Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 1 October 1793
From: Wolcott, Oliver Jr.
To: Washington, George

            Sir.
            Smiths House near PhiladelphiaOctober 1st 1793.

          I had the honour to receive your Letter of the 25th of September yesterday; in
            consequence of which I immediately wrote to Mr Carter, that the sum requested should be
            furnished him at any time on his application. The Letter to Colonel Hamilton I shall not
            fail to transmit immediately.
          The malady which afflicts Philadelphia has not continued to abate in the manner I
            expected; it seems that the changes from cold to heat, have on the whole increased the
            virulence of the disorder—among the unfortunate victims of this desolating disease, I
            mention Mr Samuel Powel with the more sincere regret.
          For about ten days a part of the Treasury offices, have been removed to Doct. Smith’s
            house, near the falls of Schuylkill, where the public business is attended to, as well
            as present circumstances will admit. I am sir, with the most perfect respect &
            attachment your obedient servant,

            Oliver Wolcott Jr


Title: To George Washington from John Brown et al., 2 October 1793
From: Brown, John
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Providence Octr 2. 1793

          As the office of attorney for the United States for this district is vacant by the
            decease of William Channing Esqr. permit us to recommend David Howell Esqr. L.L.D.
            professor of law in the college here, and one of the
            most approved practitioners at the bar in this State.
          This gentlemans literary & professional abilities are generally acknowledged, it
            also ought to be known that his conduct as Judge of our Superior Court deservedly gaind
            him great credit and afterwards when attorney general for this State, his decided
            opinions officially given in spirited addresses to both houses of our Legislature in
            favor of a convention for adopting the federal constitution occasion’d the loss of the
            office he then held at the next following election.
          We shall only add that as we doubt not of his discharging the duties of the office we
            now sollicit for him with fidelity and ability, so we have reason to beleive that his appointment would give general
            satisfaction to the good citizens of this state and in particular to Sir Your freinds
            & Very Humle Servts

            John Brown
            Welcome Arnold
            Jos. Nightingale of the h⟨ouse o⟩f Clark & Nightingale,
            Mr Clark absen⟨t⟩
            Thos lloyd Halsey
            Jabez Bowen Commissioner of Loans
            President of the Rhode Island College Jonathan Maxcy.
            D.D.—Enos Hitchcock
            Geo. Benson
            Nicholas Brown
            Wm Peck—Marshall for this district
            John francis


Title: To George Washington from Jonathan Trumbull, Jr., 2 October 1793
From: Trumbull, Jonathan Jr.
To: Washington, George

            Dear sir
            Lebanon [Conn.] 2d Octo. 1793

          The prevalence of the distressing and fatal sickness which continues to rage in
            Philadelphia, induces me to address you with a quere on the propriety of Congress
            meeting in that City at their approaching Sessions—The unhappy continuance of the
            Disorder to this period—with the threatning aspect of its Nature & Symptoms, make it
            more than probable that the City cannot be rendered a healthfull & convenient place
            for Business for some Months from this time—Under these melancholly circumstances
            attending that Capital, it would seem that an Occasion exists, sufficiently
            extraordinary, to warrant the Presidents interposing his discretionary power of making a
              special Call of Congress, to convene at some
              other place, than that to which they now stand adjourned—this I suppose may be constitutionally done, under the urgency
            of existing Circumstances—fixing on some time—say a few Days—previous to the 1st monday
            in Decr next—Should this discretionary power not interpose—a majority of both Houses must Convene in Phila.—be the Danger what it may—before an
            Adjou[r]nment can be made to a place of Safety & Convenience.
          My Anxiety for the Health & Safety of the Executive & Legislature of the
            Union—with that of the various Departments of the Goverment, I trust will plead my
            excuse for troubling you with these hints—I am sure you will credit me when I say, they
            are made in the sincerity of my Heart —most devoutly
            praying that the melancholly occasion, as it respects Phila.—may speedily be
            removed—& that Providence may soon interpose its healing relief & protection to
            that distressed City—I beg leave to subcribe myself—with unabated respect &
            regard—sir—Your most Obedient and most humble Servant

            J. Trumbull


Title: To George Washington from Theodore Foster, 3 October 1793
From: Foster, Theodore
To: Washington, George

            Sir,
            State of Rhode Island. ProvidenceOctr 3d 1793.

          It is with very great Regret that I inform your Excellency of the Death of the late
            worthy William Channing Esqr. Attorney for the United States,
            within the District of Rhode Island, who died at Newport on the 21st Ulto. He was a firm
            and able Friend and Supporter of the present National Constitution. He was prudent,
            discrete and conciliating in his Conduct as a Public Officer: and his private social
            Virtue such as gained and secured to him the Love and Respect of the People. His Death
            therefore is to be lamented as a National Loss. It is however a
            Consolation that the Constitution of our Country is such that it
              enables your Excellency to point out that Character, to fill the Vacancy who
            shall appear to you best qualified to serve the Public—and that Experience has shewn that this Constitutional Indication
            of Persons suitable for the Public Confidence is happily calculated to cause
            Appointments to fall on the best qualified and most meritorious Characters. And on the
            Presumption that it is always agreeable to your Excellency to receive communications, in
            Writing, from those acting for the State, in the National Legislature, relative to
            National Appointments to Office within the State, I take the Liberty of addressing this
            Letter to you, on the present Occasion.
          Many worthy and respectable Persons have mentioned to Me David
              Howell Esqr. L.L.D. Professor of Law in the College, in this Town, and one of the
            ablest and most esteemed Practitioners of Law, in this State as a Gentleman well
            qualified for the Office of Attorney for the United States, in this District. I have
            conversed with him and find that he will serve in the Office if appointed, and I believe
            his Appointment would give greater Satisfaction than that of any other Person. He
            possesses one of the best Law Libraries in New England. He has heretofore been Attorney
            General for the State—While in the Execution of that Office he was
            called on for his Opinion respecting the Propriety and Expediency of calling a
            Convention for the Adoption of the present National Constitution and having manfully,
            ably and boldly advocated that Measure, in Opposition to the then prevalent Party, he
            was on that Account opposed, at the next Election, when the Office was taken from him,
            in one of those Paroxisms of Party-Spirit, which sacrifices to the Accomplishment of its
            Purposes, every thing however good and excellent, in Competition with it. His Superior
            Literature, his Abilities and his personal Integrity are unquestionable and are
            generally known. And I have no Doubt of his Disposition firmly and zealously to Support
            our present happy national Constitution—It may be objected that the Attorney for the
            District ought to reside in the same Town with the Judge and that therefore he ought to
            be appointed in Newport. On which I beg leave only to observe that much the greatest Part of the National Revenue in this State is raised
            in the District of Providence, which is of Course the Scene of the most national
            Business: That there is daily communication by Water between the Towns of Providence and
            Newport, so that Letters can be every Day reciprocally transmitted; and that I have not
            heard of any Gentleman of the Bar, at Newport, by any Means so well qualified as Mr
            Howell who would probably be willing to undertake the Duties of the Office—and these are
            Considerations which will have their Weight in the Appointment. With the highest
            Sentiments of the most respectful Regard and Esteem I have the Honor to be your
            Excellencys much obliged and most obedient Servt

            Theodore Foster.


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Jefferson, 3 October 1793
From: Jefferson, Thomas
To: Washington, George

            Dr Sir
            Monticello [Va.] Oct. 3. 1793.

          I received from mister Gore by yesterday’s post the evidence on the aggression
            committed by mister Duplaine Vice Consul of France at Boston, and it appears fully to
            establish the fact against him. I have therefore
            prepared & countersigned a Revocation of his Exequatur, with letters on the subject
            to him, to mister Genet, & mister Morris; as also instructions to mister Bankson in what way to make up their several packets. although I know
            of no circumstance which might change the determination with respect to mister Duplaine,
            yet I have prepared these papers separately & unconnected with any other business,
            & put them under a separate cover & instructions to mister Bankson, so that if
            you should chuse it, the whole will be completely suppressed by your stopping this
              packet. should you on the other hand think, as I
            confess I do, that an example of authority & punishment is wanting to reduce the
            Consuls within the limits of their duties, and should you approve of the papers prepared
            for that purpose, I must trouble you to stick a wafer in the cover to mister Bankson,
            & forward it by post. I have the honor to be with the most perfect respect &
            esteem Dear Sir Your most obedt & most humble servt

            Th: Jefferson


Title: To George Washington from Edmund Randolph, 3 October 1793
From: Randolph, Edmund
To: Washington, George

          Letter not found: from Edmund Randolph, 3 Oct. 1793. On 14 Oct. GW wrote Randolph: “I have
            received yours of the 3d instt.”


Title: To George Washington from David Howell, 4 October 1793
From: Howell, David
To: Washington, George

            May it please the President,
            Providence Octo. 4. A.D. 1793

          As the office of Attorney for the U.S. for this District is vacant by the decease of my
            lamented Friend Mr Channing, & some Gentlemen have been pleased to recommend me for
            that place, I flatter myself your Excellencys goodness will excuse the freedom I take in
            mentioning my readiness to accept the appointment in Case no Gentleman is presented of
            longer Standing & more merit in the profession of the Law in this State.

          The veneration I have always entertained for the Distributor of national Honours in the
            U.S. will much enhance the value of this appointment.
          With ardent wishes for your personal Happiness, & for the prosperity of our dear
            Country over which you preside, I am your Excellencys real Friend & very humble
            Servt

            David Howell.


Title: To George Washington from Alexandria, Virginia, Citizens, 5 October 1793
From: Citizens of Alexandria, Virginia
To: Washington, George

            [5 October 1793]

          The Citizens of Alexandria, conceiving it to be at all times the right of the People to
            declare their political principles, and to express their sentiments upon Subjects which
            concern the national Interest, met at the Court House on Saturday the 6th October,
            agreeably to notification, in order to take under consideration the late proclamation of
            the President of the united States  and other subjects
            which agitate the public mind, and came to the following resolutions thereon:
          1st Resolved that our illustrious Fellow-Citizen, George Washington, has, by his
            well-timed proclamation, given an additional proof of his vigilant attention to his
            duty, and the welfare of his country; and that it is our duty as well as our interest to
            conduct ourselves conformably to the principles expressed in the said proclamation, and
            to use our utmost endeavours to prevent any infringement of them by others: And we
            hereby declare it is our firm intention so to do.
          2d Resolved that it is the interest and duty of these united States to maintain a
            strict Neutrality towards the belligerent powers of Europe, and to cultivate peace and
            harmony with all the world by just and honourable means.
          3d Resolved that all attempts to subvert the Fœderal Government, to violate it’s
            principles, or to lessen the confidence of the People therein, ought to be firmly and
            vigorously resisted.
          4th Resolved that we are attached to a republican form of Government as being the only
            one calculated to diffuse true national happiness, and to inspire and cherish those
            principles and Virtues in the people which are the great Ornaments of human Nature. We
            reprobate Monarchy, because it tends to oppression, and because, by introducing
            corruption and depravity, it never fails to destroy those Equal rights to which all Men
            are, by nature, entitled.

          5th Resolved that every attempt to disunite France and America ought to be opposed, as
            dangerous to Republicanism.
          6th Resolved that we entertain the warmest gratitude for the generous and important
            Services of the French Nation during the American revolution; and that we feel the
            strongest attachment to those principles which have occasioned the glorious contest in
            which that Nation is Engaged for its own liberty; and we most ardently wish them the
            complete & lasting Enjoyment of that inestimable blessing which, under divine
            providence, was secured to us by their timely aid and assistance.
          7th Resolved that the interference of any foreign Minister, of whatever nation, with
            the Government of this Country will be, at all times, highly improper; but that our
            gratitude to, and affection for, our good allies, the French People, ought not to be
            lessened by any indiscretion of their Ambassador. In behalf of the meeting

            John D. Orr Secy
            John Fitzgerald Chairman

            8th Resolved that a Copy of these Resolves be sent to
              the President of the United States and that they be published in the Alexandria
                News-Papers.


Title: From George Washington to William Pearce, 6 October 1793
From: Washington, George
To: Pearce, William

            Mr Pearce,
            Mount Vernon Octr 6th 1793

          Enclosed is a copy of our agreement with my Signature to it.
          Since you were here, Mrs Washington the Widow of my Nephew, who formerly lived at this
            place, has resolved as soon as we leave it, to remove to her Brother’s in the lower part
            of this State, and will not I believe, return to reside at it again. This will make it more convenient and agreeable, both for
            yourself and me, that you should live the Winter, at least, at my Mansion house; as it
            will allow more time for my Carpenters to provide for Mr Crow, and to put the place he
            lives at in better repair than it now is for yourself, if there should be occasion for
            you to go there; and this too, under your own inspection.
          The right wing to my dwelling house as you possibly may have noticed, & heard
            called the Hall, (being kept altogether for the use of strangers) has two good rooms
            below (with tiled floors) and as many above, all with fireplaces. This will accomodate
            your family (being a larger house) better than Crows; and by being here, you will have
            the use of my Kitchen, the Cook belonging thereto, Frank the House Servant, a boy also
            in the House. The Stable, Garden &ca &ca,
            without any additional expence to me; at the same time that it will, by placing you in
            the centre of the business, ease you of much trouble; for otherwise, the frequent calls
            from the Farms, from workmen of different descriptions for Tools, Nails, Iron &ca
            from the Store—and the particular attention which matters abt the Mansion house will
            require, would have occasioned you many an inconvenient ride here, the necessity for
            which will be entirely superceded, as your Mornings and evenings will, of course, be
            spent where your presence will be most wanting.
          As I am never sparing (with proper œconomy) in furnishing my Farms with any, and every
            kind of Tool & implement that is calculated to do good and neat work, I not only
            authorize you to bring the kind of Ploughs you were speaking to me
            about, but any others, the utility of which you have proved from your own experience;
            particularly a kind of hand rake which Mr Stuart tells me are used on the Eastern Shore
            of Maryland in lieu of Hoes for Corn at a certain stage of its growth—and a Scythe &
            Cradle different from those used with us, & with which the grain is laid much
            better. In short I shall begrudge no reasonable expence that will contribute to the
            improvement & neatness of my Farms; for nothing pleases me better than to see them
            in good order, and every thing trim, handsome, & thriving about them; nor nothing
            hurts me more than to find them otherwise, & the tools & implements laying
            wherever they were last used, exposed to injuries from Rain, Sun, &ca.
          I hope you will endeavor to arrange your own concerns in such a manner as to be here as
            much before the time agreed on as you conveniently can. Great advantages to me will
            result from this, by putting the business in a good train before the Fall operations are
            closed by the frosts of Winter, and all improvements are thereby at an end for that
            Season. On the other hand, inconveniences to yourself may arise from delay on account of
            the Weather—Navigation &ca; there having been instances of this River’s closing with
            Ice several days before Christmas which might prevent the removal of yr things in time.
            That your living at the Mansion may be attended with no more expence to you than if you
            had gone to the other place (at which Crow now lives) on account of Gentlemen, who now
            & then call here out of curiosity—as they are passing through the Country—I shall
            lay in such things as will be necessary for this purpose, and the occasions (which are
            but rare) may require.
          I expect to leave this place about the 28th of the Month for Philadelphia, or the
            neighbourhood of it; any letter therefore which shall arrive before that time will find
            me here—afterwards it will have to go to Philadelphia where it had better be directed. I
            am your friend & Servant

            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Edward Savage, 6 October 1793
From: Savage, Edward
To: Washington, George

            Sir,
            London Oct. 6. 1793

          I have taken the Liberty to send two prints, the one Done from the Portrait I first
            Sketch’d in black Velvet, Labours Under Some Disadvantages, as the Likeness never was
            quite Finished. I hope it will meet with the approbation of yourself and Mrs Washington,
            as it is the first I Ever published in that method of Engraving.
          the Portrait of Docter Franklin which is published as the Companion, is Done from a
            picture in the Possesion of Mr West, President of the Royal Accademy.
          The picture has been Done Some years, and was thought very like at the time when
            Done.
          I have the pleasure to inform you that Booth of those prints are approoved of by the
            artists, Particularly Mr West, whose Friendship and Sivility I have the Honr to Receive.
            I am Sir With great Esteem your Humbl. Sert

            Ed. Savage.

            N.B. Please to present my Most Respectfull Compliments to Mrs Washington.
            I Expect to imbark for my Native Country about March Next.


Title: From George Washington to John Fitzgerald, 7 October 1793
From: Washington, George
To: Fitzgerald, John

          Letter not found: to John Fitzgerald, 7 Oct. 1793. GW, in a letter of Wednesday, 9 Oct.,
            told Fitzgerald that “I wrote to you on Monday”; on Friday, 11 Oct., Fitzgerald
            acknowledged a letter “of Monday on private business.”


Title: To George Washington from Henry Lee, 7 October 1793
From: Lee, Henry
To: Washington, George

            dear sir
            Richmond Octr 7th 93.

          you will suppose I apprehend that I am rather too solicitous for your possession of the
            aid of art in threshing out your crops of wheat, when the moment I have understood that
            the wheat mill will not be adopted by you, I should renew your attention to this subject
            by informing you, that two english farmers have just arrived here with a model of the
            machine invented in scotland for threshing out wheat.
          It is worked by wind water or horses—Two small horses usually as they say get out six
            bushels p. hour.
          I do not know what the expence of one of these machines will be, but presume not more
            than 100 dollars will be asked for one fitted for two horses—I have engaged one, when it
            is completed & proved to be useful by actual experiment, I will then if you choose procure one for mount vernon & send it to you by water. I
            have the honor to be sir with most affec. respect & regard your ob. st

            Henry Lee


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Sim Lee, 7 October 1793
From: Lee, Thomas Sim
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Annapolis Octr 7. 1793

          Your Excellency will probably before this letter reaches you, have received from the
            Secy of War a communication which I made to him on the 18th September last respecting
            the case of the Ship Roehampton, captured and sent into the Port of Baltimore by the
            french armed schooner Industry, and which the British Vice Consul alledges to have been
            illegally taken by reason of the sd schooner’s having made some equipments of a military
            nature in that Port. Not doubting Sir that your
            determination on the subject of this vessel would in due time reach me through the
            ordinary channel, I should not have taken this freedom, had not another case occurred
            which requires me to form an immediate Judgement, how far partial equipments and
            alterations to vessels originally armed in french Ports, are admissible under the
            description of reparations, conveniences &c. as mentioned in the 19th article of our
            treaty with france, which is expressly admitted in extenuation of the prohibitory part
            of the 7th article of your Excellency’s instructions.
            The papers which I do myself the honour to enclose will explain the case in question—I
            have requested the Collector of the district of Baltimore to observe the motions of the
            Privateer mentioned by Mr Thornton, and to acquaint me immediately with any addition of
            guns or material alteration that he may perceive her to be making —but as by addressing myself as usual to the Secy of State or of
            War who have both left the seat of government, I should not in all probability obtain
            your Excellency’s ideas in a reasonable time, I trust that you will excuse my taking
            this method to procure more precise instructions on this point than I can discover in
            the regulations already issued—As the cases of this kind that may still occur may be
            various, and some of them may seem such slight infractions as scarcely to require
            notice, I beg that your Excellency will favour me with the most
            explicit directions on the subject. I have the honour to be &c.

            Tho. S. Lee.


Title: To George Washington from Jeremiah Olney, 7 October 1793
From: Olney, Jeremiah
To: Washington, George

            Sir.
            Custom-House, District of Providence7th October 1793.

          Permit me respectfully to address you on the subject of appointing a Person to succeed
            the late William Channing Esquire, deceased, in the Office of District Attorney for the
            State of Rhode-Island. I have been informed that some Merchants and other respectable
            Characters have recommended to you David Howell Esquire, to succeed to that Office; and
            from a full conviction in my Mind that the leading Merchants in this Town have long had,
            and still have, an undue influence over him, I am induced, Sir, to step forward and
            discharge (with great deference, and in confidence) what I conceive to be my Duty, by
            giving this information for your consideration. It appears to me of the first importance
            that the District Attorney should be a Gentleman of Independent Principles, and that he
            should cooperate, on all occasions, with the Officers of the Customs, so far as the exercise of their Duty shall be perfectly consistent with
            the Law, and their Instructions from the principal Officer of the Treasury Department. I
            should have remained silent on the subject (because I feel a delicacy in an
            interference) had not the Gentlemen recommended a Man who, I am perswaded, should he be
            appointed, will for the reason offered, rather embarrass than support me in a just and
            impartial execution of my Duty; in the exercise of which I have heretofore experienced
            very great opposition from an unfriendly Disposition manifested by some influential
            mercantile Characters, who have taken unwearied pains to swerve me from my Duty, and
            thereby establish practices in this District, which were inadmissible by Law, and which,
            had they obtained, would have very much endangered the collection of the Revenue; of
            which the Secretary of the Treasury has a perfect knowledge, and will, if necessary,
            acquaint you with.
          I now beg leave, Sir, most respectfully, to mention David Leonard Barnes Esquire of
            this Town, Attorney at Law, as a Gentleman well qualified to fill the Office of District
            Attorney: he ⟨is⟩ justly esteemed for his independent Principles, probity and tallents
            in the Law, and will do honor to the appointment, should he fortunately obtain it; and
            who, I am perswaded, will on all occasions, co-operate with the Officers of the Customs
            in a faithful and impartial executi⟨on⟩ of the revenue Laws, so essential to the support
            of the National Government. I have the honor to be, Very respectfully, Sir, Your Most
            Obedt and Most Hume Servant

            Jereh Olney Collr


Title: To George Washington from Nathaniel Skinner, 8 October 1793
From: Skinner, Nathaniel
To: Washington, George

            Sir.
            Cadiz [Spain] Octr 8th 1793.

          I conceive it a duty I owe to a country (of which I have the honor of being a
            naturalized citizen—& I trust tho’ only such as true a freind to its interests as
            warm a wisher for its every prosperity as tho’ it had been my fortune to have the claim
            of a native of that land of Liberty—America.) to inform Your Excellency of an affair that may materially concern the interests of the United
            States.
          There not being any official American character in this place—I have presumed thus to
            address & inform Your Excellency.
          This morning arrived in this city an express from Gibraltar, informing that in
            consequence of a peace made & ratified, between the Dey of Algiers & their High
            Mightynesses of the United provinces & the Queen of Portugal, that al⟨l⟩ cruizers of
            the latter powers, have orders to treat the Deys subjects as freinds. & on Sunday the [6]th Four frigates three Kebecks & two
            Brigs belonging to Algiers passed Gibraltar on a cruize to the Westward. Their only prey
            now is Americans & much I fear that their vile efforts will be too successful, how
            much Americans are indebted to the intrigues of the courts of England & the powers
            opposed to the liberties of France, may be easily concluded.
          Permit me to add—that the Ship Greenway Amos Oakman Master of Boston belonging to a Mr
            M. Bicker, was yesterday vessell & cargo condemned, by the court of Admiralty at
            Caraccas, but which sentence eer it is effectual must be confirm’d at Madrid, an other
            ship the Rooksby. Jones of Portsmouth N.H. is here also her fate not determin’d, they
            were taken in consort by a Spanish frigate & sent in here. They were bound from
            Bordeaux to St Thomas & probably the cargoes are French property. The vessells
            haveing seen them in Boston, the place of my residence, I doubt not are American—Oakman
            & Jones are still confin’d on board their Ships, nor have been suffer’d to
            communicate with any one—they personally suffer—led by humanity I attempted in passing
            the ship to speak the centinel level’d & cock’d his musket & had I not retir’d
            would doubtlessly have executed the orders given.
          There are about ten American vessels in this port several of which were about to
            proceed to the North of Europe with valueable freights. I have a ship with part of a
            freight on board for there what will be done I know not, copies of the foregoing I shall
            transmit Your Excellency by various routes, could I individually afford it, or knew
            wether the expence would be reimburs’d I would send a pass protected vessell with these
            communications, considering them of such import, the ne⟨mutilated⟩ & my freind whos veracity is undoubted ⟨mutilated⟩ Esqr. Consul to his B.M. assures me ⟨mutilated⟩  During my stay in Spain should ⟨mutilated⟩ of consequence transpire it shall be
              ⟨mutilated com⟩municated. The last posts bring acco⟨unts of
            the⟩ seige of Dunkirk being raised, & of so⟨mutilated⟩ the
            Spanish in Rousillon. The Fr⟨mutilated⟩ from hence in a few days on an exp⟨mutilated⟩
            The American interest not being repr⟨sented⟩ makes the situation of its citizens
            somew⟨hat un⟩pleasant. I have the honor to be w⟨ith the⟩ most profound respect Your
            Excellency⟨s mutilated⟩ Obedient & Hum⟨mutilated⟩

            Nathl Ski⟨nner⟩


Title: From George Washington to John Fitzgerald, 9 October 1793
From: Washington, George
To: Fitzgerald, John

              Dear sir,
              Mt Vernon 9: Oct: 1793.

            Enclosed is an answer to the resolutions of the Citizens of Alexandria, which came under a blank cover to me, & which were ordered to
              be published in the Gazette of that place. But if the 8th resolution is not published
              along with the others, nor intended to be so, (which seems probable, as it is separate
              & distinct) I request, in that case, that the answer may not appear; because I
              have never taken notice of any resolutions, wherein one of them has not directed,
              & it has so appeared, that they should be sent to me. considering them without this, as no more than the expression
              of the sentiments of the meeting to the community, without any particular application.
              I am &c.

              Go. Washington

              P.S. I wrote to you on monday, & shou’d be
                glad to hear from you on the subject of the Letter.


Title: Enclosure: To John Fitzgerald, 8 October 1793
From: Washington, George
To: Fitzgerald, John

              Sir,
              Mount Vernon 8. Octor 1793.

            While the public mind is engaged, and in some degree disturbed by various subjects
              which have arisen, consequent of a War in which most of the European powers are
              engaged—with the highest satisfaction I have received assurances from many parts of
              the United States, of the determined resolution of the Citizens thereof to be neutral,
              thereby securing to themselves the inestimable blessings resulting from peace; &
              that they will give support to measures, adopted by those to whom they have confided
              authority for that purpose, which are dictated with an evident regard to their
              interests, & by a wish to promote the happiness of all the Citizens of the Union.
              Among those which have been received, the resolutions of my Fellow Citizens of
              Alexandria, enclosed by you, have contributed not a little to afford me pleasure, and
              justify the opinion I had entertained of their good sense & patriotism. I request
              you, Sir, to make known to them my attachment, equally with their’s, to a republican
              system, and as far as my personal endeavours will contribute, they will be employed in
              supporting the principles of our fœderal Government, and defeating any attempts which
              might be made to violate them, or to lessen the confidence of the people therein.
            I join with them also in expressions of gratitude to the French nation for their
              timely & important services rendered to these States, and it is my earnest wish
              that genuine Liberty & equal rights may pervade every Nation of the Earth.

              Go. Washington


Title: To George Washington from Christoph Daniel Ebeling, 10 October 1793
From: Ebeling, Christoph Daniel
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Hambro’ [Germany] October 10th 1793.

          Your Excellency will kindly pardon the liberty I take, to offer You my Description of
            America. You know, it is the right, as it is the heartfelt pleasure of every freeborn
            feeling man, to admire the great and good benefactors of mankind. This pleasure I very
            often enjoyed, when I endeavoured to describe that country, whose daily increasing
            happiness is principally Your Work and that of those who think and act like You.
          I am sensible that my Book is as imperfect, as great were the difficulties wherewith I
            had to struggle in order to get authentic documents and materials for the same. But my
            country is to desirous of, and the present times require a more particular knowledge of
            Your Republic, whose felicity it has much reason to look at with envy. The aspect of so
            many States enjoying all the blessings, which virtue, wise laws and liberty bestow upon
            mankind, may have some influence on the councils of our Rulers, now united against
            liberty, because most of them know but that which degenerated into french Anarchy or
            british corruption. These reasons induced me to venture an undertaking, which I feel is
            rather above my forces.
          As soon as the Descriptions of the several States are finished, a general Introduction
            will complete my Work. This is to contain a View of the federal Constitution of the
            United States, and the History of Your glorious Revolution.
          Nothing could be a greater reward of my feeble endeavours than that to be honoured with
            Your Excellency’s protection. I have no other materials for the historical part besides
            the immortal Franklin’s Works, the State-papers published during the Revolution, Adams’s
            and Ramsay’s Histories, Gordon’s more partial one, and
            the Journals of Congress from 1774 to 1777, as also those of 1781. If Your Excellency
            would graciously countenance my Undertaking, perhaps one of the many worthy men who were
            witnesses to Your deeds, might be enduced to point out to me the defects or errors of
            the abovementioned Histories and furnish me with more valuable materials.
          I shall not presume to ask Your high favour for that purpose, untill my Description of
            the single States, whereof I also most humbly offer a Copy to Your illustrious Congress,
            is wholly published, and as I very ardently wish is found not to be
            quite unworthy of the noble and great subject, it treats of. I have the honour to be
            with sentiments of the most profound respect Sir Your Excellency’s most obedient and
            most humble Servant

            Christoph Daniel EbelingProfessor of History in the great College at
              Hambro’


Title: To George Washington from Tobias Lear, 10 October 1793
From: Lear, Tobias
To: Washington, George

            My dear Sir,
            New York October 10th 1793

          On my reaching this place yesterday Mr Greenleaf put into my hands your very good &
            respected favor of the 25 of September, enclosing one hundred & twenty dollars for
            the purchase of a Watch &c. and a Ticket for my dear little boy, in the Hotel
            Lottery, which you have had the goodness to give him as a token of your affection.
          I feel, my dear Sir, more than I can express for the many proofs of friendship and
            affection with which you have honored me; and I trust that so long as it may please the
            Supreme Ruler of Events to continue to me the use of my rational powers I shall never
            cease to remember with gratitude & affection your goodness to me & my dear boy,
            and to act in a manner worthy such recollection.
          Inexpressibly happy is it for our Country that you left the unfortunate City of
            Philadelphia before the malignant disorder had seized upon your
            valuable life. For at all times since we have been a nation your life has been
            considered by the good Citizens of America as essentially necessary for the prosperity
            of our public affairs—At the present juncture our existance as a united people is
            thought to depend upon it—and the universal & warm approbation which your Official
            conduct, in the late critical state of things, has met with in those parts of the U.S.
            where I have lately been, shews at once the high confidence which the American people
            place in & the ardent affection which they bear towards you.
          I shall take great pleasure in paying particular attention to your request respecting a
            Black Smith—and at the same time shall take no steps that can involve me in any
            difficulty respecting the matter—The Watch &c. for Mrs Washington will be a pleasing
            commission for me to execute and happy shall I be to know that it gives her
            satisfaction.
          I have the pleasure to inform you that I left my dear boy in fine health, and under
            every circumstance that could give satisfaction to my mind in an object on which my
            first hopes & first wishes are placed.
          The prospects in my business are more & more flattering as I progress in it—and I
            have no doubt but if my life & health are preserved, and no very untoward circumstances happen, I shall in a few years find myself in a
            respectable & eligible situation. My business will detain me from sailing for Europe
            till early in November; and it is not unlikely but that I may find it proper to visit
            the Federal City before I embark to complete some part of the business of the Company
            which yet remains unfinished there. In case I should go to the City I shall not be able
            to leave that part of the Country without seeing Mount Vernon once more.
          The disorder which prevails in Philadelphia has given an Alarm to the Eastward beyond
            conception—and the people there have no idea that Congress will think of meeting in that
            City at the ensuing Session. The general opinion is, that the President will notify the
            members of the Circumstances existing—and recommend their
            convening at some other place. New York is the only place I have heard mentioned as the
            probable one for them to meet at.
          I have not yet seen Mr Robinson who took your portrait for the Earl of Buchan, I called
            at his lodgings but could not see him, I shall however do it before I
            leave this place. With respect to the Person to succeed
            Mr Sherburne, as Atty for the District of New Hampshire I confess I hardly know one who
            on every & all accounts I could venture to mention; but a further reflection on the
            subject may enable me to give an opinion.
          I must beg you will have the goodness to make my best respects & most grateful
            remembrance acceptable to Mrs Washington—My love attends the Children—my respects &
            best regards Mrs F. Washington & her little ones—and Mr Dandridge is rememberd by me
            with affection & friendship. With every sentiment of gratitude & sincere &
            respectful attachment I have the honor to be my dear sir Your faithful &
            affectionate friend & Obedient servant

            Tobias Lear


Title: From George Washington to Edward Carrington, 11 October 1793
From: Washington, George
To: Carrington, Edward

            Sir,
            Mot Vernon 11. Octr 1793.

          Accompanying this, I send a Letter by post to The Secy of State. I request the favor of
            you if there should be a probability of its remaining two or three days in the post
            office at Richmond waiting the regular post to Charlottsville, or on any other accot to
            have it directly conveyed to mr Jefferson by Express—in which case you will be good
            enough to let me Know the expense which may be incurred. I am &c.

            G. W.


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Jefferson, 11 October 1793
From: Washington, George
To: Jefferson, Thomas

            Dear Sir,
            Mount Vernon October 11th 1793.

          Your dispatch of the 3d with it’s several enclosures reached Alexandria on Wednesday
            evening, and got to my hands yesterday morning.
          This afternoon I shall send to the post office the Letters for mister Bankson, with my
            signature to the Exequatur for mister Dannery, & Letters patent revoking that of
            mister Duplane. Your letter to the latter, two to the French minister, one to his
            Secretary mr Bournonville & another to mr Morris being approved are also
              forwarded.
          To a Letter written to you a few days ago, I refer for the time & place mentioned
            for the meeting of the Heads of Departments, & hope it will be convenient for you to
              attend. If I do not take a circuitous rout by
            Frederick-town in Maryland &c. I shall not leave this before the 28th—and in that
            case should be glad of your company, if it is not inconvenient for you to call. Since
            writing that letter, however, I have received the enclosed from the Attorney General
            which may make a change of place necessary; but I shall wait
            further advices before this is resolved on. I have also
            received a letter from the late Speaker, Trumbull; and
            as I understand sentiments similar to his are entertained by others—query, what had I
            best do? You were of opinion when here, that neither the Constitution nor Laws gave
            power to the President to convene Congress at any other place than where the Seat of
            Government is fixed by their own act. Twelve days since I wrote to the Attorney General
            for an official opinion on this head, but have received no answer. If the importance & urgency of the case, arising from a
            supposition that the fever in Philadelphia should not abate, would justify calling
            together the Legislature at any other place—where ought it to be? This, if German town
            is affected, with the malady, involves the Executive in a serious & delicate
            decision. Wilmington & Trenton are equidistant, in opposite directions, from
            Philada—both on the great thoroughfare, equally dangerous on account of the infection
            being communicated to them, & would, I presume, be equally obnoxious to one or the
            other set of members; according to their situations. Annapolis has conveniences—but it
            might be thought I had interested & local views in naming this place. What sort of a
            town then is Reading, & how would ⟨it⟩ answer? Neither Northern
            nor Southern members would have cause to complain of it’s situation. Lancaster would
            favor the Southern ones most.
          You will readily perceive, if any change is to take place, not a moment is to be lost
            in the notification—whether by a simple statement of facts (among which, I presume, the
            House intended for them in Philada will be unfit for their reception )—and an intimation that I shall be at a certain place days
            before the first of December, to meet them in their legislative capacity, or to advise
            with them on measures proper to be taken in the present exigency. If something of this
            sort should strike you favorably, draw (& if necessary sign) a proper Instrument to
            avoid delay, leaving the name of the place blank, but giving your opinion thereon.
            German town would certainly have been the best place for them to have met in the first
            instance, there to have taken ulterior resolutions without involving the Executive.
          I have no objection to the Director of the Mint, with your concurrence, chusing an
            Engraver in place of mister Wright.
          No report has been made to me relative to the Tonnage of the French Ships from St
            Domingo.
          Major Lenox, I perceive by the papers, is marshall for the District of
              Pennsylvania.
          Limits of Jurisdiction and protection must lie over till we meet, when I request you
            will remind me of it. I am Your Affecte Servant

            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Sim Lee, 11 October 1793
From: Lee, Thomas Sim
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Annapolis Octr 11. 1793

          The motive which influenced me to address your Excellency on the 7th Instant must again
            apologize for my transmitting you the enclosed copies of a letter and depositions
            received from the British Vice Consul residing in Baltimore —As this gentleman has informed me that no suit has been
            instituted in the Court of Admiralty respecting the Brigantine mentioned in these
            papers, I have found it my duty to require the french Vice Consul to take charge of her
            until your Excellency shall have decided on the case —I
            have desired Mr Thornton to use all posible diligence in procuring and forwarding to me
            the additional evidence which he expects to obtain; and
            which when received shall be transmitted to yr Excellency without delay—but although the
            allegation of this vessel’s having been taken within three miles of our coast has seemed
            sufficient to authorise the provisionary step I have taken, it is possible that similar
            representations may be made in cases in which it will be more
            doubtful whether our rights of Jurisdiction shall have been infringed—Your Excellency
            will therefore I hope excuse me if I request to be favoured with your idea of the
            distance within which hostilities are held to be unlawful; for while this point remains
            unsettled I may expect complaints upon every case that has the smallest chance of
            procuring the interference of government, and shall in consequence be exposed to great
            embarrassments —I have &c.

            Tho. S. Lee


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Sim Lee, 13 October 1793
From: Washington, George
To: Lee, Thomas Sim

            Sir,
            Mount Vernon 13th Octobr 1793.

          The Letter with which your Excellency was pleased to favor me, dated the 7th inst. was
            received on the 10th—& might have been acknowledged the next day; but I waited the
            arrival of Friday’s mail  in hopes
            that I should have had a report from the Secretary of War relatively to the Ship
            Roehampton. Disappointed in this, I am not able to give any opinion thereon, uninformed
            as I am of the specific articles of charge which have been exhibited by the British
            Consul. The French minister complains of the detention.
          With respect to the second case mentioned in your letter, & those of the British
            Consuls, I have only to observe that as these Gentlemen are not ignorant that the
            Custom-house officers in every port are instructed to keep a vigilant watch upon all
            armed vessels, and the presumption being that they also are not inattentive, there seems
            to have been no necessity for lodging a complaint unaccompanied with proofs.
          It is scarcely possible to give instructions which will embrace every case minutely
            that may arise during the war—nor do I conceive it essential. Your Excellency will
            readily perceive by the communications which have been made to you, the principles upon which the General Government  act in the recess of Congress, respecting the belligerent
            powers. These principles are to adhere strictly to treaties, according to the plain
            construction & obvious meaning of them—and, regarding these, to act impartially
            towards all the Nations at war. Keeping these principles in view & observing the
            rules which are founded on them—with your disposition to do justice & to preserve
            this Country in peace—I persuade myself that you can be at no loss—that your decisions
            will always be right, & I hope they will always be prompt.
          Being removed from the public offices—intending when I left Philadelphia not to have
            been absent from that City more than fifteen or eighteen days, I brought no public
            papers of any sort (not even the rules which have been established in these cases) along
            with me—consequently am not prepared at this place to decide points which may require a
            referrence to papers not within my reach. but as I find cases are daily occuring which
            call for attention & decision, I have requested the Heads of Departments to attend
            at Philadelphia—or in its vicinity, by the 1st of next month, whither I shall go &
            be present myself. With great esteem & regard I am
            Sir, Your mo: obt humble Servt

            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Edmund Randolph, 13 October 1793
From: Randolph, Edmund
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Spencer’s  October 13. 1793

          I did myself the honor of writing to you about ten days ago; since which time we have been in daily hopes and expectation,
            that a change in the temperature of the air would arrest the progress of the fever. But
            we are still without rain or cold. Our accounts from Philadelphia are hourly more and
            more gloomy; whether we consider the number of the deceased, of new patients, or of
            orphan children. It is confidently reported too, that Dr Rush himself confesses, that in
            sixteen instances he has seen glandular swellings and other symptoms of the plague,
            notwithstanding his past publications; and that he even begins to retract his former
            sanguine declaration, that the disorder was within the reach of medicine. I do not
            answer for the truth of this; but Dr Shippen this morning said in my presence, that the
            malady had scarcely any resemblance of the yellow fever; and altho’ it did not in
            strictness accord with the descriptions of the plague in all respects, it had a strong
            likeness to it; and might with more propriety be classed under that name, than any other
            in the books of physic. An intelligent Frenchman shortly afterwards affirmed to me, that
            it was utterly dissimilar from what he had seen in the West-Indies.
          In this embarrassing situation I cannot but persuade myself, that congress will not be
            disposed to sit in Philadelphia; And that Lancaster may possibly
            be chosen for the ensuing session. But be this as it may, I cannot satisfy the anxieties
            of my family, without carrying them for the present to Lancaster. I prefer this place to
            Wilmington for many reasons; tho’ in fact the latter is so much
            crouded, that I cannot promise myself any comfortable accommodation there. By this
            destination, I shall be at hand for any instruction, which you may think proper to
            give.
          To morrow I shall attempt to procure a messenger, who may go to the Post-office in
            Philadelphia for any letter, which you may perhaps have directed for me. I have the
            honor sir, to be with the highest respect and sincerest attachment yr mo. ob. serv.

            Edm: Randolph.


Title: From George Washington to Jonathan Trumbull, Jr., 13 October 1793
From: Washington, George
To: Trumbull, Jonathan Jr.

          (Private)
          Dear SirMount Vernon Oct. 13th
              1793
          I was duly favoured with your letter of the 2d instt.
          The calamitous situation of Philadelphia makes it necessary that some previous steps
            should be taken with respect to the meeting of Congress—But of what kind is a serious
            question. That the President has Power by the Constitution to Convene Congress in extraordinary cases admits of no doubt, but that he has power to summon them to meet at an unusual
            place when the Law, has designated the seat of Government  is not merely equivocal, but in the opinion of those with whom
            I have hitherto conversed on the subject absolutely beyond the powers of the Executive.
            On the 30th of last month (hearing that the fever rather increased then abated) I wrote
            to the Attorney General for an official opinion on this point, but have not yet received
            an answer.
          When I left Phila. which was for the purpose of fulfilling a previous engagement of a
            private nature that made it necessary for me to be at home the 18th of Septr  I fully expected to return to the City before the end of the
            month but the flight of the Clerks from the public Offices which in a manner shut them
            up and the Head of Departments being also absent my return has hitherto been delayed.
            But public business of various kinds requiring their attendance I
            (did some time since) desire them to meet me at Phila. or in the vicinity, the first of
            next month whither I shall go myself. At the time of my leaving the City with these
            expectations and till lately, I hoped the fever would be stopped, & the City so
            purified by the approaching cool Season as to admit Congs with safety by the time
            appointed—Or Congress to there, if doubts arose then
            for a quoram to adjourn it to some other place This would have been (for reasons
            unnecessary to mention) more agreeable to me than to do it myself  admitting I had power. But as this is not likely to happen
            unless a very unexpected change should take place—as I have had no opinion yet from the
            proper Law Officer of Government on this head—and as you know I wish to hear the opinion
            of my friends upon all difficult & delicate subjects I would thank you for yours on
            this—particularly with respect to the place, under present circumstances—least
              exceptionable. Your letter may meet me at this
            place—if it does not I may find it on the road—if neither—most certainly at whatever
            place I shall Assemble the Officers of Governt. I am always & Affly Yours

            G. W——n


Title: To George Washington from Charles Carter, Jr., of Culpeper, 14 October 1793
From: Carter, Charles Jr. (of Culpeper)
To: Washington, George

            Dear Sir
            Fredericksburg [Va.] October 14th 1793

          The credit you gave me on the purchase of yr property in this place, expired last
            spring—It is a subject of great regret to me that any delay should
            have taken place in the fullfilment of my contract, tho’ I assure you that circumstances
            quite unforeseen by me, have occasion’d it—I have made
            an advantageous sale of my property in this place, in which the lott bought from you is
            included & could wish that you would execute a deed to Mr Richard Dobson of
            Cumberland County, (Virginia) for it —I will deposit in
            yr hands (as a collateral security for the payment of yr money) a bond of General Weedon
            payable 1st of January 1795 for 432£, tho I am quite certain that I shall be able to
            make you complete payment in January next—I make you this offer of Genl Weedon’s bond,
            persuaded that it is equivalent to any personal security I could give you—Offer my
            compliments to Mrs Washington & believe me Most respectfully yrs

            Chas Carter Junr

            I will assign the bond & deliver it to Howell Lewis if agreable to you—C.C.


Title: From George Washington to James Madison, 14 October 1793
From: Washington, George
To: Madison, James

            ⟨My⟩ dear Sir, (Private)
            Mount Vernon 14th Oct. 1793

          The calamitous situation of Philadelphia and the little prospect from present
            appearances of its eligibility to receive Congress by the first monday in Decembr
            involves a serious difficulty.
          It has been intimated by some, that the President ought, by Proclamation, to convene
            Congress a few days before the above period, at some other place—and by others,
            (although in extraordinary cases he has power to convene, yet) that he has none to
            change the place. Mr Jefferson when here on his way home, was of the
            latter opinion; but the laws were not fully examined; nor was the case at that time so
            serious as it now is. From the Attorney General to whom I have since written on this
            subject, requesting an Official opinion, I have
            received no answer; nor is it probable I shall do it soon, as I believe he has no
            communication with the Post Office.
          Time presses, and the malady at the usual place of meeting is becoming more & more
            alarming. What then, do you think is the most advisable cours⟨e⟩ for me to pursue in the
            present exig⟨ency?⟩ Summons Congress to meet at a ce⟨rt⟩ai⟨n⟩ time & place in their
            legislative capacity? Simply to state facts, & say I will meet the members at the
            time & place just mentioned, for ulterior arrangements? or leave matters as they
            are, if there is no power i⟨n⟩ the Executive to alter the place, legally?
          In the first & second cases (especial⟨ly⟩ the first) the delicacy of my naming a
            place will readily occur to you. My wishes are, that Congress could have been
            assemble⟨d⟩ at German town (to shew I meant no part⟨i⟩ality) leaving it to themselves if
            there should appear no prospect of getting into Philadelphia soon, to decide on what shd
            be done thereafter; but accts say that some people have died in German town also, of the
            malignant fever. Every death, however, is now ascribed to that cause, be the disorder
            what it may.
          Wilmington & Trenton are nearly equidistant from Philadelphia in opposite
            directions; but both are on the gre⟨at⟩ thoroughfare and equally exposed to danger from
            the multitude of Travellers & neither may have a Chamber suffic’t for the Ho. of
            Representatives—Annapolis and Lancaster are more secure and have good accomodations; but
            to name either, especially the first, would be thought to favour the Southern
            convenience most perhaps might be attributed to local views—especially as New York is
            talked of for this purpose. Reading if there are proper conveniences at it would favour
            neither the Southern nor Northern interest most, but would be alike to both.
          I have written to Mr Jefferson on this subject —notwithstanding which I would thank you for your opinion, & that fully, as you
            see my embarrassment. I even ask more, I would thank you (not being acquainted with
            forms & having no one with me that is.) to sketch some instrument for publication
            proper for the case you think most expedient for me to pursue in the present state of things, if the members are to be called together as beforementioned.
            The difficulty of keeping Clerks in the public Offices had, in a manner, suspended
            business before I left Philada; and the heads of Departments having matters of private
            concernment which required them to be absent, has prevented my return thither longer
            than I had intended—but I have now called upon the several Secretaries to meet me there
            or in the vicinity the first of next month, for which I shall set out the 27th or 28th
            of the present.
          The accounts from that City are really affecting. Two Gentlemen from New York now here
            (Colonels Platt & Sargent) say they were told at
            the Swedes ford of Schoolkil by a person who said he had it from Governor Mifflin that
            by the official report from the Mayor of the City upwards of 3500 had died and the
            disorder by all accounts was spreading, & raging more violently than ever. If cool
            weather accompanied with rain does not put a stop to the malady, distressing indeed must
            be the condition of that City—now almost depolulated by removals & deaths. I am
            always, and with very sincere regard & friendship Your Affectionate

            Go: Washington

            I would not have sent you such a scrawl, but really have no time to copy it. I came
              here to look a little into my own private concerns, but have no time allowed me for
              this purpose being followed by other matters.