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 JOHN M. OLIN 
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 Washington in Germantown; being an accoun 
 
 3 1924 010 412 835 *.„: 
 
 
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WASHINGTON 
 IN GERMANTOWN 
 
Five Hundred Copies of this book 
 have been printed from type 
 
 No.n-v-^-T)-^ 
 
Cornell University 
 Library 
 
 The original of tiiis book is in 
 tine Cornell University Library. 
 
 There are no known copyright restrictions in 
 the United States on the use of the text. 
 
 http://www.archive.org/details/cu31924010412835 
 
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WASHINGTON 
 
 IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 Being an Account of the Various Visits 
 of the Commander-in-Chief and First 
 President to Germantown, Pennsylvania 
 
 BY 
 
 Charles Francis Jenkins 
 
 SECRETARY OF 
 
 THE SITE AND RELIC SOCIETY 
 
 OF GERMANTOWN 
 
 PHILADELPHIA 
 
 William J. Campbell 
 1905 
 
 
copyright, 1905, by 
 Charles Francis Jenkins 
 
 ARRANGED AND PRINTED BY 
 GUERNSEY MOORE, AT 
 THE CANTERBURY PRESS 
 IN PHILADELPHIA 
 
 ^ 
 
TO 
 
 CHARLES J. WISTER 
 
 WHOSE FATHER SAW WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN AND 
 
 WHO, DESPITE HIS MORE THAN FOUR SCORE 
 
 YEARS, RETAINS A DEEP AND ACTIVE 
 
 INTEREST IN THE HISTORY 
 
 OF HIS NATIVE PLACE 
 
CONTENTS 
 
 CHAPTER PAGE 
 
 I. Washington's Early Visits i 
 
 II. The Yellow Fever OF 1793 - - 8 
 
 III. A Picture of Germantown in 1793 37 
 
 IV. Germantown Escapes the Contagion 55 
 V. Where Shall Congress Meet ? - - 65 
 
 VI. Randolph Arranges for the President's Comfort 89 
 
 VII. Washington Reaches Germantown 99 
 
 VIII. The Attorney General's Formal Opinion - 119 
 IX. Germantown Cabinet Meetings - - 132 
 
 X. The Record of a Busy Month - - - ^5^ 
 
 XI. Some Germantown Washington Letters - 180 
 
 XII. Congress Meets zi8 
 
 XIII. The Summer of 1794 - 234 
 
 XIV. Washington as a Farmer 277 
 
 XV. Gilbert Stuart and the Washington Portraits 297 
 
LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS. 
 
 ATHEN^UM PORTRAIT OF WASHINGTON 
 
 Painted by Gilbert Stuart. Jane Stuart, the artist's 
 
 DAUGHTER, SAYS IT WAS PAINTED IN GeRMANTOWN. FrOM 
 a photograph from the ORIGINAL PAINTING BELONGING TO 
 
 THE Boston Athen^um, now hanging in the Boston 
 Museum of Fine Arts Frontispiece 
 
 STENTON 
 
 Built by James Logan, 1727—34, Occupied by Wash- 
 ington in 1777. Located on Eighteenth Street, 
 between Courtland and Wyoming, near Wayne Junc- 
 tion, Philadelphia. From a recent photograph. 
 
 Opposite Page i 
 
 CARLTON 
 
 Occupying the site of Henry Hill's Mansion, which 
 WAS occupied by Washington on two occasions in 1777. 
 On Indian Queen Lane and Midvale Avenue, west of 
 WissAHicKON Avenue. From a recent photograph. 
 
 Opposite Page i i 
 
 CLIVEDEN,— THE CHEW HOUSE 
 
 Built by Benjamin Chew, aboott 1760. Famous for its 
 connection with the Battle of Germantown. Wash- 
 ington dined here in 1787. Located on the east side 
 of the Main Street of Germantown, between Johnson 
 Street and Cliveden Avenue. From a recent photo- 
 graph Opposite Page 17 
 
 BATTLE-SCARRED DOORS OF THE CHEW HOUSE 
 
 These doors are preserved in the mansion and were 
 stood in place for this photograph, which was re- 
 cently taken - - - Opposite Page 32 
 
BAYARD HOUSE 
 
 Built by George Hesser in 1777. Occupied by Henry 
 Drinker and family in 1793. Located No. 6749 Main 
 Street, Germantown. From a recent photograph. 
 
 Opposite Page 39 
 
 CHEW HOUSE HALL 
 
 The woodwork and plaster still show the scars of the 
 attack upon the house. From a recent photograph. 
 
 . Opposite Page 49 
 
 THE BILLMEYER HOUSE 
 
 Washington is said to have stood on a horse-block in 
 front of this house and directed the attack upon the 
 Chew House. Located at the northeast corner of 
 Main and Upsal Streets. From a recent photograph. 
 
 Opposite Page 55 
 ALBURGER HOUSE 
 
 Built by David James Dove about i 766. Occupied by 
 Washington during a portion of November, 1793. 
 Located No. 130 School House Lane, Germantown. 
 From a photograph, 1905 Opposite Page 81 
 
 HORSE CHESTNUT TREE 
 
 Said to have been planted by Washington in the gar- 
 den OF the Alburger House.. From a photograph taken 
 IN 1904 Opposite Page 96 
 
 MORRIS HOUSE 
 
 Built by David Deshler in 1772—3. Headquarters ov 
 General Howe at the time of the Battle of German- 
 town. Occupied by Washington in 1793 and again in 
 1794. Located at 5442 Main Street, Germantown. 
 From a recent photograph Opposite Page ■ V3 
 
 MORRIS HOUSE GARDEN 
 
 From a photograph, i 904 - - Opposite Page 1 ::g 
 
MORRIS HOUSE DOORWAY 
 
 As IT WAS WHEN OCCUPIED BY WASHINGTON. FrOM A PHO- 
 TOGRAPH, 1904 Opposite Page 144 
 
 MARKET SQUARE 
 
 The Morris House, which Washington occupied, faces 
 on this square. photographed from a sketch made by 
 William Britton, a school teacher of Germantown, 
 PRIOR TO 1823. From a photograph in possession of 
 Thomas H. Shoemaker, of Germantown. 
 
 Opposite Page 161 
 
 GERMANTOWN ACADEMY 
 
 Founded in 1760. Offered by the Trustees to Wash- 
 ington as a meeting place for Congress in 1793. Lo- 
 cated AT the southwest CORNER OF ScHOOL HoUSE LaNE 
 
 AND Greene Street, Germantown. From a photograph, 
 1904 - Opposite Page 177 
 
 KING OF PRUSSIA TAVERN 
 
 An old-time stopping place in Germantown. Thomas 
 Jefferson, Secretary of State, lodged here in 1793. 
 Now Nos. 5516-18-ZO Main Street, Germantown. 
 From a photograph, 1905 Opposite Page 193 
 
 SPENCERS 
 
 The home of Nathan Spencer in 1793 and the boarding 
 place of Edmund Randolph, Attorney General of the 
 United States. Located at the northeast corner of 
 Mill Street (Church Lane) and Dunton Street. Pho- 
 tograph, 1905 - Opposite Page 203 
 
 FAC-SIMILE of letter from WASHINGTON TO 
 COLONEL BURGESS BALL 
 
 Photographed from the original in possession of the 
 Pennsylvania Historical Society Opposite Page 2 1 1 
 
SPENCERS 
 
 THE OLD GATEWAY TO THE FARM YARD. FrOM A PHOTO- 
 GRAPH, 1905 Opposite Page 225 
 
 THE OLD SPENCER SUN DIAL 
 
 Made in 1787. Formerly stood near the Spencer 
 House. Now in the possession of Charles F. Jenkins, a 
 descendant of Nathan Spencer. It bears the inscrip- 
 tion, " Time waits for no man." From a recent pho- 
 tograph - Opposite Page 240 
 
 HOME OF GILBERT STUART IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 For many years in the possession of the Wister family. 
 Located No. 5140 Main Street, Germantown. From 
 A photograph, 1905 Opposite Page 273 
 
 RUINS OF GILBERT STUART'S STUDIO 
 
 Partially destroyed by fire about 1850. This photo- 
 graph was taken about thirty years ago. The ruins 
 
 WERE entirely REMOVED IN I 895. It STOOD IN THE REAR 
 
 OF THE HOUSE OCCUPIED BY StUART. OPPOSITE PaGE 289 
 
 MARQUIS OF LANSDOWNE PORTRAIT OF WASH- 
 INGTON 
 
 From a photograph from the original. Painted in Ger- 
 mantown FOR William Bingham. Now in the possession 
 of the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts. 
 
 Opposite Page 298 
 
INTRODUCTION 
 
 GERMANTOWN is now a fart of the City of 
 Philadelphia, being almost co-extensive with its 
 Twenty-second ward. Until the consolidation in 
 1854 "f Philadelphia County with the City as it now 
 exists, it was an outlying village and township, the center 
 of which is about six miles almost due north from the 
 City Hall. It was settled in 168 j by German Friends 
 {fakers) and Mennonites from the lower Rhine country, 
 and for many years was a slumbering country village, 
 built somewhat after the way of European towns, the 
 houses lining for three miles or more the main street, and 
 the orchards, fields and woodlots extending back, in many 
 cases to the township lines, a mile or so away to the east 
 and west. As late as z/// there were but six cross- 
 roads bisecting the long Main Street, and it was much 
 later than this before any important road or street was 
 laid out paralleling the great highway. The German 
 language, customs, and traditions clung tenaciously to the 
 town until well into the beginning of the last century. 
 
 The early settlers were mostly artisans who brought 
 from the fatherland habits of thrift and industry, and 
 
skill in making linen, weaving cloth, knitting, shoe making, 
 tanning and other industries. Some of these lines of 
 production early assumed large proportions. Knitting 
 particularly has always flourished in the town, and Ger- 
 mantown yarn is a synonym of excellence throughout the 
 country, ne first paper mill in the colonies was erected 
 here before I'/oo. Printing was an early art, so that 
 we find three editions of the Bible printed here in German 
 before an English one was made elsewhere in the colonies. 
 The first Mennonite church, the first Dunkard church, 
 the first religious paper, the first hymn book, the first work 
 on pedagogy, the first type casting and the first public 
 protest against the institution of human slavery are a 
 few of the results of the enterprise and public spirit of 
 its German settlers and their descendants. When to 
 these peaceful achievements is added the fact that Ger- 
 mantown was occupied first by the American and then by 
 the British army and was the scene of one of the impor- 
 tant battles in the struggle for American Independence, its 
 importance in colonial history will be appreciated. 
 
 Yet Germantown has still another claim for distinc- 
 tion in that here, during the month of November, 1793, 
 was the seat of government of the United States. Here 
 was the residence of the President and the ofiices of the 
 Secretary of State, and of the Attorney General. Nearby 
 the Secretaries of the Treasury and of War were quar- 
 tered. It is remarkable that not one of the great biogra- 
 phers of Washington gives more than a passing notice to 
 
the fact that for this whole month his home was here, 
 and that it was one of the busiest, the most trying, and, 
 in some ways, as important as any month in the whole 
 eight years of his administration. The biographers per- 
 haps are not to blame, for while we of Germantown 
 have known in a hazy way that Washington was here, 
 none of our local historians have heretofore surmised the 
 wealth of material which was in existence, nor the im- 
 portance which attaches to this month of great admin- 
 istrative activity, or its connection with the nation's 
 history. 
 
 Washington again made his home in Germantown 
 during the summer of 17^4 to escape the heat of the 
 city, and while this visit contained more of rural calm and 
 rest from the affairs of state, yet it was not entirely 
 free from Presidential worry and responsibility. It was 
 from Germantown that the proclamation addressed to 
 the inhabitants of Western Pennsylvania at the time of 
 the whiskey rebellion was dated and sent forth. Great 
 Britain's delay in evacuating the military forts on our 
 frontiers was also the cause of concern to the President, 
 and his letter addressed to John Jay, the American 
 Minister in London, has been included to show that 
 there was little real relief from official cares even in 
 quiet Germantown. 
 
 The following chapters are largely filled with copies 
 of letters from and to Washington and the various mem- 
 bers of his cabinet. They have mainly been selected and 
 
copied from the archives of the Library of Congress, 
 and many of them are here in print for the first time. 
 It should be stated, however, that the words " heretofore 
 unpublished" mean that the letters do not appear in 
 any standard collection of the writings of the authors. 
 It would of course be impossible to say with any degree 
 of assurance that every letter so designated was abso- 
 lutely free, either in the original or a copy, from the 
 leady smudge of the typesetter's thumb. 
 
 The thanks of the author are due to S. M. Ham- 
 ilton, of the Library of the Department of State, Wash- 
 ington, D. C, for much valued assistance, and to Dr. 
 John W. Jordan and Albert Cook Myers for helpful 
 information. Also to J. Mitchell Elliot, who made 
 the photographs, with a few exceptions, especially for 
 this work. 
 
1 
 
WASHINGTON IN 
 GERMANTOWN 
 
 CHAPTER I 
 
 Washington's Early Visits 
 
 AUGUST ist, 1777, the Continental 
 army under command of Washington 
 L encamped on the outskirts of German- 
 town, between it and the Falls of Schuylkill, 
 now the village of that name. General Howe 
 had embarked his troops from New York for 
 his unknown destination, and Washington had 
 waited in northern New Jersey until word was 
 received that the British ships were off the Dela- 
 ware Capes. He had then turned to the defence 
 of Philadelphia, crossed the Delaware River at 
 New Hope, Pennsylvania, July 27th, and marched 
 from there to the fields outlying Germantown. 
 Washington himself rode on in advance of the 
 army, went into Philadelphia, inspected the 
 
2 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 forts on the Delaware, visited Chester and 
 Philadelphia again, and did not reach his camp 
 until August 4th. Here he occupied the house 
 of Henry Hill, which has since been taken 
 down and the site rebuilt with the handsome 
 old mansion Carlton, a square or so west of 
 Wissahickon Avenue and between Queen Lane 
 and Midvale Avenue. 
 
 The army remained encamped here until 
 August 8th, when the belief having arisen that 
 the British would not attack Philadelphia, 
 Washington started back to the Hudson. That 
 evening the army encamped at Whitemarsh and 
 the next day a few miles further on to Upper 
 Dublin township. On the i oth they encamped 
 near Hartsville, Pennsylvania, remaining there 
 until the 23 d, when all doubt as to Howe's 
 intentions against Philadelphia having been re- 
 moved and news of his arrival in Chesapeake 
 Bay having been received, the army was put 
 in motion for Philadelphia. It rested that 
 night a mile below Germantown, at Nicetown. 
 Washington made his headquarters nearby at 
 Stenton, which was built in 1 728 by James Logan, 
 William Penn's able and faithful secretary and 
 representative in the Colony. 
 
fVJSHINGTON'S EARLY VISITS 3 
 
 Stenton* was then the home of Dr. George 
 Logan, a grandson of James Logan, but the 
 house was unoccupied by the family at this 
 particular time. An aid-de-camp, with a guard, 
 was sent in advance to secure the house. The 
 General and his staff of about twenty officers 
 and their servants arrived about noon. They 
 bought a sheep of the tenant of the farm, which 
 was killed and prepared as soon as possible, 
 dinner being served at three o'clock. Wash- 
 ington is described on this occasion as being 
 very silent and grave and wrapped in deep 
 thought. The following day, Sunday, August 
 24th, the army, with Washington at its head, 
 marched through Philadelphia to Darby, to 
 Wilmington, and on to meet Howe on the 
 banks of the Brandywine. 
 
 On Saturday, September 13 th, the second 
 day after that battle, the troops returned to their 
 first encampment near Germantown, between it 
 and the Falls of Schuylkill, and Washington 
 again made his headquarters at Henry Hill's 
 
 *It should be noted that neither beyond the boundaries of the 
 
 Carlton nor Stenton are, strictly ancient township. They have, 
 
 speaking, in Germantown. Both however, always been identified 
 
 mansions are a few hundred yards with the town and its history. 
 
4 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 house. The army remained here for two days, 
 when it again crossed the Schuylkill, and after 
 ten days of marching and counter-marching, 
 Washington withdrew towards the Perkiomen 
 and the British army, in two great streams, one 
 down the Ridge Road through the neighboring 
 town of Roxborough and the other down the 
 Main Street of Germantown, encamped in the 
 fields on the edge of the town which Washington 
 had shortly before vacated. This was on the 
 25th of September. The next day Howe 
 dispatched Cornwallis to occupy Philadelphia, 
 but the main body of the British army remained 
 encamped near Germantown until the time of 
 Washington's next visit, October 4th, 1777, the 
 day of the battle of Germantown. Until that 
 day Sir William Howe had his headquarters at 
 Stenton. 
 
 It is not the purpose of this chapter to recount 
 that event. Washington had been resting on 
 the banks of the Perkiomen, but marched down 
 and encamped some twelve or thirteen miles 
 north of Germantown. Starting from here on 
 the evening of October 3d, after an all-night 
 march, he fell upon the British army. Wash- 
 ington himself accompanied the reserve divisions 
 
JVJSHINGTON'S EARLT VISITS 5 
 
 under the command of General Nash, and there 
 seems good authority for the statement that his 
 personal visit to the town that day did not extend 
 down the Main Street beyond the Billmeyer 
 house, at the northeast corner of Main and 
 Upsal Streets. Here for many years was pointed 
 out the horse block on which he stood inspecting 
 the attack on the Chew House, a few hundred 
 yards away. The capstone is preserved by the 
 Site and Relic Society of Germantown, while 
 the spyglass used on the occasion is in the 
 possession of the Academy. The battle ended 
 in the Continental army withdrawing, and for 
 a number of years Washington found no oppor- 
 tunity to revisit Germantown. 
 
 On Sunday, July 8th, 1787, Washington, 
 then in Philadelphia presiding over the sessions 
 of the Constitutional Convention, rode out to 
 Stenton, in company with his friend, Major 
 Daniel Jenifer. Stenton at this time was occu- 
 pied by Dr. George Logan, who had been 
 brought to Washington's attention as a successful 
 and progressive farmer, and the visit was partly 
 for the purpose of looking over the farm and 
 noting the experiments which Dr. Logan was 
 then making. Among these was a demonstration 
 
6 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 of the advantage of the use of land plaster on 
 grass land, which Dr. Logan had illustrated by 
 marking out initials in the sod. Where the 
 plaster had been sown on these letters the grass 
 was darker and more luxuriant than elsewhere. 
 While Washington was pleased with the many 
 evidences of rural progress which he found, his 
 hosts were no less pleased with his graciousness. 
 His attentions to Mrs. Logan and his notice of 
 the children, one of whom he placed upon his 
 knee, naturally won the parents' regard. Mrs. 
 Logan says in her account of this visit : " I had 
 always looked up to General Washington from 
 the first time I ever heard his auspicious name 
 as a rare and perfect pattern of the dignity to 
 which man might attain by living up to the 
 laws of virtue and honour, and now that I 
 beheld the colossal greatness at nearer view, 
 I perceived it polished and adorned with all 
 the amenity and gentleness which delights and 
 endears in domestic society."* Washington 
 recalled to his hosts his former visit to Stenton 
 in I 'J'J'J') when in gloom and uncertainty he had 
 
 *From Memoirs of Dr. George Logan, by his widow, Deborah 
 Norris Logan, Philadelphia, 1899. 
 
WASHINGTON'S EARLY VISITS 7 
 
 passed a night there. The visitors returned to 
 the city in the evening. 
 
 Again on a Sunday in August, the 19th, 
 Washington rode up through Germantown, in 
 company with his friend, Samuel Powel, to 
 the old encampment at Whitemarsh, where the 
 army had been quartered from November 2d to 
 December nth, 1777. After contemplating 
 the scene and reviewing the dangers which had 
 threatened to overwhelm the American army at 
 that place, they rode back to Germantown and 
 dined with Blair McClenachan, a Philadelphia 
 merchant who had bought, in 1779, the Chew 
 mansion, where he was then living. After 
 dinner they rode across the Schuylkill to Bel- 
 mont, drank tea with Judge Richard Peters and 
 returned to the city in the evening. 
 
CHAPTER II 
 The Yellow Fever of 1793 
 
 THERE arrived at Philadelphia in July 
 of 1793, several ships from Santo Do- 
 mingo, loaded with French refugees 
 from the revolution then raging in that island. 
 It is probable that the yellow fever was introduced 
 in Philadelphia by these unfortunate people, as it 
 is known there was sickness among them and 
 several had died after landing. It was not until 
 the middle of August, however, that the inhabit- 
 ants of the city awoke to the fact that a pestilence 
 was upon them. On the 1 6th a diarist in Ger- 
 mantown notes that the season was " sickly," 
 and that there had been an unusual number of 
 deaths lately in the city. " 'Tis seldom any one 
 of the family comes to stay a night with us but 
 they bring an account of the death of one or 
 more of our citizens" (in Philadelphia).* The 
 first official notice of the epidemic was on 
 August 2 2d, when the Mayor, Matthew Clark- 
 son, communicated with the City Commission- 
 
 * Elizabeth Drinker'* Journal, August iSth, 1793. 
 
THE YELLOW FEVER OF 1793 9 
 
 ers, ordering them to have the streets cleaned and 
 purified and all filth removed. The College of 
 Physicians considered the matter on the 26th 
 of the month and issued an address to the 
 public containing important suggestions as to 
 what should be done in the emergency. They 
 urged non-intercourse with the afflicted, that 
 houses containing fever patients should be 
 marked, that a hospital should be prepared, that 
 cleanliness should be observed, that the dead 
 should be buried promptly and privately, that 
 the bells which had been constantly tolling 
 should be stopped, and other suggestions of a 
 hygienic and common sense nature. On the 
 27th the Legislature, pursuant to adjournment, 
 assembled at the State House, and despite the 
 contagion, remained in session until the 7th of 
 the following month.* Governor Mifflin wrote 
 on the 29th, urging the necessity of the most 
 vigorous action to prevent the extension of the 
 disease. On the same day, the Guardians of the 
 Poor held a conference with the magistrates, at 
 
 * One of the bills of expense tant and preventative ; also ^^2.72 
 
 of this short session, ordered paid for gun powder which was burned 
 
 by the Legislature, was II5.63 for for the same purpose, 
 
 vinegar, which was sprinkled Journal af House of Representa- 
 around the rooms as a disinfec- tivei. 
 
lo WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 which it was decided that a suitable hospital 
 near the city was absolutely necessary for the 
 infected poor. 
 
 But even up to this time, when the deaths 
 in the city had increased from the normal aver- 
 age of eight or nine a day to twenty-four, there 
 were those who were disposed to minimize the 
 danger. Among these was Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 
 the Auditor of Treasury, who writing to his 
 father August 30th, expressed himself as vexed 
 at the prominence the newspapers of the city 
 had given the disorder. He deplored the effect 
 on the markets occasioned by the alarm spread- 
 ing to the country. For himself, he felt no 
 apprehension of danger and cautioned his 
 friends not to be alarmed at the reports which 
 were likely to be circulated. 
 
 On the 3 1 st of August the Guardians of the 
 Poor took possession, against the protest of the 
 tenant, of the estate of William Hamilton, called 
 Bushhill, on the outskirts of the city, and here 
 established a hospital. Hamilton was absent 
 from the city. 
 
 The exodus from the city had begun in 
 large numbers by the 26th of August, and so 
 great was the desire to get away, that vehicles of 
 
>^^ 
 
THE YELLOW FEVER OF //pj ii 
 
 all kinds were in demand, constantly transport- 
 ing for several weeks, families and furniture into 
 the neighboring country. As a consequence, 
 rents and accommodations in the suburbs went 
 soaring upwards. Many city homes were closed 
 entirely; others left in the care of servants. 
 Of Philadelphia's population of over 36,000, it 
 was stated in the official report, that during the 
 epidemic twelve thousand people left the city; 
 other estimates make the number at least twenty 
 thousand. Of 6,327 houses, 2,728 were closed. 
 A great number of those who were in the 
 early stages of the disease when they fled the 
 city died in the surrounding country, but it is 
 an interesting fact that only in a very few cases 
 was the disease communicated to the homes 
 where they had taken refuge. 
 
 Early in September Alexander Hamilton, the 
 Secretary of the Treasury, was taken down with 
 the prevailing disease at his residence at Fair Hill, 
 two and a half miles from Philadelphia. He 
 had been miserable for several days, and on the 
 evening of the 6th two physicians were called in 
 to attend him. Edmund Randolph, the Attorney 
 General, had already sought refuge near German- 
 town, and Thomas Jefferson, Secretary of State, 
 
1 2 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 wrote on September 8 th that he would go away, 
 were it not that he had publicly announced he 
 would not go until the beginning of October, 
 and he did not like to exhibit the appearance of 
 panic. Besides he .thought that there might 
 serious ills proceed from there not being a single 
 member of the administration in Philadelphia. 
 He felt, however, that there was danger in the 
 situation. 
 
 On September 9th Mrs. Washington, on 
 the eve of her departure for Virginia, wrote to 
 Mrs. Hamilton, expressing her gratification to 
 learn that Colonel Hamilton was better. She 
 was lucky, she said, in having three bottles of 
 old wine, which had been carried to the East 
 Indies and back, and these she sent, together 
 with three of another kind, with the statement 
 that there was plenty more if Mrs. Hamilton 
 would send for it. She further asked that Mrs. 
 Hamilton would call on Mrs. Emerson, the 
 housekeeper, for anything that she might want. 
 Mrs. Hamilton was later taken with the disease, 
 but the attack appears to have been a light one. 
 
 The same day Mrs. Washington received 
 from Elizabeth Powel, the wife of Samuel 
 Powel, the following letter, written in answer 
 
THE YELLOW FEVER OF 1793 13 
 
 to the invitation which had been extended to 
 her to accompany the President's family to 
 Virginia. Samuel Powel was a distinguished 
 citizen of Philadelphia, an ex-mayor of the 
 city, and a warm personal friend of the Presi- 
 dent. The letter leads up to one of the tragedies 
 of the fateful summer, for Samuel Powel was 
 stricken with the fever as he returned from a 
 visit to his wife, who was at her brother Rich- 
 ard Willing's. He turned in at a little farm 
 which he owned, called Powelton, now a por- 
 tion of West Philadelphia, where he died Sep- 
 tember 29th after a few days' illness. 
 
 My dear Friend & very dear Madam : * 
 
 Your affectionate & friendly Attention to me, at 
 this awfull Moment, filled my Heart with so much 
 Sensibility as rendered me incapable of expressing my 
 Feelings on the Subject of our Conversation, and 
 when my amiable Friend, the President, renewed his 
 Invitation to me to accompany you to Virginia, I 
 could only say that I would let you know, this Even- 
 ing, the result of a Conference I meant to have with 
 Mr. Powel. After a long Conversation with him, I 
 collected that he saw no Propriety in the Citizens 
 flying from the only Spot where Physicians conver- 
 
 * From Archives Library oi Congress. Heretofore unpublished. 
 
14 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 sant in the Disorder that now prevails could be con- 
 sulted ; nor does he appear to be impressed with the 
 degree of Apprehension that generally pervades the 
 Minds of our Friends — however, he wished me to 
 follow my own Inclination and the Dictates of my 
 own Judgment in a matter that may eventually effect 
 my Life and his Happiness — this has thrown me into 
 a Dilemma the most painful. The Conflict between 
 Duty and Inclination is a severe Trial of my Feel- 
 ings ; but as I believe it is always best to adhere to 
 the line of Duty, I beg to decline the Pleasure I 
 proposed to myself in accompanying you to Virginia 
 at this Time. The Possibility of his being ill during 
 my Absence, & thereby deprived of the Consolation 
 and Aid, he might derive from my Attention to him 
 woud be to me a lasting Source of Affliction, and, 
 God knows, I need not voluntarily add to the List of 
 Sorrows. My Life has been sufficiently embittered 
 to make me now very little anxious about protracting 
 or preserving it. Death has robbed me of many 
 Friends, and Time has abated the Ardor of others, so 
 that Life in my latter Years has been little more than 
 a Sieve to let thro some Joy or some Blessing. Mr. 
 Powel, who is highly sensible of your Friendship to 
 us, desires to unite in every good Wish for you & 
 yours. That God may preserve and bless you both, 
 and that you may safely return in a short Time, is the 
 
 unfeigned Prayer of your . 
 
 smcere affectionate 
 
 Eliza. Powel. 
 
THE YELLOW FEVER OF .1793 1 5 
 
 Mr Powel would have done himself the Pleasure 
 of waiting upon you before your Departure, had he 
 not apprehended that a Visit in the Moment of 
 Preparation for a Journey would have been ill timed. 
 
 Monday August 9th, 1793. 
 The President and Mrs. Washington 
 
 The President and his family set out for 
 Mount Vernon on the loth of September, It 
 had been his intention to remain in Philadel- 
 phia until the 20th of the month. "But as 
 Mrs. V^ashington was unwilling to leave me 
 surrounded by the malignant fever which pre- 
 vailed, I could not think of hazarding her and 
 the children any longer by my continuance in 
 the city, the house in which we lived being, in 
 a manner, blockaded by the disorder, and was 
 becoming every day more and more fatal. I, 
 therefore, came off with them on the above 
 day (the loth) and arrived at this place (Mount 
 Vernon) the 14th, without incountering the 
 least accident on the road." * 
 
 Before going, W^ashington requested Gen- 
 eral Knox, the Secretary of War, to write him 
 a line by every Monday's post, informing him 
 
 * Washmgton to Tobias Lear, September 14th, 1793. 
 
1 6 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 of the state of the disorder, and he also asked 
 his good offices in looking after Fraunces, the 
 steward of his household, and Mrs. Emerson, 
 the housekeeper, who had been left in charge 
 of the house, "if by means of the disorder my 
 household affairs in this city should be involved 
 in any delicacy." 
 
 Had Washington delayed his departure until 
 the 20th, as originally intended, he might have 
 experienced inconvenience, if not difficulty, in 
 making the journey. The citizens of Baltimore 
 met on September 1 3 th and passed a resolution 
 that no persons coming from Philadelphia should 
 be received into their homes, without producing 
 a certificate from the health officer. The next 
 day a body of militia was stationed two miles 
 out of the city, on the Philadelphia road, who 
 were to aid the health officers in preventing 
 admission of any affiscted with any malignant 
 disease, or those who had not been absent at 
 least seven days from Philadelphia or any other 
 infected place. 
 
 On the 17th the Philadelphia stage was 
 stopped by the guard, the passengers, including 
 a French naval officer and several French gen- 
 tlemen, were compelled to alight, and being 
 

 s^ 
 
THE TELLOW FEVER OF 1793 17 
 
 refused admittance at a nearby inn, were obliged 
 to spend the night around a fire in the woods. 
 The next day they were permitted to proceed. 
 By the 19 th the running of the stage by the 
 western shore was entirely discontinued, and 
 travel practically suspended. Havre de Grace, 
 on the highroad from Philadelphia to Balti- 
 more, prohibited the crossing of the Susque- 
 hanna at that point, of any not provided with 
 a certificate to the effect that they had not lately 
 come from Philadelphia. 
 
 In the other direction. New York, remem- 
 bering its own visitation of the yellow fever 
 the year before, made elaborate preparations to 
 defend itself. By the 17th of September all 
 intercourse with Philadelphia was forbidden, 
 and guards were placed at the different landings 
 to turn back any who might come. Despite 
 these precautions, the efforts of the fugitives to 
 enter the city were often successful. Com- 
 mittees were appointed to patrol the streets and 
 guard against entry under cover of the darkness. 
 At many of the towns along the post road from 
 Philadelphia to New York all travel, without 
 quarantine, was interdicted and guards were 
 placed to enforce the regulations. September 
 
1 8 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 1 3 th Trenton forbade the approach of travelers 
 by water or their landing between Bordentown 
 and head of navigation. On September 24th 
 the route of the stage to New York was changed, 
 and in order to avoid Trenton it ran up through 
 Germantown, to cross the river at a point 
 above. The alarm throughout the country 
 was not confined to the towns along the great 
 highway. Seaboard towns and cities placed a 
 quarantine on Philadelphia shipping, or prohib- 
 ited it altogether. Nearby towns and commu- 
 nities appointed health committees, provided 
 hospitals and detention camps, and forbade stage 
 drivers and ferrymen to transport suspected 
 travelers. The most exaggerated accounts of 
 the disorder were published in the newspapers 
 of other cities, while Philadelphia letters and 
 newspapers were received by postmaster and 
 addressee alike with suspicion, and often handled 
 with tongs and dipped in vinegar before being 
 delivered or read. 
 
 On the other hand, the surrounding towns 
 of Germantown, Chester, Wilmington, Spring- 
 field, Woodbury, Elkton and Chestertown placed 
 no embargo on travelers fi-om Philadelphia, 
 and several of these places provided hospitals 
 
THE YELLOW FEVER OF 1793 19 
 
 and attention for the unfortunate who might 
 come among them. Collections were made 
 throughout the country for the poor of the city, 
 New York leading off with $5000.00, and the 
 smaller villages and country communities send- 
 ing their welcome quotas of money or badly 
 needed supplies. Salem, New Jersey, contribu- 
 ted 133 fowls, 3 cheese, 7 pounds of butter, 
 I gammon, 2 sheep and 1 9 pounds of lard, while 
 Peter Muhlenberg sent down from Trappe, 
 Montgomery County, 120 fowls, 3 bundles of 
 clothing, a load of vegetables, 10 sheep, 4 bags 
 of flour and $50.00 in money. One welcome 
 contribution was a cargo from Boston with sixty 
 or seventy puncheons of vinegar (largely used 
 as a disinfectant), four tons of tallow candles, 
 and a quantity of lemon juice. Potts Grove 
 sent fourteen sheep to Robeson's Mill, which 
 formerly stood at School House Lane and the 
 Wissahickon Drive, to be called for by the com- 
 mittee. Some of the delegations bearing relief 
 were chary about entering the city, and arrange- 
 ments were made to meet them at the ferries or 
 outside the city limits. 
 
 It seemed to take the citizens of Philadel- 
 phia a long time to arouse to the importance of 
 
20 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 vigorous action. It was not until Thursday, 
 the 1 2 th of September, that a slimly attended 
 meeting of citizens was held at the City Hall. 
 Ten citizens offered themselves to assist the 
 three Guardians of the Poor who remained on 
 duty, the rest having left the city. 
 
 On the 14th of September another public 
 meeting was held, and a committee of twenty- 
 six, which included seven of the volunteer 
 committee, was appointed, and this committee, 
 with the exception of four who gave no atten- 
 tion to their duties, from that time forward 
 assumed charge of the poor, the collection and 
 distribution of supplies, the hospital at Bushhill, 
 the removal of the sick and the burial of the 
 dead. Stephen Girard and Peter Helm, to the 
 surprise and delight of the committee, volun- 
 teered for the management of the Bushhill 
 hospital, then sadly in need of an effective 
 administration, the former selecting the interior 
 management and the latter the direction of 
 outside affairs. As indicating the degree of 
 their danger and devotion, it should be noted 
 that of the thousand patients who were brought 
 to this hospital, the deaths numbered more than 
 fifty per cent., and of the committee of twenty- 
 
THE YELLOW FEVER OF 1793 21 
 
 six, four (Andrew Adgate, Jonathan Dickinson 
 Sargeant, Daniel Offley and Joseph Inskeep) died 
 from the fever, the first two contracting it early 
 in their work. From the time of its appoint- 
 ment until early in November this committee 
 sat daily and gave the most painstaking and 
 intelligent direction to its duties. During this 
 period it constituted in reality the government 
 of the city. Later, when the absolute stagnation 
 of business and consequent lack of employment 
 reduced many families to want, an assistant 
 committee was appointed to supervise the dis- 
 tribution of relief. It was not until March 8 th, 
 1794, that the affairs of the committee were 
 wound up and its report received, with grateful 
 thanks and expressions of appreciation by the 
 citizens of Philadelphia, in town meeting assem- 
 bled at the City Hall. 
 
 The functions of the national government 
 had almost entirely ceased. Jefferson had re- 
 moved to a house along the Schuylkill before 
 the President left the city, and despite his pre- 
 vious declaration that some one of the Cabinet 
 should remain at the seat of government, con- 
 cluded by the 15 th of September that he, too, 
 might as well go home. Going into town the 
 
22 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 day the President departed, he found but one 
 clerk remaining in his department, and that it 
 was impossible to carry on any business. He 
 accordingly, as soon as his files were cleared and 
 every letter needing attention answered, set out 
 for home, stopping at Mount Vernon on the 
 way, and reaching Monticello September 2 2d. 
 
 The Secretary of War and Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 
 the Auditor of the Treasury, had secured Dr. 
 William Smith's house, near the Falls of Schuyl- 
 kill, where temporary offices of the Treasury 
 Department were opened and the public business 
 attended to as well as circumstances would permit. 
 As requested. General Knox wrote to the Presi- 
 dent on September 15th and again on the i8th. 
 Knox announced that he intended setting out 
 for Boston on the 19th and that he had sent 
 to the President's house, and on inquiry found 
 all well. 
 
 On their convalescence, the Secretary of the 
 Treasury and Mrs. Hamilton departed for New 
 York, but they were late in starting, and even 
 their position in the government could not insure 
 them a safe journey. They lodged with Robert 
 Morris and his family, at the Falls of the Dela- 
 ware, and their hosts were considerably alarmed 
 
THE YELLOW FEVER OF 1793 23 
 
 when they returned to the house shortly after 
 they had resumed their journey, the citizens of 
 Trenton having refused to let them pass. Having 
 at length encompassed this difficulty, they were 
 later refused admittance to New York City, and 
 were therefore obliged to continue on up the 
 river to Albany. To Hamilton Washington 
 wrote as follows: 
 
 Mount Vernon Sepr 25 : 1793* 
 (Private) 
 My dear Sir 
 
 I congratulate you & Mrs. Hamilton very sin- 
 cerely on your recovery from the malignant fever 
 which prevailed in Philadelphia, and hope you are both 
 restored to perfect health, and that no other of the 
 family has been seized with the disorder. — In these 
 sentiments Mrs. Washington cordially unites with me. 
 
 From Mr. Jefferson who has just passed this — 
 from Genl Knox who has set out for Boston — and 
 from the accts. published in the Gazettes — I conceive, 
 that under the most favourable change that can reason- 
 ably be expected, the first of November is as soon as 
 business can, with safety, be transacted in the City of 
 Philadelphia; but it appears necessary, at all events, 
 that the heads of Departments should assemble — if 
 
 * Archives of the Library of Congress. Published also in Hamil- 
 ton's Works. Vol. IV. 
 
24 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 not at that place, yet in the vicinity of it (say German- 
 town) at that time; where I also shall be, if well. 
 
 My compliments to Mrs. Hamilton, & respects 
 to Genl. Schuyler & family if you are with them. 
 I am always & with much truth 
 
 Your Affecte. 
 Colo. Hamilton. Go: Washington. 
 
 General Knox had even more difficulty in 
 making his journey to New England, as the fol- 
 lowing heretofore unpublished letters disclose. 
 They give a vivid picture of the alarms of the 
 towns on the road to New York and of the sit- 
 uation in that city. Their dates also disclose 
 the fact that General Knox was in quarantine at 
 Elizabeth from September 19th to October ist, 
 two full weeks. 
 
 Elizabeth Town New Jersey 
 
 24th Septr 1793* 
 Sir 
 
 I arrived here on the 19th after much delay and 
 difficulty on the road. The alarm of the people in all 
 the Towns and villages on the road, and at New York, 
 on account of the prevailing fever is really inexpressible. 
 The militia are posted at Trenton Brunswick and 
 Newark and New York. This place seems to possess 
 
 * From Archives Library of Congress. Heretofore unpublished. 
 
THE YELLOW FEVER OF 1793 25 
 
 less fear and more reason. At New York reason 
 appears to been entirely lost. Among many serious 
 evils such as frightning some Philadelphians to death 
 by placing them on Governors island without proper 
 accommodations the following laughable incident is 
 said to have occurred a day or two past. A Boat 
 arrived at New York from Jersey with passengers. 
 The Mob collected and insisted upon it they were 
 infected, and after they had landed the Mob forced 
 them on board again, and with them a Mr. Mercier of 
 New York, who plead in vain, that he had not been out 
 of New York for a long time. The Mob however swore 
 otherwise and the poor man was forced into the boat 
 with persons whom he believed to be infected with the 
 plague and did not return to his family for a day after. 
 
 Poor Courtney the Tailor with his family were at 
 a tavern on 2d river at which place he felt the symp- 
 toms of an intermittent or yellow fever — He took 
 Rushs medicines so frequently that he really became 
 ill — The people ordered his coffin in his presence, and 
 his wife sent to Newark for a Physician who pronounced 
 it a common intermittent. But to mark the monstrous 
 absurdity which prevails the people came into the sick 
 mans room in shoals to see the curious fever^ and he 
 has been so worried that his life is in great danger — 
 There are innumerable instances of the like unreason- 
 able conduct. 
 
 I sent to New York Wednesday to get a passage 
 to Rhode Island — But the Masters of the packets 
 said that it was as much as their lives were worth, as it 
 
26 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 was reported at Newport that the yellow fever, or plague 
 killed in New York 40 people per day. If a person 
 has been from Philadelphia 14 days and continued in 
 perfect health during that time he may be admitted 
 into New York. I have yet six days quarantine to 
 perform, which of the choice of evils is the least. 
 This circumstance will retard my return as soon as I 
 intended, for it is of the highest personal importance 
 to me that I should go to Boston, and I am too bulky 
 to be smuggled through the Country. 
 
 The french fleet is still in New York, in a wretched 
 state of disorganization which prevents its sailing. Mr. 
 Genet has been low spirited for ten days past. The 
 fleet have been told by him that the executive of the 
 United States prevents their selling their prizes, and 
 Citizen Bompard who belongs to a club in france as 
 well as all his sailors, say that they shall represent the 
 matter upon their return in the proper colours — Some 
 of the sailors lately attacked the Marquis de Rouvrays 
 house with an intention it is said of massacring him 
 and his son. They have fled to this Town. I do not 
 find Mr. Genet has promulgated the last letter of the 
 Secretary of State, excepting as to the effect of the 
 measures with the Consuls, which prevent their selling 
 their prizes — Would to God it had been thought 
 proper to publish the letter to Mr. Morris. The 
 minds of our own people would have been convinced 
 of the propriety of the measures that have been 
 adopted, and all cavil at the meeting of Congress 
 prevented. 
 
THE YELLOW FEVER OF 1793 i-j 
 
 Colonel Hamilton experienced inconvenience on 
 the road. Not being admitted into New York he has 
 gone to Albany. My respectful compliments to Mrs. 
 
 Washington, 
 
 I am sir with perfect respect 
 Your humble servt 
 
 The President of the United States. 
 
 Elizabeth Town N Jersey Oct i. 1793* 
 Sir 
 
 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 Surveillance sailed on the 9th ultimo for 
 
 France with despatches from Mr. Genet, and such is 
 
 her 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 neighboring towns take all possible precautions for 
 
 their own safety. 
 
 I am Sir With perfect respect 
 
 and attachment 
 
 Your humble Servant 
 
 The President of the U States. Knox 
 
 * From Archives Library of Congress. Heretofore unpublished. 
 
28 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 Of the many harrowing details of this the 
 first great, but by no means the last, visitation 
 of the yellow fever to Philadelphia, it is not the 
 scope of this book to cover. The alarm and 
 demoralization of the people of the city were 
 extreme ; families were broken up or entirely 
 swept away; burials were made by wholesale, 
 sometimes in trenches ; coffins were stacked at 
 the City Hall ready for use; servants, and even 
 children, were abandoned, or the helpless parent 
 or employer, if self-preservation seemed to 
 demand it. The least indication of disease, 
 often not yellow fever, would cause the patient, if 
 poor, to be bundled off to Bush Hill.* Business 
 was suspended, and many of those who remained 
 in the city kept themselves secluded- in their 
 houses. 
 
 By October 1 1 th the deaths had reached 
 high water mark, the burials that day number- 
 ing one hundred and nineteen. From August 
 I St to November 9th the burials in all the 
 graveyards of the city numbered 4,041. In 
 addition there were those who had died in the 
 
 * As illustrating the eiFort to the entry in Elizabeth Drinker's 
 avoid exhibition of any of the diary of October 5th, on a sub- 
 symptoms of yellow fever, see sequent page. 
 
THE YELLOW FEVER OF lypj 29 
 
 neighboring country and towns. The total 
 deaths during this period have been estimated, 
 by a careful observer, as approximating five 
 thousand. 
 
 Many useful citizens had died. Ten physi- 
 cians of the city had succumbed ; four members 
 of the committee, as has already been stated, 
 lost their lives ; six clergymen, and four preach- 
 ers of the Society of Friends were carried off; 
 six of the clerks in the Treasury Department, 
 seven persons employed by the customs collect- 
 ors, and several clerks in the banks and post 
 office were among the victims. A number of 
 those who were safely housed in the suburbs 
 contracted the disease by visiting the city to 
 look after their homes or the servants they had 
 left behind. 
 
 Among those who remained in the city 
 during the epidemic was Colonel Timothy 
 Pickering. He had been sent to Canada by 
 the Government on a mission to the Indians, 
 and returned to Philadelphia to find the fever 
 upon it, and members of his family ill. The 
 following letter, in answer to one from Wash- 
 ington, asking for accurate information as to the 
 course of the disorder, and the situation in Phil- 
 
30 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 adelphia, gives such a faithful description of 
 the epidemic that it is given in full : 
 
 c- Philadelphia Oct. 21. 1793.* 
 
 I have been honoured with your letter of the 14th 
 relatively to the fever which has raged in this city. 
 "Accurate information" of its state it may be im- 
 possible to obtain. But I am warranted by Doctor 
 Rush's opinion, grounded on his own practice and the 
 information of other physicians, that there is an abate- 
 ment of it by at least one half. For a number of days 
 preceeding the last ten days, I was frequently at Dr. 
 Rush's, when his house was always thronged with 
 applicants for assistance or advice: — I sat with him 
 yesterday, and not one new application was made. 
 One of his young men said that on Saturday a French 
 physician of the hospital at Bush-Hill, told him they 
 had then but three dangerous cases there. 
 
 About Three Thousand persons have died in the 
 city and suburbs, since the beginning of August; of 
 whom perhaps 2800 may have died of the yellow fever. 
 Of the persons you mention by name, Mr. Willing & 
 Mr. John Ross are alive and well. Mr. J. Sergeant, 
 Mr. Howell a lawyer, brother in law to Mr. Rawle, 
 & Colo. Franks, are dead; as well as many other 
 valuable citizens. Mr. Powell's death was long since 
 announced in the news-papers. 
 
 * From Archives Library of Congress. Also published in Life of 
 Pickering, Vol. IIL 
 
THE YELLOW FEVER OF 1793 31 
 
 Of the multitude that have died, I believe full 
 three fourths have fallen victims to bad practice, and 
 absolute neglect. This neglect was such, that nearest 
 relatives have abandoned each other. — Many physicians 
 persisted in the stimulant plan of cure, against the 
 evidence of their senses. Yet at length, when them- 
 selves attacked by the disease, they have resorted to 
 Dr. Rush's mode — bleeding and purging. One of 
 them (Dr. Currie) in particular, in a publication of the 
 17th of September, pronounced bleeding & purging 
 in the yellow fever, to be certain death. He haTs lately 
 fallen sick, and rescued himself from the grave by 
 bleeding i£ purging! Some others (probably most or 
 all now) bleed & purge, but either inadequately, or 
 counteract their effects by then giving bark and 
 laudanum ! To the last mentioned practice, the pious 
 Dr. Sprout, one of his daughters, his son the Major 
 (formerly aid to Genl. Hand) and his wife, have lately 
 fallen sacrifices. In short, multitudes have been the 
 unhappy victims of ignorance £s? pride. Dr. Kuhn 
 early pronounced the disease to be putrid fif debilitating. 
 Dr. Stevens (who attended Col Hamilton) confirmed 
 his errors : and they had many followers.* Kuhn soon 
 
 *"Doctor Rush's success, undoubtedly had, and he has 
 however, is great indeed. I lost only one since he adopted 
 understand that he has given his his nevsr mode. He has ac- 
 me di cine to upwards of five quired great honour in visiting 
 hundred patients. He does not everybody to the utmost of his 
 pretend to say they have all had power, but his applications have 
 the yellow fever, but many been so general that it was utterly 
 
3 2 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOJVN 
 
 fled to a safe distance from the city : but has left his 
 first opinion uncontradicted. That Rush's opinion was 
 right, is confirmed by writers of indisputable authority, 
 as well as large experience here. He, it is true, has 
 lost a number of patients : but worn down with fatigue, 
 he was not able to see divers of them at critical periods. 
 From observation in my own family, of those who 
 died as well as those who lived, I am perfectly convinced 
 that terrible as the disease has proved, the cure of it, 
 in common subjects, is short and easy, if no time be lost 
 in bleeding and purging, according to the degree of 
 inflammation. In a letter I lately wrote you, I men- 
 tioned the death of one of my sons : the other death 
 in my family was of a maid servant. Eight have had 
 the disease. Besides which, Mrs. P. & myself, without 
 being confined, have experienced new sensations which 
 we can attribute only to the contagion of the fever. — 
 On my return from Canada, I found, unexpectedly, 
 my family in the city; and a son and servant sick. 
 Under such circumstances, it was impossible for me to 
 find a house in the country for their reception and I 
 could not abandon them. And when we had all been 
 exposed to the contagion, I feared to remove from the 
 
 impossible to attend to all of them. The different opinions of treat- 
 But he directs the medicine and ment excite great inquietude 
 
 the Apothecaries prepare it. But Rush bears down all before 
 
 Colonel and Mrs. Hamilton him." 
 
 have both recovered by a mode From an unpublished letter, Knox 
 
 quite different from Rush's, and to Washington, September 15th, 
 
 which is published under the sig- 1703- 
 nature of Dr. Kuhn. 
 
di Cc, Boston 
 
 ^J^jWt ■_7c-r/Me'/ —/-''/(■'l-^/r^/'' //l'/- 'f^-'.//,'/^'' I'/U'-fOJC 
 
THE YELLOW FEVER OF 1793 :i2, 
 
 physician on whom I could depend. Numbers have 
 removed with the infection, and died in the country. 
 This in a few instances has happened in Germantown : 
 but the disease has not otherwise been there. 
 
 If this city should remain infected till December, 
 Germantown will not furnish accommodations for 
 Congress: 'tis crowded with citizens of Philadelphia. 
 Reading is a large village, containing several hundred 
 houses, with a large court-house that might do for the 
 house of Representatives ; and probably some room 
 elsewhere in the town might be found for the Senate. — 
 I have several times thought on the ensuing session of 
 Congress; but indeterminately on the safety of their 
 meeting here the beginning of December. Dr. Rush 
 thinks that by that time the city will be free of the 
 contagion, here and there a solitary instance excepted, 
 from which there can scarcely be any hazard. This is 
 a well known fact — That a considerable increase of 
 cold, even during a single day, has constantly been 
 marked by a abatement of the number of deaths. 
 If then in the height of the contagion, its effects 
 were suspended by a day's cold, we may reasonably 
 conclude that a continuance of cold with rains, which 
 we may expect in November, will destroy it. And this 
 is Dr. Rush's opinion. 
 
 I do not know what sentiments are entertained 
 relative to the meeting of Congress. I will see Judge 
 Peters and the Attorney General, and transmit you 
 their opinions by the next post. I will afterwards write 
 you weekly or oftener on the state of the disease, from 
 
34 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 which you will be able to ascertain what course to 
 pursue. But I would entreat you not to return hither 
 yourself so soon as the beginning of next month — nor 
 to any place in the neighbourhood, for you would be 
 illy accommodated. 
 
 I am with the most 
 sincere respect, 
 Sir 
 Your obedt. & humble servant 
 
 Timothy Pickering 
 The President of the United States 
 
 The condition of affairs in Washington's 
 Philadelphia home, left in the watchful care of 
 Samuel Fraunces, the steward, and of Mrs, 
 Emerson, the housekeeper, is disclosed in the 
 following letter to the President from Fraunces : 
 
 Philada. 23d. October 1793 — * 
 Hond. Sir 
 
 I received your letter last Evening — and it gives 
 me the greatest Satisfaction that my conduct meets 
 your approbation — was any accident to happen in the 
 Family it would not be for want of my care and atten- 
 tion I strictly adhere to your directions in every point — 
 The House is clean and ready for your return and 
 every thing in proper order — I long to see you home 
 
 * Heretofore unpublished. From Archives Library of Congress. 
 
THE YELLOW FEVER OF 1793 3 5 
 
 where I think you will be as safe as any where — as our 
 Neibourhood is entirely clear of infection — The Fever 
 still continues to abate in the City but rages in 
 Southwark & other out parts — You mention if any of 
 the Family should be taken ill to take advice which can- 
 not be done as there is no Person of any consequence 
 left, but I hope we shall want none as your direction is 
 quite sufficient — several Family's however begin to 
 return as it is thought they may with Safety — I 
 knew that the President lent Mr. Osborn Money & 
 in consequence made an enquiry before I received your 
 Letter, & found none but fifteen dollrs. with his dis- 
 tressed Wife which she took to the Hospital with her 
 Trunk and some of his Cloaths are here which I 
 detained untill I heard from you — The Trunk is locked 
 what is in it I do not know — Mrs. Emerson is well 
 and gives her duty to Madam but she is much 
 oppressed in Spirits — 
 
 Yr. dutifull Servt. 
 
 Samuel Fraunces. 
 
 By the end of October, the deaths having 
 greatly diminished, many citizens contemplated 
 a return to the city. The committee issued a 
 number of addresses on various dates, urging 
 caution. They asked those whose homes had 
 been closed to have them aired and purified. 
 On November 4th the committee stated that 
 
3 6 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 while the disorder had considerably abated, there 
 was still danger to be apprehended. By the 
 1 4th of November they were able to advise the 
 public that the city had been restored to its 
 usual healthfulnessj that no new cases of fever 
 had occurred for several days, and that absent 
 citizens, as well as those having business in the 
 city, could return with safety. On the same day 
 Governor Mifflin issued a proclamation, appoint- 
 ing Thursday, December 12th, as a day of hu- 
 miliation, thanksgiving and prayer. 
 
CHAPTER III 
 
 A Picture of Germantown in 1793 
 
 jL S early as 1744 John Wister had built 
 /_% the house No. 5261 Main Street for a 
 JL m. summer residence. Each succeeding 
 year saw an increasing number of Germantown 
 places advertised in the city papers as for rent or 
 for sale, especially suited as country residences.* 
 One of the families who moved out from the city 
 during the summer of 1793 was that of Henry 
 Drinker, a Friend and prominent shipping mer- 
 chant. He secured quarters with George Hesser, 
 whose home was the house now No. 6749 Main 
 Street. Fortunately for the purposes of this 
 narrative, Elizabeth Drinker, wife of Henry, kept 
 a diary of commonplace and family matters, and 
 this journal gives a vivid picture of Germantown 
 during this sad but eventful summer and fall.f 
 
 * " To be Lett for the Summer Season 
 (Upon very moderate Terms) 
 A large and commodious House, pleasantly situated 
 in Germantown, with a Kitchen, Chair-House, and Stable 
 for fiirther particulars enquire of Doctor Bensell in Germantown." 
 Pennsylvania Gazette, May yth, 1771. 
 
 ■j- Extracts from the Journal of Elizabeth Drinker, edited by Henry 
 D. Biddle, Philadelphia, 1889. 
 
3 8 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 All the entries which throw any light on events 
 as they transpired around them have been copied : 
 
 July 8. Second Day. Came to Germantown with 
 James Pemberton and H. Drinker; stopped at John 
 Salterbac'Sj where Hannah Pemberton has taken 
 lodgings for the warm season. Drank tea there, came 
 after tea to George Hesser's, near 8 miles from Philad% 
 where Nancy Skyrin* has taken up her abode with 
 her daughter for ye summer. Met Sally Emlen and 
 Huldah Mott there; they reside at one Snider's half a 
 mile from Nancy, nearer ye City. 
 
 July 1 6. A man went through Germantown this 
 afternoon with something in a barrel to show, which 
 he said was half man and half beast, and called it a 
 Mande ; we paid 5 J^ for seeing it. I believe it was a 
 young Baboon ; it looked sorrowful — I pitied the poor 
 thing, and wished it in its own Country. 
 
 July 17. Molly and myself went after breakfast 
 to Jacob Spicer's ; they live at Mount Airy (the place) 
 formerly belonging to William Allen; about J^ mile 
 from G. Hessers."}" John Skyrin came in ye afternoon — 
 
 * Nancy Skyrin, a daughter. Drinker and Henry S. Drinker, 
 
 wife of John Skyrin. The abbre- sons, and the youngest child Mary 
 
 viations N. S. and J. S. frequently or Molly Drinker. They and 
 
 occur. Other children were, the the husband, Henry Drinker, are 
 
 oldest daughter Sarah or "Sallie," almost uniformly referred to by 
 
 wife of Jacob Downing, William their initials. 
 
 •j- The site is now occupied by the Lutheran Theological Seminary. 
 
GERMANTOWN IN 1793 39 
 
 He went with Nancy and Molly to visit Nancy Morgan 
 and Anne Wells, who are at one Becks in Germantown. 
 
 July 20. Nancy, Molly, and Betsy Emlen went 
 to ye Rose to hear Musick. 
 
 July 22. H. D. came up this evening — himself, 
 Nancy and I took a walk to S. Emlen's, a delightful 
 full moonlight night. Stopped at Lebarts', and bought 
 a bottle Oil, to make oil of St. Johns-wort, this being 
 ye proper time to make it. 
 
 July 26. I paid a visit to Betty Flew, an old lone 
 woman near Hessers, who took me into her Garden, 
 and amused me with as much of her History, as I had 
 time to hear. 
 
 July 30. Polly Perot and Christopher Marshall 
 Jr. here this morning. Nancy and myself took a walk 
 to a Frog-pond this afternoon. 
 
 Aug. 16. John Gillenham was buried on second 
 day last. 'Tis a sickly time now in PhiladS and there 
 has been an unusual number of funerals lately here. 
 
 Aug. 18. First day. 'Tis seldom any one of ye 
 Family comes to stay a night with us, but they bring 
 an account of the death of one or more of our citizens. 
 
 Aug. 20. Nancy and self took a walk this morn- 
 ing — called at Betty Flews', and at ye widow Rigers, a 
 poor woman with three children, who lost her Husband 
 a week or 10 days ago. Neighbor Wain and Anna 
 Wells paid us a visit this morning — says 'tis very 
 sickly in Philad^ Nancy and self took a walk to the 
 meadow just before sunset. I don't know that I ever 
 saw a more beautiful evening; ye House we are at lays 
 
40 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 open in front to the Westward, ye Sun set without an 
 intervening cloud, the Sky remained red for near an 
 hour afterwards ; the full Moon rising towards ye back 
 of ye House, added charms to ye scene; ye weather 
 very temperate. 
 
 Aug. 23. A Fever prevails in the City, particu- 
 larly in Water St. between Race and Arch Sts. of ye 
 malignant kind; numbers have died of it. Some say 
 it was occasioned by damaged Coffee and Fish, which 
 were stored at Wm Smiths' ; others say it was imported 
 in a Vessel from Cape Francois, which lay at our wharf, 
 or at ye wharf back of our store. Doctor Hutchinson 
 is ordered by ye Governor to enquire into ye report. 
 He found, as 'tis said, upwards of 70 persons sick in 
 that squre of different disorders ; several of this putrid 
 or bilious fever. Some are ill in Water St. between 
 Arch and Market Sts., and some in Race street. 'Tis 
 really an alarming and serious time. 
 
 Aug. 26. We have been rendered very uneasy 
 this evening by hearsays from the City of a great 
 number of funerals that have been seen this day there. 
 Hope and believe that the number is greatly exagger- 
 ated. Wind at east and cloudy. 
 
 Aug. 27. A carriage stopped at Hesser's door 
 to-day enquiring for lodgings — they could get none 
 here, went further up ye road. 
 
 Aug. 28. H. S. D. left us about 6 this morning. 
 I gave him a small spoonful of Daffy's Elixer, and 
 Vinegar in a sponge, and a sprig of wormwood. J. 
 S. went after breakfast using the same precautions. 
 
GERMANTOWN IN 1793 41 
 
 This afternoon our Carriage, driven by a white 
 man, a stranger, came up with Mattresses, Blankets, 
 &c., and Sally Brandt behind — poor black Jo* gone away 
 sick to some Negro house, where they have promised 
 to take care of him, and D"^ Foulk is desired to attend 
 him. We have hopes it is not the contagious fever 
 that he has. 
 
 Sister and H. D. came up in the evening, Docts. 
 Kuhn and Rush both advised it, as there is a man next 
 door but one to us, who D'' Kuhn says will quickly 
 die of this terrible disorder. 
 
 Aug. 30. Jerry Warder and his family, went up 
 the road this afternoon in a light Waggon ; another 
 with Blankets &c. with them, to a place of his, 6 or 7 
 miles farther up. 
 
 Aug. 3 1 . Several families have moved up to Ger- 
 mantown. 
 
 September i . First day. A large number of Phil- 
 adelphians at Germantown meeting this morning. A 
 man was found dead, a day or two ago on the Ridge 
 road, who lay there a day or two unburied. 
 
 Sept. 3. W. D. and myself took a walk before 
 sunset. As we were returning a man at a door stopped 
 us to ask if we had heard the bad news ; that several 
 hundred French soldiers, armed, were coming to Philad^ 
 from New- York, and that 5 negroes were taken up for 
 poisoning the Pumps; those are flying reports, and 
 most likely false. 
 
 * Joseph Gibbs, the colored coachman. 
 
42 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 Sept. 5. I took a walk with H. D. to the meadow 
 to see them bind flax. 
 
 Sept. 6. John Cannon, one of the Council, drank 
 tea with us, as he had business with my Husband. He 
 took this in his way home, as the Council and Assembly 
 have broken up on acct. of this very affecting Dispen- 
 sation ; the offices are almost all shut up, and little busi- 
 ness done. The doors of the Houses where the infec- 
 tion is are ordered to be marked, to prevent any but those 
 that are absolutely necessary from entering — such is 
 the melancholy and distressing state of our poor City. 
 
 Sept. 8. First day. Wm Whitesides, tea mer- 
 chant, died this morning at a place he had taken for 
 his family near ye Germantown Road — he came out of 
 ye City ill. 'Tis remarkable that not one negro has 
 yet taken the infection — they have offered to act as 
 nurses to the sick. 
 
 Sept. 9. Several carriages stopped to talk with 
 H. D. Were informed of the death of Josiah Elfreth, 
 who was buried as many others are, in 2 or 3 hours 
 after their departure. None of our family have been 
 to the City for upwards of a week past. 
 
 J. S. went this evening to S. Emlen's for M. D., 
 who has been there this afternoon. She concluded to 
 stay there all night, as they had heard of a man who 
 came from ye City, who lay ill in a field near ye 8* 
 milestone; that the Overseers would not go near him. 
 We have also heard this ace', but 'tis not known 
 whether the poor man is sick or in liquor — such 
 are the fears of the people. Weather warm. 
 
GERMANTOJVN IN 1793 43 
 
 Sept. 10. Josiah Lusbey, who is with Jacob Baker 
 at one Weavers', at a little distance from us, with their 
 families, was here this forenoon. Informed us, that he 
 was in ye City yesterday; that it was thought on First 
 day last, from 50 to 100 had died, ye disorder having 
 greatly increased ; that in Arch St between Front and 
 Second Sts, many had died, and many were ill. 
 
 The sick man who lay down in ye field yesterday, 
 continued there all night; the overseers this morning 
 went to take him away — he arose and walked with them. 
 
 Sept. 1 1 . The poor sick man who has lain two 
 nights in ye fields, was found this morning by the 7th 
 milestone vomitting — he had now got among the 
 inhabitants. J. Perot and others raised 4 dollars, for 
 which sum a man took him away in a cart. 
 
 Our Jo Gibbs came up this forenoon looking pale 
 and weak. We would have been as well pleased if he 
 had gone elsewhere, but he wanted to be with us. 
 George Hesser appears unwilling that Jo should stay 
 in his house, as he came out of ye City and has been 
 sick. H. D. sent him back with a letter to J. Drinker. 
 He came up on foot — he has gone back on one of our 
 Horses, to return to morrow with some Bed-Clothes 
 for us. 
 
 Sept. 1 5. First day. A son of Dan' Thomas, miller, 
 was buried this morning at Chestnut Hill of this fever. 
 He came lately from ye City — several sick in German- 
 town, but 'tis not certainly known what ails them. 
 
 John Hampston dined with us. He came to 
 Philad^ on sixth day last, in a pilot boat from ye Capes, 
 
44 WASHINGTON IN GERMJNTOJVN 
 
 where ye vessel he came in from Liverpool was aground. 
 Could not get a lodging, and stayed in ye Court-House. 
 Came on seventh day to John Fields, to whom he is 
 recommended; he brought him this morning to Ger- 
 mantown to meeting, and left him with H. D. to get 
 him a lodging, which he has done, at Hessers' tavern,* 
 a little below us. 
 
 One Stine, next door to the Buck, over the road, 
 not the ^th of a mile from us, is to be buried this 
 evening. 
 
 Sept. 1 6. I took a short walk this evening with 
 Sally Brant. Loaded waggons coming out of ye City, 
 a melancholy sight. Last week was the time appointed 
 to return home, if things had been as usual, as next 
 week is the time of our Yearly meeting. 
 
 Sept. 1 8. Ye people moving in crowds from ye 
 City. 
 
 Sept. 19. There is a Dr Warnerj" said to be very 
 ill, at present in Germantown, of ye yellow fever, 
 otherwise ye people here are generally healthy. 
 
 Sept. 20. M. D., who I expected was also gone 
 to meeting with E. Emlen came home. They had 
 been much alarmed at neighbor Sniders, where S. E. 
 lodges, by one of the overseers calling over ye door, 
 "be upon your guard, for the Doctor says, that ye 
 woman over the way has the Disorder, and that very 
 
 * This was the Buck tavern, an old stopping place in upper Ger- 
 mantown. 
 
 f Dr. Jonathan Warner, a young man of 22 years, died December 
 Z4th, 1793. 
 
GERMANTOWN IN 1793 45 
 
 badly." S. E. was so disturbed that they intend 
 moving further off. 
 
 Sept. 21. Sally Emlen with all her family have 
 moved from Christian Sniders to White-Marsh ; they 
 hired a waggon of Leonard Stoneburner to take their 
 goods. 'Tis said that several persons are ill in Ger- 
 mantown. 
 
 Sept. 23. The poor woman opposite to Sniders 
 is dead — nobody but her husband and several little 
 children with her. Ye disorder rages in ye City. Jacob 
 Baker and Josiah Lusby called — they say that Parson 
 Blair has removed his family. Christopher Kucher is 
 dead above us about the 1 1 th milestone ; he came from 
 ye City some days past. 
 
 Ye widow of one Stine who died here about a 
 week ago, went after her husband's death to ye City, 
 where she also died. 
 
 Sept. 24. C. Kucher's body was carried by this 
 morning in a Hearse, about 4 o'clock, to be interred in 
 ye City. The woman that died opposite Sniders was 
 buried yesterday. They say that nobody would assist, 
 and her husband was under the necessity of putting 
 her in her coffin, and that into ye Hearse — then a man 
 took her to ye grave. 
 
 The New- York stage passed this door to day. 
 They are endeavoring to stop ye communication be- 
 tween us and New- York — they are not permitted to 
 cross at Trenton. 
 
 Sept. 26. The mournful accounts last evening 
 from the City of increasing mortality affected our land- 
 
46 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 lord, G. Hesser so, as to keep him all night awake on 
 acct. of H. D. being in the City. 
 
 J. S. met on the road Thos Masters Cooper, with 
 a sick son of his in the Chaise, a young man, who was 
 very yellow with the disorder. He brought him out 
 of Town — will find^ it difficult to get any admittance 
 anywhere in ye country. The weather pleasant, tho' 
 very dry and dusty. 
 
 Sept. 27. 'Tis generally agreed that this very 
 alarming disorder is as bad, or worse than ever. S. 
 Coats told some one in Germantown today, that there 
 were 10 graves opened in Friends' burying ground 
 this morning. I heard yesterday that Coffins were 
 kept ready made in piles, near ye State-House for poor 
 people. Jacob Baker's man was this evening in Hes- 
 ser's kitchen ; he says that his mistress's brother has 
 been in town today, and reports that matters are better, 
 and rather an abatement — so say some others. Per- 
 haps they build on a change that has taken place in 
 ye weather — it has rained somewhere, and the air is 
 much cooler. J. Perot heard that they dig trenches 
 in ye Potters field to bury ye dead. 
 
 Sept. 28. Michael Prager, a merchant of Philad* 
 died this morning in Getmantown of ye Yellow Fever. 
 He was refused a burying in ye burying places, and 
 was interred in ye Orchard back of ye house where he 
 died, a few hours after his decease. - 
 
 Sept. 29. First day. H. Pemberton called in 
 meeting time. She wished me to go with her to Jacob 
 Spicer's. We went. She agreed with them to remove 
 
GERMANrOWN IN 1793 47 
 
 tomorrow to their house. Elliston Perot buried his 
 youngest child, a son, this morning in ye Germantown 
 burying ground — it was not supposed he died of ye 
 Yellow fever ; his family are at Sansom's place, called 
 Par la ville. This is the fourth child out of five that 
 they have lost within 3 years ; 1 sons of putrid sore 
 throat, a little Daughter was overlaid by her nurse ; 
 they have one Daughter remaining. 
 
 Sept. 30. Jo Lion came up this afternon with a 
 Letter from Ben. Wilson to H. D., another from Capt. 
 Wetheral to J. S. Josey was by no means an accept- 
 able visitor, as he acknowledges that he is daily with 
 one who is ill of the Yellow fever. He says it is fre- 
 quently ye case, that a person is dead and buried, and 
 their next door neighbor knows nothing of it for many 
 days after, occasioned, as one may suppose, by their 
 keeping close house, and publick burials no more at- 
 tended to. 
 
 October I. Third day. Jacob Baker called ; he in- 
 tends leaving Germantown with his family for New-Cas- 
 tle. The people continue moving from ye City, two or 
 three waggons loaded have passed the door this day. 
 
 Oct. 3. A fine clear morning. No Equinoctial 
 storm as yet — I fear, if I may so say, it has passed 
 over for this season. 
 
 Oct. 5. H. S. D.* took a walk this morning with 
 
 * Then a young man of twenty- delphia before this time, and that 
 
 four, possibly smoking his first smoking them along the streets as 
 
 cigar. It is said that cigars were a disinfectant during the epidemic 
 
 not used in any quantity in Phila- introduced them generally. 
 
48 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 s. Segar in his mouth which he smoked out, and soon 
 after found himself very sick and in a sweat. He 
 made shift to get into G. Hesser's Orchard, where he 
 discharged his stomach ; he was fearful of doing so on 
 the road, lest he should be suspected of having the 
 prevailing disorder. He came home sick and pale. 
 
 Oct. 6. I went after dinner, J. S. with me to visit 
 H. Pemberton. We heard, as we returned, that a 
 young man lay dead opposite the House where ye 
 widow Mullen resides — which is near us. H. S. D. 
 went this afternoon to Isaac Whartons'. He has pur- 
 chased a place near J. Howel's, on ye Wissahickon. 
 Davi^, J. Skyrin's clerk dined here. He came out of 
 the City — eat in ye back room. Emanuel Walker's 
 wife dead, another Daughter of Jas. Starr, and a Doct. 
 Goss also. 
 
 Oct. 7. The Lad that died over the road yester- 
 day afternoon was buried last night. 
 
 Oct. 8. We have heard to day of the deaths of 
 Jonathan Sergeant, lawyer. Rich"* Courtney, tailor, 
 Isaac Buckby, hatter. Major Franks, and Fleming, ye 
 Romish priest. 
 
 Sun set clear, weather temperate, tho' rather warm 
 for the season. 
 
 Oct. 9. Taking a walk this evening with H. D. 
 towards the meadow by a cornfield that had been lately 
 ploughed; the narrow road filled in places with stub- 
 ble that had been thrown out of ye field, my foot 
 turned under me, when I fell down, and was so 
 strained and bruised that I could scarcely step with 
 

 
GERMANTOWN IN 1793 49 
 
 help. My husband and G. Hesser made a chair with 
 their hands, and brought me home on it with my arms 
 around their necks, as I have seen children carry one 
 another. I had it bathed with Opodeldock, and 
 wrapped up in flannel, and tho' 'tis painful this even- 
 ing, 'tis not so bad as I expected it would have been 
 by what I felt when first hurt. 
 
 A very clear evening ; it will be 7 weeks next 
 first day since we have had any rain more than what 
 we call a sprinkling. 
 
 Oct. 10. 'Tis youths meeting, or general meet- 
 ing, held here once a year, on fifth day. Wm Savery, 
 T. Fisher &c. here before meeting. 
 
 There was a marriage at meeting, Dan' Thomas 
 and Agnes Johnson ; marriage is solemn at all times, 
 and doubly so at present. Joshua Morris and wife. 
 Tommy and Nancy Morgan, Neigh"' Wain, and Jacob 
 Paxon dined with us. I have been most of this day on 
 ye Bed, only while ye Bed was making — had my foot 
 on a chair, as I cannot put it on ye ground. We have 
 heard of more deaths this day than any day yet, and 
 'tis said that 1 50 were buried in ye City yesterday. 
 Betsy Howel told after meeting that Dr. Rush has 
 wrote to Will™ Lewis, " that the disorder was now past 
 the art of man or medicine to cure, that nothing but 
 the power of the Almighty could stop it," or to this 
 effect. 
 
 Oct. II. I showed my foot this morning to Dr. 
 Lusby, who desired me to change my method of treat- 
 ing it, which was vinegar and opodeldock, and after- 
 
so WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 wards I bathed it with oil of St. Johnswort ; but he 
 orders lead water alone, twice a day. My husband 
 and son William took a long ride this forenoon ; they 
 stopped at McCalls, at Isaac Whartons, and at John 
 Fields. Billy Sansom stopped at our door on Horse- 
 back ; he is finely recovered. As he just came out of 
 ye City, we did not invite him in. 
 
 Oct. 14. There appears to be but a very poor 
 prospect of crops of wheat, occasioned by the drought. 
 Desolation, Cruelty and Distress have of late re- 
 sounded in our ears from many quarters. 
 
 Oct. 17. M. Livezey and her daughter Nancy 
 here this morning. Annabella Cresson dead. Ye 
 widow Livezey, or rather her daughter, pr her order, 
 put a plaster of white of Eggs on to my foot, and an- 
 ointed it with ye Oil of St. Johnswort, it has felt very 
 warm ever since. It may perhaps be right. 
 
 Seven persons, men and women, were this morn- 
 ing baptized, or dipped in a creek about i J^ miles 
 from this place.* They are of the society of Dunkers; 
 they differ from ye Anabaptists who are laid in ve 
 water on their backs ; those kneel in ye water and are 
 dipped faces downwards, as I am informed. Great 
 numbers went to see the performance. J. S., A. S., 
 H. S. D., and M. D. went this evening to ye Dunk- 
 ers' meeting. 
 
 * This was undoubtedly at the Kitchen's Lane and near the so- 
 Baptistry, a point on the Wissa- called '« Monastery," still stand- 
 
 hickon Creek near the foot of 
 
 ing. 
 
GERMANTOWN IN lygj 5 1 
 
 Oct. 21. A delightful, cool, frosty morning. 'Tis 
 generally agreed that the fever is very much abated. 
 
 Oct. 23. Sammy Emlen has sent this afternoon to 
 Marshal E. Carbotery's where he saw Casper Haines, 
 who left the City about one o'clock. He said that at 
 that time there had not been any funeral, or one grave 
 opened in Friends' burying ground. 
 
 Oct. 24. Last night between 11 and 12 o'clock, 
 I heard the cry of fire at a distance ; on its near ap- 
 proach the family were soon alarmed. George Hesser 
 pronounced it to be John Livezey's house or mill.* 
 He went with his buckets. They have a fire company 
 here and one Engine, which was soon on its way; and 
 the people some on foot, others on horseback, were 
 very numerous ; but as it is two miles from German- 
 town, the Mill was burnt down. About 600 Bbls. 
 Flour, 500 Bus. Wheat, a quantity of Salt and Ginger 
 &c. 'Tis thought their loss will be near 3000 Pounds. 
 John Pemberton, my husband, and William went this 
 morning to visit the sufferers ; found them pretty well, 
 and much composed considering. 
 
 Oct. 26. A man to be buried this afternoon, 
 not far from us, who 'tis thought died of the Yellow 
 fever ; and two women have lately died near us. 'Tis 
 remarkable that no one has been known to take ye infec- 
 tion in the country of those who came out of the City. 
 I have not heard of an instance where it has spread. 
 
 * Livezey's mill was on the Wissahickon at the foot of Livezey's 
 Lane. The house is still standing and portions of the mill. 
 
52 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 Oct. 27. The swelling in my foot not gone down, 
 nor ye blackness gone off, tho' much better. I am not 
 yet able to bear any weight on it — a hot itching in it 
 to day, perhaps owing to the many poultices used. 
 
 Oct. 29. Widow Livezey here this morning. 
 She applied a plaster of rosin and lard to my poor 
 foot, as it makes still a disagreeable appearance. 
 
 November i. It rained most of last night, and 
 'till noon this day, cloudy ever since. H. D. went to 
 J. P's. Talks of going to town tomorrow. 
 
 Nov. 2. H. D. gone this morning to the City — 
 it is our quarterly meeting. I had the agreeable intelli- 
 gence from my children, that ye waggons were taking 
 ye people and goods back to ye City. It has cleared 
 up this morning with a fine frost. What a favorable 
 reverse, which calls for humility and thanks. 
 
 Nov. 4. Charles Jervis called this morning ; his 
 family are at Waterman's, Bucks County. He dined 
 with us. He informed that the widow Tellfare who 
 went into the City last fifth day is since dead in the 
 country. 
 
 Nov. 5. This afternoon Richard Downing 
 stopped on Horseback. He came on business to the 
 Governor, who keeps his office in Germantown. 
 
 A misty rain all day, and heavy shower this even- 
 ing — wind blowing hard at northeast, 
 
 Nov. 6. H. D. and H. S. D. gone down town to 
 ye Washington tavern* on business. The inhabitants 
 
 * Still a tavern, Washington Lane and Main Street. 
 
GERMANTOfVN IN 1793 53 
 
 of Philada were fast moving into the City before this 
 Storm. 'Tis said, there were upwards of 20,000 had 
 left their dwellings, and retired into the country. 
 
 Nov. 8. It is 4 months this day since I came to 
 Germantown, where I have ever since continued. 
 
 I have walked across the room yesterday and today, 
 without shoes, and with sister's help. If nothing more 
 than the disorder in my foot ailed me, I believe I should 
 now soon get bravely. 
 
 Nov. 9. Our disturbed City has been this day in 
 great confusion on account of ye arrival of a French 
 vessel with 400 passengers, a considerable number of 
 them ill of the Yellow fever. H. D. went this evening 
 to J. Lusby's to inquire concerning the report; he says, 
 that he has seen a person from ye City this afternoon, 
 who thinks 'tis not so bad as here reported. 
 
 Nov. 10. H. S. D. drank tea at Dr Logan's,* Dr. 
 Parke there, whose opinion it is — that those who have 
 moved out of the City, may safely return. 'Tis the 
 sentiments of several other Physicians, as I have heard, 
 within 2 or 3 days. 
 
 Nov. 13. When we arose this morning, it was 
 snowing fast, ye houses and trees covered. How much 
 more beautiful the appearance than in ye City! and 
 what in ye country is not? 
 
 Nov. 15. H. D. came up this evening with Jo 
 and the carriage in order to facilitate our departure. 
 H. D. settled with G. H., paid him £ , our ex- 
 
 * Dr. George Logan, whose home was at Stenton. 
 
54 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 penses for other things have been Considerable; for 
 provisions, horses, &c. Fine moonlight night. 
 
 Nov. 1 6. After one o'clock, Noke came with their 
 carriage; William and myself left Germantown with 
 some of our luggage — ye roads but middling. We 
 arrived at home between i and 3 ; found things in statu 
 quo. H. D., with Nancy, her little one and Molly, 
 came half an hour after in our carriage ; Sam drove 
 Betsy Hardy in ye chaise. We are all through mercy 
 (tho' not in perfect health) highly favored. Ben. 
 Wilson, John and Dan' Drinker called. Most of ye 
 Philadelphians are returned to ye City. 
 
•^^ 
 
 
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 Si 
 
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 X: 
 
CHAPTER IV 
 
 Germantown Escapes the Contagion 
 
 FOR many years prior to the Revolution 
 Germantown had a reputation as a health- 
 ful summer resort for Philadelphians. Its 
 situation on a ridge of hills from two to three 
 hundred feet above the elevation of the city, its 
 dry, porous soil, good drainage through the Win- 
 gohocking on the east and the Wissahickon on 
 the west, with their branches, and the still con- 
 siderable area of forest growth — all contributed 
 to make the town a cool, pleasant and health- 
 ful summer home. While the houses were 
 somewhat near each other on the Main Street, 
 each one was surrounded by its little garden or 
 orchard and some of them had good sized farms 
 extending back in narrow fields, for, in addition 
 to the skill of the citizens as artisans, agriculture 
 was still an important part of their occupation. 
 It is true the lack of communication with 
 Philadelphia was a drawback. The Main Street 
 and its continuation into the city was noto- 
 riously bad, deep with dust in dry weather and 
 
56 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 almost impassable with mud after every heavy 
 rain. Hardly a day passed in bad weather with- 
 out an accident of some kind: wagons stalled, 
 upset or broken, and horses injured by the ex- 
 ertions or the pitfalls in the way. This was the 
 main highway to and from the north, over 
 which great quantities of supplies were carried 
 back and forth. At this time there was a num- 
 ber of large stores doing an extensive business, 
 selling and exchanging the city commodities 
 with farmers who feared or were unable to take 
 their country produce into the city. It was not 
 until 1800— I, and then after considerable oppo- 
 sition, that a turnpike charter was secured and 
 the road macadamized. 
 
 As has been stated, Germantown's private 
 houses and inns, during the fateful summer 
 of 1793, were filled to overflowing. Those 
 of the city who had relatives who could 
 take them in were fortunate indeed. Such a 
 one was Zachariah Poulson, librarian of the Li- 
 brary Company of Philadelphia, who was with 
 his wife's uncle, Jacob Knorr, who lived at the 
 northeast corner of the Main Street and Wash- 
 ington Lane. Writing to Dr. Thomas Parke, 
 one of the directors of the library, he says : 
 
GERMANTOWN ESCAPES CONTAGION si 
 
 Germantown, September 27, 1793-* 
 My Dear Sir, 
 
 The Anxiety I feel for your Safety has led me to 
 make many Inquiries were seldom answered in a satis- 
 factory manner I am induced to trouble you for the 
 desired Information. I sincerely regret, with you, the 
 loss of those of your Connections, and the many 
 other valuable Citizens, who have fallen victims to 
 the Disorder which is unhappily depopulating our 
 City. Though I have, in some measure, withdrawn 
 myself and family from its baneful Influences, yet, I 
 sincerely lament its Effects and sorrowfiilly sympathize 
 with those who are left within its reach and hourly be- 
 hold its ravages. Your Situation is an hazardous one 
 — Every precaution should be taken for your own 
 preservation. For the sake of your dear Family — for 
 the sake of your Friends— be careful of yourself Let 
 not your benevolence lead you beyond the bounds of 
 which Prudence dictates. Several of your Profession 
 have already fallen. Their friends and the Commu- 
 nity at large have cause now to regret that they ven- 
 tured too much and are no more in a Situation to be 
 useflil. If your numerous avocations will permit you 
 to favor me with a few lines they will be highly ac- 
 ceptable. I stay with my wife's Uncle Jacob Knorr — 
 a little above the seven mile stone. — If they are left 
 with the widow of Reuben Haines, in Market Street, 
 they will be safely forwarded to me. Previous to my 
 departure from the City I carefully secured the win- 
 
 * Manuscript letter in possession of Pennsylvania Historical Society. 
 
58 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 dows and doors of the Library, and directed one of 
 my boys, who declined to leave the city while his 
 parents remained there, to go round it daily — this ser- 
 vice, he tells me, he faithfully performs. I was ex- 
 ceedingly anxious of obtaining your approbation of 
 the measure, but I- had not the pleasure of finding 
 you at home. I have the hope, however, that the 
 necessity of the Case will justify me to you and the 
 other Directors. I am desirous of returning as soon 
 as it can be done with safety, and, I shall esteem it a 
 particular favor if you will be pleased to give me an 
 intimation of the happy time as soon as it arrives. I 
 had the pleasure of seeing Mr. Rawle and family in 
 health yesterday — if you have any Commands to him 
 they may be conveyed to me by the above named 
 Channel and I will deliver them myself. The last 
 time I notified the Directors to attend none came but 
 Mr. Poultney — now, alas, he is no more ! He staid 
 with me two hours — our Conversation was, for the 
 most part, serious — and made a deep impression upon 
 me. It is said. That Those who mourn shall be com- 
 forted — We have now many Causes for mourning ; but 
 when shall we be comforted ? When will it please the 
 Almighty to remove the great Calamity which de- 
 stroys our Relatives and Friends ? It seems to be the 
 duty of every individual to unite in addressing the 
 Great Disposer of Human Events to take from us 
 this calamitous Scorge. 
 
 A few Persons who came from the City have died 
 of the Disorder at and near Germantown. Doctor 
 
GERMJNrOJVN ESCAPES CONTAGION 59 
 
 Warner of this place has had it above twelve days — 
 it is said he is getting better — It is also reported that 
 Mr. Pragers has it here. The people of this place 
 dread it much — if a person from the City has only a 
 common fever he is immediately forsaken. Two men 
 in the neighbourhood, who had the misfortune to lose 
 their wives with the Fever, were necessitated to bury 
 them with the assistance of only one person. I do 
 not know of a house in this place in which a person 
 from the City could get lodgings unless he could prove 
 that he had been some days from the city. There are 
 many Philadelphians here and in the neighbourhood. 
 " I had the pleasure of seeing Dr. Wistar ride through 
 Germantown — he looks better than I expected, but 
 seems very feeble — He toldjme that he had handed 
 Mr. Bache his Case for publication. 
 
 Next Thursday is the stated time for the Directors 
 to meet, but, as the cause which prevented them from 
 assembling on the fifth of this month still exists, it 
 will be hardly necessary to notify them. Hardie left 
 town before the Library was closed — Pray are any of 
 the Officers and Directors in town beside yourself? Is 
 my good friend S. Coates still with you ? I hope our 
 friend R. Wells is out of danger. I am very desirous 
 of knowing how it is withfyou — do, therefore, favour 
 me with a few Lines. The Bearer waits and I have 
 only time to add, that 
 
 I am, with great Respect, 
 
 Your sincere and much obliged 
 Friend and Servant 
 Doctor Thomas Parke. Z. Poulson, Junr. 
 
6o WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 P. S. Mrs. Poulson is looking over my Shoulder 
 and says I must not close this without adding her 
 Compliments to you. 
 
 Friday, Three o' Clock in the Afternoon. 
 God preserve you and yours. 
 
 The desire of the villagers and their guests 
 for news from the stricken city was often more 
 than balanced by fear of the messenger. Jacob 
 Hiltzheimer, in his diary, records that on the 
 14th of October he rode out as far as German- 
 town, "which," he says, "is fillled with Phila- 
 delphians who are anxious to hear the news 
 from the city, but kept their distance when 
 they found we were from there." 
 
 Apparently safe from the contagion, the 
 boarders and the people of Germantown were 
 not unmindful of their duty to their fellow cit- 
 izens, and steps were taken early in October to' 
 raise money for the relief of the poor. A pub- 
 lic meeting was held, an organization effected, 
 and the health committee in the city was noti- 
 fied by Gideon H. Wells, on behalf of the 
 meeting, that aid might be expected. A few 
 days later, October 1 3th, John Dunlap, chair- 
 man of the meeting, forwarded to the commit- 
 tee $1,106 and a subscription of credit for 
 obtaining a loan from the bank, of eight or 
 
GERMANTOWN ESCAPES CONTAGION 6i 
 
 ten thousand dollars. Again a few days later 
 Benjamin Wistar Morris handed to the commit- 
 tee contributions of over a thousand dollars. 
 In all, citizens in and around Germantown sent 
 a total of $2,472. 
 
 The list of contributors is valuable as dis- 
 closing the citizens v^ho had found homes in 
 the suburb, although several in the follow^ing 
 list w^ere permanent residents of Germantow^n : 
 
 Samuel Pleasants & Sons . . ^50 
 
 Isaac Wharton 50 
 
 Caleb Carmalt 10 
 
 Reuben Haines 50 
 
 Elliston & John Perot . . . 1 00 
 Hartshome, Large & Co. . 100 
 Robert Wharton ... 50 
 
 Joseph Swift 50 
 
 Jesse & Robert Wain . . . 200 
 
 George Roberts 50 
 
 Samuel Dilworth .... i z 
 
 James Craig, Jr 30 
 
 Nicholas Wain . . . . loo 
 Mordecai Lewis .... 50 
 
 Conyngham, Nesbit & Co. . 50 
 
 George Emlen 50 
 
 John Nixon 50 
 
 Joseph Budd 30 
 
 Boiler & Jordon 30 
 
 Valentine Bettinger .... 4 
 Peter Blight ... .100 
 
 Doctor Betton ... . 5 
 Joseph Crukshank .... 50 
 
 Cash 6 
 
 John Dunlap 50 
 
 David E'wns, carpenter 
 Jacob Eckfelt . 
 John Fries . . 
 Thomas Fisher 
 John Fromberger 
 John Field . . 
 George Fox 
 Samuel Fox 
 James & Samuel Fisher 
 John HaUowell 
 George Lauman 
 Jonathan Meredith 
 Thomas Morgan 
 Archibald McCaU 
 William Rawle 
 William Savery 
 Joseph Sansom 
 Robert Smith . 
 John Vaughan 
 John Wagner . 
 Wells & Morris 
 Jeremiah Warder 
 John Warder . 
 Charles Young 
 
 $3° 
 10 
 
 50 
 5° 
 5° 
 50 
 5° 
 5° 
 100 
 
 30 
 5° 
 5° 
 25 
 100 
 
 30 
 3° 
 
 5° 
 100 
 
 15 
 100 
 
 50 
 SO 
 50 
 
 It is an interesting fact, in view of our pres- 
 
62 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 ent knowledge of yellow fever, that not a single 
 death from yellow fever occurred in German- 
 town of a native of the village, and in every 
 case where death did occur it was of someone 
 who contracted the disease elsewhere. 
 
 So far as known, no account was kept of the 
 victims of the fever who found a refuge and last 
 resting place in Germantown. In addition to 
 the deaths mentioned in the foregoing diary, the 
 following are given in Matthew Carey's list 
 of burials from August ist to the middle of 
 November,* each designated with the word 
 "Germ" following their name, apparently indi- 
 cating that they had been buried in German- 
 town : 
 
 Hannah Falkenburger, Jacob Felty, Christopher 
 Fite, shoemaker, Margaret Fossom, John Gobble- 
 gought, John Good, labourer, Catharine Cosner, Philip 
 Hall, butcher, Jacob Hammond, sugar baker, wife 
 
 and child, Hansell, Mary Home, Catharine 
 
 House, William Hyser, painter, Maria Hyson, Cath- 
 arine Lutz, Christiana Oatenheimer, Peter Oaten- 
 heimer's wife, Philip Oatenheimer's wife, Henry Plates, 
 baker, Catharine Poop, Francis Powers, labourer, Bar- 
 bara Preston, Conrad Smith, farmer, Margaret Spotts, 
 
 * See a Short Account of the Malignant Fever Lately Prevalent in 
 Philadelphia. The 4th edition. Philadelphia, 1 794. 
 
GERMANTOWN ESCAPES CONTAGION 63 
 
 Catharine Sternkarl, servant, Paul Stromfeltz, meal- 
 man, and wife, Jacob Sunnock, labourer. 
 
 Contrary to expectations, the yellow fever 
 did not recur the following year ; in fact, it was 
 not until 1797 that it again appeared in Phila- 
 delphia in epidemic form. Then again in 1798 
 and 1799 it swept the city. But experience 
 having shown there was safety in the suburbs, 
 every one who could fled from the city, and in 
 none of these years was the mortality so great 
 as in 1793.* These visitations had the effect of 
 again filling Germantown's homes and inns. 
 The periodic return of the disease led a number 
 of business men to engage quarters from one 
 summer until the next, and what was Philadel- 
 phia's misfortune was a gain to Germantown. 
 In 1798 and '99 the Banks of North America, 
 Pennsylvania, and the United States removed 
 their deposits and books to Germantown. The 
 first two named were quartered in the Academy 
 building and the latter in a coffee house along 
 the Main Street. Some merchants brought their 
 goods and opened stores, and when other trades 
 
 * As officially reported the deaths were : 
 
 1793 • 4.04' '798 ■ 3^637 
 1797 . . 1,292 1799 . . 1,015 
 
64 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 or professions could be carried on, shops and 
 offices were opened. The Governor of the 
 State and some of the minor offices also found 
 refuge in Germantown. 
 
 For the suffering city steps were promptly 
 taken to send a full measure of relief. Com- 
 mittees to collect funds and supplies were formed 
 and work provided for the unemployed. The 
 ministers, Mr. Blair and Mr. Abercrombie, 
 preached charity sermons in the Market Square 
 church, from which on one occasion over four 
 hundred dollars were realized. 
 
 The account of one year's visitation reads 
 very much like that of another. About the 
 only permanent effect on Germantown which 
 this great annual influx of visitors made was to 
 greatly encourage the use of the English lan- 
 guage and English customs, and to induce some 
 of the Philadelphians to make it their perma- 
 nent home. 
 
CHAPTER V 
 
 Where Shall Congress Meet? 
 
 VERY soon after his arrival at Mount 
 Vernon, Washington's thoughts were 
 turned to the question as to where 
 Congress should meet. The Constitution had 
 been in force but little more than four years, 
 and there were yet many problems to be solved 
 in connection with it. Questions of form and 
 procedure in minor matters, which seem unim- 
 portant to us now, were considered and debated 
 at great length. The President was marking 
 out new paths, and he was anxious that in all 
 matters he should do what was right. It seemed 
 probable that on account of the distemper in 
 Philadelphia, it would be impossible for Congress 
 to meet there, but would it be right for the 
 President to call them together at any other 
 place, in view of the fact that Congress itself 
 had, by law, fixed its own place of meeting? 
 The question was further complicated by the 
 fact that part of the bargain in fixing the per- 
 manent seat of government at the new Federal 
 City on the banks of the Potomac, Pennsylvania 
 had been given the temporary seat of govern- 
 ment for the ten years from 1790 to 1800. It 
 
66 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 was rightly surmised that Pennsylvania would 
 object to Congress assembling anywhere outside 
 the State. Whether it was better that they should 
 not meet in Philadelphia, and how to call them 
 legally to some other spot, and what that place 
 should be, were questions which for a month 
 agitated Washington and his cabinet. When 
 Jefferson stopped at Mount Vernon on his way 
 home, the question had been considered and the 
 Secretary of State had given an off-hand opinion 
 that neither the constitution nor the laws con- 
 veyed power to the executive to convene Con- 
 gress at any other place than that which it had 
 fixed upon. Washington had written to the 
 Attorney General, September 30th, asking for a 
 formal opinion, but not having received it by 
 October nth, he wrote fully to Jefferson,* 
 
 ^Interesting as showing the has been established by the Exec- 
 expense of forwarding letters at utive of the State ; for such ser- 
 this time is the following bill for vice & a faithful express is not to 
 delivering this particular one: be got lower. 
 
 Richmond, Oct. 15th, 1793 I have the honor to be with 
 
 Dear Sir: the greatest 
 
 Enclosed I have the honor to respect Your most Obt Servant 
 transmit a voucher for the expense Ed — Carrington 
 
 of forwarding your letter to the The President 
 Secretary of state, as requested in of the United States 
 
 yours of the 1 1 th Instant : being From the Archives of Library of 
 thirteen dollars, & a third of a Congress. Heretofore unfub- 
 
 dollar, the milage is that which lished. 
 
WHERE SHALL CONGRESS MEET? 67 
 
 asking him whether the importance and urgency 
 of the case would justify him in calHng Congress 
 together at some other place, and if so, where ? 
 
 If Germantown was affected by the malady, 
 it would not do. Wilmington and Trenton 
 were both on the great highway and equally 
 dangerous, on account of the liability of infec- 
 tion. Annapolis had convenience, but it might 
 appear that the President was not disinterested 
 in calling it so near his home. What sort of a 
 town was Reading and how it would answer? 
 Lancaster would be most favorable to the southern 
 members. As the time of meeting was drawing 
 near, he asked Jefferson to prepare some proper 
 instrument, if this should seem best to him, and 
 forward the paper to Mount Vernon, leaving a 
 blank as to the place of meeting. 
 
 On October 1 3th Washington wrote to 
 Jonathan Trumbull,* Speaker of the House of 
 Representatives, asking his advice in the prem- 
 ises ; the next day he wrote to Randolph, Ham- 
 ilton, Madison, Oliver Wolcott and Timothy 
 Pickering and on the following day to Knox. 
 Wolcott and Pickering were at or near Phila- 
 
 ^TnimbuU's answer will be found in fiill in a subsequent chapter. 
 
68 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 delphia, and his letters to them were couched 
 substantially in the same terms. He asked them 
 to write him at once precise information as to 
 the situation. Had the contagion reached Ger- 
 mantown, as was reported ? If not, what con- 
 veniences would that town afford for the assem- 
 ling of Congress, provided it was necessary to 
 meet there? If Germantown should be con- 
 sidered unsafe, what other place would they 
 suggest ? What sort of a place is Reading ? 
 How would it answer for the accommodation 
 of Congress ? He concluded his letter with a 
 complaint that the news he had received was 
 vague and unsatisfactory. 
 
 The letters to Randolph, Madison and Ham- 
 ilton all asked for advice as to the legal aspects 
 of the case, and for their opinions as to the best 
 course in the emergency. The letter to Madi- 
 son follows: 
 
 Mount Vernon, 14 October, 1793.* 
 My Dear Sir: — 
 
 The calamitous situation of Philadelphia, and the 
 little prospect, from the present appearance, of its 
 eligibility to receive Congress by the first Monday in 
 December, involve a serious difficulty. It has been 
 
 *From Sparks' Writings of Washington. 
 
WHERE SHALL CONGRESS MEET? 69 
 
 intimated by some, that the President ought, by proc- 
 lamation, to convene Congress a few days before the 
 abovementioned period, at some other place; and by 
 others, that, although in extraordinary cases he has the 
 power to convene, 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 likely I shall soon, 
 as I believe he has no communication with Phila- 
 delphia. 
 
 Time presses, and the malady, at the usual place 
 of meeting, is becoming more and more alarming. 
 What, then, do you think is the most advisable course 
 for me to pursue in the present exigency? Summon 
 Congress to meet at a certain time and place, in their 
 legislative capacity? Simply state facts and say that I 
 will meet the members at the time and place just men- 
 tioned for ulterior arrangements? Or leave matters 
 as they are, if there is no power in the executive to 
 alter the place legally ? In the first and second cases, 
 especially the first, the delicacy of my naming a place 
 will readily occur to you. My wish would be, that 
 Congress could be assembled at Germantown, to show 
 that I meant no partiality, leaving it to themselves, if 
 there should appear to be no prospect of getting into 
 Philadelphia soon, to decide what should be done 
 thereafter. But accounts say, that some people have 
 
70 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 died in Germantown also of the malignant fever. 
 Every death, now, however, is ascribed to that cause, 
 be the disorder what it may. Wilmington and Tren- 
 ton are nearly equidistant from Philadelphia, in oppo- 
 site directions ; but both are on the great thoroughfare, 
 and equally exposed to danger from the multitude of 
 travellers, and neither may have a chamber sufficient 
 for the House of Representatives. Annapolis and 
 Lancaster are more secure and both have good accom- 
 modations. But to name either of them, especially 
 the first, would be thought to favor the southern con- 
 venience; and, perhaps, might be attributed to local 
 views, especially as New York is talked of for this 
 purpose. Reading, if there are proper conveniences 
 there, would favor 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, and that fully, as you see my embarrassment. 
 I even ask more. I would thank you, not being ac- 
 quainted with forms, to sketch some instrument for 
 publication, adapted to the course you may think it 
 would be most expedient for me to pursue in the pres- 
 ent state of things, if the members are called together 
 as before mentioned. 
 
 The difficulty of keeping clerks in the public 
 offices had in a manner put a stop to business before I 
 left Philadelphia; and the heads of departments hav- 
 ing matters of their own, which called them away, has 
 prevented my return thither longer than I had in- 
 
WHERE SHALL CONGRESS MEET? 71 
 
 tended. I have now desired the different Secretaries 
 to meet me there, or in the vicinity, the ist of next 
 month, for which I shall set out the 27th or the 28th 
 of the present. 
 
 The accounts from the city are really affecting. 
 Two gentlemen now here from New York, Colonels 
 Piatt and Sergeant, say, that they were told at the 
 Swedes' Ford of Schuylkill, by a person who had it 
 from Governor MifHin, that, by an official report from 
 the mayor of the city, upwards of three thousand and 
 five hundred had died, and that the disorder was rag- 
 ing more violently than ever. If cool weather, ac- 
 companied by rain, does not put a stop to the malady, 
 distressing indeed must be the case of that city, now 
 almost depopulated by removals and deaths. 
 I am, dear Sir, &c. 
 
 Within ten days the replies began coming. 
 Jefferson reaffirmed his opinion that the Presi- 
 dent could not call Congress elsewhere in the 
 following terms : 
 
 " I have carefully considered the question whether 
 the President may call Congress to any other place 
 than than to which they have adjourned themselves, 
 and think he cannot have such a right, unless it has 
 been given him by the Constitution or the laws, & 
 that neither of these has given it. The only circum- 
 stance which he can alter, as to their meeting, is that 
 of time by calling them at an earlier day than that to 
 
72 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 which they stand adjourned, but no power to change 
 the place is given. Mr. Madison happened to come 
 here yesterday after the receipt of your letter. I pro- 
 posed the question to him, and he thinks there was 
 particular caution intended & used in the diction of 
 the Constitution to avoid giving the President any 
 power over the place of meeting ; lest he should exer- 
 cise it with local partialities. 
 
 " With respect to the Executive, the Residence law 
 has fixed our offices at Philadelphia till the year 1 800, 
 & therefore it seems necessary that we should get as 
 near them as we may with safety. 
 
 "As to the place of meeting for the legislature, were 
 we authorized to decide that question, I should think 
 it right to have it in some place in Pennsylvania, in 
 consideration of the principle of the Residence bill, 
 & that we might furnish no pretext to that state to in- 
 fringe them hereafter. I am quite unacquainted with 
 Reading, & Its means of accommodation. Its situa- 
 tion is perhaps as little objectionable as that of Lan- 
 caster, & less so than Trenton or perhaps Wilmington. 
 However I think we have nothing to do with the 
 question, & that Congress must meet in Philadelphia 
 even if it be in the open fields, to adjourn themselves 
 to some other place."* 
 
 Wolcott's answer was dated "Smith's House 
 (near Falls of Schuylkill), October 20th." In 
 
 * This letter is given in fiill in Ford's edition of the Writings of 
 Jefferson. 
 
WHERE SHALL CONGRESS MEET? 73 
 
 it he gives a comprehensive account of the dis- 
 order as it existed at that date, most of w^hich 
 information has already been given in other 
 places. There are one or tw^o paragraphs, how- 
 ever, w^hich throw new light on the movements 
 of the executive circle, with which this ac- 
 count is chiefly interested. He wrote : 
 
 Sir, 
 
 I have had the honour to receive your Letter dated 
 the 14th instant and have lost no time in obtaining the 
 best information in my power, on the several questions 
 therein stated. 
 
 The malady with which the City is afflicted, has 
 been progressive, from the time of your departure, 
 untill Monday the 14th instant, at which time it had 
 nearly extended through the City. — Several small re- 
 missions have been observed during that period, all of 
 which were confined to cool days, when the wind was 
 in the northern quarter — whenever the wind has 
 has shifted towards the South, the number of the 
 sick. & the mortality have Invariably increased. — On 
 Monday there was a slight fall of rain — which was 
 succeeded by cool days and several frosty nights. — 
 the mortality of course greatly diminished and but 
 few comparatively fell sick. — the three last days have 
 been more warm, and the unfavourable effects, are at 
 present rather increasing. — 
 
 From repeated observations It may be Infered that 
 
74 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 the cause of the malady still exists. — that its activity 
 is increased by heat and diminished by cold — and that 
 the City will not be purified and rendered safe, until! 
 after heavy rains or severe frost. 
 
 It was very lately Doct. Rush's opinion that the 
 disorder was more pioknt & more fatal than at the 
 time of its first appearance in the city. — 
 
 Nothing certain is known of the number of vic- 
 tims ; for some time, information on this point was 
 carefully concealed ; but from data which cannot be 
 very erroneous I judge, that more than four thousand 
 persons have died. 
 
 Mr. Willing was for some time sick, but has re- 
 covered, Mr. John Ross, has resided in the country, 
 and is I presume well ; — Mr. Sergeant & Colo. 
 Franks are dead — several gentlemen of the name of 
 Howell have died, & among them a relation of Mr. 
 Rawle who was much esteemed. — the accountant ot 
 the War Department, has been indisposed, but he has 
 recovered and is now in the Country. There is no 
 point on which the public opinion is more unsettled, 
 than in respect to the degree of danger which attends 
 any given position in the vicinity of Philadelphia. — It 
 is certain that some gentlemen of good sense and 
 those not deficient in firmness on ordinary occasions, 
 have removed from the villages and estates in the 
 neighbourhood of the City, to more interior situa- 
 tions. — a greater number who have not removed, re- 
 main at home completely insulated from society. — 
 
 I have regularly obtained good information of the 
 
WHERE SHALL CONGRESS MEET? 75 
 
 state of the City, and the adjoining places, and it is 
 my opinion, that the disorder is generally if not solely 
 communicated by specific contagion — that its ravages 
 have been confined to no age, sex, or temperament — 
 and that it has affected those classes of citizens most 
 extensively, who have been most exposed to inter- 
 course with each other. — I mention in proof of this 
 opinion, that six Clerks of the Treasury Department, 
 seven persons employed by the Collector of the Cus- 
 toms — a number of Clerks in the different Banks and 
 three persons in the Post OfBce have fallen victims — 
 several others have been afflicted, who have recovered — 
 being in the whole a very great proportion of all those 
 who have been exposed. — A number of persons, be- 
 longing to, or resident in the Country, have contracted 
 the disorder by occasional visits to the City — Mr. 
 Powel doubtless lost his life in consequence of a hu- 
 mane visit to his house in town, to provide for the 
 accomodation of a favourite servant. — The malady 
 moreover appears to be contagious by having been 
 constantly observed to extend and diverge, from in- 
 fected places. — though it is now spread nearly through 
 the City, yet there are some neighbourhoods where it 
 has not yet appeared. — 
 
 There has all along been a considerable diversity 
 of opinion, in respect to the cause, nature and manner 
 of communicating the malady. — some have supposed 
 that it was generated in the City — certain facts have 
 however, been recently stated to me, by men of indis- 
 putable honour, which leaves no doubt on my mind. 
 
76 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 that it was introduced by an American Vessel, with 
 French passengers & property from Hispaniola. — It 
 has also been asserted on respectable authority, that 
 there has been no instance of the disorder being com- 
 municated to any person who has constantly resided out 
 of the City. — I must admit that of the number who have 
 died in the villages and places adjacent to the City, I 
 have known of no instance where the person afflicted, 
 had not visited the City — if the observation should be 
 found true in the latitude it has been made, it would 
 militate with the opinion, which I have advanced and 
 would go far to prove, that a resident near the City, 
 admitting the malady to continue, would be absolutely 
 safe. 
 
 The Philadelphians will not abandon their present 
 exputation, that the City will be purified and safe be- 
 fore the meeting of Congress, without painful reluc- 
 tance — in that event it would be their wish and that 
 of the people adjacent that Congress should convene, 
 as near as possible to the City. — Lancaster, Wilming- 
 ton & Germantown have been mentioned — it is sup- 
 posed that the latter place would under all circum- 
 stances afford the best accomodations — 
 
 I have made full enquiry & entertain no doubt 
 that the town is free from contagion — it is certain, that 
 at present, not an individual is affected with the pre- 
 vailing malady. 
 
 I have conversed with a Magistrate of the place 
 and am informed by him & other persons, that if 
 events should render it necessary, every exertion will 
 
WHERE SHALL CONGRESS MEET? 77 
 
 be made to accomodate Congress and the public 
 Officers — the School House,* with the adjoining build- 
 ings, may in my opinion, at a small expense, be fitted 
 up & altered, so as to afford tolerable accomodations 
 for the two houses & their immediate Officers. 
 
 I have called at the house of the Attorney Gen- 
 eral near Germantown, and was informed that he was 
 at Lancaster, but was expected soon to return — it was 
 suggested that your letter had been reed, and that 
 measures had been taken for engaging a house, the re- 
 sult of which, were not known. — 
 
 Col Hamilton is in New Jersey, on his way to 
 this place, I shall therefore retain the Letter to him, 
 untill his arrival. — Genl Knox is I presume from the 
 best information I can obtain, at Boston, to which 
 place, I shall address the Letter transmitted to me by 
 Mr. Dandridge, which has been just received. — 
 
 It has been just told me, that Doct. [Frederic] 
 
 Phile the Naval Officer is dead; — though unfounded 
 
 reports are often circulated I fear that this is true. — 
 
 I have the honor to be 
 
 with the most perfect respect 
 
 Sir, your most obed. & 
 
 humble servant 
 
 ^, „ .. r y_ Oliv: Wolcott.f 
 
 The President of the ' 
 
 United States 
 
 * This was the Academy. 
 
 ■j- From Archives Library of Congress. Also given in Volume I, 
 Gibbs' Administrations of Washington and Adams. 
 
78 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 Pickering's answer to Washington's letter 
 has already been given in full, on page 30. 
 
 Hamilton arrived home on the 23d, re- 
 stored beyond expectation by the exercise 
 incident to his journey and the northern air. 
 He hastened to answer his chief's letter, writing 
 on the 24th. Hamilton advised that the 
 President's discretion extended both to the time 
 and place of calling Congress together. Under 
 the constitution he could convene both houses 
 of Congress on an extraordinary occasion. 
 Nothing is said as to time and place ; therefore 
 Hamilton thought they both stood on the same 
 footing. But after all, he doubted whether a 
 contagious disease was an " extraordinary occa- 
 sion," and as there were a number of respectable 
 opinions against calling Congress to any other 
 place, he acquiesced in this opinion. He thought, 
 however, that the President could "recommend" 
 a place of preliminary rendezvous, that the 
 members might informally concert what further 
 steps to take. He continues : — 
 
 " The question then would be, What place is the 
 most eligible ? Obvious reasons render it desirable, 
 that it should be as near Philadelphia as may consist 
 with the motive for naming such a place, to wit, the 
 
WHERE SHALL CONGRESS MEET? 79 
 
 safety of the members, i. Innovation upon the 
 existing arrangement with regard to the seat of govern- 
 ment ought to be avoided as much as possible. 
 
 2. Congress may think it necessary for regularity to 
 go within the limits of the city (though but for an 
 hour) to give legality by some summary act to another 
 place of meeting, and with this view it will be con- 
 venient to meet at no great distance from the city. 
 
 3. The place recommended may influence the place 
 of session. The President and heads of departments 
 ought to be near Congress, but they cannot long be 
 remote from their offices ; and a removal of the public 
 offices for one session would be in many ways an evil. 
 Lastly, the less the President in such cases departs 
 from the preestablished course, the less room there 
 will be for cavil. 
 
 "All these reasons would operate in favor of 
 Germantown, if competent only to the momentary 
 accommodation of Congress. Mr. Peters and some 
 other gentlemen affirm, that it is. I have myself great 
 doubt on the point, and I have not had time to 
 examine ; but I cannot help paying deference to the 
 opinion of those who assert its competency." * 
 
 Mr. Madison's opinion was written on the 
 same day, October 24th, and, by the way, it is a 
 coincidence that the answers of Randolph, 
 Hamilton and Madison should all have been 
 
 * From Sparks' Edition, Washington's Writings, Volume X. 
 
8o WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 written on this date. Madison agreed with 
 Jefferson that the executive had no authority, 
 under the Constitution or laws of the United 
 States, to summon Congress at a time and place 
 to be named by ,him. He, therefore, thought 
 that the President should abstain from interpo- 
 sition. He did think, however, that the Presi- 
 dent might notify Congress of the obstacle to a 
 meeting in Philadelphia, state the lack of a 
 regular provision for the exigency, and suggest 
 his purpose of repairing to a place deemed most 
 eligible for carrying on the work of the govern- 
 ment. He concluded with the form of a 
 proclamation, which, in his judgment, would be 
 appropriate : 
 
 "Whereas a very dangerous and infectious malady, 
 which continues to rage in the City of Philadelphia, 
 renders it indispensable that the approaching Session 
 of Congress should be held, as well as the Executive 
 Department be for the present administered, at some 
 other place; And whereas no regular provision exists 
 for such an emergency, so that, unless some other 
 place be pointed out at which the members of Congress 
 may assemble in the first instance, great embarrass- 
 ments may happen; under these peculiar circumstances, 
 I have thought it incumbent on me to notify the obsta- 
 cle to a meeting of Congress at the ordinary place of 
 
■^: 
 
 
 '^^ 
 
 No 
 
 ■J 
 
 
 ^* 
 
WHERE SHALL CONGRESS MEET? 8 1 
 
 their Session, and to recommend that the several mem- 
 bers assemble on the day appointed at , 
 
 in the State of. , at which place I shall be 
 
 ready to meet them. 
 
 G. W. P. U. S.* 
 
 As Randolph was in Germantown and his 
 answer contains several bits of local coloring as 
 well as his opinion that Germantown could not 
 accommodate Congress, his reply is given in full: 
 
 Spencer's October 24, i793.t 
 
 Sir 
 
 My messenger, who carried into Philadelphia 
 
 yesterday the letter, which I had the honour of address- 
 ing to you at Baltimore, brought from the post-ofEce 
 your favor of the 14th instant. It is but lately, that 
 I could procure an intercourse with it : but he will go 
 in again to-morrow, in order to convey this letter, and 
 receive any others, which you may have thought 
 proper to write to me. 
 
 I have travelled over the subject of your interposi- 
 tion as to the place for the next session of Congress ; 
 but have not been able to complete my remarks on 
 paper. They will be ready at your arrival at German- 
 Town. In the mean time, I beg to suggest the result 
 of my reflections, as being adverse to a call of congress 
 from the executives. It seems to be unconstitutional. 
 
 * From Writings of James Madison, Volume I. 
 
 + Heretofore unpublished. From Archives Library ot Congress. 
 
82 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 It is also unnecessary at this moment ; for if the two 
 houses should happen to meet within the limits of 
 Philadelphia on the first monday in december, they 
 may adjourn to some other place : if they do not 
 meet, then the President will stand justified to convene 
 them ; inasmuch as a failure to meet in the present 
 posture of public affairs on the appointed day will, by 
 producing a well-grounded apprehension, that they 
 may not assemble for a long time, of itself create an 
 "extraordinary occasion." Some days may be lost, if the 
 members may not have come into the neighbourhood ; 
 but not many more, than by the adjournment of their 
 own to a new place. By my mode the object will 
 be accomplished in an easy and natural course : by a 
 summons from the President serious discontents may 
 be excited. 
 
 I ought however to inform you, sir, that the 
 governor of Pennsylvania, (whose authority is, so far 
 as the constitution of this state goes, nearly the same 
 with yours) will probably call his legislature a few days 
 before the regular meeting to German-Town ; instead 
 of Philadelphia. Mr. Dallas* thinks, that he may do 
 so with safety ; but the question is to be submitted to 
 the attorney-general. He tells me, that Mr. Rawlet is of 
 opinion, that altho' you should convene congress, they 
 must assemble in the first instance at Philadelphia. I 
 
 *Alexander J. Dallas, then Secretary of the Commonwealth of 
 Pennsylvania. 
 
 •j- William Rawle, U. S. District Attorney for Pennsylvania. 
 
WHERE SHALL CONGRESS MEET? 83 
 
 intended to have consulted with him and Mr. Lears ; 
 but having heard from Major Lenox, that Colo. 
 Hamilton came home last night, I shall postpone 
 going over to them, until I can converse with him. 
 But in pursuance of your instruction, I enclose, what 
 appears to be a proper proclamation, if my sentiments 
 should unfortunately not accord with your decision. 
 
 Concerning the place ; I can with certainty give 
 you the character of such towns in this state, as 
 you have named. German-Town cannot accommo- 
 date congress with tolerable satisfaction ; it will be 
 surcharged with the assembly and congress together ; 
 it is not willing to enter upon the task ; and a great 
 part of the very furniture, which would be used, would 
 be drawn from Philadelphia itself — I called at Reading 
 on Saturday last; and Judge Rush, who lives there 
 asserted, and I believe from my examination, with 
 truth, that it could not accommodate congress. The 
 public building might answer well enough, but if the 
 President should carry them to a place, where house- 
 room and supplies would be scanty, because the 
 demand is unexpected, multitudes would feel sore. — 
 Lancaster is able and willing to provide for congress 
 in every shape ; and I hope to receive in a day or two 
 a statement of the arrangements, which can be made 
 for their reception. In this place the Pennsylvania 
 members will concur, and probably in no other out of 
 Philadelphia. It is an universal persuasion, that, 
 unless Lancaster be chosen. New York will be revisited 
 by congress. — Your observation on Annapolis is too 
 
84 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 striking not to command an instantaneous assert. 
 Wilmington and Trenton, besides being thoroughfares, 
 are beyond the limits of Pennsylvania, who thinks 
 herself intitled by a kind of compact to retain the 
 temporary seat of government within its own bosom. 
 
 There can be no doubt of several persons dying 
 in, and about German-Town, with the yellow fever. 
 
 Dr. Rush has written to Dr. Shippen, that he may 
 advertize for the commencement of the medical lectures 
 about the first day of december ; as the disorder 
 has abated. This may be the case ; but many 
 discerning men think differently. 
 
 I have the honor, sir, to be, with the highest 
 respect, and true attachment 
 
 yr. mo. ob. serv. 
 
 Edm: Randolph. 
 The President. 
 
 Enclosed in this letter, Randolph forwarded 
 the rough form of a proclamation, which is 
 radically different from Madison's in that it 
 assumes to the President authority to convene 
 Congress at a place different from that to which 
 it had adjourned. 
 
 A Proclamation* 
 
 By the President of the United States. 
 Whereas the situation of public affairs requires, 
 
 *Heretofore unpublished. From Archives Library of Congress. 
 
WHERE SHALL CONGRESS MEET? 85 
 
 that the ensuing session of congress should not be 
 postponed beyond the first monday in december next, 
 being the day appointed by the constitution of the 
 United States for the assembling thereof; and there is 
 reason to doubt, whether the city of Philadelphia, the 
 temporary seat of government, which for some time 
 past hath laboured undoj been visited with a contagious 
 fever, may on that day be fit for their reception : I do 
 therefore, by virtue of the power, in me vested by the 
 said constitution, to convene congress on extraordinary 
 occasions, by these presents convene the senate and 
 house of representatives of the United States, at 
 in the state of on the day of next: 
 
 And I do accordingly hereby notify to the members of 
 the said senate and house of representatives respectively, 
 then and there to attend for the dispatch of legislative 
 business. 
 
 Qu : Altho' the above is in the best form, which occurs 
 to me, does it not exhibit many objections to the 
 thing itself, if it be really the best form? 
 
 Colonel Pickering rode out to Germantown 
 October 2 2d, as he had stated he would in his 
 letter to Washington the day before, to see for 
 himself what could be done for the accommo- 
 dation of the President and Congress, and the 
 following day, the 23 d, he again wrote, giving 
 the impressions he had received: 
 
86 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 Philadelphia Octr. 23. 1793.* 
 Sir, 
 
 I wrote you by Monday's post. That afternoon 
 I went to see Mr. Peters ; t and had the pleasure to 
 find that your accommodation and a suitable provision 
 for Congress had engaged the attention of him and 
 divers other citizens of Philadelphia who were scattered 
 in the adjacent country. They have had some consul- 
 tations on the subject; and will continue them until 
 suitable provision shall be made; of which he has 
 promised to give me early information. 
 
 It is Mr. Peters's opinion that the city will be 
 perfectly safe for the assembling of Congress the first 
 week in December : but lest it should be otherwise, 
 competent provision will be made at Germantown. 
 He says that a number of the citizens of Philadelphia 
 are preparing to quit Germantown, for places on the 
 river where they can better receive and dispose of 
 their fall goods. These removals & the other measures 
 which he and his fellow citizens will take, will make 
 room for the members of Congress. He says also, 
 that an Academy and an adjacent building at German- 
 town will answer very well for the meeting of the two 
 houses of Legislature. Their first object will be to 
 provide for you the most convenient house the adja- 
 cent country will afford, to which, if you think proper 
 
 * From Archives of Library of Congress. A portion of this letter 
 is published in Life of Pickering, Vol. III. 
 
 •j-Richard Peters, Judge of the U. S. District Court. 
 
WHERE SHALL CONGRESS MEET? 87 
 
 you can soon resort. I will give you the earliest 
 notice when this provision is made. 
 
 As I mentioned in my last, the fever has not been 
 known in Germantown, except with persons who had 
 carried the infection from the city. And Mr. Peters 
 mentioned a remarkable fact — That from such deaths 
 in the country, not a single instance had been known 
 of the infection being communicated. — On my way to 
 Germantown yesterday, I spoke of this circumstance 
 to a reputable man whom I knew, and who lives near 
 Fair Hill : He confirmed it by many instances which 
 he said had fallen under his own knowledge. — By this 
 it would seem, that persons not previously contami- 
 nated by the impure air of the city, were not suscep- 
 tible of the disease. 
 
 My ride to Germantown yesterday was on purpose 
 to see the Attorney General : but he was not at home. 
 
 I am waiting for an answer from the Mayor to a 
 letter I wrote him last evening requesting authentic 
 information of the number of deaths, and of the pres- 
 ent state of the disease. 
 
 I have sent my servant a second time for the 
 Mayor's answer: but he does not return; and the clos- 
 ing of the mail being at hand, I must conclude now, 
 and write again by the next post. 
 
 I am most respectfully 
 Sir, 
 Your obedient servant 
 
 Timothy Pickering 
 The President of the United States 
 
8 8 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 The varying opinions the President had 
 received left him as was often the case, to v^^eigh 
 the matter and decide it himself. The way 
 not being clear, he did nothing and as each day 
 brought news of a decrease in the fever, the 
 matter daily lost its importance. By the 2d of 
 December, which was the first Monday of the 
 month, Philadelphia had returned to its usual 
 daily life. The disease had disappeared, and 
 Congress met at the usual place, with the 
 average, for an opening session, of Senators and 
 Representatives present. 
 
CHAPTER VI 
 
 Randolph Arranges for the President's 
 Comfort in Germantown 
 
 AMONG those who early left Phila- 
 delphia, even before the President had 
 L taken his departure, was Edmund 
 Randolph, the Attorney General of the United 
 States, with his family. As early as September 
 5 th letters of Randolph are dated from German- 
 town. He had secured quarters with Nathan 
 Spencer, whose house is still standing on Mill 
 Street, or Church Lane, about one mile east 
 of the Main Street, and at the northeast cor- 
 ner of Church Lane and Dunton Street. 
 The house faces west at the crest of a 
 gentle slope, with the barn and outbuildings 
 clustered around it. In the meadow in front 
 is the old spring house, and at the rear, still 
 standing, but now used for other purposes, is 
 the ancient brew-house. Nearby was the sun- 
 dial, made in 1789, and now in the possession 
 of the writer, a descendant of Nathan Spencer, 
 The family were members of the Society of 
 Friends. Nathan was a son of Joseph and 
 Hannah Spencer, the latter a descendant of 
 
90 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 Jan Luken, one of the original thirteen settlers 
 of Germantown. Nathan's wife was Rachel 
 Pirn, from Chester county.* Their home, 
 according to a family tradition, was occupied 
 on another occasion by Oliver Wolcott, when 
 later he was Secretary of the Treasury. 
 
 The correspondence of Washington with 
 Edmund Randolph forms such a complete 
 account of the arrangements which were made 
 for the President's comfort in Germantown, 
 that the letters are given in full, some of them 
 being for the first time in print. 
 
 On September 30th Washington wrote to 
 Randolph as follows : 
 
 Mount Vernon, 30 September, lypj.f 
 The continuation and spreading of the malignant 
 fever, with which the city of Philadelphia is visited, 
 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 take my family, set out for that 
 city, or the vicinity, say Germantown. 
 
 * For a further account of Samuel Spencer, by Howard 
 the Spencers see Genealogical M. Jenkins, Philadelphia, 1904. 
 Sketch of the Descendants of 
 
 ■j-Sparks' Writings of Washington. 
 
THE PRESIDENT'S COMFORT 91 
 
 I shall be obliged to you, therefore, if you remain 
 at your post, which I by no means wish you to do at 
 the hazard of taking the fever, to keep me advised of 
 the existing state of things in that quarter, and, more- 
 over, 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 above mentioned, as to inquire of a 
 tolerably convenient lodging for myself, one gentle- 
 man of my family, with three servants, and as many 
 horses, could be had in or near Germantown. To pre- 
 vent 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 at- 
 tendance accordingly, at the time and place mentioned. 
 
 Randolph answered this letter promptly, 
 and wrote again ten days later, dating his letter 
 "Spencer's, October 13th, 1793," giving an 
 account of the ravages of the fever and the 
 views of Doctors Rush and Shippen in regard 
 to its nature. He also informs the President 
 that in order to allay the anxieties of his family, 
 he intended to remove them still further from 
 Philadelphia. He proposed taking them to 
 Lancaster, preferring it to Wilmington, which 
 was so badly crowded that he could promise 
 
92 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 himself no accommodation there. He further 
 wrote the President that he would attempt to 
 procure a messenger to go into Philadelphia for 
 any letter which might be waiting for him there. 
 
 Mrs. Randolph seems to have been particu- 
 larly apprehensive and urged that the family 
 remove to Manchester, Va., but although 
 Randolph was impressed with the propriety of 
 such a step, he declined to go, deeming it his 
 duty to remain in the vicinity of Philadelphia 
 to represent the officers of the government and 
 to receive any communication the President 
 might wish to forward. 
 
 The following letter is full of interest as 
 showing the efforts required of Randolph to 
 secure suitable quarters for the President : 
 
 Spencer's October 22, 1793.* 
 Sir 
 
 On my return from Lancaster, I found, that Major 
 
 Franks had agreed to let you have his house.f But 
 
 the terms are excessive ; being no less than 1 50 ^ per 
 
 . annum, or for a shorter period, not under six months, 
 
 at the same rate. Except a looking-glass or two, and 
 
 a few pictures, he will not suffer any of the furniture 
 
 * Heretofore unpublished. From Archives Library of Congress, 
 f Now No. 5542 Main Street. 
 
THE PRESIDENT'S COMFORT 93 
 
 to remain; tho' I have prevailed upon his agent to 
 gaffer permit a couple of beds and some chairs and tables 
 to continue, until you can accommodate yourself from 
 some other quarter. But I have made no conclusive 
 bargain ; leaving this and the other house, which I 
 mentioned in my last letter, and adjoins the school- 
 house lot, free for your choice. Dr. Bensel declines 
 renting his house.* 
 
 The best road from the main Baltimore road to 
 German Town is from Darby to the black-horse at the 
 seven mile stone, on the Lancaster road : from thence 
 to Righter's ferry on Shuylkill, which is about two 
 miles from German Town. 
 
 We are flattered with a report, that the cold 
 weather has given a stroke to the fever ; but the 
 authority, upon which it is circulated, is not conclusive 
 with me. 
 
 I have the honor to be, sir, with 
 the highest respect, and sincere attachment 
 yr. mo. ob. serv. 
 
 Edm : Randolph. 
 
 The following letter from Washington, 
 written the day after Randolph's, and of course 
 before the latter was received, gives further 
 instructions in regard to the necessary lodgings : 
 
 * Dr. Charles Bensell lived at the corner of Main Street and School 
 House Lane. 
 
94 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 Mount Vernon, 23 October, 1793.* 
 Dear Sir : — 
 
 Your letter of the 14th instant only came by the 
 post of last night to Alexandria ; and this is sent 
 thither to-day, that It may go by to-morrow's mail, 
 and thereby reach* you as soon as the nature of the 
 case will admit. 
 
 As you have given no positive opinion respecting 
 the power of the executive to change the place for 
 Congress to meet at, and it is uncertain what will be 
 the result of this business, I am really at a loss to 
 decide which of the three houses mentioned in the 
 postscript to your letter of the above date, would best 
 suit me, or whether either of them would. 
 
 If, from the present state of the malady, with 
 which Philadelphia is visited, and there is an unfavour- 
 ble prospect of its ceasing, Germantown should be 
 thought unsafe, and of course an ineligible spot for 
 Congress to sit in or meet at, even in the first instance, 
 any kind of lodging and board would suffice for the 
 short period I should have to remain there ; especially 
 as all the time, not employed in business with the 
 heads of departments and yourself, might be spent in 
 little excursions to places at a small distance there- 
 from. Of course, all idea of furnishing and keeping 
 a house myself, being entirely unprovided with ser- 
 vants and means of any sort, ought to be banished 
 entirely, if it be practicable, and some rooms, even in 
 
 * From Sparks' Writings of Washington. 
 
THE PRESIDENTS COMFORT 95 
 
 a tavern, if I could be retired in them, taken in prefer- 
 ence. On the other hand, if my stay there is likely 
 to be of any continuance, then unquestionably Colonel 
 Franks's, if to be had, would suit me best, because 
 more commodious for myself and the entertainment 
 of company ; and next to this, Bensel's. 
 
 This is the light in which the matter strikes me at 
 this distance. But, as you are on the spot, and know 
 more precisely than I possibly can the real state of 
 things, and besides, have been in the way of hearing 
 the various opinions of people on the subject of what 
 Congress ought to do, I would leave much to your 
 judgment. I shall set out, so as to be in Germantown 
 or thereabouts on the ist of November, if no difficulties 
 should be encountered on the road. As there can be but 
 a short interval between your receipt of this letter and 
 my arrival, any place might do for my first reception. 
 
 It is not in my power to despatch a servant before 
 me. I shall have but two, neither of whom can be 
 spared for such a purpose. These, with five horses, 
 Mr. Dandridge, and myself, form the total of my 
 family and equipage. It would be very convenient 
 for me, therefore, to meet a letter from you at Wil- 
 mington, that I may know better how to proceed from 
 thence, and where to cross the Schuylkill. 
 
 My best wishes, in which Mrs. Washington unites, 
 attend you, Mrs. Randolph, and family. We are glad 
 to hear, that your apprehensions on account of Peyton 
 have subsided. With sincere esteem and regard, I am, 
 dear Sir, &c. 
 
96 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 This letter seems to have come through 
 very quickly, for Randolph received it on the 
 morning of the 26th, and proceeded to answer 
 it at once as follows : 
 
 Spencer's October 26, 1793.* 
 Sir 
 
 I had this moment the honor of receiving your 
 letter of the 23 d instant by a special messenger from 
 Philadelphia. As he is impatient to return, and I 
 mean to write a duplicate for Elkton, I will trouble 
 you with but a short communication. 
 
 At Baltimore and Elkton two letters of different 
 dates are waiting for your arrival; one written on the 
 23d, the other on the 25th instant. Since the writing 
 of the last, Colo. Hamilton came hither ; and I find, 
 that he concurs in the opinion, which I have given to 
 you in my letter of the 25th that the President can- 
 not constitutionally convene congress to a different 
 place as yet. But he informed me, that he had ex- 
 plained himself in a letter to you for Baltimore. 
 
 The disorder is supposed to be better in Philadel- 
 phia; but in the suburbs, both North and South, it 
 rages with its ancient vehemence. I cannot therefore 
 believe it possible, for the ensuing session to be held 
 in that city. I shall go over to German Town this 
 afternoon, and will make an arrangement for your tem- 
 porary accommodation, adapted to the uncertainty of 
 
 * Heretotore unpublished. From Archives Library of Congress. 
 
A W:£'^sr?n &Cf>J}03f'-:7 
 
 '^yC'U-t:- 
 
 
THE PRESIDENT'S COMFORT 97 
 
 the position which congress may take, and leaving you 
 still in possession of the right to choose between 
 Franks's house, and the lodgings near the schoolhouse. 
 Major Lenox, the new marshal, purposes to meet 
 you at Wilmington; and by him I will transmit an 
 account of what I have done. My letter at Elkton 
 compares the different places, which have been named, 
 and mentions a route to German-Town ; which, how- 
 ever. Major Lenox thinks, that he can improve. 
 
 I have the honor, sir, to be, with the highest 
 respect, and sincere attachment 
 yr. mo. ob. serv. 
 The President. Edm: Randolph. 
 
 Randolph having completed the arrange- 
 ments for Washington's lodgings in German- 
 town, despatched the following letter by Major 
 David Lenox, who was to meet the President 
 at Wilmington, giving the final information 
 and instructions as to the disposal of the party 
 on their arrival: 
 
 Spencer's October 28, 1793.* 
 Sir 
 By the time, when this letter is delivered to you 
 by Major Lenox, you will have received the different 
 letters, which I forwarded to you at Baltimore and 
 Elkton, stating, among other things, what I had done 
 concerning your lodgings. Colo. Franks not being in 
 
 * Heretofore unpublished. From Archives Library of Congress. 
 
9 8 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 town, and his agent not being willing to let the house 
 for any period, short of six months, I could not com- 
 bine the objects, which you have in view so effectually, 
 as to conclude an arrangement with the German Cler- 
 gyman * near the Schoolhouse. I wish the accommo- 
 dation was complete ; 'but it is certainly the best, which 
 can be had. I have agreed for three rooms, and two 
 beds for yourself and Mr. Dandridge, and breakfast 
 and tea in the afternoon, at ten dollars each per week. 
 I was afraid, that your servants would have been 
 obliged to lodge three or four hundred yards from 
 you ; but this morning I engaged board for them on 
 the lot, adjoining your rooms. Should you want an- 
 other room, I am pretty well satisfied, ('tho I do not 
 know it absolutely) that it may be procured. Your 
 horses are to be at Mr. Feree's stable, about two hun- 
 dred yards from the Schoolhouse. The only remain- 
 ing difficulty is dinner; for the Clergyman cannot go 
 so far, as this meal. A tavern-keeper was to see, if he 
 could get a cook ; in which case he would send a din- 
 ner to your lodgings. I shall settle with him 'to-mor- 
 row, and can give him the information, with which 
 Major Lenox has furnished me, respecting such a ser- 
 
 I have the honor, sir, to be 
 with the highest respect and sincere attachment 
 yr. mo. ob. serv. 
 
 Edm. Randolph. 
 
 * Rev. Frederick Herman, whose home immediately joined the 
 Academy on the west. 
 
CHAPTER VII 
 
 Washington Reaches Germantown 
 
 WASHINGTON set out from Mount 
 Vernon for Germantown on Monday, 
 the 28th of October, accompanied by 
 his secretary, Bartholomew Dandridge;* his 
 coachman, Lewis Lut, and servant, Austin, 
 with five horses. At Baltimore they were 
 overtaken by Thomas Jefferson, who had left 
 Monticello on the 25th, The latter was ac- 
 companied by one servant, James. Jefferson 
 had journeyed by stage from Fredericksburg, 
 having sent his horses back to Monticello 
 from that point. The united party left Balti- 
 more on the morning of the 30th, spent that 
 night at Havre de Grace and the following at 
 Brandy wine (Wilmington). They breakfasted 
 at Chester, and reached Germantown in time 
 for dinner on Friday, November ist. This was 
 a cold, rainy day, and Jefferson says they expe- 
 rienced the extremes of heat, cold, dust and rain 
 
 * Son of Judge Bartholomew Dandridge and nephew of Mrs. 
 Washington. 
 
I oo WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 on the journey. He complained bitterly of the 
 harpies who preyed upon travelers and of the 
 expense of $77.65, to which he had been put 
 for himself and one servant, from Fredericks- 
 burg to Germantown. 
 
 On their arrival, Washington and Dandridge 
 went to the Reverend Frederick Herman's house, 
 adjoining the Academy, on School House Lane. 
 The coachman, Lewis, and servant, Austin, were 
 quartered with John Merkle, who lived close 
 by, and the horses were sent to Squire Ferree's 
 stable, in the rear of his house, on the north- 
 eastern corner of Main Street and School House 
 Lane, the site now occupied by the Mutual 
 Fire Insurance Company of Germantown. As 
 Randolph had arranged, Mr. Herman was to 
 supply lodgings and suppers and breakfasts, while 
 the dinners were to be provided by William 
 Bockius, the landlord of the King of Prussia 
 Tavern, now Nos. 5516, 5518 and 5520 Main 
 Street. James Garmain was the President's chef. 
 
 Frederick Herman was the German teacher 
 at the Academy and also the pastor of the Re- 
 formed Church at the Market Square, his in- 
 cumbency covering the period from 1790-5. 
 He was apparently a young man and his house- 
 
REACHES GERMANTOWN iot 
 
 hold at this time included several small chil- 
 dren. One son, born early in the following 
 summer, was named in honor of the Attorney 
 General, Edmund Randolph Herman. 
 
 The house then occupied by Frederick Her- 
 man had been erected in 1763 by David James 
 Dove, an educator of marked individuality, who 
 had been engaged as the English master in 
 1 76 1, by the Trustees of the Academy, or the 
 Union School, as it was called, then but newly 
 opened. He later quarreled with the trustees 
 and purchased a tract of over two acres on the 
 west of the school property from Samuel Ash- 
 mead, and erected a building intended as a rival 
 of the Academy. His plan was not successful, 
 and in 1768 he sold the property and removed 
 to Philadelphia. The house was described in 
 an advertisement of the time as being commo- 
 dious and elegant. There was a " beautiful 
 garden and fruitful orchard, containing in the 
 whole two acres and a quarter. The serene 
 and wholesome air of this place, the charming 
 and extensive prospect it affords on every side, 
 may justly entitle it to the name of the Mont- 
 pelier of America, and is exactly calculated for 
 the seat of any gentleman of taste." Such was 
 
I02 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 Washington's home from November ist to No- 
 vember loth. 
 
 The house is now numbered 130 West 
 School House Lane, the home for a number of 
 years of Mr. John Alburger. The walls are of 
 great thickness, and in making alterations, some 
 years ago, it was found that the stones would 
 break before the mortar which bound them to- 
 gether. Except for some changes in the front 
 and the addition of porches, the size and shape of 
 the house are very much as they were then. 
 The old Pennsylvania marble front steps are still 
 in use, and the floor of the ancient stoop has 
 been included in the modern porch. In the rear 
 yard, near the School yard line, is a beautiful 
 horse chestnut tree of great size and splendid 
 proportions, which tradition has persistently said 
 was planted by Washington. The stable, while 
 ancient, is of more modern origin, for, as the 
 reader has been informed, there were no accom- 
 modations for Washington's horses. 
 
 Meanwhile Jefferson had gone to the King 
 of Prussia Tavern, a leading inn of the time in 
 Germantown, which he found still crowded 
 with Philadelphians, afraid to return to their 
 city homes. The tavern had been opened as a 
 
REACHES GERMANTOWN 103 
 
 house of entertainment by Andrew Weckeser 
 in 1757, and for a number of years it had been 
 the Germantown terminus -of the tri-weekly 
 stage from Philadelphia. The old sign, which 
 is still preserved, had displayed on it, seated 
 on horseback, the then popular King Frederick, 
 a representation said to have been painted by 
 Gilbert Stuart while the latter was a resident of 
 Germantown. The picture was painted over, 
 and in more modern times, until it was taken 
 down, it bore simply the words " King of Prus- 
 sia." Here the Secretary of State of the United 
 States was able to get a bed in the corner of the 
 public room, and that "as a great favor," he 
 says. The other alternative was to sleep on the 
 floor before the fire, wrapped in his cloak. " In 
 this state I am waiting," he writes his son-in- 
 law, Thomas Mann Randolph, "till some of 
 the Philadelphians may take courage to go into 
 the city and make a vacancy here." 
 
 He says in a letter to his friend, James 
 Madison, written the day after his arrival, that 
 Germantown could not lodge a single person 
 more, and that "cuddies" without a bed, and 
 sometimes without a chair or table, rented from 
 four to six to eight dollars per week. 
 
I04 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 Alexander Hamilton was at Fair Hill, two 
 and a half miles from the city and a little 
 greater distance from Germantown, but he was 
 indisposed at the time of the President's arrival 
 and unable to wait upon him. He sent a note 
 of explanation for his absence on the 3d of No- 
 vember, and in it answered more fully Wash- 
 ington's inquiry for his views as to the meeting 
 place of Congress. Randolph remained at 
 Spencer's, a mile to the east of Germantown, 
 and General Knox probably retained his quarters 
 at the Rev. William Smith's house near the 
 Falls of Schuylkill. On November 8th Ham- 
 ilton and Knox dined with Jefferson at the King 
 of Prussia. 
 
 The subject still uppermost in the minds of 
 the President and his cabinet, of the state and 
 local authorities, and interested citizens, was, 
 where shall Congress meet? The Academy 
 building had all along been considered the only 
 place available in Germantown, in case Congress 
 should assemble here. On October 26th, 
 1793, the Trustees had considered a proposal 
 from the Governor of Pennsylvania that the 
 buildings be occupied by the legislature of the 
 State, but at the same meeting the information 
 
REACHES GERMANTOWN 105 
 
 was received that Congress might need the 
 school. A committee was appointed, consisting 
 of Henry Hill, President of the board; John 
 Bringhurst, Samuel Mechlin, Melchoir Meng 
 and Joseph Ferree, to provide other accommo- 
 dations for the school, that the way might be 
 clear for the public use of the property. On 
 November 2d the Trustees again convened, and 
 adopted a resolution to the effect that if neces- 
 sary for the accommodation of the Congress of 
 the United States, or of the State legislature, 
 they do first make the President of the United 
 States an offer of the school buildings, on the 
 following terms: "First, the following repairs 
 are wanting, to wit: 104 panes of glass, two 
 window shutters, two door linings, three door 
 locks, the steps front and back of new wood, 
 the hearths to be laid of new brick, sundry 
 patchings and whitewashing, for which repairs, 
 and no others, the sum of sixty dollars will be 
 allowed out of the rent, which is to be three 
 hundred dollars for one session, by either of the 
 legislatures, if by them occupied for the public 
 use, and that the said committee shall procure 
 another suitable building to accommodate the 
 school during said time." Henry Hill, Samuel 
 
io6 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 Ashmead, Christopher Schneider, Samuel Mech- 
 lin and Joseph Ferree were appointed a com- 
 mittee to carry this resolution into effect. On 
 November 6th the committee waited on the 
 President, and through the chairman, Henry 
 Hill, formally tendered the school buildings for 
 the use of Congress, handing him at the same 
 time the following letter: 
 
 The President of the United States. 
 
 November 6, 1793.* 
 Sir, 
 
 The Trustees of the public school of Germantown 
 have the honor to wait upon the President, with a re- 
 spectful tender of the school buildings for the accom- 
 modation of Congress, should they convene at this 
 place. — 
 
 To judge of the other Inhabitants of German- 
 town from our own motives, it cannot be questioned 
 they would on this occasion strive to make it as conven- 
 ient as convenient [sic] a residence as possible. — On the 
 permanence of our general Government, & the safety 
 of its supporters & defenders, rests, under God in our 
 view, whatever we hold most valuable. 
 
 It has been our fortune. Sir, to see you in many 
 seasons of difficulty & danger, always surmounting 
 them ; & even now fortifying with your presence, 
 
 * From Archives Library of Congress. Heretofore unpublished. 
 
REACHES GERMANTOWN 107 
 
 the good spirit of the Union, lately humbled by the 
 calamity in Philadelphia ; an alleviation of which we 
 participate, doubtless in common with the survivors of 
 the City, in consequence of your propitious return to 
 this State, 
 
 Henry Hill Christr. Schneider 
 
 Saml. Ashmead Saml. Mechlin. 
 
 Jos : Ferree Trustees. 
 
 To this letter the following formal reply 
 was prepared and forwarded. The first two 
 paragraphs were prepared by Jefferson, and the 
 President added the more personal closing para- 
 graph : 
 
 To, The Trustees of the Public School of Germantown.* 
 Gentlemen, 
 
 The readiness with which the Trustees of the 
 Public School of Germantown tender the buildings 
 under their charge, for the use of Congress, is a proof 
 of their zeal for furthering the public good ; and 
 doubtless the Inhabitants of Germantown generally, 
 actuated by the same motives, will feel the same dis- 
 positions to accommodate, if necessary, those who as- 
 semble but for their service & that of their fellow 
 citizens. 
 
 Where it will be best for Congress to remain will 
 depend on circumstances which are daily unfolding 
 
 * From Archives Library of Congress. Heretofore unpublished. 
 
io8 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 themselves, & for the issue of which we can but offer 
 up our prayers to the Sovereign Dispenser of Ufe & 
 health. His favor too on our endeavours — the good 
 sense and firmness of our fellow citizens, & fidelity in 
 those they employ, will secure to us a permanence of 
 good government. * 
 
 If I have been fortunate enough, during the 
 vicissitudes of my life, so to have conducted myself, 
 as to have merited your approbation, it is a source of 
 much pleasure ; & should my future conduct merit 
 a continuance of your good opinion, especially at a 
 time when our country, & the city of Philadelphia in 
 particular, is visited by so severe a calamity, it will add 
 more than a little to my happiness. — 
 
 Go. Washington. 
 
 By the 9th of November the fever in the 
 city had almost disappeared, and affairs were 
 resuming their natural course. " The citizens 
 flocked back to town as fast as they had before 
 left it," says Charles Biddle in his autobiography. 
 " People who had little or no acquaintance with 
 each other before they left the city, appeared re- 
 joiced at seeing each other. The loss was soon 
 forgotten in the joy of getting back to the city." 
 
 The following letter from Jefferson to Mad- 
 ison, heretofore unpublished, gives an interesting 
 glimpse of the then situation: 
 
REACHES GERMANTOWN 109 
 
 Germantown, Nov. 9, '3.* 
 The stages from Philadelphia to Baltimore are to 
 be resumed to-morrow, the fever has almost disap- 
 peared, the Physicians say they have no new sub- 
 jects since the rain, some old ones are still to recover 
 or die, & it is presumed that will close the tragedy., 
 the inhabitants, refugees, are now flocking back gen- 
 erally ; this will give us accommodation here, the 
 Pres. sets out to-morrow for Reading, & perhaps Lan- 
 caster to return in a week, he will probably remain 
 here till the meeting of Congress, should Philadelphia 
 become ever so safe, as the members may not be satis- 
 fied of that point till they have time to inform them- 
 selves. Toulon has surrendered to Engld. & Spain. 
 Grandanse in St. Domingo to England, the British 
 have received a check before Dunkirk, probably a 
 great one, but the particulars cannot yet be depended 
 on. it happened about the 5th of September, when 
 Monroe & yourself arrive here, come to Bockeas's 
 tavern (sign the K. of Prussia) I will have engaged 
 beds there for you for your temporary accommodation. 
 Adieu. 
 
 As intimated in Jefferson's letter, the Presi- 
 dent, accompanied by Mr. Dandridge and his 
 servants, set out on the 1 1 th of November for 
 Lancaster and Reading, going first into Phila- 
 delphia. He apparently was not satisfied that 
 
 * From Archives Library of Congress. 
 
1 1 o WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 Congress could be accommodated satisfactorily 
 in Germantown, or at least wished to see for 
 himself what the other Pennsylvania towns had 
 to offer, in case the members declined to meet 
 in Philadelphia. His ride into the city was, in 
 spite of the earnest remonstrance of Edmund 
 Randolph, contained in a letter dated from 
 Spencer's, November loth: 
 
 After I parted from you last night, I obtained a 
 promise from Mr. Dunlap, the printer, to bring out 
 on Monday his file of newspapers. This renders it 
 unnecessary for me to continue my request as to yours. 
 But while I am thus led to recollect, that you meditate 
 a visit to the city to morrow, permit me to suggest one 
 consideration. The mayor and the physicians dissuade 
 people from returning yet, and especially in great num- 
 bers. You will hardly be at your door, before your 
 arrival will be rumored abroad ; and multitudes, who 
 will not distinguish between a momentary stay, and 
 absolute residence, will be induced by your example to 
 crowd back, and carry fresh, and therefore more vul- 
 nerable subjects into the bosom of infection. The 
 consequences may be the more serious, as we have not 
 yet learned, that any radical precautions have yet com- 
 menced, for purging the houses and furniture. It is 
 strengthened too in a degree, from the uncertainty of 
 the malady, under which the soldiers from St. Do- 
 mingo labour, and of the effect, which the late warm 
 
REACHES GERMANTOWN iii 
 
 days may have had upon the disorder. Nor can I 
 conceal a fear, which I have often heard expressed by 
 the friends of yourself and the government, that your 
 indifference about danger might push you too early 
 into Philadelphia. 
 
 Of the details of Washington's trip but lit- 
 tle information is obtainable. He lodged 
 Wednesday, November 1 3 th, at Womelsdorf, 
 Berks County, fourteen miles west of Reading, 
 where the following address was presented to 
 him in German : 
 
 Your Excellency: 
 
 Will you accept at this happy moment, our ex- 
 pression of joy and gratitude at the honor of having 
 the presence of your excellency among us. 
 
 The great and glorious results which crowned 
 your work under the protection of the Almighty in 
 the last glorious war, the happiness and peace which 
 we enjoy under your government, and the recent well 
 planned, properly applied system of neutrality encour- 
 age all people to renewed love and respect toward you. 
 
 The inhabitants of this region will never cease to 
 pray that God grant you health and long life. 
 
 To which Washington sent the following 
 reply : 
 
 The attention and approbation that you show of 
 my endeavors, give me the greatest pleasure. 
 
1 1 2 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 A company of volunteers assembled, and 
 amidst repeated firing of guns near the door of 
 the house in which he lodged, exclaimed, 
 " Lang lebe George Washington ! Lang lebe 
 George Washington ! " 
 
 On the 14th of November he was at Lan- 
 caster, but no further record of the tour seems 
 allowable. 
 
 Washington's expense for the trip, which 
 he sets down in his cash book as to " Lebanon 
 and Lancaster," was $29.19. 
 
 Washington returned to Germantown on 
 Saturday, the i6th, having been gone all the 
 week. He did not, however, return to the 
 Rev. Herman's house.* Before leaving he had 
 written a personal note to Colonel Isaac Franks, 
 asking for the use of his house, and this mes- 
 sage had been enclosed in a letter and for- 
 warded by Thomas Dungan, the principal of the 
 Academy, urging that the request be granted. It 
 reached Colonel Franks, who had sought refuge 
 from the yellow fever at Bethlehem, Pa., on 
 November 6th, and he immediately responded 
 
 * Washington's bill at the Rev- and lodging for himself and Mr. 
 
 erend Herman's had been dis- Dandridge, candles, etc. John 
 
 charged bythepaymentof ^37.94, Merkel's bill for boarding the two 
 
 which included the ten days' board men amounted to J 1 5 . 8 2 . 
 
^ 
 
 I 
 
 ^ 
 
 
REACHES GERMANTOJVN 113 
 
 by hiring a light two-horse wagon, with a 
 driver, and setting out for Germantown with 
 Mrs. Franks, to put the house in order for the 
 President's occupancy.* Colonel Franks' house 
 is now No. 5442 Main Street. 
 
 This house was built in 1772—3 by David 
 Deshler, and had been, in 1777, after the Battle 
 of Germantown, the headquarters of Sir Will- 
 iam Howe. A description of the property 
 from a contemporary advertisement gives a 
 pleasant picture of its location and surroundings : 
 
 A house and Lot, situate on the west side of the 
 main street in Germantown, an airy, high situation, 
 commanding an agreeable prospect of the adjacent 
 country. The house is 45 feet front, and forty feet 
 deep, two stories high, four rooms on the floor, all fur- 
 nished in the most elegant manner ; there are also 
 suitable back, buildings, all in good order, and a pump 
 of excellent water in the yard. The lot contains about 
 two acres, on which is an orchard of the best grafted 
 fruit of various kinds, and a large garden pailed in. 
 
 Colonel Franks seems to have been a careful 
 business man, for he took and preserved an in- 
 
 *Amorg Washington's ex- quest of Attorney General Ed- 
 
 penses at this time was an item mund Randolph, from German- 
 
 of g I 5.67 to William Bringhurst town to Col. Franks, then safely 
 
 for going "express" at the re- quartered at Bethlehem. 
 
1 14 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 ventory of the furniture in the house at the 
 time.* As the list discloses the furnishing of a 
 better house of the period, it is of interest : 
 
 First Right Hand Room 
 Curtains, 1 BKnds, two winder blinds. Do. Do. 
 curtains, one looking glass, six chairs with chintz bot- 
 toms, one looking glass, i Dining table, one breakfast 
 table, one open stove, one pair of plated candlesticks. 
 Double set of Nankin China 72 pieces, i large waiter, 
 
 1 large waiter, i snufF tray, i pair hand irons, shovel 
 and tongs, i plated Goblet pint cup with two handles, 
 
 2 large pictures. 
 
 First left Hand Room 
 
 2 chintz window curtains, i Green Blinds, 1 Look- 
 ing glass, 2 Gerandoles, i Dining table, 2 Mahogany 
 Arm Chairs, 8 Mahogany stuffed Bottom chairs, i 
 pair large Hand Irons, shovel and tongs, 2 Gerandoles, 
 4 pictures, i pair plated candlesticks, i set mantel 
 china, — 82 Rails, 15 Posts. 
 
 In the back room adjoining 
 
 One C. Table, 4 window chairs, 2 small pictures, 
 China in the closet, 9 china plates, 2 plated sauce 
 boats and china chocolate pot, i plated castor, i large 
 China Tureen, i china punch bowl, i china sugar 
 dish, I pair of hand irons, shovel and tongs — brass. 
 
 * This information was talcen are unknown to the writer. The 
 from a copy of the original paper. copy is in the possession of Ellis- 
 The whereabouts of the original ton P. Morris, of Germantown. 
 
REACHES GERMANTOWN 115 
 
 In the First Kitchen 
 1 English guttered gridiron, 3 flat brass candle 
 sticks, I spit, 1 flesh fork, i egg slice, i cullender, 3 
 iron ladles, i iron ladle and dredging box, 2 funnels, 
 1 graters, i pair of Snuff^ers, i qt Tankard, i pint 
 mug, 9 flat irons and stand, i cheese Toaster, i iron 
 fork large, 3 patty pans. 
 
 Up Stairs, in the bed chamber on the right hand 
 One bed stead and curtains, one bed bolster and 
 pillows, 2 blankets, a green rug and a white counter- 
 pane, I looking glass, i Bureau, and cover, i pair 
 hand irons, shovel and tongs, one carpet and fine side 
 carpet. 
 
 In Bed room opposite 
 One Bed stead, 2 Beds, i Bolster and pillows, one 
 pair sheets, one pair pillow sheets, 6 blankets, one 
 chintz bed stead, i looking glass, i Table, t Arm 
 chair, 4 chairs with covers, i carpet, i mahogany chest 
 and drawers, i Table, i chair, and 2 benches and one 
 Tamil, a corner cupboard, one picture, one coffee mill, 
 I black pitcher, 3 coflFee pots, i tin, i china, i large 
 copper, 4 Decanters, 9 Elegant Wine glasses, 6 cups 
 and saucers, i milk pot, i mustard pot, i slop bowl, 
 I Tin Kettle with cover, 32 plates, 4 large dishes, 2 
 gravy Tureens, i salt box, i salad dish. 
 
 In Back Kitchen adjoining 
 I Tamil, i Table, 3 chafing dishes, i lantern, 2 
 frying pans, 4 Iron pots and one iron cover, 2 chairs. 
 
1 1 6 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 3 pails, I Table and ironing board, i Tea Kettles, 4 
 candlesticks, 2 copper Kettles, i Tin Mug, i pepper 
 mill, 2 pair of irons, 2 pair of pot hooks, i sand sieve, 
 I rolling pin, i pair of bellows, 2 pair of pot hooks, 
 I large copper sauce pan, i quart black mug, i bench, 
 I brass washing kettle, 3 washing tubs. 
 
 In Back Room 
 2 chairs, i writing desk &c, and Table. 
 
 In Stable 
 lyi tons of hay, i cart, i open stove, i six plate 
 stove, 27 fowls, 20 ducks, one Iron fender. 
 
 Colonel Franks' account rendered for the 
 use of the house included his expenses to and 
 from Bethlehem for two trips, one to set the 
 house in order and the other, on the 19th of 
 December, to ascertain how much longer the 
 President, who had already gone, intended to 
 remain. These journeys cost $40.00. There 
 was also a charge of $12.00 for bedding and 
 furniture, which Franks was obliged to hire on 
 account of his own being in use by the Presi- 
 dent. It cost $2.50 " For cleaning my house 
 and putting it in the same condition the Presi- 
 dent received it in," which seems very little 
 when it is remembered it was a bachelor estab- 
 lishment, with many callers and guests during 
 
o 
 
 6 
 
 
 2.6 
 
 
 4- 
 
 
 7.6 
 
 
 7- 
 
 
 4 
 
 
 6 
 
 REACHES GERMANTOWN 117 
 
 the short period of its occupancy. The break- 
 age by the tenant is figured in shilHngs and 
 pence and is as follows: 
 
 For the damage done to a large Japanned £, s 
 waiter made use of in the service of the 
 President 
 
 One large fork a 2/6 
 
 4 plates I 
 
 To 3 ducks 2/6 
 
 4 Fowls 1/9 
 
 I bushel potatoes 
 
 One hundred of hay 
 
 ^i. 12.10 
 
 which, reduced, equaled I4.40. All these 
 charges, added to the rent of $66.66, made a 
 total of $131.56. It seems, however, that 
 Washington, whose care in accounts could not 
 be exceeded by that of Colonel Franks, was not 
 satisfied with all the charges, for the bill was 
 not settled for nearly four months after the 
 President's return to the city, and then by a 
 total payment of but $75.56. 
 
 The Franks House, or the Morris House, 
 as it is known to-day, remains as it was when 
 Washington occupied it, as interesting and as fine 
 an example of the architecture of the Colonial 
 
1 1 8 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 period as is to be found anywhere in America, 
 It has been the home for many years of 
 ElHston P. Morris, and of his father, Samuel B. 
 Morris, before him. 
 
 Washington occupied it until the end of 
 the month, making, however, frequent daily 
 visits into the city, and so well did it suit him 
 that he again occupied it the following summer, 
 as will be set forth in a later chapter. 
 
CHAPTER VIII 
 
 The Attorney General's Formal Opinion 
 
 A S Randolph had promised in his letter to 
 / % the President, of October 24th, his 
 -X, !m. formal opinion as to the legality and 
 expediency of calling Congress together else- 
 where than at Philadelphia was ready for con- 
 sideration shortly after the President's arrival 
 in Germantown. As it is the official opinion 
 of the Attorney General of the United States 
 and as it contains a statement of the comparative 
 ability of a number of Pennsylvania towns to 
 accommodate Congress, and as it was prepared 
 in Germantown it is judged of sufficient interest 
 to be included in full. It is preserved in the 
 Archives of the Library of Congress, and so far 
 as known has never been published. 
 
 Randolph's opinion on temporary 
 
 SEAT OF government 
 
 The attorney general of the United States 
 has the honor of submitting to the President of 
 the United States the following considerations 
 
1 20 WASHINGTON IN GERMAN TOWN 
 
 on the power and propriety of convening con- 
 gress to a place, different from the city of 
 Philadelphia. 
 
 The constitution declares, that "neither 
 house, during the session of congress, shall, 
 without the consent of the other, adjourn for 
 more, than three days, nor to any other place, 
 than that, in which the two houses shall be 
 sitting." 
 
 The residence-act directs* that the session 
 of congress next ensuing the present (that is 
 the session in July 1790) shall be held in the 
 city of Philadelphia; and the adjourning order 
 of both houses, at the close of every session, 
 since they began to sit in Philadelphia, has made 
 no mention whatever oi place. 
 
 Hence it is correct to infer, not only that 
 Philadelphia was the place, intended by congress 
 for their next session ; but also, that the constitu- 
 tion and residence-act have rendered that city, at 
 least until the year 1800, the constant place of 
 session; unless it be changed in some constitu- 
 tional way. 
 
 *This act provided that Phik- 1800, when it should be removed 
 delphia should be the temporary to the new Federal City, /. e., 
 seat of government until the year Washington, D. C. 
 
RANDOLPH'S OPINION 121 
 
 How can such a change be effected? 
 
 By a new law, a concurred vote of both 
 houses, even without the intervention of the 
 President, or by a summons from the President. 
 
 The past conduct of the legislature shows 
 their opinion of their own power, to fix a tem- 
 porary place for the session of congress. If it 
 were now a question, whether by a new law 
 the permanent seat of government might be 
 altered, much could be urged in opposition 
 upon constitutional grounds. But the temporary 
 seat stands upon a less solemn basis. 
 
 Had the constitution been silent as to the 
 place for the sessions of congress, they would 
 have possessed inherently a right to assemble, 
 wheresoever they pleased. But it is more than 
 silent: it recognizes that right; and restricts it 
 in no respect, until the permanent seat shall be 
 established. For the temporary is not contem- 
 plated by the constitution — it makes no part 
 of the ten miles square — it requires no cession 
 from particular states — it is liable to no exclu- 
 sive legislation. It is true indeed, that the 
 temporary seat was said out of doors, at the 
 time of the passing of the residence-act, to be 
 a condition of the permanent: that is, Pennsyl- 
 
122 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 vania was to enjoy the benefit of congress until 
 the year 1800, as preliminary to the final posi- 
 tion on Potomack. Be this as it may, the 
 judgment must turn upon the rules of construc- 
 tion. These inform us no where of this sup- 
 posed condition: in 1800, the government is to 
 be transferred to the federal city, without regard 
 to any place, yrow which it is to go; and after 
 1800, the public offices attached to the seat of 
 government, will absolutely cease to be exercised 
 elsewhere. 
 
 It may therefore be concluded, that by a 
 new law, congress may choose a new spot for 
 the temporary seat of government. 
 
 Nor does the residence-act abridge the power 
 of the two houses to adjourn to a diff^erent 
 place, even without the consent of the President ; 
 or in other words, they may so adjourn by a mere 
 vote, instead of a formal law. For, altho' it is 
 thereby established, that the offices, attached to 
 the seat of government, among which is com- 
 prehended that of President, are to remain at 
 Philadelphia; it is practicable for congress, 
 notwithstanding the inconvenience, to carry 
 on their business, without the presence of 
 those offices, with all their papers, or more 
 
RANDOLPH'S OPINION 123 
 
 than are necessary for the matters immediately 
 in hand. 
 
 In like manner may the place be varied, 
 whensoever an extraordinary occasion shall arise, 
 which justifies the President to convene congress. 
 It must be admitted, that he will generally find 
 the last place of session most proper for their 
 meeting on his call: yet if the last place must 
 be adhered to at all events, the power of con- 
 vening may be often annihilated in substance. 
 For example: the extraordinary occasion may 
 consist in a foreign invasion; and the last place 
 of session may be in the hands of an enemy. In 
 such a case, the President may surely mark out 
 both time and place. If therefore an extraor- 
 dinary occasion may sometimes signify place, 
 as well as time, the President, being the judge 
 of the nature of that occasion, may name the 
 place, according to his discretion, as soon as he 
 has decided the time. 
 
 Between the act of the two houses, and his 
 own interposition, the President will be com- 
 pelled to elect; should the misfortune of Phila- 
 delphia continue to oppress it; and indeed it 
 ought rather to be said, that this is the moment 
 for determining, whether he will leave the place 
 
1 24 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 for the next session to the will of congress in 
 the first instance, or will now convene them to 
 a place of his own choice. 
 
 The objections appear so strong against the 
 latter expedient, as to give a clear preference to 
 the former. What are extraordinary occasions, 
 are left to the decision of the President ; who 
 may pronounce definitely and without controul 
 ' upon them. No individual, nor either body of 
 legislation can refuse to comply with the sum- 
 mons. This power therefore, like all others of 
 a supreme nature, ought to be exercised with 
 caution. 
 
 It would be impossible to enumerate every 
 species of extraordinary occasion. The most ob- 
 vious definition would be such a situation of public 
 affairs, as requires the meeting of congress at an 
 earlier day, than that, on which they would 
 meet of course. For if they were bound by 
 their own adjournment, or by the operation of 
 the constitution, or some law, to meet sooner 
 than, or as soon as, they could assemble under 
 a call from the President, it would be in gen- 
 eral inexpedient to superadd a call. 
 
 With this criterion of an extraordinary oc- 
 casion, it may be asked, whether any exists in- 
 
RANDOLPH'S OPINION 125 
 
 dependent of the contagion ? It cannot but be 
 answered, that none such does exist. The conta- 
 gion then may be viewed under two aspects ; 
 either as a cause for calling congress, or as a cause 
 for changing the place of session. It might per- 
 haps amount to a cause for calling congress, if 
 we were to advert, only to the expence of double 
 public offices — the danger of keeping the pub- 
 lic archives in so exposed a city, and a well 
 grounded reluctance in the President to be re- 
 sponsible for ordering them to another place, not 
 designated by, but contrary to law — the difficulty 
 to public creditors in procuiing payments from 
 the treasury — the propriety of legalizing many 
 acts concerning the revenue performed at the 
 custom-houses, removed, as they are, from the 
 port of Philadelphia — the interruption to the 
 sessions of the district courts, confined as they 
 are by law to Philadelphia ; and to other topics, 
 like these. But the entire energy of them is 
 taken away, when it is notorious, that congress 
 will come together, in pursuance of their own 
 adjournment sooner than the President could 
 collect them. 
 
 Undoubtedly the contagion may be a cause 
 for changing the place of session. But how 
 
126 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 wide is this idea from a cause for calling con- 
 gress ? It would approach to an absurdity to 
 contend, that the malignant fever in Philadel- 
 phia by being a reason for congress, (if they are 
 to meet) meeting at some other place, is of it- 
 self a reason, why they should meet. In fact, 
 the extraordinary occasion must arise, before the 
 place can be thought of; for the power of fix- 
 ing the place is not given to the President ex- 
 pressly, but merely as an incident to the great 
 necessity, which induces the President to convene 
 congress. And this distraction deserves the more 
 attention; as the constitution, while it suffers 
 him to interpose on a disagreement of the two 
 houses as to time, has not submitted to his 
 umpirage their disagreement as to place. 
 
 And what harm can be done, by having 
 things in their usual channel? Perhaps by the 
 first monday in december next, Philadelphia 
 may be restored to health, and freed from infec- 
 tion. It is possible, that on the appointed day 
 a quorum of both houses may enter its limits, 
 and adjourn to some other spot, or be content 
 to remain. If none of these events should 
 happen during the first day, then an extraor- 
 dinary occasion will be created. For the leg- 
 
RANDOLPH'S OPINION 1 2 7 
 
 islative concerns of the U. S. will not admit 
 delay; and it will be fairly presumable, that 
 there will be no certainty of a session before a 
 distant day. A proclamation for convening 
 congress may therefore issue immediately after- 
 wards. 
 
 Upon the whole. It seems adviseable for the 
 President not to convene congress now. This 
 opinion may be fortified by other subordinate 
 considerations : — the exercise of a doubtful 
 power excites clamor — some members nay a 
 majority may prefer Philadelphia under all its 
 embarrassments — it may be conceived to be an 
 unnecessary cruelty to that depressed city, as yet, 
 to transfer congress elsewhere. 
 
 If at length, however, a place must be 
 selected by the President, he will probably ask 
 himself, whether he means it for a previous 
 consultation of the members, or for the absolute 
 sitting of congress. For the former purpose 
 German Town is sufficiently convenient. But 
 it will not escape the President's observation, 
 that this exercise of authority will be so feeble, 
 as to betray a supicion, that he himself distrusts 
 his right to fix the place, and therefore consigns 
 it to congress. Besides it may be easily con- 
 
128 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 ceived, that the representations from the different 
 states will be very disproportionate at the 
 commencement of the session ; and it will be 
 fortunate if any accidental majority should be 
 deprived of the opportunity of rivetting an im- 
 proper place of session. Nay farther: if one 
 place is countenanced for a moment by the 
 President, it will prevent every other place from 
 making preparations ; and then congress must 
 go to some large town, New York or Baltimore, 
 where they can be received at the shortest 
 notice. 
 
 But if instead of a place for previous consul- 
 tation, the President should seek one adapted to 
 the full session, and Philadelphia be excluded. 
 New- York, Trenton, Wilmington, Baltimore, 
 Annapolis, German-Town, Reading, and Lan- 
 caster come into competition. 
 
 A general objection applies to the first five. 
 They are out of Pennsylvania, which is entitled 
 by law, as the law now stands, and by equity 
 too, to the temporary residence. If this once 
 passes into another state, its return will be very 
 difficult ; or if it should return, a precedent will 
 be established, which will press at a future day, 
 with great force on the removal to the federal 
 
.^^ 
 
RANDOLPH'S OPINION \i^ 
 
 city. It will be argued, that the residence-act 
 had no other sanction, than an ordinary law, 
 since it could be so easily dispensed with for the 
 sake of a seeming public utility. 
 
 But against those five towns, individually 
 taken, these things may be excepted. New- 
 York will awaken old jealousies, and may not 
 be without her hauteur. — Trenton is a thorough- 
 fare; considerably exposed to infection, if it 
 exists in Philadelphia ; and from its past preten- 
 sions to the seat of government in its neighbour- 
 hood may also agitate the minds of some. If 
 Wilmington is equal to congress it is also a 
 thoroughfare. Baltimore and Annapolis would 
 be to the Pennsylvanians, as odious, as New- 
 York would be to the friends of Potomack. 
 
 As to the towns in Pennsylvania, Lancaster 
 is first in rank. It is able and willing to ac- 
 commodate. Reading, as Judge Rush asserts, 
 cannot undertake such a task — German Town, 
 in spite of all that may be said, cannot accom- 
 modate congress satisfactorily. The timid will 
 shrink from the neighbourhood of Philadelphia, 
 they may with reason apprehend the return of 
 the fever in the Spring; and with certainty they 
 may expect old beds and furniture from Phila- 
 
I30 WASHINGTON IN GERM ANTOWN 
 
 delphia, which remained in many infected 
 houses. The fare and rooms will be wretched ; 
 the distance, which the members will have to 
 travel thro' unpaved streets in a muddy season, 
 will be dreadful; the high prices, which will be 
 demanded by the people for putting themselves 
 out of the way, will disgust, when the enter- 
 tainment is so indifferent ; the foreign ministers 
 will be crowded into dirty hovels*; and a place 
 of worship in the English language is scarcely 
 to be found. These disadvantages cannot be 
 counterbalanced by access to the public offices ; 
 as the papers, wanting for Congress from them, 
 may be put in a compass not very bulky. Altho' 
 the foregoing sentiments are designed to dissuade 
 the President, if he interferes at all, from inter- 
 fering in an indecisive manner ; yet as the sense 
 of several members as to the place will be 
 known, it will no doubt be treated with due re- 
 spect. 
 
 * Randolph's preference for and the twenty or thirty country 
 Lancaster may have been influ- homes of the type of our Morris, 
 enced by the fact that his family Wister, Johnson, and Chew man- 
 was there, and certainly his refer- sions should be referred to as 
 ences to Germantown are mis- " dirty hovels " shows a lament- 
 leading to a degree. That the able lack of observation and fair- 
 ten or a dozen good country inns, ness of statement. 
 
RANDOLPH'S OPINION 131 
 
 However it will be a very questionable pol- 
 icy for the President to recommend to them, 
 even informally, anything preliminary ; because 
 in his intercourse with public men on public 
 subjects, he ought to be seen only as a public 
 man himself; and because the steps, which the 
 exigency of the moment may dictate, will be so 
 obvious to the members, that an intimation from 
 him will be deemed useless, if not intrusive. 
 
 If anything is permitted to be said, as from 
 the President, by individuals to their friends, 
 ought it to go farther than this: that if from the 
 appearance of things on the second day it shall 
 be proper to convene congress by a special act, 
 he will do so, and at a different place. This 
 communication may serve to bring the members 
 into the neighbourhood. 
 
 Edm : Randolph 
 Novr. 2, 1793. 
 
CHAPTER IX 
 
 Germantown Cabinet Meetings 
 
 THE first four years of Washington's ad- 
 ministration were devoted in large meas- 
 ure to the consideration of domestic 
 affairs, but he had hardly begun his second term 
 before the thoughts of the people and almost the 
 whole labor of the executive aim of the gov- 
 ernment were directed to the foreign affairs of 
 the country. But attention to all these pressing 
 subjects had been suddenly checked, and the 
 functions of the national government practically 
 suspended for the six weeks covering the absence 
 of the heads of the various departments from 
 Philadelphia, from the middle of September to 
 the I St of November. 
 
 The gathering of the loose ends of business, 
 sundered by the hiatus of the yellow fever, and 
 the preparation of the President's speech and 
 message, before the assembling of Congress the 
 first Monday in December, made the month of 
 November, passed in Germantown, as busy and 
 as important as any in Washington's adminis- 
 tration. 
 
CABINET MEETINGS 133 
 
 To understand fully the questions considered 
 by the cabinet while in Germantown, it will 
 be necessary to give briefly an account of the 
 foreign and domestic relations which early in 
 Washington's second administration agitated the 
 country, and perplexed the President and his 
 advisers. 
 
 Early in April, 1793, word had reached 
 America that France had declared war against 
 Great Britain, and on the 2 2d of that month 
 Washington issued a proclamation of neutrality, 
 despite the fact that almost unanimously the 
 people of this country felt a deep and active 
 sympathy for France, and were desirous that 
 we should return the good offices which that 
 nation had shown us in our struggle for inde- 
 pendence. 
 
 On April 8th Edmond C. Genet, or " Citi- 
 zen" Genet, as the new democratic nomencla- 
 ture of France designated him, arrived in 
 Charleston, as the envoy and minister of that 
 country. He immediately took active steps to 
 aid his countrymen, arming and fitting out ves- 
 sels of war, commissioning privateers, setting up 
 a prize court, and committing other acts which 
 placed this government in an embarrassing 
 
134 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 position. This embarrassment was further in- 
 creased by Genet's indiscretions in speech and 
 action after he had reached Philadelphia and 
 delivered his credentials. 
 
 Every effort was made by Washington and 
 Jefferson to maintain the traditional friendly 
 attitude towards France, but the capture near 
 our shores of English vessels by those of France, 
 the fitting out of privateers in our ports, the 
 seizure of a French ship, then in custody of a 
 United States marshal in Boston harbor, by the 
 French consul of that port, backed by an 
 armed forced; the threat of Genet that he 
 would appeal from Washington to Congress and 
 later from Congress to the people, and other 
 equally offensive acts made it very difficult for 
 the government to continue its relations with 
 the French minister as such. Genet's conduct 
 at length became so unbearable that on August 
 23d, 1793, a request for his recall was forwarded 
 to the American Minister at Paris to be pre- 
 sented to the French government. 
 
 With England there were a number of mat- 
 ters for consideration. The non-execution of 
 the articles of the treaty of peace relating to 
 the evacuation of the forts along the frontier; 
 
CABINET MEETINGS 135 
 
 the constant complaints of Mr. Hammond, the 
 British minister, of the capture of British ships 
 by French vessels fitted out in our ports or 
 captured in neutral waters; an abortive attempt 
 to make a treaty with the Indians of the North- 
 west, said to have been defeated by the intrigues 
 of the Canadian government, all came in for 
 their share of heated discussion by the people 
 and the press, and anxious thought from the 
 President and his cabinet. Still another cause 
 for resentment against Great Britain, was the 
 order of the British council June 8th, 1793, 
 for the stoppage of all neutral ships laden with 
 corn or flour for France, and their despatch to 
 English ports, there to be sold. 
 
 In the Southwest, Spain was secretly, yes, 
 almost openly, aiding and advising the Creeks, 
 and other Indian tribes, who were committing 
 outrages against the settlers of Georgia, and her 
 course at length became so insufferable that a 
 communication was forwarded to Madrid by a 
 special messenger, containing sentiments which 
 Jefferson considered a last effort for the preser- 
 vation of an honorable peace. 
 
 In the early days, during Washington's and 
 Adams' administrations, it was customary for 
 
136 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 the President to appear in person at the open- 
 ing of Congress before both houses, assembled 
 in one body, and read an address to them, 
 designated as the speech, and later the matters 
 to be more specifically communicated were 
 forwarded as messages. Washington's draft of 
 the various subjects which should be included 
 either in the speech or in later messages to 
 Congress is here given : 
 
 SUNDRY MATTERS TO BE COMMUNICATED FOR THE IN- 
 FORMATION OF CONGRESS, EITHER IN THE SPEECH 
 AT THE OPENING OF THE SESSION, OR BY 
 MESSAGES THEREAFTER, AS SHALL 
 BE THOUGHT BEST.* 
 
 November, 1793. 
 
 Proclamation informing the United States of the 
 actual state of things as they stood between them and 
 the powers at war. 
 
 State of our application respecting the surrender 
 of the Western posts. 
 
 Additional instructions of his Britannic Majesty 
 relative to corn, &c. in neutral vessels. 
 
 State of matters as it respects our negotiations 
 with Spain — relative to territory and the navigation of 
 the river Mississippi. 
 
 * From Sparks' Writings of Washington. 
 
CABINET MEETINGS 137 
 
 Correspondence with Mr. Genet, minister from 
 the French repubhc. 
 
 The impediments which have taken place in the 
 intended ransom of our citizens, captives in Algiers, 
 and treaty with the Barbary States. 
 
 Treaty attempted with the Western Indians, and 
 the result of it. 
 
 March of the army in consequence of it delayed 
 by the suspension we were held in thereby. 
 
 State of matters as they relate to the Creeks and 
 Cherokees; and to the frontiers of Georgia and the 
 South-Western Territory. 
 
 Would not a trade on public ground with all the 
 bordering tribes of Indians (if they can once be made 
 sensible of their folly by the superiority of our arms) 
 be an effectual mean of attaching them to us by the 
 strongest of all ties, interest? 
 
 The utility of establishing proper arsenals, un- 
 folds itself more and more every day; and the pro- 
 priety of a military academy for teaching the art of 
 gunnery and engineering, can scarcely be doubted. A 
 war at any time would evince the impropriety of such 
 a neglect. 
 
 Might it not be expedient to take off the tax 
 upon the transportation of newspapers, &c.? 
 
 An act of the legislature, south-west of the Ohio, 
 passed November 20th, 1792, deposited in the Secre- 
 tary of State's office. 
 
 As both Representatives and President are newly 
 chosen, and it is their first meeting, may it not be a 
 
138 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 good occasion, and proper for the latter to express his 
 sentiments of the honor conferred on him by his fel- 
 low citizens? The former is an augmented body. 
 The times are critical; and much temper, and cool, 
 deliberate reflection is necessary to maintain peace 
 with dignity and s|fety to the United States. 
 
 Appointments during the recess of Congress to 
 be laid before the Senate. 
 
 On the 8th of November an important 
 cabinet meeting was held at the President's 
 temporary home in Germantown* at which 
 were present all the Secretaries, Jefferson, Ham- 
 ilton, Knox, and Attorney General Randolph. 
 
 Thomas Jefferson in his "Anas," the famous 
 confidential memoranda and remembrancer 
 which he made during portions of his public 
 career, the publication of which has been se- 
 verely criticized by Jefferson's enemies, has left 
 us full accounts of these cabinet conferences. 
 At this particular meeting, on the 8 th, several 
 letters were read from Citizen Genet. On 
 finishing one of them, Jefferson asked what the 
 answer should be, to which Washington ob- 
 served that Mr. Genet's conduct continued to 
 be of so extraordinary a character that he wished 
 
 *At this time Washington was occupying the residence of the Rev. 
 Frederick Herman. 
 
CABINET MEETINGS 139 
 
 to propose to the cabinet whether Genet should 
 not be ordered home. He dwelt lengthily on 
 the subject, discussing Genet's efforts to stir up 
 the people against the executive, the people, 
 the state government and Congress. 
 
 Washington showed that he felt the venom 
 of Genet's attacks on him personally, but de- 
 clared that they should be considered in no other 
 light except that they effected the honor of the 
 country. Both Hamilton and Knox spoke in 
 favor of immediately dismissing Genet. Ran- 
 dolph opposed it firmly and lengthily, after 
 which the President spoke at length, conclud- 
 ing by saying that he did not wish the matter 
 decided hastily, but that the cabinet should give 
 it further consideration. Jefferson himself was 
 opposed to the dismissal of Genet. 
 
 At this meeting of the cabinet an import- 
 ant circular letter to the representatives of 
 France, Great Britain, Spain and the United 
 Netherlands, fixing the limits of the jurisdiction 
 of the United States into the ocean at a sea 
 league, was approved and agreed to by all, and 
 letters of this date were dispatched to the rep- 
 resentatives of those powers in this country. 
 This was the first statement of the position of 
 
HO WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 this country on the question, and the pro- 
 nouncement has stood from that time to this. 
 Jefferson, in his letters to the foreign ministers, 
 reserved the right to reopen the subject, and if 
 found desirable, arrange some other distance 
 from the shore. In later years there was some 
 talk of attempting to extend our jurisdiction to 
 the Gulf Stream, which seemed to make a 
 natural marine boundry for our eastern waters, 
 but this was never seriously urged, and the con- 
 trol of a league, or three geographical miles, 
 from the shore at low tide stands to-day as a 
 principle of international law. As this import- 
 ant decision of the government was finally de- 
 cided upon in Germantown, and the letters to 
 the foreign ministers, informing them of the 
 fact,* were sent from here, and as the instruc- 
 tions to the various district attorneys, contain- 
 ing interesting information on the subject of 
 the marine belt, are not included in the latest 
 collection of Jefferson's writings, the latter doc- 
 ument is given here in full: 
 
 * The letter to Hammond, the General, and approved without 
 
 British minister, is given in ftJl in alterations. The fair copies were 
 
 Ford's Writings of Jefferson, Vol. shown to Colo. Hamilton and 
 
 VI. The draft of the letter is General Knox before dinner at 
 
 endorsed as follows : "These two Bockius' [The King of Prussia] 
 
 drafts were shovm to the Atty. Inn, Germantown and approved." 
 
CABINET MEETINGS 141 
 
 Germantown, Nov. 11, 1793.* 
 Sir 
 
 The war at present prevailing among the Euro- 
 pean Powers producing sometimes captures of vessels 
 in the neighbourhood of our sea coast and the law of 
 nations admitting as a common convenience that every 
 nation inhabiting the sea coast may extend its jurisdic- 
 tion & protection some distance into the sea, the Pres- 
 ident has been frequently appealed to by the subjects 
 of the belligerent Powers for the benefit of that protec- 
 tion. To what distance from the coast this may be 
 extended is not precisely ascertained either by the prac- 
 tice or consent of nations or the opinions of the jurists 
 who have written on the subject. The greatest dis- 
 tance to which any respectable assent seems to have 
 been given, is the extent of the human sight, estimated 
 at something more than 20 miles. The least claimed 
 by any nation is the utmost range of cannon shot, usu- 
 ally stated at one sea league, or three sea miles which 
 is a very small portion less than 3 ^ statute or ameri- 
 can miles. Several intermediate distances have been 
 insisted on under different circumstances, & that par- 
 ticularly of 3 sea leagues has the support of some au- 
 thorities which are recent. However as the nations 
 which practice navigation on our coasts are interested 
 in this question, it is thought prudent not to assume 
 the whole distance which we may reasonably claim, 
 until some opportunity shall occur of entering into 
 
 * From Archives of the Library of Congress. At that time the 
 United States district attorneys were but five in number. 
 
142 WASHINGTON IN GERM ANTOWN 
 
 friendly explanations and arrangements with them on 
 the subject, but as in the mean time it is necessary to 
 exercise the right to some distance, the President has 
 thought it best, so far as shall concern the exercise of the 
 executive Powers, to take the distance of a sea league, 
 which being fitted by treaty between some of the bel- 
 ligerent Powers, and as little as any of them claim on 
 their own coasts, can admit of no reasonable opposi- 
 tion on their part. The executive officers are therefore 
 instructed to consider a margin of one sea league on 
 our coast as that within which all hostilities are inter- 
 dicted for the present, until it shall be otherwise signi- 
 fied to them. The rivers and bays as being land 
 locked, are of course by the law of nations, and I pre- 
 sume by the laws of most of the states, within the body 
 of the United States, and under the same protection 
 from hostilities. 
 
 As the question whether a capture has been made 
 within these limits is a question of fact to be decided 
 by witnesses, it becomes necessary to take measures 
 for the examination of these witnesses in the diiferent 
 states where captures may happen, and the laws of 
 the union having as yet made no provision for this 
 purpose, the President considers the attornies of the 
 several Districts as the persons the most capable of 
 discharging the office with knowledge, with impartial- 
 ity, and with that extreme discretion which is essential 
 in all matters wherein foreign nations are concerned. 
 1 have the honor therefore, Sir, to inclose you a paper 
 expressing the desire of the President on this subject — 
 
CABINET MEETINGS 143 
 
 You will see by that that whenever a capture is sug- 
 gested to have been made within the limits above 
 mentioned, so far as they are within your state, the 
 Governor to whom the first application will be made 
 is desired to give you notice thereof, whereupon it is 
 hoped you will proceed as the paper points out. The 
 representatives here of the different Powers are in- 
 formed of this arrangement, and desired to instruct 
 their consuls to facilitate the proceedings as far as shall 
 depend on them ; and it is unnecessary for me to sug- 
 gest what your own judgment and disposition would 
 dictate that the same object will be promoted by a cer- 
 tain degree of respect to which the Consuls are entitled, 
 and a just and friendly attention to their convenience. 
 I have the honor to be with sentiments of respect Sir, 
 Your most obedt. servt. 
 
 As stated in a previous chapter, the President 
 was absent from Germantown on his tour to Lan- 
 caster and Reading from November i oth to 1 7th. 
 
 On his return to Germantovi^n, Washington 
 occupied the house now No. 5442 Main Street, 
 and here on the i8th a cabinet meeting was 
 held. Genet's letters received by Jefferson 
 during the President's absence were read and 
 considered. Next was taken up and discussed 
 the subjects to be communicated in the speech 
 to Congress. First, and most important per- 
 
144 WASHINGTON IN GERM ANTOWN 
 
 haps, was the explanation to be given to 
 Congress of the proclamation of neutrality, is- 
 sued April 23d, 1793. Randolph read the 
 statement which he had prepared. Hamilton 
 did not approve it, saying the President had a 
 right to declare his opinions to our citizens and 
 foreign nations, that it was not to the interest 
 of this country to join in the war of France 
 against England, that we were under no obliga- 
 tions to join in it, and though the proclamation 
 could not bind Congress, yet the President had 
 the right to give his opinion. Further, he was 
 opposed to any intimation in the speech that it 
 was not intended that this should be a declaration 
 of neutrality for the future as well as for the 
 present. Both Randolph and Jefferson opposed 
 this opinion, and this was one of the cases where 
 the cabinet stood two to two. 
 
 Jefferson had stated some time before in a 
 letter to Monroe that the cabinet usually stood 
 2j^ to xY^ . Hamilton and Knox were invari- 
 ably to be found together on one side of a ques- 
 tion, Jefferson, with equal persistency, on the 
 other, and the rather unstable Randolph some- 
 times on one side, sometimes the other, and 
 sometimes a half on both. 
 
^^'^iniu'-ny y<'yyC/f^e.- ■/('((• 'o'l /^:! , y'rft/,oj., 
 
CABINET MEETINGS 145 
 
 In this discussion, Jefferson thought the 
 President had not the right to declare anything 
 future on the question, "Shall there or shall 
 there not be war?" and that no such thing was 
 intended; that Hamilton's construction of the 
 effect of the proclamation would have been a 
 determination of the question of the guarantee * 
 which neither of them had intended, and which 
 Jefferson had previously declared the executive 
 was incompetent to do. Randolph said that his 
 intention had been, when preparing the draft, 
 that foreign nations should understand it as an 
 intimation of the President's opinion that neu- 
 trality would be our interest. Jefferson contended 
 that foreign nations should understand no such 
 thing, and on the contrary, he would have them 
 remain in doubt, and come and bid for the neu- 
 trality of the United States. The President hav- 
 ing received the nation at the close of Congress 
 in a state of peace, was bound to preserve it in 
 the same condition until Congress should again 
 reassemble, and he might proclaim anything 
 which would make no change in this condition. 
 
 * This was the guarantee in the a defensive war the United States 
 treaty of alliance with France that would undertake to protect the 
 should France become engaged in French West Indies. 
 
146 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 Washington then stated that it was not his 
 idea that he could bind Congress not to declare 
 war, if they should wish to do so on their assem- 
 bling, and that the proclamation did not look 
 beyond the first day of their meeting. His main 
 desire was to keep the nation at peace. He 
 rather apologized for the term neutrality, but 
 justified himself in its use because he had sub- 
 mitted it to the cabinet on former occasions, and 
 none of its members had objected to the term. 
 He asked Hamilton to prepare a paragraph on 
 this subject which could be considered later. At 
 this point the cabinet adjourned for dinner. 
 
 After dinner* a long discussion ensued as to 
 the advisability of dismissing Citizen Genet, but 
 as this has already been dwelt upon at some 
 length, it seems unnecessary to follow the vari- 
 ous opinions expressed. As usual Hamilton and 
 Knox stood together, urging his dismissal, while 
 Jefferson and Randolph opposed it. The Pres- 
 ident lamented that there was not unanimity, 
 and the discussion of the question had left him 
 just where he was when they had begun. The 
 meeting then closed for the day. 
 
 * Washington usually dined at three o'clock. It would seem likely 
 that the cabinet officers dined with the President on these occasions. 
 
CABINET MEETINGS 147 
 
 Three days later, on the 2 1 st, another meet- 
 ing was held at the President's house, and the 
 explanation of the neutrality proclamation to 
 Congress was again considered. It might be said 
 in passing, that this was the first proclamation of 
 the kind issued by this government, and it was the 
 foundation of a policy which, rigidly adhered 
 to since, has had much to do in shaping the 
 destiny and prosperity of the country. Wash- 
 ington and his cabinet were fully alive to its 
 importance and the necessity of presenting it in 
 the best light to Congress. The lapse of more 
 than half a year since it had been put forth, the 
 discussion it had provoked, the resentment felt 
 against it by the active sympathizers of France, 
 and the difficulties in enforcing it, made it the 
 most important matter to be presented to Con- 
 gress. At this meeting Randolph produced 
 another essay, expressing his views that the 
 proclamation was for two effects: to keep our 
 citizens quiet and to convey to foreign nations 
 that it was the President's opinion that the 
 interests of this country were for peace. Ham- 
 ilton then produced the draft which at the last 
 meeting the President had asked him to prepare. 
 This was criticized by Randolph and Jefferson, 
 
148 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 and on the question as to which of the two 
 forms should be adopted, Jefferson voted for 
 Randolph's, though it did not quite please him, 
 and Knox stood up for Hamilton. The Presi- 
 dent did not decide between the two drafts, and 
 there the mattef ended for the day. 
 
 Another meeting convened at the President's 
 two days later, on Saturday, the 23 d. Hamil- 
 ton was detained from attending by illness, and 
 sent a note to the President explaining his 
 absence. The speech was again under consid- 
 eration. The expediency of proposing to 
 Congress to fortify the principal harbors was 
 discussed. It was finally decided to suggest 
 that means be adopted for enforcing the juris- 
 diction of the United States within its waters, 
 which meant practically the same thing. 
 
 It was also proposed that a recommendation 
 be made to establish a military academy. Jef- 
 ferson objected that the constitution gave no 
 authority to Congress for such a purpose. 
 General Knox naturally was for this and the 
 previous proposition. Randolph opposed the 
 first proposition, but was silent as to the second. 
 The President doubted the expediency of the 
 former, and while he thought the establishment 
 
CABINET MEETINGS 149 
 
 of a military academy would be a good thing, 
 still he was anxious not to bring on anything 
 that might generate heat and ill humor. It 
 was agreed at this meeting that Randolph should 
 draw up the speech and Jefferson the messages. 
 Again on the 28 th the cabinet assembled at 
 the President's temporary home, with all the 
 members present, A list of Genet's letters, 
 being copied for transmittal to Congress, was 
 read, and some directed to be omitted. The 
 Attorney General then read his draft of the 
 President's speech. The clause which the 
 President had approved, recommending the 
 fortifications, was left out, and the recommen- 
 dation for a military academy, which he had 
 thought it inexpedient to propose at this time, 
 was inserted. Jefferson still thought the latter 
 was unconstitutional, while Hamilton and Knox 
 approved it. The President did not wish to 
 urge anything against the constitution, but he 
 was impressed with the necessity of the measure, 
 and decided he would refer it to Congress and 
 let it decide for itself whether the constitution 
 authorized it or not. The recommendation was, 
 therefore, retained. Thus at Germantown was 
 given the first official impetus to a movement 
 
1 50 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 which a few years later resulted in the establish- 
 ment of the military academy at West Point. 
 
 Jefferson was pleased to note that Randolph 
 had used, by accident, the expression " Our 
 Republic," to which, at the time, the President 
 made no objection, although Jefferson states that 
 on a former occasion it had disconcerted him.* 
 It was now put into his own mouth to be pro- 
 nounced to the two houses of Congress. No 
 material change was made in the speech, and 
 the cabinet adjourned for dinner. 
 
 After dinner Jefferson produced the draft of 
 the message on the subject of our relations with 
 England and France, proposing that that relating 
 to Spain should be sent in later and be secret. 
 Hamilton objected to the draft, criticising what 
 in his opinion were too strong expressions of 
 friendliness for France, and offering to prove 
 that Great Britain had shown this country 
 more favors than France. Jefferson in deference 
 to this criticism endeavored to whittle down 
 some of the expressions and struck out others 
 entirely. Still the essay was not satisfactory to 
 
 * Probably as in a measure rec- however, that the expression does 
 ognizing the government of France not appear in the speech as it was 
 as a republic. It should be noted, delivered to Congress. 
 
CABIN ET MEETINGS 151 
 
 Hamilton, who then proposed that the whole 
 message should be transmitted to Congress as a 
 secret communication, as the matters were still 
 pending. In connection with Great Britain, 
 there were the inexecution of the treaty of 
 peace and the carrying of corn cargoes into 
 English ports. Randolph proposed that the 
 first matter should be sent in publicly, but that 
 the second should not be sent in at present. 
 Jefferson was anxious that both should go in as 
 open documents, and warmly presented his 
 views, whereupon the President took up the 
 subject with considerable vehemence, declaring 
 that both subjects should go in as public. This 
 was the first instance, Jefferson notes, in which 
 the President had decided a matter on the opin- 
 ion of one cabinet officer as against the other 
 three. This closed the discussion and ended 
 the last formal cabinet meeting held in Ger- 
 mantown. 
 
CHAPTER X. 
 
 The Record of a Busy Month. 
 
 THE following extracts from the personal 
 journal, kept by the President, giving 
 an account of the various letters and 
 matters of business brought before him, give a 
 comprehensive view of the executive business 
 which claimed his attention during the busy 
 November in Germantown. The journal itself 
 is in the archives of the Library of Congress. 
 
 JOURNAL OF LETTERS SUBMITTED TO 
 CABINET, 1793. 
 
 Set out from Mount Vernon the 28. 
 October & arrived at Germantown the ist 
 of Novemr. 
 
 Saturday 2d November 1793. 
 The Secretary of State submitted for my perusal 
 
 & information, the following papers — 
 A Letter from Jno. Kendricks dated ist March 
 
 93. enclosing Deeds of land which he says 
 
 he purchased on the Nor: West Coast of 
 
 America. 
 A Letter from Mr. Short dated Aranjuez 7. 
 
 June 93. mentioning the stagnation of the 
 
THE RECO RD OF J B USY MONTH 1 53 
 
 negotiation with which he & Mr. Carmich- 
 ael are charged, his situation very disagree- 
 able, not being able to complete the busi- 
 ness for which he was sent, & not thinking 
 himself authorised to return, for fear of 
 causing alarm, wish direction from the Presi- 
 dent, wch. he hopes soon to receive. 
 
 A Letter from Jno. Parish, Consul at Hamburg, 
 dated 19. July 93 — acknowledging rect. of 
 his Commission — encloses copy of his recog- 
 nition by the Senate of Hamburg. — 
 
 A Letter from Mr. Pinckney dated London i 
 Augt. — sends 20,000 wt. Copper for the 
 Mint by the Pigon, Capt. Loxly. — 
 
 A Letter from Mr. Fox, Consul at Falmouth, 
 12 Augt. 1793 enclosing note of American 
 ships arrived at Falmouth. American sea- 
 men impressed — has sued his endeavours with 
 success to have them liberated. — 
 
 A Letter from D. Humphreys, Lisbon 15 Augt. 
 93. nothing of importance. — 
 
 A Letter from Jas. Simpson, Gibraltar 23 Augt. 
 93. Nothing of importance. — 
 
 A Letter from Joshua Johnson, London 24 
 Augt. 93. enclosing his letters to Mr. Stev- 
 ens, Secy, to the Lords of the Admiralty, 
 
1 54 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 respecting the delivery of impressed seamen, 
 has received no answer thereto. Begs Mr. 
 JefFersons attention to an enclosed list of 
 American Vessels taken by british ships of 
 w^ar. representations have been made with- 
 out effect. — 
 
 A Letter from Jas Simpson, 25 Augt. 1793. — 
 
 Do. from Natt: Cutting, Lisbon 3d Sep: 
 1793. being detained at London for want 
 of a safe passage is only now arrived at Lis- 
 bon — where Colo. Humphreys means to 
 charter a vessel to convey him to the place 
 of his destination. 
 
 Do. from Brown Folger, Boston ist Octo: 
 1793. Capt. of the Ship Harpooner taken 
 by the french privateer Marseilles & brot. 
 to Boston, begs Mr. JefFersons attention to 
 his case. Wishes to obtain i-io part of the 
 Cargo as his due. complained to the french 
 Consul without obtaining redress. — 
 
 Do. from John Brown & others recommend- 
 ing David Howell as successor to Willm. 
 Channing, Dist: Atty: for Rhode Island, 
 dated 2d Octobr: 1793 — 
 
 Do. from David Howell 4. Octo: 93. sollic- 
 ting the above office. 
 
THE RECORD OF A BUST MONTH 155 
 
 Do. from Govr. Lee, Richmond 4 Octo: 93 
 covering Memorial of Mr. Hamilton, brit- 
 ish Consul at Norfolk respecting the re- 
 fitting of the french privateer Republic at 
 Portsmouth. — 
 
 Returned the foregoing to the Secretary of State. 
 
 Monday 4 November 1793 — 
 
 The Secretary of State laid before me the fol- 
 lowing papers — 
 
 Letter from Messrs. Carmichael & Short, 
 dated Madrid 15 Augt. 1793. enclosing 
 copy of correspondence between them and 
 Mr. Gardoque respecting the establishment 
 of Olivier among the Creek Indians — taking 
 upon him the title of an officer & Commis- 
 sioner of H, C. M. with that nation — and 
 of the Baron de Carondelet's, & other 
 agents of Spain exciting animosities in the 
 Indians against the U States. — 
 
 Letter from Wm. Short dated St. II defonso 20. 
 Augt. 93. enclosing copy of Convention 
 between Spain & G. Britain, signed at Aran- 
 juez 25. May 1793. — 
 
 Letter from T. Pinckney Esq : enclosing a state- 
 ment of the case of Mr. Philip Wilson 
 
1 56 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 owner of the Ship Mentor, as submitted to 
 Lord Grenville 8. June 1793. — said Ship 
 was driven on shore & destroyed near Cape 
 Henlopen by the british ships of war Cen- 
 turion and Vulture on the ist April last. — 
 
 Letter from the same, stating the delay wch. is 
 continually taking place & obstacles thrown 
 in the way of owners of American vessels 
 captured obtaining justice from the british 
 Governmt. & enclosing a correspondence 
 with Lord Grenville on this subject. Mr. 
 P. also enclosed a letter from Thos. Digges 
 relative to an attempt of some person to have 
 paper manufactured at a paper mill in Eng- 
 land, with an intention, as he suspected, to 
 counterfeit the public securities of some of 
 the US.— 
 
 Letter from Colo. Humphreys mentioning the 
 arrival of Capt. Cutting — & his intention 
 to depart as soon as possible for Gibralter. — 
 
 Letter from Ezra Fitz Freeman, covering a 
 petition to me from Abraham Freeman who 
 had been imprisoned in Jersey for aiding in 
 counterfeiting public securities & who has 
 fled to Canada, may be pardoned & allowed 
 to return. — 
 
THE RECORD OF J B UST MONTH 1 5 7 
 
 Letter from Stephen Moylan 19. Sep: 93. 
 notifying his non acceptance of the office 
 of Marshal of Pennsylva. Dist. which was 
 offered to him. — 
 
 Letter from Christr. Gore Esqr., Boston 21. 
 Octobr. has submitted to the Grd. Jury a 
 a bill agst. Mr. Duplaine which was re- 
 jected. — two bills returned by the Jury — one 
 against four American Citizens for entering 
 on board the Roland french privateer the 
 other against a French man for fitting out 
 said privateer. — 
 
 Letter from Tobias Lear Esqr. enclosing a rep- 
 resentation from Cap : Walch of the Brigan- 
 tine Maria, of his being captured & plun- 
 dered &c. by the Cap : of the Medee french 
 frigate — & his recapture by a british letter 
 of Marque. 
 
 Two Letters from Elias Vanderhorst, dated Bris- 
 tol I St & 3d Septr. — giving general state of 
 things there — & stating the inconveniences & 
 injustices to which American Vessels are sub- 
 jected by improper captures & detention in 
 the english ports. — 
 
 Returned the foregoing to the Secretary. 
 
1 5 8 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 Wednesday 6th November 1793. 
 
 The Secretary of State submitted the following 
 Letters of this date, which he had written, 
 for my approbation — 
 
 To Messrs. Viar & Jaudennes, in answer to one 
 from them informing that the french pro- 
 scribed privateer Le Vanqueur de la Bastille, 
 had taken a Spanish vessel & carried her into 
 North Carolina. — Mr. Jefferson's letter in- 
 forms them that the Secy, of War is directed 
 to write to the Govr. of No. Carolina on 
 the subject — & has no doubt justice will be 
 done. — 
 
 to the Secy, of War, containing the above in- 
 formation, with directions to write to the 
 Govr. of No. Carolina desiring him to have 
 the decisions of the Government in such 
 cases put in execution. — 
 
 to Messrs. Viar & Jaudennes in answer to their's 
 stating that four frenchmen had set out from 
 Philada. for Kentucky in order to promote 
 an enterprize against the Spanish settlemts. 
 on the Missisipi — informs that every lawful 
 means will be used to prevent such a meas- 
 ure. — 
 
 to the Governor of Kentucky giving the above 
 
THE RECORD OF J B UST MONTH 1 5 9 
 
 information with a description of the men, 
 & desiring that measures may be taken to 
 prevent anything of the kind. — 
 
 Approved the above letters & returned them 
 to the Secretary. — 
 
 At 1 1 o'clock the Trustees of the Public School 
 of Germantown waited on me with an ad- 
 dress which was read by Henry Hill Esq : 
 offering the school houses for the use of 
 Congress shou'd they convene there. — * 
 
 Thursday 7. November 1793 — 
 
 The Secretary of State laid before me, 
 
 A Letter from Mr. Genet to him of the 30. 
 Sep : enclosing a decree of the National 
 Conv : relative to the treaty of Commerce. 
 
 A Letter from Mr. Hammond of this date, 
 covering evidence respecting the capture of 
 the Ship Rochampton, by the french priva- 
 teer Industry — & demanding restoration of 
 said Ship ; & 
 
 A Letter from Do. of same date, enclosing evi- 
 dence to prove that the brig Pilgrim was 
 captured by the french privateer Sans 
 
 *This address is given in full on page io6. 
 
1 60 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 Culottes within the jurisdiction of the US, 
 & demanding said brig to be restored. — 
 
 The Secretary of State also submitted the fol- 
 lowing for my approbation, of this day's 
 date. 
 
 Letter to Mr. Genet returning copy of decree 
 of that Convention relative to treaty of Com- 
 merce & to have some error rectified — & 
 requesting to be furnished with the original 
 Commissions of Messrs. Pennevest & Chervi, 
 before Exequators can be granted them; — 
 
 to Do. covering copy of a letter from the french 
 consul at Baltimore to the Govr. of Maryland 
 — announcing that G[reat] B[ritain] is about 
 to commence hostilities against the US. & 
 his intention to collect the french fleet in 
 Chesapeake bay in order to be prepared to 
 oppose such hostilities. — Mr. Genet's inter- 
 ference is desired to prevent the Consul's 
 making any such preparation, & he is re- 
 quested to declare by what authority the 
 Consul makes this assertion. — 
 
 Letters to the Ministers of France & G. B. re- 
 specting the extension of the jurisdiction of 
 the US. into the sea — & informing them 
 that the President had fixed upon the dis- 
 
^ 
 
 >.K 
 
THE RECORD OF J B UST MONTH 1 6 1 
 
 tance of one sea league or 3 Geograpl. 
 miles as the distance by which officers of the 
 US. are to be governed in cases arising on 
 this subject. — * 
 Approved & returned the foregoing to the Secy. 
 
 Friday 8th November 1793. — 
 
 The Secretary of State laid before me the pro- 
 ceedings of the Governor of the Terry. 
 South of the Ohio, from i March to i Sept: 
 — & at the same time reported that he had 
 examined the same & found nothing therein 
 requiring the immediate agency of the Pres- 
 ident. — 
 
 Saturday 9. November. — 
 
 The Secy, of State sent the following papers; 
 
 A Letter from Mr. Pinckney of 15. Augt. (sub- 
 mitted some days ago in Cypher, now decy- 
 pher) mentioning that the B. Govert. still 
 persist in measures they have adopted towards 
 neutral nations. — judging from the disposi- 
 tions of the People he thinks the present 
 campaign would terminate the war — but 
 judging from those of men in authority, he 
 
 *In reference to this matter see page 140. 
 
1 62 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 thinks the war will be persisted in 'till their 
 finances fail — wch. period he conceives is 
 not far distant. 
 
 Commission for my signature appointing Braken- 
 ridge Dist: Attorney for Kentucky, signed 
 the same. — 
 
 Letter from Michl. Murphy, dated Malaga, i8. 
 Sept; 93. covering treaty of alliance between 
 G. B. & Spain: — 
 
 Letter from Colo. Humphreys of 3d Sep: — not 
 yet gone from Lisbon — will set out as soon 
 as he can with safety — confirms his former 
 intimation of same dangerous proposition, 
 made by Spain to Engd. relative to the US. — 
 
 Returned the above to the Secy. — 
 
 (The date when the following matters were 
 presented to the President is not given in the 
 Journal. He was absent from Germantown the 
 week of November loth to 17th.) 
 
 Receiv'd a Letter from the Gov: of No. Caro- 
 lina dated Newbern 21 Octo. 93. containing 
 a statement relative to the french privateer 
 Le Vanqueur de la bastille, taking the british 
 sloop Providence and fitting her out at the 
 mouth of Cape Fear river as a privateer. 
 
THE RECORD OF J B UST MONTH 1 6^ 
 
 contrary to decisions of the Governmt. — 
 with his proceedings in consequence. — and 
 enclosing the following papers relative to 
 the same — No. i . Letter from Mr. Hervieux, 
 Capt. of the privateer, to Colo. Smith. No. 
 
 2. Deposition of Nathl. Hill & others. No. 
 
 3. Capt. Hervieux to Colo. Smith 7. Octo: 
 — Do. to Majr. Wright for settling cases of 
 captures — & requestg. that punctual attend- 
 ance thereto may be given by their Consuls. — 
 
 Letter to Messrs. Viar & Jaudennes of loth 
 Novr. covering the Governor of Kentucky's 
 answer relative to military enterprise said to 
 be projected against Spanish settlements: — 
 also the information of the Gov: of No. 
 Carolina respecting the Spanish prize carried 
 in there. 
 
 Letter to the Minist: of G: B. 13. Nov: on the 
 inexecution of the treaty by G. B. — 
 
 Do. to Govr. Moultrie 13. Nov: relative to an 
 enterprize said by Mr. Genet to be intended 
 against Turtle Island : — & requesting the 
 Governor's attention thereto, & to prevent 
 anything of the kind if contemplated. — 
 
 Letter to Judge Morris, of New Jersey, 13. 
 Nov: covering Ezra Fitz Freeman's petition 
 
1 64 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 for the pardon of his Son — & desiring in- 
 formation in his case. — 
 
 Do. to Mr. Hammond, 1 4 Nov : respecting the 
 Rochampton &. Industry. — 
 
 Do. to Dist : Attorney for Maryld. directing an 
 enquiry in the case of the brig Conyngham 
 — captured by the Sans Culottes — dated 14. 
 Nov. 
 
 Letter to Do. desiring information respecting 
 the condemnation by the French Consul of 
 the Rochampton & Industry. — dated 14. 
 Nov. 
 
 Do. to the Dist: Attorney of Pennsylvania, 15. 
 Nov : directing him to proceed in the case 
 of the Ship Williams. — 
 
 Do. to Mr. Genet notifying that the Attorney 
 of Pennsa. will proceed as above directed to 
 a final settlemt. of the case of the Ship 
 Williams. — dated 15. Nov: 93 — 
 
 Letter to Mr. Hammond, 1 5 Nov : containing 
 the above information. 
 
 Return' d to the Secretary. 
 
 The Secretary of War laid before me dispatches 
 from Majr. Genl. Wayne, dated 1 7. Sept. & 
 5. Octobr, — the first mentions the rect. of 
 the first letter from the Commrs. on the 1 1 
 
THE RECORD OF A BUSY MONTH 165 
 
 Sep : . the same day one of the Spies came 
 in & related what had passed at the Indian 
 Councils held at the rapids of the Miami 
 of the Lake — which, in substance, is that 
 the british agents were the cause of the fail- 
 ure of the treaty, were furnishing the 
 Indians with provisions, arms, &c — their 
 numbers may amount to 2000. — Genl. 
 Wayne's means of transportation were scat- 
 tered at the time the Commrs. letter was 
 received, but orders were issued to the 
 Quarter Master &c. to collect them as 
 speedily as possible. Sends a list of promo- 
 tions and appointmts — with the organization 
 of the sub-legions. Copies of his Genl. 
 orders. Has doubts of the propriety of 
 acting upon the sentence of the Court Mar- 
 tial in the case of Ensign Morgan, therefore 
 he transmits the proceedings of the Court. 
 Sends copies of letters from Piamings (Chic- 
 asaw Chief) to Genl. Robinson — with the 
 report of Lieut : Wm. Clarke who carried 
 supplies to the Chicasaw Nation — & with 
 whom return'd Underwood a Chief, & 
 Eight Warriors, who were determined to 
 join his army. — Approves the conduct of Lt. 
 
1 66 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 Clarke in the business. — Dispatch of 5. 
 October mentions, some clothes for the 
 Dragoons & Artillery, damaged. Capt: 
 Haskell arrived with his Company 68 in 
 number — 14 with the small-pox. Capt. 
 Cummings also arrived with a debilitated 
 Company of 43 men, — arraigns the conduct 
 of Colo. Clark for countermanding the Es- 
 cort with the clothing, ammunition, in- 
 trenching tools &c. & for other causes. 
 Done all he can to bring forward the 
 Mounted Volunteers of Kentucky. Corre- 
 spondence with Gov : Shelby & Genl. Scott 
 shewing the difficulty of getting them, 
 only about 360 arrived at the date of this 
 letter. — Number of Officers & men sick. 
 After leaving garrisons &c. at the several 
 posts, he will not be able to advance beyond 
 Fort Jefferson with more than 2600, in- 
 cluding Officers. — Will advance tomorrow 
 (the 6 Octor.) to gain a strong position 
 about 6 miles in front of Fort Jefferson, & 
 await a favorable opportunity to strike. — 
 thinks the enemy are collecting in full 
 force to oppose the Legion in some unfavor- 
 able position, where the Cavalry cannot 
 
THE RECORD OF J B UST MONTH 1 67 
 
 act. — thinks the Indians cannot continue 
 long embodied, for want of provisions. If 
 the Volunteers would advance in force the 
 Savages might be made to sue for peace but 
 he will not commit the Legion unnecessa- 
 rily; & unless he is more powerfully sup- 
 ported than at present he has reason to 
 expect, he will content himself with taking 
 a strong position advanced of Fort Jeffer- 
 son, & endeavour to protect the frontiers 
 during the winter — or until he receives fur- 
 ther orders. — 
 
 Tuesday 19. November. — 
 
 The Secretary of State sent for my information, 
 Letter from Colo. Humphreys, Lisbon 13. 
 Septr. mentioning his having chartered a 
 Swedish vessel at the rate of 340 mill rees 
 [millries] pr. month. — will set out in two 
 days, an American vessel has been taken 
 by the Algierines. crew fortunately escaped. 
 Dutch about to send an Embassy to treat 
 with the Algierines. Very doubtful of the 
 success of his negotiation. Mr. Church 
 charged with the affairs of the US. during 
 his absence. — 
 
1 6 8 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 Letter from Do. i6. Sep : on the point of em- 
 barkation. 
 
 Do. from Do. 17. Septr : under way in Lisbon 
 harbour. 
 
 Do. from Wm. Neilson, New York 5. Nov : 
 enclosing a representation made by Capt : 
 Hervey of the. Ship Ellice — of his being 
 taken from his Ship laying at anchor off 
 Sandy Hook & carried on board L'Eole 
 french ship of war, by order of Adml. Ser- 
 cey, & of the unjustifiable treatmt. he re- 
 ceived. 
 
 Returned them to the Secry. 
 
 Thursday 21 November 1793 — 
 
 The Secretaries & the Attorney General met 
 to day on business which had occupied them 
 at one or two meetings before, the result 
 of the whole will appear by minutes taken 
 & subscribed by them. — 
 
 Friday 2 2d November 1793 — 
 
 The Secretary of War laid before me a 
 Letter from Ensign L Morgan, containing very 
 exceptionable sentiments respecting his ar- 
 rest & trial on the charges of Genl. St. Clair, 
 
THE RECORD OF A BUSY MONTH 169 
 
 & his objections to the proceedings as sent 
 on by the Judge Advocate. 
 
 The Secretary of State submitted for my appro- 
 bation a Letter to Mr. Genet of this date 
 desiring to know whether the british vessels 
 Jane, Lovely Lass, and Prince Wm. Henry, 
 have been given up agreeably to decisions 
 of the President — & if they have not, desir- 
 ing they may be restored to their former 
 owners. — also. 
 
 Letter to the same, covering the Commissions 
 of Messrs. Pennevest & Chervi, as not hav- 
 ing been communicated thro' the proper 
 chanl. 
 
 Approved & returned to the Secy. 
 
 The Secretary sent for my information the fol- 
 lowing letters from Mr. Hammond, of this 
 day's date — to wit — 
 
 One mentioning his readiness to enter into 
 friendly conference respecting extension of 
 the jurisdiction of the US. from the sea 
 shore — & his acquiescence in the provisional 
 decision on this subject. — 
 
 One mentioning his having given directions to 
 B. Consuls to pursue measures for facilitating 
 
lyo WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOIVN 
 
 the object of the regulations concerning 
 jurisdiction ; — 
 
 One stating his having directed the Vice Con- 
 sul for Maryland to expedite the final ad- 
 justment of the case of the brigs Conyng- 
 ham & Pilgrim — & to the Consul Genl. if 
 the Middle & Southern States for settling 
 that of the ship Williams ; — 
 
 One informing that he has not yet received 
 definite instructions so as to enable him to 
 renew the discussion of the fulfilmt. of the 
 treaty — ^is confident that the continuance of 
 the cause alluded to in his Letter of 20. 
 June, is the reason of this delay ; — and 
 
 One on the subject of the Rochampton. — 
 
 & the Secrety. also sent me a Letter of this date 
 from Genl. Knox, informing that Genl. 
 Stewart would decline, if offer' d to him, 
 the office of Inspector of Philada. — & en- 
 closing a deposition relative to the capture 
 of the Conyngham & Pilgrim. — 
 
 Return'd them to the Secy, of State. 
 
 Saturday 23d November 1793 — 
 
 Had a meeting with the Heads of Depmts. (ex- 
 cept the Secy, of the Treasury who was 
 
THE RECORD OF A B UST MONTH 1 7 1 
 
 unwell) & the Attory. General, to agree 
 upon the several matters to be communi- 
 cated in the Speech to Congress at the 
 opening of the Session near at hand. 
 
 Put the proceedings of the Court Martial on 
 the trial of Ensign Morgan, & his letter to 
 the Secy, of War, into the hands of the 
 Attorney General to consider the legality of 
 his complaint &c. — 
 
 Signed Commissions appointing, Arthur Liver- 
 more, Ud. States' Attorney for the District 
 of New Hampshire. Robert Denny, Col- 
 lector of the port of Annapolis. William 
 McPherson, Naval Officer of Philada. Robt. 
 Scot, Engraver at the Mint of the US. 
 Willm. Barker, to the 2d Mate of the So. 
 Carolina Revenue Cutter ; and Matthew 
 Cozons to the 3d Mate of the same. — 
 
 Monday 25. November 1793 
 
 Sent an answer to the Letter from Alexander 
 White Esq : which enclosed resolution 
 of the Citizens of Frederick County, 
 Virginia. 
 
 The Secrey. of State submitted a Letter from 
 Edwd. Church of 2 2d Septr. mentioning 
 
1 72 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 the death of Capt. Denney, at Lisbon, said 
 to be of Baltimore. — 
 
 Letter from Edwd. Church of same date men- 
 tioning the departure of Colo. Humphreys 
 — & containing his sentiments relative to 
 the affairs of Europe — Algierines &c. — also 
 covering copy of his letter of 31 July last. 
 
 Letters from Do. of 25 Septr. respecting french 
 & Spanish affairs — & mentioning his having 
 just reed, a note from the Minister of for- 
 eign affairs, — informing that the Govr. of 
 Madeira had been ordered to make com- 
 pensation to Mr. Pintard for detention of 
 his vessel bound to Bourdeaux. — 
 
 Tuesday 26 November 1793 — 
 
 Returned to the Secy, of State the Letters &c. 
 of Mr. Church submitted yesterday. 
 
 Returned to the Secy, of the Treasury two pro- 
 posals submitted in his Letter to me of 1 8 
 inst. — ^for repairing the mason's work of the 
 Tyber Lighthouse — & informed him that I 
 approv'd of the one made by John Armour 
 for doing said work for 250 dollars. — ^sent 
 also the Commissioner of the Revenue's let- 
 ter transmitg. the above to the Secry. — 
 
THE RECORD OF J B UST MONTH 1 73 
 
 At the same time I returned to the Secretary 
 two proposals, enclosed in his letter of 19 
 inst. for doing the Carpenters work of said 
 Lighthouse — & the Commissioner of the 
 Revenue's letter enclosing them to him. — 
 I informed the Secy, that I approved the 
 proposal of Adrienus Van Denne for doing 
 the same with the plain stair case,ior £110 
 sterling. — 
 
 Reed, a Letter from Gov: Clinton dated 24. 
 inst: enclosing correspondence with Mr. 
 Genet respecting the Carmagnole privateer 
 &c. — wishes to know how to proceed. — is 
 going to Albany. — 
 
 Sent the above to the Secy, of War to consider 
 and prepare such answer to Gov: Clinton's 
 — referring him to rules laid down for pres- 
 ervation of our neutrality. — & that the Let- 
 ter he had transmitted to the Gov : this day, 
 was conclusive with respect to the Carmag- 
 nole. — 
 
 Approv'd & return'd to the Secy. 
 
 Friday 29 November 1793 
 
 The Secretary of State sent for my information 
 the following Letters &c. — to wit 
 
1 74 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOJVN 
 
 from Thos. Pinckney Esqr. of the 25 Septr. 
 93. has renewed his application, officially, 
 in behalf of M. de la Fayette, no answer 
 yet received, his confinement not so rigor- 
 ous as heretofore, money lodged by Mr. 
 Morris supplies his wants. T. P. has lately, 
 however, paid a draft of M. de la Fayette 
 for 6,000 livres, to assist him to emerge from 
 captivity. 
 
 Letter from Ditto — 27. Septr. — enclosing dupli- 
 cate of one of 25 th relative to captures of 
 vessels &c. — also mentioning that the re- 
 mainder of the Copper for the Mint had 
 been sent, transmits his accots. to ist July 
 last, directed insurance to be made on all 
 the Copper — and enclosing case of the Ship 
 Lawrens of Charleston, relative to which 
 there appears to have been some unjustifiable 
 proceedings on the part of the french cap- 
 tors. 
 
 Do. from Rob: Morris, Dist: Attorney for New 
 Jersey, dated 25. Nov: 93. containing in- 
 formation in the case of Clarkson Freeman, 
 which represents said Freeman's conduct 
 very unfavorably. 
 
 The above were returned to the Secretary. 
 
THE RECORD OF J B UST MONTH 1 75 
 
 Saturday 30th November 1793 
 
 The Secretary of State sent for my information 
 a Letter from Mr. Morris, our Minister in 
 France, dated Sain port 25. June 93. en- 
 closing a correspondence with Mr. Le Brun, 
 respecting an outrage committed by the 
 crew of a french privateer, upon that of an 
 American vessel called the little Cherub — 
 and the repeal of the Decree of the Na- 
 tionl. Conven. of 9. May 93 exempting 
 American vessels from seizure &c. with ob- 
 servations by Mr. Morris on the state of 
 things in that Country. — also 
 
 A Letter from Mr. Soderstrom of this days date 
 covering a copy of one to him from the 
 Consul General of Sweden, at Algiers, dated 
 7. Augt. 93 — mentioning the miserable sit- 
 uation of some American captives there, 
 and expressing a willingness to endeavour 
 to have them released. — Mr. Soderstrom re- 
 quests to know of the Secy, what answer 
 he shall give to the Consul Genl. — 
 
 The foregoing were returned to the Secretary. 
 
 The Secretary of War submitted the draft of a 
 letter he proposed to send to Ensign Mor- 
 gan — informing him that the proceedings of 
 
1 76 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOJVN 
 
 the Court Martial had been returned to 
 Genl. Wayne to decide upon finally — and 
 answering sundry objections made by said 
 Morgan. — The Secrey. was informed that 
 if the facts stated in the above draft were 
 unequivocal, I approve the same. — 
 At the same time the Secy, of War submitted 
 a Letter No. 66 from Majr. Genl. Wayne, 
 dated camp SW. Branch of Miami 6 miles 
 advanced of Fort Jefferson, 23d October. 
 1793 — marched from Hobson's choice the 
 7. Octo. & arrived at his present situation 
 the 13. where he was obliged to halt for 
 want of provision, been much deceived by 
 the Contractors. Deposits at Jefferson not 
 more than a quarter part of what he had 
 ordered ; & the means of transportation not 
 even adequate to the supply of the Garrison 
 there. Has therefore ordered the Qua: M: 
 Genl. to desist from supplying forage or 
 stores in his own Departmt. & to assist in 
 the Contractor's. — The Contractors ac- 
 knowledge their incapacity to comply with 
 requisition of daily issues & deposits, for 
 want of the means of transportation. Re- 
 fers for the detail of this business to his en- 
 
^ 
 
 
 VN 
 
THE RECORD OF A B UST MONTH 1 77 
 
 closed correspondence with the Contractors. 
 Notwithstanding the defect on the part of 
 the Contractors, thinks he can support the 
 troops at a place between Ft. Jefferson & 
 the field of battle 4 Nov:. Thinks it out 
 of the question to think of giving up an 
 inch of ground. — Greatest difficulty arises 
 from want of sufficient number of men to 
 act as Conveys, & at the same time to keep 
 a sufficiency in Camp in case of attack. — 
 Lieut: Lowry and Ensign Boyd, with a 
 command of 90 men (having in charge 20 
 waggons belonging to the Qr. Mr. Dept. & 
 I of the Contractors, loaded with grain & 
 stores) were attacked the 17. Octobr: about 
 7 miles advanced of Fort St. Clair. Lowry 
 & Boyd (two promising & deserving young 
 men) with 13 non-commissioned officers 
 & privates, killed, being abandoned by the 
 majority of the men at the first discharge. 
 yo horses lost, waggons & lading left unin- 
 jured ; & since brought into camp. — Encloses 
 return of killed & missing, i 3 killed. 1 1 
 missing. — Also field return of troops with 
 him — which is 2043, including officers & 
 privates fit for duty — out of wch. one Compy. 
 
1 78 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOJVN 
 
 of Lt. infantry & i troop of Dragoons, have 
 been detached the morning he writes, to 
 reinforce 4 Comps. under Majr. Hamtramck, 
 as an escort &c. — 
 Return of mounted Volunteers under Genl. 
 Scott encamped near Ft. Jefferson, 1029 fit 
 for duty. Will order a strong detachmt. of 
 them to join the escort under Majr. Ham- 
 tramck. — Reported that the Indians have se- 
 creted their v^omen & children, & all their 
 warriors collected. — & has spies in every 
 direction, has secured in camp 70,000 
 rations, & expects 1 20,000 by the next con- 
 voy. Indians can't continue long embodied 
 for want of provision. A great number of 
 men left sick at the differt. garrisons, with 
 the influenza. Genl. Wilkinson been very ill 
 at Ft. Jefferson ; but now recovering. Want 
 of officers a serious misfortune. Has ac- 
 cepted the resignation of Lieut: Colo: Jno. 
 Smith of the 3d sub legion. Major Ballard 
 Smith, and Captain Melcher & Tillinghast 
 under arrest, & will probably be dismissed 
 the service as soon as circumstances will ad- 
 mit of a General Court Martial being called, 
 which is impracticable at present. — means 
 
THE RECORD OF J B UST MONTH 1 79 
 
 to change his ground soon. Expects to 
 meet with opposition; but will not too far 
 commit the Legion. — 
 
 Returned the foregoing to the Secy, of War. 
 
CHAPTER XI 
 
 Some Germantown Washington Letters 
 
 THE following letters to and from Wash- 
 ington, while a resident of Germantown, 
 have been copied from the originals or 
 drafts and copies in the Library of Congress. 
 With but one or two exceptions they have not 
 heretofore been in print. 
 
 Virginia 28 Octr: 1793. 
 
 Sir: 
 
 The question, no doubt, has often occurred to 
 you: "where will the Congress meet? " "by their ad- 
 journment," which is law to them, at Philadelphia; 
 but, by a physical necessity, more imperious, than law 
 itself, at Philadelphia they cannot meet. You, Sir, as 
 President of the United States, by the impolitic and 
 narrow jealousy of the Constitution, have a right to 
 convene Congress ; but, not to appoint the place, but, 
 in this instance, the salus populi, which is literally at 
 stake, is the suprema lex, & must prevail. The crying 
 necessity not only suspends the law, but quoad hoc, 
 rides over the constitution & tramples it under foot. 
 
SOME WASHINGTON LETTERS i8i 
 
 clear as this is, still you may feel yourself under a 
 dilemma, because illiberal cavil & prompt opposition 
 never suffer an occasion to escape, that affords an op- 
 portunity of exercising petulance, & vociferating 
 abuse — to offer to you advice, who, no doubt, will 
 adopt the fittest expedient, may seem presuming; I 
 have therefore suppressed my name, which, at your 
 desire, shall nevertheless be communicated, the ex- 
 pedient, I would with all deference to your better 
 judgment recommend, is, " to write a circular letter to 
 each member of Congress, setting forth the difficulty 
 of the case, (if there be in truth any in it) & propos- 
 ing different places for their choice, Alexandria, George 
 Town Baltimore, Annapolis, New York, or any other 
 place the majority fixed on, at that place let them be 
 convened" — this may be done by Proclamation, and 
 shelter the executive from any charge of infracting the 
 Constitution, by the assumption of powers, not war- 
 ranted by the Constitution — should this proposal meet 
 with your approbation, there will be just time enough 
 to carry it into execution, for, from [this day there 
 are five weeks before the meeting of Congress. 
 
 Your goodness and condescension will excuse this 
 obtrusion of my sentiments on you, even if they be 
 erroneous, from my supposing a constitutional embar- 
 assment where there is none ; & impute it to my zeal, 
 " to suggest any expedient in this crisis," which my 
 weak judgment leads me to suppose, may, in any the 
 smallest degree, tend to the facilitation of government, 
 with every consideration of respect & esteem for your 
 
1 82 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 private & public character I remain your fellow citi- 
 zen & faithful servant — 
 
 "A Citizen of Virginia " — 
 
 JONATHAN TRUMBULL TO WASHINGTON. 
 
 Lebanon 31st. Octo. 1793 — 
 Dear Sir 
 
 By some unaccountable delay, the Letter with 
 which you have favored me, of the 13 th. inst. did not 
 reach me 'till the 30th. — 
 
 While writing mine of the ad. of this month, the 
 doubt which you have been pleased to mention, re- 
 specting the Law of Congress fixg. the seat of Gov- 
 ernment, occurred to me : — but turng. to the Law, I 
 found the 5th sec: mentions — "That prior &c. all 
 Offices attached to the Seat of Government shall be 
 removed to Phila. &c. at which place, the session of 
 Congress next ensuing shall be held." — the 6th. Sec: 
 mentions "That in the year 1800 the Seat of Govern- 
 ment shall be transferred &c. and all Offices &c. shall 
 be also removed" &c — but not a word of the Legis- 
 lature — by which it would seem, it is left to its own 
 adjournments, and the discretion of the President on 
 extra occasions — 
 
 Indeed I conceived that the Constitution, in 
 granting this discretion, must have contemplated place, 
 as well as time of meeting — because the necessity for 
 its exercise, might be grounded equally in one as the 
 other — Witness the existing instance — the first that 
 has occurred — 
 
SOME WASHINGTON LETTERS 183 
 
 Moreover the Constitution must be paramount to 
 the Law in such Cases : — otherwise the power granted 
 may be so controuled as not to be sufficient to sur- 
 mount the necessity of the occasion — the like necessity 
 may also exist under other circumstances — such as, 
 the total destruction of the City by fire, of other 
 means, — its being in complete possession of an Enemy 
 — & other insurmountable calamities which might 
 occur. — In all which cases, if the Law fixing the Seat 
 of Government must rise superior to the Constitution ; 
 the discretionary Power of the President, calculated to 
 affiDrd a remedy under such exigencies, must be futile, 
 & prove totally inadequate to the purposes for which 
 it was intended. — 
 
 I also considered, that should doubts arise, they 
 would be easily obviated by reflecting, that this exer- 
 cise of discretion could not be dangerous ; — because it 
 would be in the power of Congress, as soon as met, 
 to remedy the Evil, should they apprehend any, by 
 an immediate adjournment to wherever they might 
 judge proper. — besides it is calculated to remedy an 
 existing inconvenience & danger to themselves, which 
 in its nature, is only temporary, & is hoped to prove 
 of but short continuance. — 
 
 As to the Place of meeting, I am very sensible it 
 will be an object of delicacy to decide. — When I took 
 the liberty to suggest the hints I gave to you, this 
 difficulty presented itself — ; and I was then almost 
 tempted to add a word on that head, but was repressed 
 by the fear of assuming too much. — I therefore now 
 
1 84 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 mention — what I before thought — that in casting 
 about, it is probable the Towns of Baltimore & New 
 York will present themselves to your Mind, as the 
 most convenient places. — to the latter I am sensible 
 Objections will be started by some; notstandg. its 
 superior advantages perhaps for the present temporary 
 occasion. — to obviate therefore these objections to New 
 York, should they appear with weight — and to save 
 any uneasiness in the minds of our southern Brethern 
 from that Quarter, I have thought for myself, (& in 
 this I have been joined by others) — that I should per- 
 fectly acquiesce in Baltimore. — I should mention the 
 expedient of convening Congress somewhere in the 
 vicinity of Philadelphia, and leave the final decision of 
 Vlace to their determination ; but that I fear, such 
 Event may occasion disputes & delay — not to say 
 heats perhaps — which might prove much more detri- 
 mental to our general Interests, than your fixing at 
 once a place by your own Judgment & discretion. — 
 I most sincerely hope, that, whatever place is ap- 
 pointed, the melancholly occasion of leaving Phila- 
 delphia may speedily be removed — and that Congress 
 may soon be able to return to that City again. — 
 
 With real regard & respect, I am, 
 most affectionately. 
 
 Dear Sir 
 
 Your obedient & obliged 
 
 humble servant 
 
 J. Trumbull — 
 
SOME WASHINGTON LETTERS 185 
 
 PS: — Before closing this Letter, 
 we are gratified with much more 
 favorable Accounts from Phila. than 
 for some time past — I really hope they 
 may prove true — and that circumstances in that dis- 
 tressed City may continue to meliorate, so that you 
 may have complete relief from your present dilemma 
 on that score. Yours as above — 
 
 TOBIAS LEAR TO WASHINGTON. 
 
 New York November 3d: 1793 
 My Dear Sir, 
 
 Presuming that you are now In Germantown, 
 agreeably to the arrangement which yon informed me 
 you had made for that purpose, when I had the honor 
 of seeing you at Mount Vernon, I shall address this 
 letter to you at that place ; and have taken the liberty 
 to enclose two copies of some observations respecting 
 the River Potomack, the Country about it and the 
 City of Washington, which I have noted down since 
 my return to this place from George Town. 
 
 My object in writing these observations is to have 
 some copies of them printed, that I may have it in 
 my power, while in Europe, to give a more particular 
 account, to such as may wish it, of that part of the 
 Country which 1 have chosen for my establishment, 
 than they may, as yet, have been able to obtain. 
 
 I have not had time to go so much into the detail 
 on this subject as I wished. My view in these notes 
 has been to give such facts respecting the Patomack 
 
1 8 6 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 and the City as may be important to be known, in the 
 first instance, to those who may turn their attention to 
 that quarter. — My own knowledge of that part of the 
 Country was too limited to allow me to depend alto- 
 gether upon that for a statement of facts. — I have, 
 therefore, as you will- observe, had recourse to others 
 on whose authority I could rely — and I have found 
 Mr. Jefferson's notes on the State of Virginia, and 
 some extracts, which I met with, from the Report of 
 the Committee appointed by the Merchants of George 
 Town & Alexandria, which is said to be founded on 
 the actual observations made by order of the Directors 
 of the Potomack Company, of great use to me. — I 
 have given these observations in as plain and simple 
 language as I was capable of doing, beleiving, if I had 
 been able to dress them up in captivating garb, that it 
 would not be best to do so. — A naked state of facts is 
 all that is necessary to recommend the Potomack or 
 the Country about it. — All comparison or reflections 
 that might look like raising the Potomack by the de- 
 pression of any other place, I have carefully avoided. — 
 The friendship with which you have honored me, 
 and the indulgence you have always shewn towards 
 such attempts as I have made to be serviceable to my- 
 self or others, emboldens me, my dear Sir, to ask the 
 favor of your perusing the enclosed, and rectifying 
 such errors of fact as may appear therein, and to re- 
 turn me one of the copies with your sanction of the 
 statement being founded in truth, if you shall feel 
 yourself perfectly free to do so. — 
 
SOME WASHINGTON LETTERS 187 
 
 In the copies I may have printed, or otherways, 
 I shall make no improper use of the sanction you may 
 be pleased to give of the truth of the statement. — I 
 wish it only for my own satisfaction, that I may feel 
 confidence in what I relate; for altho' it will not be 
 mentioned in the printed copies by whom the observa- 
 tions are made ; yet as that may hereafter be known, 
 and possibly while I am at a distance from this Coun- 
 try, the truth of the statement may be questioned by 
 persons who may be interested in depreciating the 
 subject of these notes, I shall feel gratified by having 
 it in my power to convince those who may be inter- 
 ested in obtaining the truth, that they have been in- 
 spected by one whose situation has given him the best 
 opportunity of knowing the circumstance of the 
 Country, and who would not suffer a statement to 
 have his sanction unless supported by truth. 
 
 At the present moment, which I know must be a 
 busy one with you, I would not presume to offer a 
 thing of this kind for your inspection, but under a 
 full belief that the subject is so well understood by 
 you that a single perusal will enable you to pass sen- 
 tence upon it. 
 
 Finding that my business in Europe will first re- 
 quire my presence in Great Britain, I have engaged 
 my passage in the American Ship Fanny, bound to 
 Glascow, which is expected to sail about the loth of 
 this month; but I think it probable she may be de- 
 tained a few days longer. She is a regular Trader to 
 Glascow & a very fine ship. An extension of our 
 
1 8 8 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 business will probably occasion my stay in Europe to 
 be longer than I at first contemplated. — This has 
 obliged me to protract the time of my sailing beyond 
 what I expected, in order to make my arrangements 
 to comport with the time which I may be absent. — 
 
 As I shall go to "Scotland from the circumstance 
 of the ship in which I am to sail being the first Ameri- 
 can Vessel bound from this place to Great Britain, it 
 is my intention (if nothing should occur to make it 
 proper for me to go to London immediately on my 
 arrival to visit some of the principal manufactories of 
 Scotland where such goods are fabricated as suit our 
 market; and altho' I shall have letters from some 
 respectable merchants of this place to their correspon- 
 dents ; yet I shall esteem it a great favor if you will 
 have the goodness to give me letters of introduction 
 to the Earl of Buchan & Sir John Sinclair,* who from 
 their situations in that Country may be able to give 
 me much useful information. — 
 
 Upon enquiring for Mr. Robinson, who took 
 your portrait for the Earl of Buchan I am informed 
 that he is now up the River ; but is expected home in 
 a day or two, when I shall, without fail, see him re- 
 specting the portrait. — 
 
 I have been so closely engaged in my own busi- 
 ness since my return from George Town, that I have 
 had but little opportunity of mixing in Society and 
 learning the prevailing opinion of the day on politics. 
 
 * Washington complied with this request. The letters will be 
 found on a subsequent page. 
 
SOME WASHINGTON LETTERS 189 
 
 — I have heard enough, however, to know that the 
 conduct of Mr. Genet, in the publication of his cor- 
 respondence with Governor Moultrie and his letter to 
 Mr. Jefferson, is very much disapproved. — Indeed so 
 warm appears to be the censure of those I have heard 
 speak on the subject, that I am not without appre- 
 hensions that the operation of party, added to the 
 general indignation expressed at his conduct, may lead 
 to some imprudent step towards Mr G. personally, 
 which might be productive of unpleasant circumstances 
 in a national view. — 
 
 The British Packet arrived here this day; but she 
 brings no accounts so late as have been brought by 
 other vessels from Europe. — 
 
 The accounts of the disorder in Philadelphia hav- 
 ing been checked by the weather give great pleasure, 
 but still there are strong expressions of anxiety on ac- 
 count of your being so near the City while any signs 
 of the disorder remain in it. — Since the abatement of 
 the disorder it seems to be a general opinion here that 
 Congress will sit in Philadelphia. — 
 
 A man by the name of Jacob Baur, has for some 
 days past been importuning me to mention to you his 
 wish to fill the place about your person lately occu- 
 pied by Williams. — He says he was for several years 
 Valet de Chambre to the late Lord Barrymore, and 
 occasionally acted as his Butler. — He shewed me a 
 certificate give him by Lord B. in which he recom- 
 mends him as an honest, sober & most valuable ser- 
 vant. — His present occupation is hair dresser at the 
 
190 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 Pontine Coffee House. — I have made no enquiries 
 respecting the man here, and shall not do it unless it 
 is your wish to get a person of the description. — 
 
 Since my return to this place I have received sev- 
 eral letters from my friends in Portsmouth which give 
 me the pleasing information of my darling boy being 
 in fine health & as full of spirits and activity as ever. 
 — The interest which you have ever taken in the wel- 
 fare of this little fellow leads me to believe that this 
 account will be acceptable to you — and to Mrs. Wash- 
 ington I am likewise sure it will give pleasure. 
 
 I presume Mrs. Washington is not with you at 
 German Town ; but whether she is or not, I must beg 
 the favor of being presented to her in terms of the 
 liveliest respect & gratitude. — My young friends about 
 her have my best wishes for their health & happiness and 
 will always be remembered by me with sincere regard. 
 
 I shall do myself the honor of writing to you 
 again before I sail, if anything should occur worthy of 
 being communicated to you. — 
 
 With sentiments of the highest respect and un- 
 bounded attachment 
 
 I have the honor to be, 
 
 my dear Sir, 
 Your grateful & affectionate servant 
 Tobias Lear.* 
 The President of the United States. 
 
 * Tobias Lear had been private life an active and devoted friend, 
 
 secretary, was later the manager He was present at the death of 
 
 of his private affairs and remained Washington, of which he wrote 
 
 until the close of Washington's a detailed account. Sparks, Vol I. 
 
SOME WASHINGTON LETTERS 191 
 
 WASHINGTON TO TOBIAS LEAR. 
 
 German Town, 8 th Novr. 1793. 
 My dear Sir 
 
 I arrived at this place at the time appointed — to 
 wit — the 1st inst., but did not receive your letter of 
 the 3d until yesterday for want of a regulr. comn. 
 with the P. Office this too at a time when as you have 
 well supposed I was immersed in the consideration of 
 Papers from the different Departments after a sepera- 
 tion from the heads of them almost two Mo. 
 
 I have, however, run over your observations on 
 the Potomac Navigation &c. &c. — and in a hasty man- 
 ner, as I went along, at the first reading, made the 
 notes & remarks which are returned with one of the 
 copies. — The statements made by you, in all other 
 respects, accord with my ideas of facts as far as a re- 
 cepn. of them will enable me to pronounce ; not can 
 I controvert by evidence even those which it would 
 seem that I had queried by my remarks. — Had I 
 more leisure and especially if I could have recourse to 
 my papers I might have been more correct in some 
 things but as the loth is the day appointed for your 
 sailing & that happening to be on a Sunday a chosen 
 day by sailors for commencing their nautical move- 
 ments I did not incline to miss the Post of this day 
 to return your observations and to furnish the letters 
 you have asked for. — 
 
 It gives me sincere pleasure to hear that Lincoln 
 continues well as I am sure it will do the family at 
 Mount Vernon who must remain there until it is 
 
1 92 TFASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 known what Congress will do; for till then I move 
 more like a snail with everything on my back. 
 
 I do not yet know whether I shall get a substitute 
 for William : nothing short of excellent qualities & a 
 man of good appearance, would induce me to do it. — 
 and under my present view of the matter too, who 
 would employ himself otherwise than William did — 
 that is as a Butler as well as a Valette for my wants of 
 the latter are so trifling that any man (as Willm. was) 
 would soon be ruined by idleness who had only them 
 to attend to. — Having given these ideas — if your 
 time will permit — I should be glad if you would touch 
 the man upon the strings I have mentioned — probe 
 his character deeper — say what his age appearance & 
 Country is — what are his expectations & how he should 
 be communicated with, if, upon a thorough investiga- 
 tion of matters you should be of opinion he would 
 answer my purposes in all for Kennedy is too little ac- 
 quainted with the arrangements of a Table, & too 
 stupid for a Butler, to be continued if I could get a 
 better. 
 
 I once more, & I suppose for the last time before 
 you sail, bid you adieu ; — My best wishes wherever 
 you go accompany you, for with much truth I am 
 Your sincere friend & 
 
 AfFecte. Servant 
 
 Go: Washington. 
 
 WASHINGTON TO THE EARL OF BUCHAN. 
 
 My Lord, 
 
 Mr, Lear, the Gentleman who will have the honor 
 
^5^ 
 
SOME WASHINGTON LETTERS 193 
 
 of putting this letter into your hands, I can venture & 
 therefore shall take the liberty, to introduce as worthy of 
 your Lordship's civilities. — he has lived seven or eight 
 years in my family as my private Secretary, and poss- 
 esses a large share of my esteem & Friendship. — Com- 
 mercial pursuits have taken him to Europe & a desire 
 to visit some of the manufacturing towns on Scotland 
 carries him first to that Country. — A wish while there 
 to pay his respects to your Lordship, with whom he 
 knows I have been in correspondence, must be my 
 apology for recommending him to your notice espe- 
 cially as it will afford me a fresh occasion to assure you 
 of the best esteem & respect with which I have the 
 honor to be. — 
 
 Your Lordships 
 
 Most Obedt. & very Hble. Sert. 
 German Town in Go. Washington, 
 
 the State of Pennsyla. 
 8 November 1793 
 
 WASHINGTON TO SIR JOHN ST. CLAIR. 
 
 Sir, 
 
 Mr. Lear who will have the honor of presenting 
 this letter to you has lived many years in my family 
 and is one for whom I have a particular esteem. — 
 
 Having lately engaged in a Commercial Scheme 
 he goes to Europe for the facility of his plans and 
 being desirous of visiting some of the principle manu- 
 facturing towns in Scotland I take the liberty of giv- 
 ing him this letter of introduction to you being per- 
 
194 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 suaded he would be greateful for any information he 
 should receive from you in any matter relative to this 
 business. — 
 
 You will find him intelligent, and well disposed I 
 am sure (as far as he has knowledge) to answer any en- 
 quiry of yours respecting the Situation of things in 
 this Country. — 
 
 With great respect 
 
 I have the honor to be 
 
 Sir— Yr Most Obt. Hble. Sert. 
 German Town in Go. Washington, 
 
 the State of Pennsyla. 
 8. November 1793. 
 
 TOBIAS LEAR TO WASHINGTON. 
 
 New York November 9 th: 1793. 
 My dear Sir, 
 
 A thousand times after my letter to you, enclosing 
 Observations on the Potomack &c. had gone, did I 
 wish to recall it: for the more I reflected on your sit- 
 uation at this moment, in point of business, the more 
 did I see the impropriety, as well as the unfriendliness 
 of my adding to that burthen, which I could not but 
 know was at least as great as it ought to be, and more es- 
 pecially as mine was a business in which the public was 
 not interested. — I have been ever since distressed on 
 that account. — And the good letter with which I have 
 been this day honored from you, has not removed my 
 uneasiness on that score; altho' it is to me another 
 proof of that attention towards me which has already 
 
SOME WASHINGTON LETTERS 195 
 
 made too deep an impression on my mind for time or 
 any event to erase. — I say it did not remove my un- 
 easiness ; because I was convinced by it and the notes 
 & letters accompanying it, that it must have taken up 
 more of your time than I had, upon any grounds, a 
 right to ask for at this busy moment. — My thanks & 
 gratitude, my very dear & honored Sir, are too small 
 to offer for all your goodness to me : But they are all 
 I have that can be acceptable to you. — 
 
 I have seen Mr. Robertson, who took your por- 
 trait for the Earl of Buchan, and he tells me that he 
 sent it to his Lordship; by way of Glascow, more 
 than six months since; but he had never heard 
 whether it got to hand or not — and says he is much 
 distressed to learn that the Earl had not received it 
 when his letter to you was written — and that he shall 
 not rest until he has ascertained its fate. — 
 
 I have got all the information of & about the 
 man whom I mentioned in my last, that time and cir- 
 cumstances have permitted me to do. — He is a tol- 
 erably well sized & well made man of about 5 feet 8 
 or 9 inches — and about 30 years of age — a German by 
 birth — speaks the French language well — dresses 
 Ladies, & Gentlemen's hair very well. — The Account 
 which he gives of himself is — that he lived for up- 
 wards of four years with Lord Barrymore as his Valet 
 de Chambre and accasionally acted as his Steward. — 
 Finding that the Expenses to which Lord B. was sub- 
 ject from his stile of living & other extravagances 
 would not allow him to pay his domestics so regularly 
 
1 96 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 as their necessities required, he thought best to quit 
 him ; and as a Mr Cox, who had superintended the 
 building a Theatre for Lord Barrymore, was about to 
 come to Philadelphia for the purpose of attending the 
 building the new Theatre there, he thought it a good 
 opportunity of trying his fortune in this Country — 
 and was, after he got to Philadelphia, fixed upon as a 
 suitable person to keep the Coffee rooms in the New 
 Theatre; but the use of that Theatre having been 
 postponed — he found it necessary to resort to other 
 means for a living — and followed the business of hair 
 dressing there for some months, 'till Mr. Hyde came 
 to this place to keep the Tontine Coffee House when 
 he came here with him & has been since the hair 
 dresser of the Coffee House. — He says he under- 
 stands the duties of a Butler well — and can set out a 
 table in as handsome a manner as any man : But he is 
 not acquainted with marketing or provididg for a 
 family — He would prefer acting as Valet & Butler to 
 having the duty of one only. — He would not under- 
 take the business for less than two hundred ^ fifty dol- 
 lars per year. — Thus far the man says of & for him- 
 self. — His price I tell him puts him out of the 
 question ; if everything else should answer. — 
 
 Mr Hyde seems to be the only person who knows 
 anything particular about the man here. — He says he 
 is a sober, steady, neat man — He has lived in the 
 Coffee House ever since Hyde has kept it — Hyde 
 says he thinks the man capable of doing those things 
 which he professes — and from his own knowledge of 
 
SOME WASHINGTON LETTERS 197 
 
 the kind of person who would be serviceable & agree- 
 able to you, Hyde says he could venture to recom- 
 mend this man. — 
 
 The foregoing is all I can collect respecting Jacob 
 Baur & therefrom it must be left with you, my dear 
 Sir, to decide. — Should you think anything further of 
 him, Mr. Hyde seems to be the only person capable 
 of giving information here. — 
 
 Tomorrow, wind & weather permitting, I shall 
 sail and let me visit whatever clime I may — or let 
 whatever will be my situation I shall never fail, my 
 dear & honored Sir, to implore the best of Heaven's 
 blessings for your health & happiness — I feel more 
 for your goodness towards me than I ever or ought to 
 express to you — Accept everything that a grateful 
 heart can give & present me, if you please, in the 
 most respectful & dutiful manner to Mrs Washington — 
 With truth & sincerity, I always shall be 
 
 Your devoted & affectionate friend & servant 
 Tobias Lear. 
 The President of the United States. — 
 
 JACOB DURANY TO WASHINGTON. 
 
 Philadelphia, Novr. 9th. 1793 
 Sir 
 
 Being informed that your Excellency was desirous 
 to employ a Person, who could Shave, dress Hair, and 
 otherwise wait upon you, in your Chamber, I have 
 Presumed, to Address you upon that Subject, I Con- 
 ceive myself. Sir, Competant to such duty, and I trust, 
 that I should be happy, in giving full Satisfaction was 
 
198 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 I to be favored with the Station, I therefore Present 
 myself with ho-pe for that Purpose 
 
 With Respect to my Moral Character, I have 
 Nothing to fear, and if it shall appear to you, that I 
 am a Man who may Answer the Purpose, I have it in 
 my Power, to produce Recommendations from Gentle- 
 men of the first Respectability in the City of Phila- 
 delphia, 
 
 I am a Married Man, by birth a German, Can 
 speak English & French, so as to Understand, — 
 I would wish to be. 
 Sir, at your Command 
 
 Jacob Durany 
 To 
 
 The President of the United States 
 
 RICHARD CHICHESTER TO WASHINGTON. 
 
 Newington loth. November 1793. 
 Hono. & very Dear Sir 
 
 I've to Apolgise for this in- 
 trusion on Your time, with an Address of so Trivial a 
 Nature — And make No Doubt of Your Excuse, when 
 You hear of my Afflicted Situation — I am and have 
 been for Near three Years last Past, in So low a State 
 of health, almost daily Expecting the Dissolution of 
 my body, and cannot Depart in Peace without endeav- 
 ouring to undeceive You, and Acquit myself of the 
 charge of Misdemeanor against Your Property, of 
 which I'm entirely innocent: And ever did most cor- 
 dially Despise every Appearance of Meaness — 
 
SOME WASHINGTON LETTERS 199 
 
 Throught the Medium of Colo. Burgess Ball, I've 
 lately understood that you have been Informed, that I 
 was the Person who kill'd your Tame Deer (a large 
 black buck) about Two or three years ago, which hath 
 wounded my feelings beyond expression, for you to 
 Possess such an Idea of my Principles — I Therefore 
 take the Liberty to Assure You of my Inocence of 
 the charge, and Declare most solemnly in the Presence 
 of the Searcher of all hearts, before Whom I'm in 
 daily expectation of being summoned to Render An 
 Acct. of the Deeds done in the body, that I never 
 even Saw a Deer of that Description Since my Ex- 
 istence in the World, Nor Did I ever directly or In- 
 directly, to my knowledge. Injure my Neighbour, or 
 any Person Whatever, in And Such like Respect — 
 Truly I should View any Person to that conduct, in 
 the light of a thief and a Rober: The colour of such 
 a Deer would ever be a Sure Defence against a Shott 
 from myself or any of my family — 
 
 A certain Charles Dodson, a Tenant on Ravens- 
 worth, was the Person that kill'd your black buck, at 
 least he told me himself that he kill'd a large Deer of 
 that Colour Just about the time I heard of the Loss 
 of Yours — It was without doubt Judg'd by the Neigh- 
 bourhood, and himself, to be Your Deer, as the Colour 
 prov'd him Not a Native of this Country, And we 
 All had heard of your Receiving Such Deer — 
 
 As soon as I Reed. Mr. Dodsons Information as 
 Above, I gave Major George Washington a State of 
 the case in Writing and did not suppose there was A 
 
200 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 Person in the World capable of giving you such an 
 Information Against me, without Any foundation — 
 However, my trust is, that your Acquaintance with 
 my General Character for almost Thirty Years last 
 Past, Will induce you to give credit to my Solemn 
 Declaration of Inocence at this late Period of my life 
 — Which will Add much to the Satisfaction and Peace 
 of Mind of One Who ever did, and I hope ever 
 shall during life. Revere Your Name And Person, As 
 a fellow Citizen, And An Instrument in the hand of 
 Divine Providence in Establishing the happy Inde- 
 pendence of America — 
 
 Tho' I never expect the happiness of seeing you 
 again on the Stage of Action, Your Prosperity and 
 happiness in time and through Eternity will ever be 
 Remember'd at the throne of Grace by 
 
 Dr. Sir Yr. Most Obt. & very H. Servant 
 Richard Chichester 
 
 RICHARD SNOWDON TO WASHINGTON. 
 
 The Author of the enclosed Volume * presents it to 
 the Worthy President of the United States as a Small 
 
 *This was a curious book, delphia, and was manufactured 
 
 called the American Revolution; right in the midst of the yellow 
 
 Written in the Style of Ancient fever, as the prefece is dated 
 
 History. It is arranged in chap- "Newton, Gloucester County, 
 
 ters and verses and written in the in the State of New Jersey, Sep- 
 
 language of the Scriptures. Wash- tember 17, 1793." The second 
 
 ington is referred to in it as volume was issued the following 
 
 "George the Chief Captain." year. The book seems to have 
 
 The first volume was published by enjoyed popularity, as several 
 
 Jones, Hoff & Derrick, of Phila- later editions were published. 
 
SOME tFASHINGTON LETTERS 201 
 
 Tribute of that affectionate esteem which he with 
 many thousands bear for his Person whose merit both 
 as a Hero and Citizen hath captivated the feeling 
 Heart that thrills with exalted pleasure at the loved 
 name of Washington. As the Author is one of the 
 People called Quakers he cannot consistent with his 
 profession make use of a Style that custom hath es- 
 tablished in what is called the Polite World shall there- 
 fore confine himself to the feeling Language of the 
 Heart and that mode of expression which he hath 
 been educated in And notwithstanding Providence 
 hath placed him in the humble Walks of Life he is 
 firmly persuaded that like the Widows Mite it will be 
 no less acceptable on that account and shall now take the 
 Liberty to conclude this address in the Words of Dr. 
 Young as they accord with the Sentiments of his own 
 heart Viz 
 
 " Farewel (thro' boundless ages fare thee well ! ) 
 "The dignity of Man and blessing of Heaven be 
 " with thee!" The broad Hand of the Almighty cover 
 " thee ! Mayst thou Shine when the Svfn is extinct 
 " Mayst thou live and triumph when time Expires " 
 is the ardent wish of 
 
 of thy sincere friend and admirer 
 
 Richard Snowdon 
 Newton Gloucester 
 
 State of New Jersey 
 Novbr. 13th. 93. 
 
202 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 HENRY KNOX TO WASHINGTON. 
 
 Falls of Schuylkill i6 Nov 1793 
 Sir 
 
 I have the honor to submit two letters of Major 
 Genl Wayne one dated the 17th of Septr and the 
 other the 5th of October with a variety of enclosures, 
 including the proceedings of the Court Martial upon 
 Ensign Morgan. 
 
 In addition to the information contained in these 
 papers, I am informed that the late Dr Jennifer who 
 was cashiered, arrived at Pittsburg from Head quarters 
 who says that General Scott arrived at Fort Washing- 
 ton on the 7th Octr a few hours after Genl Wayne 
 had marched, with nearly six hundred mounted vol- 
 unteers, and that as many more were expected hourly. 
 I have the honor to 
 
 be with the highest respect 
 Sir your obedient Servt 
 The President Knox 
 
 of the U S. 
 
 BURGESS BALL TO WASHINGTON. 
 
 Leesburg — 16th. Nov. 93. 
 Dear Sir, 
 
 We have been here about ten days, and are 
 now tollarably fixd. — 
 
 I have been making Enquiry about Buck Wheat, 
 and have given notice that I will give 2/ '^ Bush : (a 
 Price the Merchts : told me I might purchase for) but, 
 from the Scarcity of Corn, which now sells @ 1 2/ ^ 
 

SOME WASHINGTON LETTERS 203 
 
 Barrell, I fear I shall not be able to get the Buck 
 Wheat for less than 2/6 — For the Price I'm sure I 
 can get any quantity in a very short time, and if I can 
 get it @ 2/ I shall be very glad — My Mill has taken 
 in but very few Bushells — If you are willing I should 
 give 2/6, or whatever Price, or quantity you may think 
 proper, I shall be happy in executing your directions 
 — if you'll send me on Bank notes, I will negotiate 
 them here, and, if they shou'd not be made use of, 
 they shall be returned. Please write me as soon as 
 convenient. 
 
 I am happy to hear that Philada. is almost reliev'd 
 from the Misfortune it has so long been afflicted with 
 — I hope you run no risque. — Wishing you every fe- 
 licity, I am 
 
 with the highest Esteem 
 Dr. Sir 
 Yr. mo: Ob Sert 
 
 B: Ball 
 PS. My Wife & Miss Milly (who is with us) 
 desire their respects &c. 
 B:B 
 
 WASHINGTON TO NICHOLAS LEWIS. 
 
 To Nicholas Lewis Esqr. Chairman of an meeting of 
 the Inhabitants of Albemarle County, Virginia. — 
 
 Germantown 16 Novemr. 1793. 
 Sir, 
 
 While I acknowledge that all power is derived from 
 
 the People, and that the Federal Government has been 
 
204 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 instituted for their happiness, I cannot but unite in the 
 attachment expressed by the freemen of Albemarle to 
 the Constitution of the U States. Harmony with for- 
 eign Nations is a blessing which we ought to prize & 
 to cherish ; & from a desire of cultivating it the proc- 
 lamation was issued. Such a measure became the more 
 eligible, as it neither cancelled nor weakened our obli- 
 gations to the French Nation. — 
 
 Go. Washington. 
 
 WASHINGTON TO EDWARD STEVENS. 
 
 To Edward Stevens Esqr. Chairman of a Meeting ot 
 the yeomanry of Culpeper County, Virginia. — 
 
 Gcrmantown i6. Novemr. 1793 
 Sir, 
 
 The resolutions of the yeomanry of Culpeper, an- 
 nouncing their determination to resist all attempts to 
 destroy the federal Government, or violate its princi- 
 ples, bespeak a laudable interest in the national pros- 
 perity. Among the means of accomplishing the 
 general happiness, peace with all nations is an obvious 
 policy. — It is our duty too to remember the services 
 of the French Nation, & to .pursue the Republican 
 spirit of our Constitution. 
 
 In whatever degree I may be conceived to have 
 contributed to the public welfare, it is very acceptable 
 to me to know that my conduct is approved by the 
 yeomanry of Culpeper. — 
 
 Go. Washington. 
 
SOME WASHINGTON LETTERS 205 
 
 ALEXANDER HAMILTON TO WASHINGTON. 
 
 The President of the United States. 
 
 Treasury Deparmt. 18. 1793. 
 
 The Secretary of the Treasury respectfully sub- 
 mits to the consideration of the President of the 
 United States, a communication from the Commis- 
 sioner of the Revenue of the 6th instant, transmitting 
 two proposals respecting the masons work for repair- 
 ing the Tyber Lighthouse in Georgia. 
 
 From the measures, which have been taken, it ap- 
 pears improbable that better terms are obtainable, and 
 from such means as are possessed, of judging, there is 
 no reason to conclude that they are not reasonable. 
 Under these circumstances, and considering the dis- 
 tance, it is submitted, as the opinion of the Secy, ex- 
 pedient to close with the proposal of John Armour. 
 
 A. Hamilton. 
 
 ALEXANDER HAMILTON TO WASHINGTON. 
 
 The President of the United States. 
 
 Treasury Departmt. Novr. 19, 1793. 
 
 The Secretary of the Treasury respectfully sub- 
 mits to the consideration of the President of the 
 United States a letter from the Commissioner of the 
 Revenue of the 1 5 instant, transmitting two proposals 
 respecting the carpenters work of the Tyber Light- 
 house in Georgia. 
 
 The Secretary agrees in sentiment with the Com- 
 missioner of the Revenue that it is for the interest of 
 the United States to close with the second proposal of 
 Adrianas van Denne. A. Hamilton. 
 
2o6 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 WASHINGTON TO THOMAS JEFFERSON. 
 
 2 2d. Novr. 1793. 
 Dear Sir, 
 
 I think Colo. Humphreys, in one of 
 his letters to you, refers to his to me, for some article 
 of News. — I see nothing therein that we have had not 
 had before ; but send it nevertheless, for your perusal. — 
 Can any thing be said, or done, respecting the 
 Marquis de la Fayette? * — I send the letter that you 
 may give it another perusal. — I send a letter also from 
 a French Gentleman in New York offering his Services 
 as Engineer &c. — We may want such characters! — A 
 civil answer therefore may not be amiss to give him, 
 although he cannot be employed now, nor never indeed 
 [unless] he is well qualified. — 
 
 Are resignations deposited in the Office of State? — 
 If they are I send one just received. — 
 
 Yours always 
 Mr. Jefferson. G: Washington 
 
 WASHINGTON TO RICHARD CHICHESTER. 
 
 Dear Sir, 
 
 On the 2 1 St instant, I was favored with your letter 
 of the loth. — 
 
 I am very sorry that so trivial a matter as that re- 
 lated in it, should have given you one moments pain. — 
 There must have been some misconception on the 
 part of Colo. Burgess Ball if he understood that I had 
 been informed it was you, who had killed my English 
 
 * Then a prisoner of the Austrians in the citadel of Olmutz. 
 
SOME WASHINGTON LETTERS 207 
 
 Buck; for no such information that I can recollect ever 
 was given to me. — I had heard before the receipt of 
 your letter but how, is more like a dream than reality, 
 that that particular Deer was killed on Ravensworth. — 
 Nor did 1 ever suppose that you would have been so 
 unneighbourly as to kill any of my Deer knowing 
 them to be such; but as they had broke out the Pad- 
 dock in which they had been confined and were going 
 at large — and besides consisted as well of Country as 
 English Deer — I wished to protect them as much as 
 I was able and upon that principle, and that alone, de- 
 clined giving the permission you asked to hunt some 
 of my woods adjoining to yours — knowing that they 
 did not confine themselves within my exterior fences — 
 & moreover that, when Hounds are in pursuit, no 
 person could distinguish them from the wild Deer of 
 the Forest. — I thank you for your kind wishes — & am 
 sorry to hear you are in such bad health yourself & 
 sincerely wish you may be restored to that which is 
 good — My compliments to your Lady & Mrs. Mc- 
 Carty & 
 
 I am yours &c. 
 German Town Go. Washington 
 
 23d November 1793. 
 
 HENRY KNOX TO WASHINGTON. 
 
 Philadelphia 22 Nov 1793 
 Sir 
 
 General Stewart declines the office of Inspector 
 He says he would have done the same by the naval 
 
2o8 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 office, and that he was induced to make the application 
 to please his father in Law ; but that he intended this 
 day to have come to me to withdraw it, as his commer- 
 cial prospects are exceedingly Good — At the same time 
 he is grateful of the offer. 
 
 I submit a lettgr from Ensign John Morgan being 
 another specimen of his indecorum. In this he objects 
 to the proceedings of the Court Martial which have 
 been received, as not being "the original proceedings" 
 of the Court. I submit this letter to-day in order that 
 if you should judge proper that the validity of those 
 objections may be considered tomorrow. 
 
 I have the honor to be 
 Sir with the highest 
 respect 
 The President Your humble Servt 
 
 of the U S. Knox 
 
 WASHINGTON TO ALEXANDER WHITE. 
 
 To Alexander White Esqr. Chairman of a Meeting 
 of the Inhabitants of Frederick County, Virginia. — 
 
 Germantown 23d Novemr. '93. 
 Sir, 
 
 The advantages which result from a state of peace 
 & amity (preserved upon respectable conditions) with 
 all nations — and particularly when applied to our Coun- 
 try, yet in its infancy, are too striking to need elucida- 
 tion; & such as must be obvious to the least accurate 
 enquiry into the subject. — 
 
SOME WASHINGTON LETTERS 209 
 
 To secure these advantages to the United States, 
 it was thought expedient to pursue friendly & impartial 
 conduct toward the belligerent powers ; & with a view 
 to this object, and to the advancement of the prosper- 
 ity of these States, the Proclamation declaring the 
 actual state of things was thought right & accordingly 
 issued — and I am pleased to find the measure approved 
 by the enlightened Citizens of Frederick County. 
 
 I cherish a grateful recollection of the distinguished 
 services rendered to our Country by the French Na- 
 tion, & unite my wishes to those of my Fellow Citi- 
 zens of Frederick, that it may establish a Government 
 for itself upon those principles, which are best calcu- 
 lated to make it happy. — 
 
 If in the discharge of the duties attendant on the 
 trust committed to me by my Fellow Citizens, my 
 conduct should meet their approbation, it will be my 
 highest glory — & I am happy to have it approved by 
 the Citizens of Frederick County. — 
 
 Go. Washington. 
 
 German Town 24th Novr 1793 
 Dear Sir, 
 
 I have duly received your letter of the i6th In- 
 stant from Leesburg. — 
 
 In answer to which, respecting the purchase of 
 Buckwheat, I send you a Bank note for two hundred 
 
 * From the original in possession of the Historical Society of Penn- 
 sylvania. A fac-simile of this letter is shown on another page. 
 
2 1 o WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 Dollars ; being more disposed to give two & sixpence 
 pr. Bushel in Loundoun than depend upon the pur- 
 chase here, and the uncertainty of getting it round, in 
 time. — What the waggonage of it to my house from 
 thence (as fast as it is bought, for that I make a condi- 
 tion in order that no disappointment may happen) will 
 be I know not ; but in order to place the matter upon 
 an absolute certainty I had rather give three and six- 
 pence for it, delivered at Mount Vernon, than encoun- 
 ter delay, or trust to contingencies ; because, as it forms 
 part of my system of Husbandry for the next year, a 
 derangement of it would be a serious thing ; for which 
 reason, a small difference in the price can be no 
 object when placed against the disconcertion of my 
 plans — especially too as I am persuaded you will 
 purchase & transport for me on the best terms you 
 
 can. — 
 
 Four hundred & fifty bushels, or call it five hun- 
 dred, is the quantity I shall want ; & more money shall 
 be sent to you as soon as I know your prospects, and 
 the expenditures of what is now forwarded. — For the 
 reasons I have already assigned, I must meet with no 
 disappointment ; if therefore your prospects (as you 
 advance in this business) are not equal to your expec- 
 tation inform me of it in time that I may supply my- 
 self from hence before the frost sets in. — 
 
 The malady with which Philadelphia has been sorely 
 afflicted, has, it is said entirely ceased; — and all the 
 Citizens are returning to their old habitations again. — I 
 took a house in this Town on my first arrival, and shall 
 
M 
 
 l3.£2-^2_ ^-^2, 
 
 ,^^Eli^.^j.^ -^ 
 
 >. 
 
 
 ^ 
 
 /7<73 
 
 
 
 % 
 
 .^S't-^i-ov?-^^ £r-w;''5i^^J'i^i' zi2^<Jic;'^t->\-5 ^:>;2_ tS^,;^^-^ . //''•-dLA. _ 
 
 
 ^V\C 'Ho.^zSZ^rZ'- 
 
 Washington to Colonel Burgess Ball 
 Germantown, November 24TH, 1793 
 

 a' <iC^^ 
 
 y±.^ 
 
 £2. ,:^^^t-a^<t.-^^ ^=^^^t^i^^.j£^ jiJ'.'^??^o^i^<r^ jZ,^;K^::^pr^^ 
 .'^iJVJ^'yTi--^?!-^'- o7<^ ,i<^ J^:>_^ /^^^ij6. ^'^■y^^Ji^ ^-k,4.<:-4, ^ 
 
 X-Oi-^ i--e--e.yi. j'i?o-£-'^ ■it.^f^2^j:;^&^ , X^L^^ ^i'.^*^ ^^e.^^^^ oX^i*:- 
 
 
 /■^ X'JCe-*-^.^ ^^t^S' >t^i,^^^ife,^^^;i^;<_^ . ,sfe.,Si^-<i^>Z, ^ J^'y^r-cK' 
 
 aty£;V' 
 
 -y/'i^'^ 
 
 y:^'^^^ ,):\XlZ-^ ^^-iSf'T^.j-T^ i;?./-7^fe-<5u.,>v;z^^x-=.'^.tfe./^-E_t^ .2--J 
 
 
 
 
 Fac-simile of Letter in the Possession of the 
 Historical Society of Pennsylvania 
 
SOME WASHINGTON LETTERS 211 
 
 not give it up until Congress get themselves fixed, 
 altho' I spend part of my time in the City. — 
 
 Give my love to Mrs. Ball & Milly, and be as- 
 sured of the sincere esteem & regard with which I am 
 Dr. Sir Yours &c. 
 
 Go. Washington. 
 
 JOHN ARMSTRONG TO WASHINGTON. 
 
 Carlisle 25th. Novr. 1793 — 
 Honored Dear Sir 
 
 Please to accept my sincere Congratu- 
 lations on the reputed state of your good health & safe 
 return to our Afflicted Capitol, or the invirons thereof. 
 The design of this letter which ought to have been 
 much sooner addressed, is to tender my Cordial thanks 
 & acknowledgements of your Excellencys friendly re- 
 membrance of my son in the appointment proposed to 
 him — of which thro' an accidental delay in his corres- 
 pondence I knew nothing until a short time before 
 your last setting out to Mount Vernon, his non-ac- 
 ceptance I find gave him some pain for certain reasons 
 distinct from the change of his residence to that of 
 New York, which he thinks would not correspond to 
 his circumstances in life; and which I hope he may in 
 some degree have explain'd in the acknowledgments 
 incumbent upon him. It has been amongst my wishes 
 for and advices to him, to keep a constant eye to the 
 common dictates of providence, seeking resignation in 
 such station as most naturally presented itself however 
 private it might be, and I trust he has in a good de- 
 
2 1 2 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 gree begun to see the propriety thereof, and the sov- 
 ereign disposal of men & things which this world pre- 
 sents to the observation of every day! — his elder 
 brother who never looked for anything out of the 
 sphere of his own profession, and which former bad 
 health had even obliged him to lay aside, is now called 
 forth to deliberations of a very important kind for 
 which he hath few possitive qualifications beyond the 
 native simplity and firmness of his mind, yet such is 
 the course of human conduct. 
 
 In regard to our Western Affairs, a Solemn Silence 
 at present prevails — if Genl. Wayne has carried out 
 3000 effectives, from the consideration of more disci- 
 pline & better appointments, there is much to hope he 
 has reach'd the Villages near the begining of this 
 month. If a general action should take place it is not 
 likely to be Obstinate, as the Novelty joined to the 
 terror of the Horse has a tendency at once to intimi- 
 date & discomfit the Enemy, who in my Opinion have 
 no rational motive at all for a general engagement ex- 
 cept their numbers far exeeed our computation ; their 
 present estimation of their own Superiority at Arms 
 may prove a Stimulus to produce a general battle, but 
 if they persist (the circumstances of light & ground be- 
 ing favourable) the Stimulus I hope will prove a Snare 
 to these inflated men. 
 
 Publick prayers have been Offered in these parts 
 for the Success of our little Army — the preservation of 
 our Country & the Capitol of this State from wasteing 
 & contagious diseases — and the Governor I see has 
 
SOME WASHINGTON LETTERS 213 
 
 recommended another day of the like Service which 
 may be more generally attended to — this to be sure 
 is both laudible & highly expedient, but pity it is where 
 the holy Bible may be so easily consulted that this de- 
 vout prescription should appear to be wanting in a 
 Capital Article — as of the merits & intercession of 
 Jesus Christ, the proclamation sayeth nothing ! with- 
 out a special respect thereto (if revelation be true) the 
 other good things mentioned therein can avail nothing 
 — but the people we hope will make this necessary 
 Supplement. 
 
 The late afflictive Visitation of God to the inhabi- 
 tants of Philadelphia is truly alarming & ought to 
 awaken not only the Reflexion of Pennsylvania, but 
 of every State in the Union — nor is the limittaion of 
 the infection to that spot (as is generally reported) less 
 extraordinary, from which we are not unnaturally led 
 to Augur some good to this country — happy however 
 at the present in hearing not only of a gradual Abate- 
 ment of the malignant disease for more than a month 
 past, but now of it's total Abolition. 
 
 I should but improperly offer to touch the publick 
 difficulties of the present moment and can only express 
 my earnest wishes that together with the country where 
 you preside you may be safely carried through the po- 
 litical intricacies that either now or hereafter may fall 
 in the way — You were Sir, I firmly believe providen- 
 tially called to this Checkered task, and in a diligent 
 attention not only to your Official, but Christian duty, 
 have cause to be of good Courage, not because of an 
 
214 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 imperfect discharge of these duties, but because the 
 Lord reigns & will do all his pleasure, who can carry 
 you through this maze of things, with honor and dig- 
 nity to the end. ci 
 
 And this dear Sir in the simplity of truth 
 is the habitual desire of your frail 
 but invariable friend 
 John Armstrong 
 Genl. Washington 
 
 President of the United States. 
 
 BARTHOLOMEW DANDRIDGE TO HAMILTON. 
 
 The Secretary of the Treasury. 
 
 Germantown 26 Novr. 1793. 
 Sir, 
 
 By the President's command I have the honor to 
 enclose herewith two proposals made for repairing the 
 masons work of the Tyber Lighthouse, & the letter 
 of the Commr. of the Revenue which accompanied 
 them. Also two proposals for doing the woodwork 
 of said Lighthouse, with the Commr. of the Revenue's 
 letter accompanying them — and to inform you that the 
 President thinks it proper that the proposal of John 
 Armour for doing the masons work, and that of 
 Adrianas Van Denne for doing the wood work, with 
 the plain stair case, should be accepted. 
 
 I have the honor to be. 
 
 Sir, 
 Your mo. obt. Servt. 
 
 B. Dandridge. 
 S. P. US. 
 
SOME JVJSHINGTON LETTERS 215 
 
 BARTHOLOMEW DANDRIDGE TO HENRY KNOX. 
 
 26. Nov: 92- 
 By the President's order B. Dandridge has the 
 honor to enclose herewith a letter just reed, from the 
 Govr. of New York, with his correspondence with 
 Mr. Genet respecting the Carmagnole. The Presi- 
 dent desires you will take them into consideration, & 
 prepare such answer to the Govrs letter as to you may 
 seem proper. 
 
 B. D ge. 
 
 The Secy of War — 
 
 HENRY KNOX TO WASHINGTON. 
 
 November 26th 1793 
 Sir 
 
 I have the honor to submit to you, a copy of a 
 letter transmitted this day to the Governor of New 
 York, and which is in pursuance of the rules hereto- 
 fore adopted — Colonel Hamilton was present and ap- 
 proved of it, and it does not appear that any other 
 answer can be given to the Governor's letter of the 
 24th, than to acknowledge the same, and adhere to the 
 letter of to day. 
 
 I have the honor to be. 
 Sir, 
 with the highest respect. 
 Your most obedt Servt 
 Knox 
 The President of the United States. 
 
2 1 6 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 HENRY KNOX TO WASHINGTON. 
 
 War Department 
 
 Nov. 29. 1793 
 Sir 
 
 I know not what dependence to place upon the 
 second paragraph of the following intelligence just 
 received from Major Craig, dated Pittsburg 22d No- 
 vember, but it is my duty to communicate it — 
 
 " By accounts from Kentucky, it appears that the 
 army was on the i8th of October six miles advanced 
 of Fort Jefferson — and that a small party escorting 
 either Forage or Commissary stores, commanded by 
 Lieut. Lowry, had been attacked — Lieut. Lowry 
 killed, and the party defeated " — 
 
 " By account this moment arrived via of Niagara, 
 and Genesee, it appears that our army has had a gen- 
 eral engagement with the enemy, and has obtained a 
 complete victory" — 
 
 I am 
 Sir 
 with great respect 
 Your obedt servt 
 The President of the United States. Knox. 
 
 WILLIAM THORNTON TO WASHINGTON. 
 
 Sir 
 
 I have lately been informed that your Sec- 
 retary, Mr. Lear, has taken his departure for England, 
 on private Business, and as I imagine the multiplicity 
 of your Engagements, and the extent of your Cor- 
 respondence will require a Substitute I take the liberty 
 
SOME WASHINGTON LETTERS 217 
 
 of tendering my Services ; yet with a degree of hesi- 
 tation mixed with Confidence. I hesitate, lest my 
 Abilities may not be equal to all that might be requi- 
 site; but I should rest much Confidence in my En- 
 deavours to render Satisfaction, and to prove myself 
 worthy of the Trust reposed in me. While, how- 
 ever, I solicit this Trust I cannot be ignorant of a 
 Circumstance that might operate to my disadvantage. 
 My Situation in Life has precluded me from the 
 honor of being but very partially known to you, and 
 I must request a reference to one of my Friends. I 
 had the pleasure of residing for some years in the 
 same House with Mr. Madison, to whom I should 
 with much Satisfaction submit my Reputation. 
 
 I am well aware. Sir, that numerous Applications 
 are made to you upon Occasions of this sort, and I 
 reluctantly trouble you with this, but my desire to 
 dedicate my time to you and my Country, would not 
 permit me to be silent. Whatever may be your De- 
 termination in this Instance it cannot lessen my wish 
 to serve you to the utmost of my power, nor affect 
 the sincerity 
 
 with which I have the honor 
 of declaring myself 
 
 your respectful, and 
 Wilmington (Delaware) affectionate Friend &c. 
 
 November 29th: 1793. William Thornton 
 
CHAPTER XII 
 
 Congress Meets 
 
 THE subsidence of the fever by the 
 middle of November was so generally 
 understood that it does not appear that 
 any number of the members of Congress gath- 
 ered at Germantown before the date of meeting. 
 On November 20th John Beckley, the clerk 
 of the House of Representatives, writing to 
 James Madison, gives this picture of the city's 
 affairs : 
 
 Philadelphia, 20th November 1793* 
 
 Dear Sir, 
 
 I drop a line to inform you, that I returned to this 
 place with all my family, on Saturday last, and that 
 there is now as perfect safety from contagion of any 
 kind as was ever known here; — there is not known a 
 single case of the yellow fever in the City or its Sub- 
 urbs ; the Citizens have returned almost universally, 
 the public Offices are all opened, as well as all the 
 public & private Seminaries, business of every kind is 
 resumed, the markets as fully attended & supplied as 
 ever, and in short no vestige of the late calamity re- 
 
 * Hitherto unpublished. Archives of the Library of Congress. 
 
CONGRESS MEETS 219 
 
 maining except in the mournful remembrance of those 
 whose friends & relatives have fallen victims to it. — 
 Doctor Rush, assured me last evening that a greater 
 degree of health had never prevailed in this City than 
 at present. — A general fumigation of houses, apparel, 
 bedding &c. has taken place by order of the Corpora- 
 tion, and the lodging houses in particular will be as 
 safe as ever, or perhaps the safest of any from their 
 peculiar purifications &c. — I mention these things & 
 hope this may meet yo. at Fredericksburg, that yo. 
 may rely on my assurance that there is not the small- 
 est possible danger of proceeding immediately into the 
 City, and that as far as this short notice may enable 
 yo. to do so, it may be communicated to others of the 
 Southern Members, as I find great pains has been 
 taken to bring on the Eastern & Pennsylva. Members 
 to decide the choice of a Speaker &c. — 
 
 With great regard, I am. 
 
 Dear Sir, 
 
 Yr. Mo. obedt. Servant, 
 
 John Beckley. 
 
 R. R. Lee is arrived. 
 
 Jefferson went into Philadelphia on the 
 29th, having had satisfactory quarters offered 
 him. It seems likely that Washington and 
 other officers of the Government moved in on 
 that date or the day following, although the 
 
220 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 President had several times been into the city 
 during the latter part of the month. 
 
 The increasing feeling between the two 
 political parties, involving the contest for 
 Speaker of the JHouse, was not alone in draw- 
 ing members to be punctual in attendance at 
 the opening session. The knowledge that the 
 stirring events which had transpired since its ad- 
 journment must necessarily be laid before Con- 
 gress, and that important legislation would be 
 required to meet them, caused a quorum of 
 both houses to be present at the opening session, 
 despite the general alarm which had existed 
 among the members of both houses. 
 
 Congress met on Monday, December 2d, 
 and as usual a joint committee waited on the 
 President and informed him that they were 
 ready to receive his communications. On the 
 following day both houses having assembled in 
 the Senate chamber, Washington arrived, ac- 
 companied by the members of his Cabinet, and 
 in the presence of a large assemblage, which 
 included the foreign representatives and many 
 citizens, read the speech the preparation of 
 which, in Germantown, we have followed in 
 the previous chapters. 
 
CONGRESS MEETS 221 
 
 Fellow-Citizens of the Senate and House of Repre- 
 sentatives : 
 Since the commencement of the term for which I 
 have been again called into office, no fit occasion has 
 arisen for expressing to my fellow-citizens at large, 
 the deep and respectful sense, which I feel, of the 
 renewed testimony of public approbation. While, 
 on the other hand, it awakened my gratitude for all 
 those instances of affectionate partiality, with which I 
 have been honored by my country ; on the other 
 hand, it could not prevent an earnest wish for that re- 
 tirement, from which no private consideration should 
 ever have torn me. But influenced by the belief, that 
 my conduct would be estimated according to its real 
 motives, and that the people, and the authorities de- 
 rived from them, would support exertions having 
 nothing personal for their object, I have obeyed the 
 suffrage, which commended me to resume the executive 
 power ; and I humbly implore that Being, on whose 
 will the fate of nations depends, to crown with suc- 
 cess our mutual endeavors for the general happiness.* 
 
 * Charles James Fox, in a long her in that great contest which se- 
 
 address, at the opening of the ses- cured the independeiice of Amer- 
 
 sion of Parliament, January 2 1 st, ica, he did not choose to give up 
 
 1794, pronounced an eulogium the system of neutrality. Having 
 
 on the character of Washington, once laid down that line of con- 
 
 and in particular commended the duct, which both gratitude and 
 
 spirit and principles set forth in policy pointed out as most proper 
 
 the President's speech at the open- to be pursued, not all the insults 
 
 ing of Congress. He said in part: or provacation of the French min- 
 
 " Feeling gratitude to France ister. Genet, could turn him from 
 
 for the assistance received from his purpose." 
 
222 WASHINGTON IN GERM ANTOWN 
 
 As soon as the war in Europe had embraced those 
 powers, with whom the United States have the most 
 extensive relations, there was reason to apprehend, that 
 our intercourse with them might be interrupted, and 
 our disposition for peace drawn into question, by the 
 suspicions too often entertained by belligerent nations. 
 It seemed, therefore, to be my duty to admonish our 
 citizens of the consequences of a contraband trade, 
 and of hostile acts to any of the parties ; and to ob- 
 tain, by a declaration of the existing legal state of 
 things, an easier admission of our right to the immu- 
 nities belonging to our situation. Under these im- 
 pressions, the Proclamation, which will be laid before 
 you, was issued. 
 
 In this posture of affairs, both new and delicate, 
 I resolved to adopt general rules, which should con- 
 form to the treaties and assert the privileges of the 
 United States. These were reduced into a system, 
 which will be communicated to you. Although I have 
 not thought myself at liberty to forbid the sale of the 
 prizes, permitted by our treaty of commerce with 
 France to be brought into our ports, I have not re- 
 fused to cause them to be restored, when they were 
 taken within the protection of our territory, or by ves- 
 sels commissioned or equipped in a warlike form 
 within the limits of the United States. 
 
 It rests with the wisdom of Congress to correct, 
 improve, or enforce this plan of procedure ; and it 
 will probably be found expedient to extend the legal 
 code, and the jurisdiction of the courts of the United 
 
CONGRESS MEETS 223 
 
 States, to many cases, which, though dependent on 
 principles already recognised, demand some further 
 provisions. 
 
 Where individuals shall within the United States 
 array themselves in hostility against any of the powers 
 at war ; or enter upon military expeditions or enter- 
 prises within the jurisdiction of the United States ; 
 or usurp and exercise judicial authority within the 
 United States ; or where the penalties on violations of 
 the law of nations may have been indistinctly marked, 
 or are inadequate ; these oiFences cannot receive too 
 early and close an attention, and require prompt and 
 decisive remedies. 
 
 Whatsoever those remedies may be, they will be 
 well administered by the judiciary, who possess a long- 
 established course of investigation, effectual process, 
 and officers in the habit of executing it. In like man- 
 ner, as several of the courts have doubted, under par- 
 ticular circumstances, their power to liberate vessels of 
 a nation at peace, and even of a citizen of the United 
 States, although seized under a false color of being 
 hostile property ; and have denied their power to libe- 
 rate certain captures within the protection of our terri- 
 tory ; it would seem proper to regulate their jurisdiction 
 in these points. But if the executive is to be the re- 
 sort in either of the two last-mentioned cases, it is 
 hoped, that he will be authorized by law to have facts 
 ascertained by the courts, when, for his own informa- 
 tion, he shall request it. 
 
 I cannot recommend to your notice measures for 
 
224 WASHINGTON IN GERM ANTOWN 
 
 the fulfilment of our duties to the rest of the world, 
 without again pressing upon you the necessity of placing 
 ourselves in a condition of complete defence, and of 
 exacting from them the fiilfilment of their duties to- 
 wards us. The United States ought not to indulge a 
 persuasion, that, eontrary to the order of human events, 
 they will for ever keep at a distance those painful ap- 
 peals to arms, with which the history of every other 
 nation abounds. There is a rank due to the United 
 States among nations, which will be withheld, if not 
 absolutely lost, by the reputation of weakness. If we 
 desire to avoid insult, we must be able to repel it ; if 
 we desire to secure peace, one of the most powerful 
 instruments of our rising prosperity, it must be known, 
 that we are at all times ready for war. 
 
 The documents, which will be presented to you, 
 will show the amount and kinds of arms and military 
 stores now in our magazines and arsenals ; and yet an 
 addition even to these supplies cannot with prudence 
 be neglected ; as it would leave nothing to the uncer- 
 tainty of procuring a warlike apparatus in the moment 
 of public danger. Nor can such arrangements, with 
 such objects, be exposed to the censure or jealousy of 
 the warmest friends of republican government. They 
 are incapable of abuse in the hands of the militia, 
 who ought to possess a pride in being the depository 
 of the force of the Republic, and may be trained to a 
 degree of energy equal to every military exigency of 
 the United States. But it is an inquiry, which cannot 
 be too solemnly pursued, whether the act " more ef- 
 

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CONGRESS MEETS 225 
 
 fectually to provide for the national defence by estab- 
 lishing a uniform militia throughout the United 
 States," has organized them so as to produce their full 
 effect ; whether your own experience in the several 
 States has not detected some imperfections in the 
 scheme ; and whether a material feature, in an im- 
 provement of it, ought not to be to afford an oppor- 
 tunity for the study of those branches of the miUtary 
 art, which can scarcely ever be attained by practice 
 alone. 
 
 The connexion of the United States with Europe 
 has become extremely interesting. The occurrences, 
 which relate to it, and have passed under the knowl- 
 edge of the executive, will be exhibited to Congress 
 in a subsequent communication. 
 
 When we contemplate the war on our frontiers, it 
 may be truly affirmed, that every reasonable effort has 
 been made to adjust the causes of dissension with 
 the Indians north of the Ohio. The instructions 
 given to the commissioners evince a moderation and 
 equity proceeding from a sincere love of peace, and a 
 liberality having no restriction but the essential inter- 
 ests and dignity of the United States. The attempt, 
 however, of an amicable negotiation having been frus- 
 trated, the troops have marched to act offensively. 
 Although the proposed treaty did not arrest the prog- 
 ress of military preparation, it is doubtful how far the 
 advance of the season, before good faith justified active 
 movements, may retard them, during the remainder of 
 the year. From the papers and intelligence, which 
 
226 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 relate to this important subject, you will determine, 
 whether the deficiency in the number of troops, 
 granted by law, shall be compensated by succors of 
 militia ; or additional encouragements shall be pro- 
 posed to recruits. An anxiety has also been demon- 
 strated by the executive for peace with the Creeks and 
 Cherokees. The former have been relieved with corn 
 and with clothing, and offensive measures against them 
 prohibited, during the recess of Congress. To satisfy 
 the complaints of the latter, prosecutions have been 
 instituted for the violence committed upon them. But 
 the papers, which will be delivered to you, disclose the 
 critical footing on which we stand in regard to both 
 those tribes ; and it is with Congress to pronounce 
 what shall be done. 
 
 After they shall have provided for the present 
 emergency, it will merit their most serious labors to 
 render tranquillity with the savages permanent by cre- 
 ating ties of interest. Next to a rigorous execution of 
 justice on the violators of peace, the establishment of 
 commerce with the Indian nations on behalf of the 
 United States is most likely to conciliate their attach- 
 ment. But it ought to be conducted without fraud, 
 without extortion, with constant and plentiful supplies, 
 with a ready market for the commodities of the In- 
 dians, and a stated price for what they give in payment, 
 and receive in exchange. Individuals will not pursue 
 such a traffic, unless they be allured by the hope of 
 profit, but it will be enough for the United States to 
 be reimbursed only. Should this recommendation ac- 
 
CONGRESS MEETS 227 
 
 cord with the opinion of Congress, they will recollect, 
 that it cannot be accomplished by any means yet in 
 the hands of the Executive. 
 
 Gentlemen of the House of Representatives : — 
 
 The Commissioners, charged with the settlement 
 of accounts between the United States and individual 
 States, concluded their important functions within the 
 time limited by law ; and the balances, struck in their 
 report, which will be laid before Congress, have been 
 placed on the books of the treasury. 
 
 On the first day of June last, an instalment of one 
 million florins became payable on the loans of the 
 United States in Holland. This was adjusted by a 
 prolongation of the period of reimbursement, in the 
 nature of a new loan, at interest at five per cent, for 
 the term of ten years : and the expenses of this opera- 
 tion were a commission of three per cent. 
 
 The first instalment of a loan of two millions of 
 dollars from the Bank of the United States has been 
 paid, as was directed by law. For the second, it is 
 necessary that provision should be made. 
 
 No pecuniary consideration is more urgent than 
 the regular redemption and discharge of the public 
 deb ; on none can delay be more injurious, or an econ- 
 omy of time more valuable. 
 
 The productiveness of the public revenue hitherto 
 has continued to equal the anticipations which were 
 formed of it ; but it is not expected to prove commen- 
 
228 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 surate with all the objects, which have been suggested. 
 Some auxiliary provisions will, therefore, it is pre- 
 sumed, be requisite ; and it is hoped that these may be 
 made, consistently with a due regard to the conveni- 
 ence of our citizens, who cannot but be sensible of the 
 true wisdom of encountering a small present addition 
 to their contributions to obviate a future accumulation 
 of burdens. 
 
 But here I cannot forbear to recommend a repeal 
 of the tax on the transportation of public prints. 
 There is no resource so firm for the government of 
 the United States, as the affections of the people, 
 guided by an enlightened policy; and to this primary 
 good, nothing can conduce more than a faithful repre- 
 sentation of public proceedings, diffused without re- 
 straint throughout the United States. 
 
 An estimate of the appropriations necessary for 
 the current service of the ensuing year, and a state- 
 ment of a purchase of arms and military stores made 
 during the recess, will be presented to Congress. 
 
 Gentlemen of the Senate 
 
 and House of Representatives : 
 
 The several objects, to which I have now referred, 
 open a wide range to your delibeartions, and involve 
 some of the choicest interests of our common country. 
 Permit me to bring to your remembrance the magni- 
 tude of your task. Without an unprejudiced coolness, 
 the welfare of the government may be hazarded ; with- 
 
CONGRESS MEETS 229 
 
 out harmony, as far as consists with freedom of senti- 
 ment, its dignity may be lost. But as the legislative 
 proceedings of the United States will never, I trust, 
 be reproached for the want of temper or candor ; so 
 shall not the public happiness languish from the want 
 of my strenuous and warmest cooperations. 
 
 There is one omission in the President's 
 communications to Congress which one studying 
 the period cannot fail to note, and that is the 
 absence of all reference to the yellow fever and 
 its disastrous consequences to Philadelphia. As 
 a matter of fact, every effort seems to have been 
 made by the city to hush up the matter. There 
 are but few references to it in the local press, 
 and no direct references to it in the early pro- 
 ceedings of Congress. 
 
 The following April an act* was passed which 
 definitely gave to the President the powers which 
 he and his advisers were doubtful he had possessed. 
 It empowered him to convene Congress at such a 
 place as he deemed proper, whenever the prev- 
 alence of contagious sickness or the existence of 
 
 *"You remember the anxie- and their solicitude to pass an act 
 
 ties and alarms among the members to provide such an authority in 
 
 of Congress in 1793, their contin- future." 
 
 ual regret that no power had ex- yobn Adams to Oliver Wolcott, 
 
 isted to convene them elsewhere, October 20th, ^/p/. 
 
230 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 other circumstances rendered it hazardous to 
 the lives or health of Congress to meet at the 
 place to which they had adjourned. 
 
 In 1797 Congress was to assemble on the 
 I 3th of November, but on account of the fears 
 of the members a quorum did not gather until 
 some days later. The recurrence of the fever 
 and the inconvenience attending the gathering 
 of Congress at any other place than the seat of 
 government was referred to by President Adams 
 in his opening speech that year, and he suggested 
 that the act passed in 1 794 be so amended as to 
 admit of postponing the session beyond the con- 
 stitutional date. A bill to this effect was intro- 
 duced later, but failed of passage. 
 
 The reappearance of the fever in 1798 
 caused the suggestion to be made that Congress 
 should provide for the removal of all the offices 
 of government during the summer and early 
 autumn months, whether the city should again 
 be affected or not. It was pointed out that by 
 waiting until the last moment of safety and 
 then removing in hurry and confusion, public 
 papers were lost or deranged, the officers of the 
 government put to great inconvenience and the 
 public service made to suffer. Every private 
 
CONGRESS MEETS 231 
 
 gentleman who could afford it made his arrange- 
 ments early in the season for removing his fam- 
 ily during the warm months to places which 
 were more healthful than Philadelphia in sum- 
 mer. The government should be as provident 
 in this matter, and in justice to the officers and 
 the public interest should arrange in advance for 
 safe and comfortable quarters elsewhere.* 
 
 In both these years, as in 1793, the autumn 
 frosts stopped the ravages of the fever before 
 Congress assembled. 
 
 The following letters give a closing picture 
 of affairs in Philadelphia of early December : 
 
 LETTER FROM JOHN ADAMS TO MRS. ADAMS.. 
 
 Philadelphia, 5 December, i793.f 
 My Dearest Friend : — 
 
 I wrote you from Hartford, New York, and once 
 from Philadelphia ; but have not yet had the pleasure 
 of a letter from you since I left home. The night be- 
 fore last we had a deep snow, which will probably ex- 
 tinguish all remaining apprehensions of infection. 
 We hear of no sickness, and all seem at their ease and 
 without fear. 
 
 The President's speech will show you an abun- 
 
 * Benjamin Stoddert to John Adams, November 23d, 1798. 
 + From Letters from John Adams to his Wife. 
 
23 2 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 dance of serious business which we have before us. 
 Mr. Jefferson called on me last night, and informed 
 me that to-day we should have the whole budget of 
 foreign affairs, British as well as French. He seems 
 as little satisfied with the conduct of the French min- 
 ister, as any one. , Thomas* spent the last evening 
 with me. He has had an opportunity of seeing the 
 courts, judges, lawyers, &c., of New Jersey, in the 
 course of the last fall, and has, I hope, employed his 
 time to advantage. This day, he is to be examined, 
 and this week, sworn in. May a blessing attend him. 
 Although I have attended and shall attend my duty 
 punctually in senate, I shall not run about upon 
 visits, without caution. Yet I believe there is little or 
 no danger. 
 
 THOMAS JEFFERSON TO JOHN F. MERCER. 
 
 Philadelphia Dec. 7. lypj.f 
 Dear Sir 
 
 I received yesterday your favor of Nov. 30. and 
 can assure you that the city is understood universally 
 to be entirely clear of infection, not a single person 
 having the yellow fever at this time, and this has 
 been believed to be the case near three weeks, the 
 members of Congress here are entirely without appre- 
 
 * Thomas Boylston Adams, son the summer of 1793 at the 
 
 of John Adams. Charles J. Wister "Rock" house, still standing on 
 
 is authority for the statement that Penn street east of the Reading 
 
 T. B. Adams spent a portion of railroad. 
 
 •j- Archives Library of Congress. Heretofore unpublished. 
 
CONGRESS MEETS 233 
 
 hension. still I have not learned how a stranger may 
 know into what houses he may venture, as not having 
 the disease at all, in fact the members have ventured 
 into both taverns & lodging houses, where they have 
 had it. Francis's hotel near the Indian Queen has 
 never had it, therefore you may safely land there. 
 Mrs. Trist intends to take a small house & a few of 
 her acquaintances, but I believe she has not got a 
 house yet. in the one she formerly occupied, a person 
 died of the fever, but Mr. Giles and Mr. Venable 
 are there, & Stockdon has lived in the very room 
 where the person died for a considerable time, you 
 will have seen the speech & message & therefore I 
 need say nothing of the interesting matters before 
 Congress, my respects to Mrs. Mercer, accept your- 
 self my affectionate regard. 
 
 Th : Jefferson 
 Mr. Mercer. 
 
CHAPTER XIII. 
 
 The Summer of 1794. 
 
 THE experience of Washington in the 
 Morris house having apparently been 
 satisfactory, he arranged with Col. 
 Isaac Franks to take it for a period of about 
 six weeks in 1794. While ostensibly the object 
 was to escape the heat of the city, there can be 
 no doubt that the fear of a return of the yellow 
 fever had its influence in making a home in the 
 country desirable. On this occasion Mrs. Wash- 
 ington, and her two grandchildren, Eleanor 
 Parke Custis and George Washington Parke Cus- 
 tis, accompanied the President. It will be re- 
 membered that Edmund Randolph, writing of 
 the house in 1793, stated that it was poorly fur- 
 nished. To make it more habitable two loads 
 of furniture were sent from Philadelphia, and 
 on July 30th the family moved out. 
 
 The Academy had opened July ist, in 1794, 
 under the care of Frederick Herman, Washing- 
 ton's host of the year before, and of J. M. 
 Ray, from Edinburgh, lately from Paris. 
 The latter was the author of "Comprehensive 
 View of Philosophical, Political and Theological 
 
THE SUMMER OF 1794 235 
 
 Systems, from the Creation to the Present Time," 
 and also of the "Only True Guide to the English 
 Grammar," the authorship of which was adver- 
 tised by the trustees as a drawing card. The 
 curriculum included "French, Latin, Greek, 
 Hebrew and other Oriental languages, the 
 philosophical sciences and all the branches of a 
 common and liberal education, taught on an 
 improved plan, in the most expeditious manner, 
 in a way both scientific and applicable to prac- 
 tice in human life, etc." This advertisement 
 in the " Pennsylvania Gazette " must have ap- 
 pealed to Washington for the young lad, G. W. 
 Parke Custis, was enrolled as a student at the 
 Academy. For many years the recollection of 
 Washington appearing one day at the Academy 
 on horseback and asking "where George Wash- 
 ington Custis was," was treasured by one of 
 Germantown's well-known citizens, and another 
 schoolboy in later life pleasantly recalled tea 
 taken at the Washington home on the invitation 
 of his school fellow. 
 
 Of the daily life of the Presidential house- 
 hold a few traditionary incidents still linger in 
 Germantown. Horses and carriages had been 
 brought along, and daily the President was 
 
236 JTASHINGTON IN GERMANTOTFN 
 
 seen either on horseback or in his carriage, 
 becoming a familiar figure to the townspeople. 
 The family attended worship at the German 
 Reformed Church, diagonally across the Mar- 
 ket Square from the house, and it is said they 
 there occupied the front pew. Watson, in his 
 Annals, records that the Presidential mansion 
 was kept closed on the Sabbath until the church 
 bell began to toll, when it was opened just as the 
 family emerged. The Annalist further says : 
 
 "Many remember his very civil and cour- 
 teous demeanour to all classes in the town, as he 
 occasionally had intercourse with them. He had 
 been seen several times at Henry Fraley's* car- 
 penter shop, and at Bringhurst'sf blacksmith 
 shop talking freely and cordially with both. 
 They had both been in some of his campaigns. 
 His lady endeared herself to many by her uni- 
 form gentleness and kindness. Neither of them 
 showed pride or austerity." The picture of 
 Martha Washington is recalled, frequently lean- 
 ing out of the little window on the stair landing, 
 
 * Henry Fraley was a car- -j- John Bringhurst, and his son 
 penter and drum maker. His George, after him, were coach 
 shops were located where now and carriage makers. In 1780 
 stands St. Stephen's Church, Main John Bringhurst had built a " char- 
 Street, Germantown. iot " for Washington. 
 
THE SUMMER OF 1794 237 
 
 talking to her neighbor Mrs. Bringhurst in the 
 adjoining garden. 
 
 The pressure of public affairs was such 
 that the President found it necessary to ride 
 into Philadelphia several times a week to trans- 
 act the business of the various departments. 
 
 The following letters, while containing no 
 particular reference to Germantown, yet were 
 written from here and serve to show what mat- 
 ters of a private and public nature were occupy- 
 ing the President's thoughts during his summer 
 outing, 
 
 WASHINGTON TO JAMES ROSS.* 
 
 German Town Augt. 6th 1794. 
 The Honble. 
 
 James Ross Esqr ; 
 Sir, 
 The enclosed was written agree- 
 ably to its date, (ist Augst. 94) and would have been 
 sent by the mail to Pittsburg (under cover to Colo. 
 Presley Neville) but finding that conveyance had be- 
 come unsafe, I did not incline to embrace it. — It will, 
 I hope & expect, be put into your hands by Mr. Brad- 
 ford, the Attorney General, who will communicate to 
 you the purport of his visit into the part of the Coun- 
 try wherein you reside. — 
 
 * From Archives Library of Congress. Heretofore unpublished. 
 
23 8 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 The reason of my adding to the enclosed is, that 
 yesterday a person (whose name, nor place of abode I 
 did not enquire, being otherwise engaged, and hurried 
 at the time) called upon me to know if I would sell 
 my land in the County of Fayette — answering in the 
 affirmative, he asked me the price — I told him I had 
 given you a power to sell it, and to you his applica- 
 tion had best be made. — Pressing still to know the 
 price, I told him I could enter into no engagement, 
 but supposed if the land was yet unsold he might ob- 
 tain it at six dollars an acre. 
 
 This person was a driver of his own Team — and 
 from his appearance I hardly supposed he was in cir- 
 cumstances to advance ten pounds in payment ; but 
 to my surprise he gave me to understand (not gascon- 
 ading) that he could pay a ^^ 1,000 down, and with 
 sufficient time to dispose of the land on which he 
 lives, he could pay ^^3,000 more. I advised him to 
 proceed to you, and he seemed disposed to go — of 
 which I make this mention. 
 
 I am sorry I did not ask his name as he seemed 
 much in earnest and had rid from Philadelphia to this 
 place for the sole purpose of making the foregoing 
 enquiries. — I think he said he lived in Cumberland 
 County. — 
 
 With very great esteem 
 I am — Sir — 
 
 Your Obt. humble Servt. 
 
 Geo. Washington. 
 
THE SUMMER OF iyp4 239 
 
 WASHINGTON TO BURGESS BALL. * 
 
 Germantown, 10 August, 1794. 
 Dear Sir, 
 
 We removed to this place about twelve days ago 
 to avoid the heat of Philada., and probably may re- 
 main at it until the middle of next month. It was 
 here I received your letter of the 5th instant which 
 came to my hands yesterday. 
 
 The business of establishing arsenals and provid- 
 ing proper places for them, is within the Department 
 of War ; the Secretary of which (Genl. Knox) set out 
 on Friday last for the Province of Maine, and will not 
 be returned in less than six weeks — But as I am per- 
 suaded he has no idea (nor are there indeed funds 
 provided equal thereto) of giving 25,000 Dollars for 
 the site of one only I would not have you by any 
 means avoid sewing Wheat ; or doing any thing else 
 which you might have had in contemplation to do, on 
 account of what I mentioned to you in my last on 
 this subject. 
 
 What (under the rose I ask it) is said or thought, 
 as far as it has appeared to you, of the conduct of the 
 People of the Western Counties of this State (Penn- 
 sylvania) towards the excise officers ? — and does there 
 seem to be a disposition among those with whom you 
 converse to bring them to a sense of their duty, and 
 obedience to law, by coercion, if, after they are fully 
 notified by Proclamation and other expedients of the 
 
 *Froni Writings of Washington. Ford's edition. Vol. XII. 
 
240 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOfVN 
 
 consequences of such outrageous proceedings, they do 
 not submit to the laws of the United States, and suffer 
 the collection of the duties upon spirituous liquors 
 and stills to be made as in other places ? In a word, 
 would there be any difficulty, as far as the matter has 
 passed under your observation, in drawing out a part 
 of the Militia of Loudoun, Berkeley and Frederick — 
 to quell this rebellious spirit and to support order and 
 good government? You will readily perceive that 
 questions of this sort from me to you and your an- 
 swers, are for my private information, and to go no 
 farther than ourselves. 
 
 I am sorry to hear that your bad state of health 
 requires the waters of Bath, and hope they will restore 
 you. My love (in which Mrs. Washington unites) is 
 offered to Mrs. Ball and the family. I am, &c. 
 
 WASHINGTON TO COLONEL C. M. THURSTON.* 
 
 German Town Augt, loth 1794. 
 (Private) 
 Dear Sir, 
 
 Your favor of the 21st of June came duly to 
 hand. — For the communication contained in it, I thank 
 you; as I shall do for any other that is interesting to 
 the community and necessary for me to be informed of. 
 
 That there should exist in this country such a 
 spirit as you say pervades the people of Kentucky (and 
 which I have also learnt through other channels) is, to 
 
 * From the Archives of the Library of Congress. 
 

 
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THE SUMMER OF 1794 241 
 
 rae, matter of great wonder ; and that it should pre- 
 vail there, more than in any other part of the Union 
 is not less surprising to those who are acquainted with 
 the exertions of the General Government in their 
 favor. — But it will serve to evince whensoever, and to 
 whomsoever facts are developed (and they are not un- 
 known, at this moment, to many of the principal 
 characters in that State) that there must exist a pre- 
 disposition among them to be dissatisfied under any 
 circumstances, and under every exertion of govern- 
 ment (short of a war with Spain which must eventually 
 involve one with Great Britain) to promote their 
 welfare. 
 
 The protection they receive, and the unwearied 
 endeavors of the General Government to accomplish 
 (by repeated and ardent remonstrances) what they 
 seem to have most at heart — ^viz — the Navigation of 
 the Mississippi, obtains no credit with them or what is 
 full as likely, may be concealed from them or misrepre- 
 sented by those Societies who under specious colour- 
 ings are spreading mischief far & wide either from real 
 ignorance of the measures pursuing by the govern- 
 ment, or from a wish to bring it, as much as they are 
 able, into discredit — for what purposes, every man is 
 left to his own conjectures. 
 
 That similar attempts to discontent the public 
 mind have been practiced with too much success in 
 some of the Western Counties of this State you are, 
 I am certain, not to learn. — Actual rebellion against 
 the Laws of the United States exist at this moment 
 
242 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 notwithstanding every lenient measure which could 
 comport with the duties of the public Officers have 
 been exercised to reconcile them to the collection of 
 the taxes upon spirituous liquors and the Stiles. — 
 What may be the consequences of such violent & 
 outrageous proceedings is painful in a high degree 
 even in contemplation. — But if the laws are to be so 
 trampled upon with impunity, and a Minority (a small 
 one too) is to dictate to the Majority there is an end 
 put, at one stroke, to republican government ; and 
 nothing but anarchy and confusion is to be expected 
 thereafter ; for some other men, or society, may dislike 
 another Law and oppose it with equal propriety until 
 all Laws are prostrate and every one (the strongest I 
 presume) will carve for himself. — Yet there will be 
 found persons, I have no doubt, who although they 
 may not be hardy enough to justify such open opposi- 
 tion to the Laws, will, nevertheless, be opposed to co- 
 ercion even if the proclamation and the other temperate 
 measures which are in train by the Executive to avert 
 the dire necessity of a resort to arms, should fail. — 
 How far such people may extend their influence — and 
 what may be the consequences* thereof is not easy to 
 decide; but this we know, that it is not difficult by 
 concealment of some facts, & the exaggeration of 
 others (where there is an influence) to [manuscript 
 torn] well meaning mind — at least for a time — truth 
 will ultimately prevail where pains is taken to bring it 
 to light. 
 
 I have great regard for Lieut. Morgan and respect 
 
THE SUMMER OF 1794 243 
 
 his military talents, and am persuaded if a fit occasion 
 should occur no one would exert them with more zeal 
 in the service of his country than he would ; — It is 
 my ardent wish however that this Country should re- 
 main in Peace as long as the Interest, honour & dig- 
 nity of it will permit — and its laws, enacted by the 
 Representatives of the People freely chosen obtain. — 
 With much esteem 
 
 I am. Dear Sir 
 
 Your obedt. Hble. servt. 
 Colo. Thurston Go : Washington. 
 
 HAMILTON TO WASHINGTON.* 
 
 August 12, 1794. 
 
 The Secretary of the Treasury presents his re- 
 spects to the President, and sends him two letters 
 which were received last night from Pittsburg. 
 
 Would it not be advisable to put the garrison of 
 Fort Franklin in the power of Major Butler, so that 
 if he deems it advisable he may draw a part of it to 
 his aid ? 
 
 An attack from the Indians appears at present im- 
 probable, and an attack from the insurgents probable 
 enough. 
 
 The bearer of the letters waits orders to return. 
 Will the President suggest anything ? 
 
 * From Hamilton's Works, Vol. V. 
 
244 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 WASHINGTON TO HAMILTON.* 
 
 Germantown, August 12, 1794. 
 To the Secretary of the Treasury (acting for the Sec- 
 retary of War), 
 
 Your letter of the 1 2 th did not get to my hands 
 until my return from Philadelphia about an hour ago. 
 
 The letters from Majors Butler and Baif make it 
 necessary in my opinion, to vest discretionary orders 
 with the former, to reinforce the garrison at Pittsburgh 
 with as many men from Fort Franklin, as can be drawn 
 from it without hazarding that post too much ; provid- 
 ing the hazard (on account of the insurgents) may not 
 be too great for the proposed advantage of the measure. 
 
 I sent you through the Secretary of State, two let- 
 ters (of the 14th and i6th ult.) with inclosures from 
 Gov. Blount, which you will consider and report on. 
 
 Geo. Washington. 
 
 GOVERNOR LEE TO WASHINGTON.^ 
 
 Richmond August 17th 94. 
 My dear sir 
 
 Your late orders for a detachment of militia & 
 proclamation give birth to a variety of sensations & 
 opinions. All good citizens deplore the events which 
 have produced this conduct on your part, & feel but 
 one determination to maintain inviolate our happy 
 government at the risk of their lives & fortunes — 
 there are some among us from the influence of party 
 
 * Hamilton's Works, Vol. V. 
 
 ^ From Archives Library of Congress. 
 
THE SUMMER OF 1794 MS 
 
 spirit & from their own ambitious views who rejoice in 
 national adversity and gladden when they hear of gov- 
 ernmental embarrassments. 
 
 I am gratified in telling you that the great body of 
 this state will exert themselves in whatever way you 
 may direct to the utmost of their power & I am per- 
 suaded that you may count with certainty on their zeal 
 & determination, the awful occasion demands united 
 efforts & I beg leave to offer to you my services in 
 any way or station you may deem them proper — 
 
 When I saw you in Philadelphia I had many con- 
 versations with you respecting Mr. Henry & since my 
 return I have talked very freely & confidentially with 
 that gentleman — I plainly perceive that he has credited 
 some information which he has received (from whom I 
 know not) which induces him to believe that you con- 
 sider him a factious seditious character & that you ex- 
 pressed yourself to this effect on your return from So. 
 Carolina in your journey thro this state as well as else- 
 where — Assured in my own mind that his opinions are 
 groundless I have uniformly combatted them, & lament 
 that any endeavors have been unavailing — He seems 
 to be deeply & sorely affected. It is very much to be 
 regretted, for he is a man of positive virtue as well as 
 of transcendent talents, & was it not for his feelings 
 above expressed, I verily believe he would be found 
 among the most active supporters of your administra- 
 tion — Excuse me for mentioning this matter to you, I 
 have long wished to do it in the hope that it will lead 
 to a refutation of the sentiments entertained by Mr. H. 
 
246 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 A very respectable gentleman told me the other 
 day that he was at Mr. JefFersons & among enquirys 
 which he made of that gentleman, he asked if it was pos- 
 sible that you had attached yourself to G Britain & if 
 it could be true that you was governed by British in- 
 fluence as was reported by many — 
 
 He was answered in the following words "that 
 there was no danger of your being biassed by consider- 
 ations of that sort so long as you was influenced by 
 the wise advisers or advice which you at present had " — 
 
 I requested him to reflect & consider & to repeat 
 again the answer — He did so & adhered to every word 
 — Now as the conversation astonished me & is inex- 
 plicable to my mind as well as derogatory to your char- 
 acter, I consider it would be unworthy in me to with- 
 hold the communication from you — To no other per- 
 son will it ever be made. The gentleman is a Mr. 
 Robert Quarles who lives in Fluvanna county & is a 
 man of strict veracity. 
 
 Wishing you every happiness I am your afF. friend 
 
 Henry Lee 
 
 WASHINGTON TO EDMUND RANDOLPH.* 
 
 (private) 
 
 19 August 1794. 
 Dear Sir, 
 
 I sincerely condole with you and Mrs. Randolph 
 on your late loss ; but as it was an event which had 
 
 * From Archives Library of Congress. Heretofore unpublished. 
 
THE SUMMER OF 1794 24? 
 
 been long expected, I hope she will meet the stroke 
 with fortitude. 
 
 Under the circumstances which exist, it is by no 
 means my desire that you should attend to the duties 
 of your Department in the city to-day, unless it accords 
 perfectly with your convenience & inclination. — In that 
 case, and that only, it is my wish that the files of your 
 office may be thoroughly examined to see if such com- 
 munications are on them as Mr. Jaudenes refers to, 
 and that you and the Secretary of the Treasury would 
 give this matter full consideration between this & to- 
 morrow, when, at ten o'clock I will meet you both at 
 my house in town, to know the result, and to converse 
 further on this subject; which from present appear- 
 ances, I think undignified, & highly insulting on the 
 
 part of Spain. -^ o 
 
 ^ ^ Yours &c. ^ ,,7 , . ^ 
 
 Go. Washmgton. 
 
 BURGESS BALL TO WASHINGTON. 
 
 Bath — 19th of Aug: 94. 
 Dear Sir, 
 
 Yours of the loth came to hand yesterday, and 
 this I shall send by the first opporty. that offers to any 
 of the Post towns, there to be put in the Mail. 
 
 Nothing can be more distressing at this time than 
 the Conduct of the People opposed to the Excise in 
 Pensylva., and, I know how much it must distress you. 
 As far as I've been able to judge of the dispositions of 
 the People in the Counties of Loundoun Berkley & 
 
 * Archives Library of Congress. Heretofore unpublished. 
 
248 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 Frederick, from being in Compy. now & then, I am 
 inclined to think the People of those Counties wou'd 
 be induced to parade pretty strong, that is, provided 
 officers were appointed who had their Confidence. — 
 I have not seen Genl Dark or Genl. Morgan, but have 
 understood that they are averse to the measures 
 adopted by the Insurgents — Previous to your Procla- 
 mation, and the sendg. out Commissioners, the oppin- 
 ions of those I heard were much divided, but since it 
 seems unanimously admitted by those who have ever 
 been opposed to the Excise, as well as those who have 
 always thought it a good Law, yt, if the Commission- 
 ers effected nothing, & the Insurgents continued to 
 defy the Government, Force was absolutely necessary, 
 and they ought to be brought to subjection — Your 
 Proclamation, & sendg. out Commissioners, has given 
 (I believe) great satisfaction. — Genl. Morgan I con- 
 ceive wd. be a proper man to have Command, as he 
 wd. sooner than any other get the men to march from 
 those Counties, and probably on meeting the Insur- 
 gents wd. be more dreaded — Genl. Dark is very pop- 
 ular in this County, and (I think) wd. very soon get a 
 number of men to march. 
 
 I've had a good deal of Conversation in this 
 County with a Capt. Stephenson (now at Bath) a man 
 who rais'd the finest Compy. to go against the Indians, 
 and in the shortest time — He says he will go cheer- 
 fully, & he knows Dark will if order' d — Stephenson is 
 now (I believe) his Brigade Major, & is really a clever 
 Officer — Morgan I've not heard of particularly, but it 
 
THE SUMMER OF 1794 249 
 
 is here said, that he says he will go if order'd — It was 
 but a little while before I left Loundoun, that the Out- 
 rage commenced, so that I heard very little there abt. 
 it ; but, in Conversation with Genl. Mason (Thomp- 
 son) who has always been opposed to the Excise he 
 admitted it was a lawless procedure & ought to be 
 crushed. — The Excise Law seems by a great many (& 
 I fear by the major part) to be very much condemn'd 
 but those with whom, of that Class, I have conversed,* 
 admit that a repeal of it in a proper manner, is the 
 only mode that ought to be attempted. Mr. Robt. 
 Brooke of Frederick Cy. who is here, and who has al- 
 ways been as much opposed to the Law as any one, 
 speaks also in that way — He is the leading man (I be- 
 lieve) in our Assembly, & is expected to be the next 
 Governor. Upon the whole Sir, it seems the general 
 Opinion, that if moderate measures will not bring the 
 deluded People to a Sense of their duty, force must, as 
 they dread the Idea of a State of Anarchy, wch. other- 
 wise must infallibly ensue. God grant your Exertions 
 in this AiFair, as all others may be crown'd with suc- 
 cess. I've been at this place abt. 5 days, and instead 
 of findg. relief I am much worse, but hope it may be, 
 that the Water, after weakening, may prove a restora- 
 tive. I left my Family at Colo. Washington's where 
 all were well of both families. — 
 
 With Complimts. to Mrs. Washington, 
 
 I am Dr. Sir 
 Yr. Affect. Sert. 
 
 B. Ball 
 
250 WASHINGTON IN GERM ANTOWN 
 
 WASHINGTON TO HAMILTON.* 
 
 German town 21 Augt. 1794. — 
 
 To your note of this date (in behalf of the Depart- 
 ment of War) asking my opinion or direction respect- 
 ing the advisability of sending (under the existing cir- 
 cumstances of the Western Counties of Pennsylvania) 
 two months pay to the army under the immediate or- 
 .ders of General Wayne, I answer, that under my pres- 
 ent impressions the measure had better be delayed — 
 at least until the Commissioners who were sent into 
 those Counties, make their report. It certainly would 
 from all the information that has been received from 
 that quarter be too hazardous to send a sum of money 
 by the way of Pittsburgh, thro' counties that are in 
 open rebellion ; & besides the circuitousness of the 
 route through what is called the Wilderness, & the 
 length of time required to send it by a messenger that 
 way, there would be, in my opinion, no small risk in 
 the attempt. But as I shall be in the City tomorrow, 
 I will converse with you on this subject. — 
 
 Go. Washington. 
 
 TOBIAS LEAR TO WASHINGTON."}- 
 
 George Town Augt. 22d. 1794. 
 My dear Sir, 
 
 It is with peculiar pleasure that 1 inform you of 
 my having once more arrived in this comparatively 
 happy Country. — 
 
 * From Writings of Washington, Sparks' edition. Vol. X. 
 
 •j- From Archives Library of Congress. Heretofore unpublished. 
 
THE SUMMER OF 1794 251 
 
 I sailed from Liverpool on the nth of June and 
 reached this place today, I have brought with me a 
 valuable cargo of goods — and have made my arrange- 
 ments of business to my satisfaction in England, Scot- 
 land & Holland. I have returned home without vis- 
 iting other Countries, because I found the Spirit of 
 Revolution was so far prevailing everywhere that there 
 could be no calculation upon the operations of meas- 
 ures next year which may be concerted this in the com- 
 mercial line. — 
 
 I heard of Mr. Jay's arrival in London the day 
 before 1 left Liverpool, and have had the pleasure to 
 learn since my arrival that there have been advises 
 from him of a later date than my sailing. — 
 
 Having but a few moments before the mail closes 
 it is not in my power to say anything on the subject 
 of public affairs in Europe, & indeed of facts, & opin- 
 ions founded on observation, I should have more to 
 say than could be contained in the limits of a reason- 
 able letter. — 
 
 To the good & reputable Mrs. Washington I must 
 beg to be remembered in terms of gratitude & high re- 
 spect — and to Mrs. Dandridge — Miss Nelly & my 
 young friend Washington I give my best love. 
 
 With sentiments of sincere attachment I have the 
 honor to be, my dear Sir, 
 
 Your grateful friend & respectful servant 
 
 Tobias Lear. 
 
252 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 BURGESS BALL TO WASHINGTON.* 
 
 Bath 24th of August, 1794. 
 Dear Sir, 
 
 Yours of the loth I reed, here on the 17th & I 
 wd. ere this have answer'd it, but wish'd to do it with 
 better Information than I then had, and indeed I wd. 
 have waited another day, as this day I expect Genl. 
 Mason in from Loundoun, but, tomorrow is the Post 
 day from Winchester and an opporty. just now offers 
 there. — The Conduct of the People in the upper part 
 of Pennsylva. is exceedingly reprobated by all the 
 thinkg. part here ; and by those who have always been 
 opposed to the Excise, as well as those in favour of it. 
 The Gent, just callg. on his way to Winchester obliges 
 me to curtail this letter, & to enclose you a scroll I 
 wrote some days ago — I've just now been talkg. to 
 Genl. Mason who arrived last night from Loundoun. 
 He says he is afraid the Militia wd. not be got easily 
 to march, but, as he had ever been opposed to the Ex- 
 cise System, he wd. think it more incumbent on him 
 to use his Exertions to have the Laws executed— Genl. 
 Dark I expect wd. be fond of going out, but Genl. 
 Morgan, I fear, without the Chief Command wd. not. 
 
 I hope you'll excuse my taking this liberty of ex- 
 pressg. myself — I thank God I'm better than at the 
 date of my other 
 
 I'm in haste Dr. Sir 
 
 Yr. Affect. Hble. servt. 
 
 B. Ball 
 * From Archives Library of Congress. Hitherto unpublished. 
 
THE SUMMER O F 1794 253 
 
 WASHINGTON TO HENRY LEE, GOVERNOR OF VIRGINIA.* 
 
 (Private) 
 Germantown, 26 August, 1794. 
 Dear Sir, 
 
 Your favor of the 1 7th came duly to hand, and I 
 thank you for its communications. As the insurgents 
 in the western counties of this State are resolved, (as 
 far as we have yet been able to learn from the commis- 
 sioners, who have been sent among them,) to persevere 
 in their rebellious conduct until what they call the ex- 
 cise law is repealed, and acts of oblivion and amnesty 
 are passed, it gives me sincere consolation amidst the 
 regrets, with which I am filled by such lawless and out- 
 rageous conduct, to find by your letter above men- 
 tioned, that it is held in general detestation by the 
 good people of Virginia, and that you are disposed to 
 lend your personal aid to subdue this spirit, and to 
 bring those people to a proper sense of their duty. 
 
 On this latter point I shall refer you to letters 
 from the war office, and to a private one from Colonel 
 Hamilton, (who, in the absence of the Secretary of 
 War, superintends the military duties of that depart- 
 ment,) for my sentiments on this occasion. 
 
 It is with equal pride and satisfaction I add, that, 
 as far as my information extends, this insurrection Is 
 viewed with universal indignation and abhorrence, ex- 
 cept by those, who have never missed an opportunity 
 by side blows or otherwise to aim their shafts at the 
 
 * From Sparks' Writings of Washington, Volume X. 
 
254 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 general government ; and even among these there is 
 not a spirit hardy enough yet openly to justify the 
 daring infractions of law and order ; but by palliatives 
 are attempting to suspend all proceedings against the 
 insurgents, until Congress shall have decided on the 
 case, thereby intending to to gain time, and if possible 
 to make the evil more extensive, more formidable, 
 and of course more difficult to counteract and subdue. 
 
 I consider this insurrection as the first formidable 
 fruit of the Democratic Societies, brought forth, I be- 
 lieve, too prematurely for their own views, which may 
 contribute to the annihilation of them. 
 
 That these societies were instituted by the artful 
 and designing members (many of their body I have no 
 doubt mean well, but know little of the real plan,) 
 primarily to sow the seeds of jealousy and distrust 
 among the people of the government, by destroying 
 all confidence in the administration of it, and that 
 these doctrines have been budding and blowing ever 
 since, is not new to any one, who is acquainted with 
 the character of their leaders, and has been attentive 
 to their manoeuvres. I early gave it as my opinion to 
 the confidential characters around me, that, if these 
 societies were not counteracted, (not by prosecutions, 
 the ready way to make them grow stronger,) or did not 
 fall into disesteem from the knowledge of their origin, 
 and the views with which they had been instituted by 
 their father. Genet, for purposes well known to the 
 government, that they would shake the government 
 to its foundation. Time and circumstances have con- 
 
THE SUMMER OF 1794 ic^e, 
 
 firmed me in this opinion ; and I deeply regret the 
 probable consequences ; not as they will aiFect me per- 
 sonally, for I have not long to act on this theatre, and 
 sure I am that not a man amongst them can be more 
 anxious to put me aside, than I am to sink into the 
 profoundest retirement, but because I see, under a dis- 
 play of popular and fascinating guises, the most 
 diabolical attempt to destroy the best fabric of human 
 government and happiness, that has ever been pre- 
 sented for the acceptance of mankind. 
 
 A part of the plan for creating discord is, I per- 
 ceive, to make me say things of others, and others of 
 me, which have no foundation in truth. The first, in 
 many instances I know to be the case ; and the second 
 I believe to be so. But truth or falsehood is immate- 
 rial to them, provided the objects are promoted. 
 
 Under this head may be classed, I conceive, what 
 it is reported I have said of Mr. Henry, and what 
 Mr. Jefferson is reported to have said of me ; on both 
 of which, particularly the first, I mean to dilate a little. 
 With solemn truth then I can declare, that I never ex- 
 pressed such sentiments of that gentleman, as from 
 your letter he has been led to believe. I had heard, 
 it is true, that he retained his enmity to the constitu- 
 tion ; but with very peculiar pleasure I learnt from 
 Colonel Coles, who I am aure will recollect it, that 
 Mr. Henry was acquiescent in his conduct, and that, 
 though he could not give up his opinion respecting 
 the constitution, yet, unless he should be called upon 
 by official duty, he would express no sentiment un- 
 
256 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 friendly to the exercise of the powers of a government, 
 which had been chosen by a majority of the people, 
 or words to this effect. 
 
 Except intimating in this conversation (which, to 
 the best of my recollection, was introduced by Colonel 
 Coles), that report Tiad made Mr, Henry speak a dif- 
 ferent language ; and afterwards at Prince Edward 
 Court-House, where I saw Mr. Venable, and, finding 
 I was within eight or ten miles of Mr. Henry's seat, 
 and expressing my regret at not seeing him, the con- 
 versation might be similar to that held with Colonel 
 Coles ; I say, except in these two instances, I do not 
 recollect, nor do I believe, that in the course of the 
 journey to and from the southward I ever mentioned 
 Mr. Henry's name in conjunction with the constitu- 
 tion or government. It is evident, therefore, that 
 these reports are propagated with evil intentions, to 
 create personal diiferences. On the question of the 
 constitution, Mr. Henry and myself, it is well known, 
 have been of different opinions, but personally I have 
 always respected and esteemed him ; nay, more, I 
 have conceived myself under obligations to him for the 
 friendly manner in which he transmitted to me some 
 insidious anonymous writings that were sent to him in 
 the close of the year 1777, with a view to embark him 
 in the opposition that was forming against me at that 
 time. 
 
 I well recollect the conversations you allude to in 
 the winter preceding the last, and I recollect also, that 
 difficulties occurred, which you, any more than myself, 
 
THE SUMMER OF 1794 257 
 
 were not able to remove. First, though you believed, 
 yet you would not undertake to assert, that Mr. 
 Henry would be induced to accept any appointment 
 under the general government; in which case, and 
 supposing him to be inimical to it, the wound the 
 government would receive by his refusal, and the 
 charge of attempting to silence his opposition by a 
 place, would be great. Secondly, because you were of 
 opinion that no office, which would make a residence 
 at the seat of government essential, would comport 
 with his disposition or views. And, thirdly, because, 
 if there was a vacancy in the supreme judiciary at that 
 time, of which I am not at this time certain, it could 
 not be filled from Virginia, without giving two judges 
 to that State, which would have excited unpleasant 
 sensations in other States. Anything short of one of 
 the great offices, it could not be presumed he would 
 have accepted ; nor would there, under any opinion he 
 might entertain, have been propriety in (my oiFering 
 such an office). What is it, then, you have in con- 
 tomplation, that you conceive would be relished ? 
 And ought there not to be a moral certainty of its ac- 
 ceptance ? This being the case, there would not be 
 wanting a disposition on my part, but strong induce- 
 ments on public and private grounds, to invite Mr. 
 Henry into any employment under the general gov- 
 ernment, to which his inclination might lead, and not 
 opposed by those maxims, which have been the invari- 
 able rule of my conduct. 
 
 With respect to the words said to have been 
 
258 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 uttered by Mr. Jefferson, they would be enigmatical 
 to those who are acquainted with the characters about 
 me, unless supposed to be spoken ironically ; and in 
 that case they are too injurious to me, and have too 
 little foundation in truth, to be ascribed to him. 
 There could not be the trace of doubt on his mind of 
 predilection in mine towards Great Britain or her poli- 
 tics, unless, (which I do not believe,) he has set me 
 down as one of the most deceitful and uncandid men 
 living ; because not only in private conversations be- 
 tween ourselves on this subject, but in my meetings 
 with the confidential servants of the public, he has 
 heard me often, when occasions presented themselves, 
 express very different sentiments, with an energy that 
 could not be mistaken by any one present. 
 
 Having determined, as far as lay within the power 
 of the executive, to keep this country in a state of neu- 
 trality, I have made my public conduct accord with 
 the system ; and, whilst so acting as a public character, 
 consistency and propriety as a private man forbid 
 those intemperate expressions in favor of one nation, 
 or to the prejudice of another, which many have 
 indulged themselves in, and I will venture to add, to 
 the embarrassment of government, without producing 
 any good to the country. With very great esteem 
 and regard, I am, dear Sir, yours, &c.* 
 
 * Governor Lee communicated to know that he had not incurred 
 
 the contents of this letter to Pat- the censure of the President. As 
 
 ricit Henry, with the result that disclosed by Henry Lee's letter 
 
 the latter wrote to Washington, on page 244, serious misunder- 
 
 expressing the pleasure it gave him standings had existed. 
 
THE SUMMER OF 1794 259 
 
 BURGESS BALL TO WASHINGTON. * 
 
 Bath — aSthAug: 1794. 
 Dear Sir, 
 
 In additition to the Scroll I wrote you a few days 
 ago, I take the liberty of mentiong. some further 
 Circumstances. I am inform'd Morgan & Dock are 
 order'd upon the Expidition on the Insurgents, 
 shd. it be carryed on. In Frederick no Draft will be 
 necessary, & Volunteers will turn out, as also in this 
 County, from which (this County) the proportion is 
 abt. 200 men. I hope in God the deluded People 
 e'er this have come to a sense of their Error, but, if 
 they do not, I have no doubt but a sufficient no. will 
 soon be got to quell them. Since I wrote you I think 
 I've been mending, but my wife having been (since I 
 left her) very sick, she is now on her way here also, so 
 that I expect we shall yet be here 2 or 3 weeks more. 
 If 100 Acres of Land with the Seat on the River will 
 be sufficient for the purpose wanted, I will take for 
 that 2000 Virga. money, of which I will inform Genl. 
 Knox, or, if you please, you may communicate to him. 
 This Place is gettg. now almost deserted, so that we 
 shall have a dreary time of it, but, Colo. Fitzgerald is 
 here, who is an Old Acquaintance, and he is mendg. 
 fast. 
 
 With best respects to Mrs. Washington, I am. 
 Dear Sir 
 
 Yr. Affect. Hble. sert. 
 
 B. Ball 
 
 * From Archives Library of Congress, Hitherto unpublished. 
 
26o WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 WASHINGTON TO TOBIAS LEAR. * 
 
 German Town Augt. 28th 1794. 
 My Dear Sir, 
 
 It gave me very sincere pleasure to find by your 
 letter of the 22. inst., which by the by did not come 
 into my hands until the evening of the 26th (not time 
 enough to acknowledge the receipt of it by the Post 
 of next day) that you had arrived in good health at 
 George Town with a valuable cargo of Goods & that 
 you had arranged your business to your satisfaction in 
 England, Scotland and Holland. — When you shall 
 have arranged your business at George Town, & 
 business or inclination may turn your face towards the 
 Eastward, it will be unnecessary to add, that to see 
 you, wd. make this family happy ; & with a little 
 roughing (?), on your part, you could be accommodated 
 therein. — 
 
 If you have no accts. later, I have the pleasure to 
 tell you that by a letter from your good Mother — to 
 Mrs. Washington, that she and little Lincoln were 
 perfectly well on the nth of this month — and, by her 
 account — that he continues to be the fine sprightly 
 child you left him. — 
 
 The enclosed, though out of season now, will 
 serve to show that your letters did not sleep with me 
 in silence. — It went by Mr. Jay, and was returned by 
 him with the following paragraph on a letter dated 
 London 23 June, 
 
 * From Archives Library of Congress. Hitherto unpublished. 
 
THE SUMMER OF 1794 261 
 
 "On Sunday the 15th of this month I arrived 
 here. — The next day I made enquiries for Mr. Lear, 
 and was informed that he had gone to Liverpool to 
 embark for America. — I asked whether it was probable 
 that letters sent by the Post would find him still there 
 — the answer was, that it was highly probable. — 
 Under these circumstances & well knowing the jealous 
 attention now paid to letters passing through the post 
 office, I thought it more advisable to forebear making 
 the experiment & to return that letter to you." — 
 
 The copy of my letter to Mr. Young, from whom 
 I have received no acknowledgement, will be of no 
 other use to you now, than to shew what were, and 
 still are, my wishes ; that if any enquiries for back 
 lands should be made in your presence, you might be 
 enabled to bring mine into view. — The plan with 
 respect to my Mount Vernon Estate, I have no idea 
 could be carried into effect in this Country. — 
 
 I had in contemplation to visit that place about 
 the last of September, or beginning of October, but 
 the rebellious conduct of the people in the Western 
 counties of this State renders the journey uncertain — 
 & may defeat it altogether. — 
 
 With very great sincerity 
 and affection 
 
 I am always yours 
 
 Go : Washington. 
 Mr. Lear. 
 
26a WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 WASHINGTON TO TOBIAS LEAR. * 
 
 German Town 28th Augt. 1794. 
 Tobias Lear Esqr ; 
 
 Dear Sir, 
 
 Mr. Johnson & Doctr. Stuart having resolved to 
 withdraw themselves as Commissioners of the Federal 
 City, and not to act after the meeting which is pro- 
 posed to be held on the 15th of next month, it has 
 become to appoint two others in their places. — One of 
 whom, it is said, ought to possess a considerable stock 
 of legal abilities as cases are frequently occuring to 
 render Law knowledge necessary for the purposes of 
 deciding on points depending thereon as for the 
 draughting of agreements and other instruments which 
 are requisite in the progress of the business. — 
 
 Mr. Scott (at present of Baltimore) a gentleman 
 eminent in the profession of the Law — a man of char- 
 acter & fortune — and one who has the welfare of the 
 new City, much at heart has been applied to and 
 accepts the appointed trust. — And if it is convenient 
 and agreeable to you to- accept also the Commission 
 will be again completed and the business go on with- 
 out interruption from and after the ensuing meeting as 
 before. — 
 
 It has been found from experience, indispensibly 
 necessary that the Commissioners should reside in the 
 City (in George Town would be tantamount) and de- 
 vote, by some arrangement amongst themselves, much 
 of their time to the multitudinous concerns of the 
 * From Archives Library of Congress. Hitherto unpublished. 
 
THE SUMMER OF 1794 263 
 
 same — thereby superceeding the necessity of employ- 
 ing a superintendent. — As the rendering of such 
 duties are not to be expected on the terms the late 
 Commissioners served (and two of them decline it 
 under any terms) I have fixed the salary for each at 
 sixteen hundred dollars pr. Annum. — 
 
 Were it not that I am unwilling to add any thing 
 that might carry with it the appearance of influencing 
 your judgment, in the decision you are called upon to 
 make in this case, I should have expressed a wish that 
 it might be found convenient to you to accept the ap- 
 pointment. — If, however, you should find it incom- 
 patible with your other plans & views, and decline the 
 acceptance — I pray you to let me know, as far as you 
 may be able to discover, in how respectable a light 
 Doctr. Thornton stands, or would be considered by 
 the Proprietors of the Federal City (amongst whom 
 he spent some time in the month of July last). — The 
 Doctr. is sensible, and indefatigable I am told, in the 
 execution of whatever he engages ; — To which may be 
 added his taste for architecture, but being little known 
 doubts arise on that head. — If (in case of your non- 
 acceptance) any other person or persons shd. occur to 
 you as fit for this business, be so good as to mention 
 (under the rose) their names to me. — The appoint- 
 ment Is necessary, and can be delayed no longer. — 
 
 With very great esteem & regard 
 I am — Dear Sir — 
 Your Affecte. servt. 
 Geo. Washington. 
 
264 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 WASHINGTON TO JOHN JAY.* 
 
 Philadelphia, 30 August, 1794. 
 My Dear Sir, 
 
 Your letter of the 23d of June from London, and 
 the duplicate, have both been received ; and your safe 
 arrival after so short a passage gave sincere pleasure, 
 as well on private as on public account, to all your 
 friends in this country ; and to none in a greater 
 degree, I can venture to assure you, than it did to 
 myself. 
 
 As you will receive letters from the Secretary 
 of State's office, giving an official account of the public 
 occurrences as they have arisen and progressed, it is 
 unnecessary for me to retouch any of them ; and yet I 
 cannot restrain myself from making some observations 
 on the most recent of them, the communication of 
 which was received this morning only. I mean the 
 protest of the governor of Upper Canada, delivered 
 by Lieutenant Sheaffe, against our occupying lands 
 far from any of the posts, which long ago they ought 
 to have surrendered, and far within the known and 
 until now the acknowledged limits of the United 
 States. 
 
 On this irregular and high-handed proceeding of 
 Mr. Simcoe, which is no longer masked, I would 
 rather hear what the ministry of Great Britain will say, 
 than pronounce my own sentiments thereon. But can 
 that government or will it attempt, after this official 
 
 * Sparks' Writings of Washington, Volume X. 
 
THE SUMMER OF 1794 265 
 
 act of one of their governors, to hold out ideas of 
 friendly intentions towards the United States, and 
 suffer such conduct to pass with impunity ? 
 
 This may be considered as the most open and 
 daring act of the British agents in America, though it 
 is not the most hostile or cruel ; for there does not 
 remain a doubt in the mind of any well-informed per- 
 son in this country, not shut against conviction, that 
 all the difficulties we encounter with the Indians, their 
 hostilities, the murders of helpless women and inno- 
 cent children along our frontiers, result from the con- 
 duct of the agents of Great Britain in this country. In 
 vain is it then for its administration in Britain to 
 disavow having given orders, which will warrant such 
 conduct, whilst their agents go unpunished ; whilst we 
 have a thousand corroborating circumstances, and in- 
 deed almost as many evidences, some of which cannot 
 be brought forward, to prove, that they are seducing 
 from our alliance, and endeavoring to remove over the 
 line, tribes that have hitherto been kept in peace and 
 friendship with us at a heavy expense, and who have 
 no causes of complaint, except pretended ones of their 
 creating ; whilst they keep in a state of irritation the 
 tribes, who are hostile to us, and are instigating those, 
 who know little of us or we of them, to unite in the 
 war against us ; and whilst it is an undeniable fact, that 
 they are furnishing the whole with arms, ammunition, 
 clothing, and even provisions, to carry on the war ; I 
 might go further, and. If they are not much belied, add 
 men also in disguise. 
 
266 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 Can it be expected, I ask, so long as these things 
 are known in the United States, or at least firmly be- 
 lieved, and suffered with impunity by Great Britain, 
 that there ever will or can be any cordiality between 
 the two countries ? I answer. No. And I will under- 
 take, without the gift of prophecy, to predict, that 
 it will be impossible to keep this country in a state of 
 amity with Great Britain long, if the posts are not sur- 
 rendered. A knowledge of these being my sentiments 
 would have little weight, I am persuaded, with the 
 British administration, and perhaps not with the 
 nation, in effecting the measure ; but both may rest 
 satisfied, that, if they want to be in peace with this 
 country, and to enjoy the benefits of its trade, to give 
 up the posts is the only road to it. Withholding 
 them, and the consequences we feel at present con- 
 tinuing, war will be inevitable. 
 
 This letter is written to you in extreme haste, 
 whilst the papers respecting this subject I am writing 
 on are copying at the Secretary of State's office, to go 
 by express to New York, for a vessel which we have 
 just heard sails to-morrow. You will readily perceive, 
 therefore, that I have had no time for digesting, and 
 as little for correcting it. I shall only add, that you 
 may be assured always of the sincere friendship and 
 effection of yours, &c. 
 
 WASHINGTON TO THOMAS PETER. * 
 
 German Town Augt. 31st 1794. 
 Sir, 
 
 Your letter of the 27th came to my hands yes- 
 terday. — 
 
 * From Archives Library of Congress. Hitherto unpublished. 
 
THE SUMMER OF 1794 267 
 
 If I had the Sum you require, or knew where to 
 obtain it, my endeavours to accommodate you with a 
 loan to the amount of £2000 should not be wanting. 
 — But the truth, as it respects my own resources, is, 
 that if my receipts & expenditures are balanced at the 
 years end, it is full as much as they have been compe- 
 tent to for many years back, — And I have so little 
 knowledge of the resources of others — lenders or bor- 
 rowers of money, in a private way — as not to be able 
 to designate any person who may come under the class 
 of a lender. — In fact I believe there are not many of 
 them. — Commerce & the various speculations of the 
 present day leave but little money for loan at the legal 
 interest between individuals. — If, however, in the 
 course of a few days I can obtain more Satisfactory In- 
 formation you shall be made acquainted therewith but 
 would have you place no dependance thereon — for it 
 would be uncandid not to add, that I believe there are 
 an hundred borrowers for one lender — and that I am 
 not struck with the material difference between becom- 
 ing security to the Bank, or to an individual, unless 
 interest is higher in one case than the other, — in both 
 it must, or ought to be, regularly paid, but when 
 I say this, I ought to acknowledge at the same time, 
 that I know nothing of the rules & regulations by 
 which the Banks are governed — having no interest in, 
 or the least concern with, any one of them. 
 
 As you think, & I have always heard, the con- 
 templated purchase would be a valuable one, it would 
 be to be regretted, if you should miss it, as there can 
 
268 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 be no doubt under the rapid increase of land (particu- 
 larly that wch. approximate to the Seat of Govern- 
 ment) but that one half would pay for the whole a few 
 years hence — under these circumstances — and under 
 such clear perceptions as Mr. Peter (your father) has 
 of these things I can have no conception that because 
 he would give a preference to one mode, he would 
 pass by another to obtain an object which, if I am not 
 mistaken, would be pecuharly interesting & advan- 
 tageous to you, eventually. — I wish you all happiness 
 — & with esteem am. 
 Sir 
 
 Your Obedt. Servt. 
 
 Mr. Thomas Peter. ^^^ Washington. 
 
 WASHINGTON TO ROBERT LEWIS.* 
 
 German Town Augt. 31st 1794. 
 Mr. Robt. Lewis- 
 Dear Sir, 
 
 Your letter of the 19th inst: has been received; 
 and I will answer such parts as require it. — 
 
 The money in your hands, belonging to me may 
 be lodged in Alexandria, and made subject to Mr. 
 William Pearce (my manager) his order. — This will 
 answer all the purposes of your coming down, if he is 
 advised thereof — At the same time write, and transmit 
 me the Acct, that I may see who have paid, and who 
 are delinquent. — Charge every thing due to yourself 
 
 * From Archives Library of Congress. Heretofore unpublished. 
 
THE SUMMER OF 1794 269 
 
 in the account, as I have an insuperable objection to 
 after reckonings. — 
 
 The ensuing Rents may be applied in purchasing 
 in the Leases if to be accomplished on advantageous 
 terms — but do not deceive yourself as to the calcula- 
 tion of receiving i o pr. Ct. on the money advanced. — 
 For illucidation take this example — suppose a tena- 
 ment at ^5. pr. Annum is bought in for ^^too, & 
 rented afterwards at j^io pr. Annum — what pr. Ct. do 
 I receive in this case? not 10 pr. Ct. surely, but 5 Pr. 
 Ct. only; because ^^5. would have been received if no 
 purchase had been made, and the ;^ioo loaned to you, 
 or any other person would produce the other ^5; of 
 course I gain nothing by the purchase — This state- 
 ment might and probably had occurred to you but to 
 make the matter certain, I thought it would be best to 
 mention it. — 
 
 If advantageous purchases can be made, and the 
 rents arising are inadequate, upon notice thereof I will 
 fall upon some expedient to enlarge the fund. — and 
 the time of purchase may be extended to the days 
 of Grace allowed by the Leases, or the Replevy Bonds 
 where given. — 
 
 In all cases of Transfer under the authority of Mr. 
 Muse, request in my name, & behalf, a copy of the 
 licence given by me, to him, for this purpose before 
 you bring ejectments which you may not be able to 
 support. — The reason I require this is, because I can- 
 not have have recourse to my papers at Mount Ver- 
 non to furnish copies from thence. 
 
270 WASHINGTON IN GERM ANTOWN 
 
 I am very well satisfied with what you have done 
 with my property in Winchester, Bath & on Potomac 
 River but wish you had mentioned the terms on which 
 you had offered the latter — and whether there was no 
 condition made with the tenant at Bath, that If I 
 should want the house for myself, or a friend, dur- 
 ing the season of resort to the Waters, it was to 
 be cleared & got in order for me or for such friend, 
 without hesitation or delay ; without such reservation 
 I might as well be without the house. — Nor do I 
 recollect (not having your letters by me) whether you 
 have in any of them mentioned in what condition they 
 are. — They cost me ^^150 cash to build them. — 
 
 Give my love, in which Mrs. Washington united, 
 
 to Mrs. Lewis — and be assured of the friendship & 
 
 regard of 
 
 Yr. Affecte. Uncle 
 
 Geo. Washington. 
 
 WASHINGTON TO HAMILTON. 
 
 Wednesday, Sept. 3, 1794.* 
 Dear Sir : 
 
 As I know nothing that calls me to the city to- 
 day, I shall not be there until to-morrow, which will 
 be in time for common occurrences. 
 
 The contents of the inclosed are agreeable. 
 
 Yours always. 
 
 * Hamilton's Works, Vol. V. 
 
THE SUMMER OF 1794 271 
 
 WASHINGTON TO BRYAN FAIRFAX.* 
 
 German Town Sept. 8th 1794. 
 My dear Sir, 
 
 It is not my wish to add to the trouble which I am 
 sorry has been thrown upon you (in a manner un- 
 avoidably) in the management of the suit against against 
 the Representatives, or Security of the decreased Doctr. 
 Savage. — But when I am written to on this subject by 
 those who are interested therein, I feel the necessity 
 of making some response lest silence should receive an 
 unfavorable interpretation. 
 
 On this ground I give you the trouble of perusing 
 the enclosed letter from Mr. Peter Trenor — and my 
 answer ; after which let me pray you to put a wafer on 
 the letter, & cause it to be forwarded agreeably to the 
 superscription by the first conveyance that may present 
 to your view. — 
 
 Who Mr. Trenor is I know not. — Nor have I 
 any recollection of what he says I wrote to him on the 
 15th of Novr. 1786 (having no papers of that date by 
 me at this place to recur to) — I have some imperfect 
 remembrance, it is true, of an application that was made 
 to me by a person in [word obliterated] about the 
 period he mentions with which I was not favorably 
 impressed — but why I was not so, or whether it came 
 from this person, I am unable to inform you with the 
 least precision. — Nor is it of much moment as the 
 authenticity and regularity of the papers he alludes to 
 must decide his pretensions. — 
 
 * From Archives Library of Congress. Heretofore unpublished. 
 
272 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 With best regards to Mrs. Fairfax, and with very 
 sincere esteem & regard for yourself 
 
 I remain — Dear Sir 
 
 Your most AfFecte. & 
 The Revd. Obedient Servant 
 
 Mr. Fairfax. Go : Washington. 
 
 BURGESS BALL TO WASHINGTON.* 
 
 Sulphur Springs — loth Sep: 94. 
 Dear Sir, 
 
 I took the liberty of writing to you about 2 weeks 
 ago from Bath — At that time I expected my Wife wd. 
 have come there to me, but, she was then so sick she 
 cd. not, and I came down to her. We are now all at 
 these Springs wch. are only abt. 8 miles from Colo. 
 Washingtons & shall remain abt. 10 days longer — 
 Fanny is mendg. but as to myself, 'tho I sometimes 
 appear so, upon the whole I fear I do not. Our 
 Children, & Miss Milly who is with us, are all pretty 
 well — Last Saturday I went to Martinsburg to see 
 how the Regt. in that part of the County turn'd out 
 their proportion of Men, (which was 91) and was 
 happy to see them turn out Voluntarily without 
 Drafting. On Monday I went to Chs. Town to see 
 the conduct of the Regt. there, which was equally 
 clever, so that the Quota of this County is ready — As 
 to Frederick, I was sorry to hear that a part from one 
 of the Regts. there was obliged to be drafted, 'tho 
 Morgan exerted himself much for Volunteers, but, 
 
 *Froin Archives Library of Congress. Heretofore unpublished. 
 
THE SUMMER OF 1794 273 
 
 the reason I'm told was owing to an unpopular ap- 
 pointment of one of the Captains — The other Regt. 
 turn'd out all their Volunteers — Thus the Quota of 
 the two Counties are ready, and I'm inclined to think 
 that treble the no. wd. turn out. I can hear nothg. 
 from any of the other Counties at all, all of which that 
 are to furnish, are on this side of the Ridge, but, I 
 doubt not but the Virga. Quota will very soon be able 
 to march, if necessary. Upon the whole, I do believe 
 the People wish to see the Laws executed & Govern- 
 ment supported, 'tho a great many wish much to see 
 the Excise Law repealed. 
 
 Governour Lee, we are told, is appointed to the 
 Command, and I'm happy to find (from what I've 
 seen & heard) that Morgan & Dark will go under 
 him — the latter I've seen, & the other I've heard of, 
 as a certainty — At Martinsburg one of the Insurgents 
 is taken up (& put in Goal) who confesses he put the 
 fire to Nevells Kitchen and was on his way to Shep- 
 perds Town for Salt — He is to have a Trial on Friday, 
 but will no doubt be sent to Pennsylva. I have 
 written to Genl. Knox respecting the 100 Acres of 
 Land as I mentd. in my last to you, and if that qty. 
 of Land will do (and the price) I wish as soon as 
 possible to be determined, as I can make a purchase 
 of Bull near Colo. Washingtons, 400 Acres at ^^5 & 
 for improvemts. 300;^. Mr. Newman, the English- 
 man who arrived not long since at Alexanda. said he 
 wd. call & see my Land, the price of which I told 
 him was 25 dollars per Acre, Cash. 
 
274 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 Fanny & Miss Milly desire their best respects to 
 Mrs. Washington & yourself, & I am 
 
 with the highest Esteem 
 Dr. Sir 
 
 Yr. Affect. Hble st. 
 B Ball 
 NB. I'm in great pain with my Bowels at present, 
 which must be some Apology for this Scroll. 
 
 We expect to be at Home in abt. 12 days from 
 this. — I've made free to inclose my Letter to Genl. 
 Knox, which you'll please forward or suppress, as you 
 think expedient. B B 
 
 WASHINGTON TO JAMES ROSS.* 
 
 German Town Sepr. 13th 1794. 
 
 By Mr. Bradford I was favored with your letter of 
 the 3d. Inst, from Pittsburgh ; together with Two 
 hundred and Sixty seven dollars on account of Colo. 
 Cannons Bond ; — for which, and the Bank you have 
 placed the residue of it in, I pray you to accept my 
 best thanks. 
 
 I am ready, and willing, to dispose of my lands in 
 Fayette County at the price, & on the terms condi- 
 tionally offered by the man from Cumberland County, 
 whensoever he, or any other is disposed to close the 
 matter agreeably thereto. — And I would dispose of 
 my other tract in Washington County on the condi- 
 tions mentioned in your letter of the third, by Mr. 
 Bradford. — I do not, for reasons which will readily 
 * Archives Library of Congress. Hitherto unpublished. 
 
THE SUMMER OF 1794 i-js 
 
 occur to you repeat these, but a recurrence to, or 
 recollection of the purport of that letter, will inform 
 you what they are. — I will only add on this head, that 
 I am more sollicitous that interest on the unpaid sums 
 shall be secured with punctuality, and without trouble, 
 when due, than I am for the shortness of the credit 
 which is to be allowed ; — especially if lengthening the 
 credit would enhance the price. — 
 
 The state of matters in the Western Counties of 
 this Commonwealth fill me with the deepest regret, 
 but I shall not trouble you with more than this general 
 expression of it. Circumstanced as things have been 
 in them, for sometime, a letter on business of a private 
 nature, & of immaterial consequence, was not to be 
 expected ; — nor would the postponement of one, until 
 a more tranquil scene have surprized or excited the 
 least impatience in me. 
 
 With great esteem & regard 
 I am. Sir 
 
 Your obedt. & obliged 
 The Honble. Hble. Servant 
 
 James Ross Esqr. Go: Washington. 
 
 On September 20th the family moved back 
 into the city. It cost the President I7.00 to 
 get his two loads of goods hauled back, M^hereas 
 the charge to take them out was but |6.oo. 
 Colonel Isaac Frank's bill for rent of the house 
 for the six weeks was $201.60. 
 
276 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 One of the most troublesome public matters 
 which engaged Washington's attention during 
 his six weeks in Germantown was the insurrec- 
 tion in the western part of Pennsylvania. On 
 August 7th a .proclamation had been issued 
 warning the law breakers that if they did not 
 disperse by September ist, troops would be sent 
 against them. The proclamation having had 
 no effect on the insurgents, on the 2d of Sep- 
 tember the militia was called out and ordered 
 to rendezvous at Carlisle. On the 30th of the 
 month Washington set out from Philadelphia, 
 with his " single-seated phaeton drawn by four 
 fine gray horses," accompanied by Alexander 
 Hamilton, riding on horseback, on his left and 
 his private secretary, Bartholomew Dandridge, 
 riding on his right. Their route took them up 
 through Germantown. According to tradition, 
 a troop of cavalry was drawn up to escort him 
 through the village, but in order to avoid them, 
 the party went out School House Lane and up 
 the Township Line. They dined at Norris- 
 town, slept at the Trappe, and reached Carlisle 
 October 4th. Washington remained with the 
 army about three weeks, returning to Philadel- 
 phia October 28th. 
 
CHAPTER XIV. 
 
 Washington as a Farmer. 
 
 THE years between the close of the 
 Revolution and the beginning of 
 Washington's term as President of the 
 United States were devoted diligently to the 
 improvement of the estate at Mt. Vernon, and 
 his regret in again leaving private life was in- 
 creased by this necessary absence from the farms 
 and fields, to which he was so deeply attached. 
 Regularly while the President was absent 
 from Mt. Vernon a report from his manager, 
 giving the most minute information, was for- 
 warded to him. The condition of the weather, 
 the crops, the hands, the increase in live stock 
 and the amount of work accomplished were all 
 set forth in detail. Accompanying the report 
 was a letter giving other particulars. Through- 
 out the Presidential term these letters were an- 
 swered once a week, sometimes oftener, and 
 usually on Sunday afternoon, which the Presi- 
 dent reserved for his private correspondence. 
 These letters were first written out roughly, 
 then copied in fair hand and press copies taken. 
 
278 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 It is from these copies, preserved in the archives 
 of the Library of Congress, that the seven follow- 
 ing letters written from Germantown have been 
 selected. They are part of a remarkable series 
 of one hundred . and sixteen, covering his corre- 
 spondence with William Pearce, who was his 
 superintendent from October, 1793, to January, 
 1797. They serve to show the greatness of 
 Washington's mind in its grasp of details, and 
 are remarkable when it is considered that they 
 were often written in the midst of the most 
 trying and exacting public duties. It will be 
 noted that they were all written on Sunday. 
 
 German Town Augt. 3d 1794.* 
 Mr. Pearce, 
 
 I removed to this place on Wednesday last in 
 order to avoid the heat of the City of Philadelphia. — 
 It is probable I shall remain here until about the 
 middle of September. — But letters will come to me 
 as regularly as if I had resided in the City. — 
 
 Your letter of the 27th ulto., and the reports 
 I received yesterday as usual, & wish the rains we 
 have been complaining of may not be much wanted 
 before the end of this month, as the weather since that 
 fall hath put on the appearance of drought — which if 
 
 * This entire series of letters was edited by Moncure D. Conway 
 and published by the Long Island Historical Society in 1889. 
 
WASHINGTON AS A FARMER 279 
 
 it happens, will be almost as injurious to the Corn 
 Crop as if those rains had not fallen. — 
 
 If your Corn ground has got foul by the rains 
 which have fallen, or if they are not perfectly clean, I 
 had rather, although it will inevitably delay your 
 seeding, put off sowing Wheat — or anything else in- 
 deed — until it is clean, light and otherwise fit for the 
 reception of them — for I have never found anything 
 but disappointed hopes from a contrary practice ; 
 which has long decided me in an opinion, that to 
 attempt the cultivation of more ground than one can, 
 under almost any circumstances, master, is not the 
 most certain way to make large and fine Crops, but an 
 infallible one to exhaust the land. — I am perfectly 
 persuaded moreover, that if the same labour & ex- 
 pence of manure, &c. (which in the common mode of 
 management in Virginia) was bestowed on 50 acres of 
 land, that is now scattered over an 100, that the for- 
 mer would be more productive & profitable to the 
 owner. — What I would be understood to mean by this 
 is that a field not more than half prepared for a Crop 
 — the Crop not more than half tilled — & the ground 
 but indifferently manured, will not produce as much 
 as the half of it would if these were bestowed in full 
 proportion to the requirements of the land. — If one's 
 means are equal to the accomplishment of the whole, 
 there can be no doubt in that case but that the whole 
 will bring more than half — All I mean to express is, 
 that whatever is attempted should be well executed as 
 it respects Crops — and as it respects meadows & other 
 
28o WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 improvements to complete & make good as one goes. 
 — It is not my intention to apply what I have here 
 said to the state in which you have described your 
 Corn ground to be under from so much rain or to any 
 particular case ; but as general observations which I 
 am persuaded will hold good in all cases. — An essen- 
 tial object with every farmer ought to be the destruc- 
 tion of weeds. — His arable and pasture gr. should 
 produce nothing but grain, pulse if he raises them, 
 vegetables of different sorts, according to his designs, 
 and grasses. — Nothing then but deep and frequent 
 plowing, hoeing & hand weeding, can eradicate weeds, 
 & such other trash as foul, & exhaust the fields, & 
 diminish the Crops : and these, neither in season, in 
 quantity or quality, can be given, if more is undertaken 
 than the force & means is competent to do. 
 
 I am glad to hear that the young Timothy is be- 
 ginning to shew itself in the new meadows. — It is an 
 ardent wish of mine to have the whole well covered 
 with grass — free from sprouts & weeds, and smooth 
 for the scythe. — How does the Clover which was sown 
 with the Oats at Mansion house come on ? — Does the 
 Potatoes at that place look well ? — What is the general 
 appearance of them at the Farms ? 
 
 Crow has been applying to Colonel Ball (near 
 Leesburgh in Loudoun County) for a place — if there- 
 fore he or McKoy remains it will only be because 
 (after enquiry) they find they cannot do better — I 
 would have you therefore, make your agreements with 
 whomsoever you may think will answer your purposes 
 
fVASHINGTON AS A FARMER 281 
 
 on the Eastern Shore, or elsewhere, conclusive, other- 
 wise you may meet with some disappointment, and at 
 a late hour perhaps be obliged to put up with any you 
 can get. — For your own ease and satisfaction, I am 
 persuaded you will endeavor to provide men of good 
 character and such as have the reputation of being in- 
 dustrious, sober & knowing in their management of 
 Negros and other concerns of a farm. — These things 
 being ascertained to your own satisfaction is all I 
 require, as you know what has been, or ought to be 
 given for such Overlookers as I stand in need of. — 
 
 It seems to me, to be indispensibly necessary, that 
 some person should be engaged in place of Thomas 
 Green, to look after my Carpenters, for in the manner 
 they conduct under his superintendency, it would be 
 for my interest to set them free, rather than give them 
 their victuals & cloaths. — James, by the Reports, has 
 been 9 days I perceive in plaining the floors of the 
 house in Town. — Muclus (besides what was done to 
 it before) six days paving, & sanding the Cellar which 
 a man in Philadelphia wd. have done in less than as 
 many hours. — Davis eight or nine days papering, and 
 soon — whilst Green himself, & the others, appear de- 
 termined (as it would seem to me) to make the new 
 house at Union farm a standing job for the Summer ; 
 — as the Chimney, & under-pinning will, more than 
 probably be, for Davis the same time. When this 
 last work is done, that is, underpinning the house, it 
 must be remembered that air holes is left in it to pre- 
 vent the sleepers from rotting. — 
 
282 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 It may not be amiss to say beforehand that no 
 trifling character (unless he is suffered to tread in the 
 footsteps of Green) will do for an Overlooker of these 
 workmen. — Besides the usual requisites of skill, hon- 
 esty, sobriety & industry, he must be a man of temper, 
 firmness, & resolution. — for it is not to be expected 
 that men who have been in the habits of such extreme 
 idleness so long, can be recovered from it without 
 prudent management, & much resolution properly 
 tempered. — I do not mean that a person in the place 
 of Green should be employed before his year is up, 
 unless his conduct in the meantime should in your 
 judgment, indispensibly require it. 
 
 I would not have you engage any person in the 
 room of Butler yet, though it would be but fair & 
 candid to let him know that by his age, inactivity, and 
 unacquaintedness with the management of Negros it 
 would not suit me to continue him longer than for the 
 term he stands engaged at present. — If it suits him 
 equally to go away before the expiration of that term, 
 I would, in that case, write to the farm, I have men- 
 tioned to you in my last two letters, to see if he is still 
 disengaged, and would go there ; — But unless Butler's 
 inclination leads him to go, I shall neither require it, 
 nor write to the other. 
 
 As soon as you are able to fix upon the precise 
 time at which you shall leave Mount Vernon for the 
 Eastern Shore mention it in a letter, & when it is 
 probable you will be back that I may regulate my 
 action accordingly. — 
 
WASHINGTON AS A FARMER 283 
 
 The Bacon & other things which you sent up to 
 Alexandria are arrived in good order, in the City of 
 Philadelphia. 
 
 I have nothing more to add than that, as this is 
 the critical month for Corn, which is also a plant that 
 is subject to great & sudden changes, my desire is that 
 you will mention the appearance of it in every letter 
 you write. — I want also to know how the Buck Wheat, 
 sown for seed, has come up & looks — and whether of 
 that you turned in as a manure there was seed enough 
 ripe to stock the ground again with this plant. — I am 
 
 Your friend &c 
 
 Go: Washington 
 Mr. William Pearce. 
 
 German Town, Augt. loth 1794. 
 Mr. Pearce 
 
 I have duly received your letter of the 2d. with 
 the reports of the preceding week. — 
 
 If you think the Oat ground at River farm, will 
 not be too much drawn by a succeeding Crop of 
 Wheat, for Clover, I have no objection to your sow- 
 ing it with Wheat. — but I have serious doubts on this 
 head ; and doubts equally serious of another kind, — 
 viz — that on such stiff & baking land as mine is, 
 sowing Clover on Wheat, in the Spring, (or which is 
 still better, on light snows in the Month of January 
 or February) will rarely answer. — A proof of this you 
 have had both at Dogue Run & Union farm the pres- 
 
284 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 ent year ; and to the best of my recollection I have 
 not been much more successful in former years. — But I 
 leave it to you to act in this case according to your own 
 judgment. — It is my wish to lay the ground you speak 
 of to Clover as soon as possibly it can be put into 
 condition to bear it, to any advantage — for until this 
 happens, the seed is, in a manner, thrown away and an 
 expense, without profit is incurred. — 
 
 When the money becomes due for the flour sold 
 in Alexandria, receive the same — take from it what 
 your necessities may require ; — & deposit the rest 
 in the Bank at that place ; where it will be ready for 
 my call, or any order I may give concerning it ; inform 
 me thereof. — I do not perceive by the Spinning report, 
 that any of the Girls are employed in making woolen 
 cloaths for the people ; — nor do I know what cloth 
 you have on hand (from the Weavers) for this pur- 
 pose. — All ought to be ready by the first of Novem- 
 ber to deliver to them. — 
 
 I do not, at this distance, pretend to determine 
 when your people, generally will have most leisure for 
 the purpose, but this I can determine, that whenever 
 it does happen, all hands that can be spared ought to 
 be employed on the New Race to the Mill ; for the 
 time spent in repairing the old Race after every Rain, 
 would go a good way towards the completion of the 
 new one — besides the great saving of water. — 
 
 If you think the Fall a better time to sow the 
 Seeds which have been saved from the little garden & 
 the Vineyard than the Spring I could wish to have it 
 
WASHINGTON AS A FARMER 285 
 
 done, as I am extremely anxious to encrease the quan- 
 tity of each as fast as I am able — particularly the 
 
 (?) ; but if, on the other hand, the Spring is 
 thought the safest season the sowing may be delayed 
 until that period — wch. on one acct. would be conve- 
 nient, as I mean to sow them in squares in the lot now 
 in Potatoes at the Mansion house. — 
 
 Desire the Gardener to save as much seed as he 
 can from the everlasting Pea in the Vineyard. — I can- 
 not but be of opinion that this Pea, cut young, will 
 make an excellent Hay. — The quantity of it will be 
 great — and its continuance in the ground long. — Nor 
 do I believe it requires very strong land to produce it. — 
 I am — Your friend &c. 
 
 Go : Washington 
 Mr. William Pearce. 
 
 German Town Augt. 17th 1794. 
 Mr. Pearce, 
 
 Your letter of the loth has been duly received, 
 and I am glad to find by it that your Corn still retains 
 a favourable appearance, and the ground on which it 
 grows in tolerable good order for the reception of 
 Wheat. — I wish it had been in perfect order, as I have 
 no idea of the propriety of sowing where it is not. — 
 You have not yet answered a question in one of my 
 late letters — viz — whether the Buck wheat which had 
 been plowed in for Manure, had so seeded the ground 
 
286 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 as to be bringing forward a second crop of that article 
 for the same purpose — -that is for Manure. — 
 
 I cannot with certainty recollect, whether I saw the 
 India hemp growing when I was last at Mount Ver- 
 non — but think it was in the Vineyard — somewhere. 
 I hope it was sown, and therefore desire that the seed 
 may be saved in due season & with as little loss as 
 possible — that, if it be valuable I may make the most 
 of it. — 
 
 What appearance have the Potatoes which the 
 Gardener attempted to raise from the Sprouts put on 
 at this time ; and what are they likely to come to, 
 compared with such as might have been produced in 
 the same ground, planted at the same time in the 
 usual way. — 
 
 When I was at home, an application was made to 
 me, by Kate at Muddy hole (through her husband 
 Will) to lay the Negro Women (as a Granny) on my 
 estate ; intimating that she was full as well qualified 
 for this purpose as those into whose hands it was 
 entrusted and to whom I was paying twelve or ^^15 a 
 year — & why she should not be so I know not, but 
 wish you to cause some enquiry to be made into this 
 matter — , & commit this business to her if thereupon 
 you shall be satisfied of her qualifications — This ser- 
 vice formerly was always performed by a Negro 
 Woman belonging to the estate — but latterly, until 
 now, none seemed disposed to undertake it. 
 
 I perceive by the George Town Gazette, that 
 the Potomac Company by their Treasurer William 
 
WASHINGTON AS A FARMER 287 
 
 Hartshorn of Alexandria, has called upon the 
 holders of shares in that Navigation for twelve pounds 
 Sterg. each, to be paid on, or before the first day 
 of next month (September). — I hold five shares in the 
 Company which will make the call upon me _;^6o 
 Sterg. which is to be discharged at an exchange of 
 33 Vi V^- ^^- ^'^h- amounts to _;^8o Virga. Curry, or 
 266^ dolrs. — Let this sum be paid by the day or I 
 shall have interest to pay for every day it runs over. 
 — You will pay it out of the money due for the Flour 
 which was sold in Alexandria & wch I desired might 
 be placed in the Bank. 
 
 Not having Colo. Lyle's Bond by me, I cannot 
 make a clear statement of the matter in my Books, 
 without knowing the precise condition of it. — I there- 
 fore desire you will send me an exact copy of the 
 condition of the said Bond, with the date thereof in 
 your first letter. — 
 
 I do not conceive that you will sustain any loss in 
 parting with Crow — for a mans abilities, or know- 
 ledge of business of little avail unless they are exerted ; 
 or if he suffers indolence, or amusements to overcome 
 them — & a bad temper to keep all around him in 
 a state of disquietude which was too much the 
 case with him as well as the loss of stock and 
 injury to other things by his inattentions and 
 neglect. — Do what you think best with McKoy, 
 but recollect always that the season for providing good 
 Overseers is passing away, & none will be to be had 
 late, except such as, with difficulty, can get places 
 
288 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 at all : — yet, I had rather you should take the chance 
 of the Eastern Shore before you engage any on the 
 other, or round abt. you, as they are more accustomed 
 to farming. — But it may not be amiss to let it be gen- 
 erally known, before you go to the Eastern Shore, 
 that you are in want of Overseers ; that if you fail to 
 obtain any while there your chance may be the better 
 after you return. — I have not the smallest doubt 
 but that a considerable portion of the materials which 
 falls into the hands of Green & them under him are 
 applied to purposes of their own. — A letter is 
 enclosed for Butler, who must take his own way. — 
 
 I hope your sick daughter has got well again 
 — I am 
 
 Your friend &c. 
 
 Mr. William Pearce. Go : Washington 
 
 German Town 24th Augt. 94. 
 Mr. Pearce, 
 
 In reply to your letter of the i6th which, with 
 the reports, came duly to hand ; I have only to ob- 
 serve that it never was my intention to withdraw the 
 hands from other essential work to employ them on 
 the New Mill Race, on the contrary I only wish that 
 this job may be prosecuted at times — and, at all times, 
 when their other avocations will permit it without det- 
 riment. — No work is more essential, nor is there any 
 that can be more pleasing to me, than that of getting 
 
WASHINGTON AS A FARMER 289 
 
 the meadows in nice order — of course, employing the 
 Ditchers to effect this cannot but be satisfactory. 
 
 I wish the Overseer you have lately engaged may 
 turn out well. — the Masons may judge tolerably of 
 his industry, but they are very incompetent (in my 
 opinion) to decide on his skill in any of the branches 
 of farming particularly those of meadowing, grazing, 
 & the care of stock — being planters themselves & little 
 used to either. — However if he sober, honest, indus- 
 trious and docile, he may do under your immediate 
 instructions, if you can keep him always with his 
 people (and this I hope you will do) and make him 
 be attentive to your orders and whatsoever entrusted 
 to his care especially work horses and cattle. 
 
 Alexandria will be no good school for Pine ; 
 and if you can find by enquiry after his having been 
 there, that he falls into bad habits, or bad company, 
 do not be concerned with him, let his promises be 
 what they may ; for these will follow him to Mount 
 Vernon, where I would have neither introduced. — I 
 am under no sort of obligation to him, & therefore he 
 can have no cause to complain if he is not employed 
 by me. 
 
 Enclosed is a letter from Mr. Butler. — On what 
 ground he can expect further compensation than the 
 agreement stipulates, I am at a loss to conceive. — He 
 will recollect that he represented himself to me as 
 a person who had, and was qualified to superintend a 
 large place. — Under this idea it is highly probable 
 I might & I dare say did tell him that if he was found 
 
290 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 competent to any extent that he would be entrusted with 
 the management of one of the Farms, where the wages 
 were higher that could be afforded at the Mansion 
 House but has this been the case ? — On the contrary, 
 has it not been found, from experience, that from his 
 age, inactivity, and want of authority, he has been found 
 incompetent to the present concern, with which he 
 was entrusted ; & for these reasons I part with him ? 
 & they are, surely, a sufficient bar to his appli- 
 cation — unless, as possibly is the case, he means not to 
 be charged with the money which was given to him to 
 bear his expences from Philadelphia to Mount Vernon. 
 — This I did not intend to do, & further, if he goes 
 away before the expiration of the year, he may, not- 
 withstanding, receive the whole wages of one ; — What 
 agreement you made with him for the last year, I 
 know not^-I always supposed he was on the same lay 
 as the year before & this must certainly be understood 
 if no new agreement be made. — 
 
 Is Groves a married or single man ? — If the former, 
 what family has he? 
 
 How did your Turnips come up? and what is the 
 
 present appearance of them for a Crop ? — What is the 
 
 matter with your youngest daughter — and how is your 
 
 eldest now. — 
 
 I remain your friend &c. 
 
 Go : Washington. 
 Mr. William Pearce. 
 
WASHINGTON AS A FARMER 291 
 
 German Town 31st Augt. 1794. 
 Mr. Pearce, 
 
 In your last letter of the 24th inst. came a copy 
 of the condition of Colo. Lyle's Bond ; but you did 
 not give the date of it; for which reason the purpose 
 it was wanted for, cannot be accomplished until the 
 date is transmitted. — 
 
 In one of the early letters I wrote to you, I pointed 
 out a method, which if you would observe, it would 
 be impossible to omit anything to which an answer 
 was requisite : — that is, when you are going to write, 
 take up the letter and in reading it, make a short note 
 of any part as you come to it, on the back of a letter, 
 a piece of waste paper, or slate, to which a reply is 
 necessary. — -Having gone through the letter in this 
 manner, you begin your own, and note after note, as 
 the contents are inserted in your letter, is scratched 
 out. — By this means no part of a long letter can ever 
 escape notice by not carrying the whole in your mem- 
 ory, when you sit down to write, or by being called off 
 while you are writing it. — 
 
 You have not, in any of your letters, said any- 
 thing of what you had done, or was about to do, re- 
 specting the drilled Wheat & Barley. — I would have 
 you make the most you can of the first, and give the 
 other another fair trial, for if it yields on my estate 
 in the proportion that Wheat does to Barley in this 
 Country, the culture of the latter must be more prof- 
 itable than that of the former. — Whenever the sowing 
 of any field is compleated, let it be noted in the Weekly 
 
292 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 Report, with the quantity of Seed which has been 
 given to it. — 
 
 The usual practice on those who have been seized 
 with the ague & fever, has been, after the third fit, or 
 as soon as it intermits regularly, to give an emetic, 
 which often carries it away without the Bark, or other 
 application. — 
 
 The land Mr. Gunnel speaks of, lyes in Loudoun 
 County, although it is within 1 8 or 20 miles of Alex- 
 andria. — But if the facts which he relates with respect 
 to the Trespass thereon can be clearly proved, request 
 Colo. Simms of Alexandria, or any other who prac- 
 tices in Loudoun Court, & is well recommended to 
 you, to bring suit against them. — for it is really shame- 
 ful to be treated in the manner I am by people who 
 take such liberties with my timber & wood during my 
 absence — under a supposition they may do it with im- 
 punity. — 
 
 You may inform Mr. Pierce Bailey that my sell- 
 ing, or not selling that Tract, depends upon getting 
 the terms of my asking, complied with. — These are 
 Fifteen hundred pounds (Virga. currency) Five hun- 
 dred of which to be paid down, and interest on the 
 other two thirds until discharged — the credit to be 
 agreed on which may be 3, four, or more years ; pro- 
 vided the land & a Bond is given as security for pay- 
 ment of the principal ; and some unquestionable surety 
 for the regular discharge of the interest on the day it 
 becomes due. — Mr. Gill of Alexandria came up to my 
 price, but we differed with respect to the Interest. — 
 
WASHINGTON AS A FARMER 293 
 
 There is about 300 acres of it, with two good Mill 
 Seats on it — one wholly mine, the other on difficult run 
 which divides my Land from others. — There is also a 
 good deal of Meadow land on the tract. — 
 
 I have no objection to your putting up the Still 
 which is at Mount Vernon, if any advantage from it 
 can be derived from the tax which is laid upon it ; — 
 which Doctr. Stuart & others, who have Stills, can 
 give you better information than I am able to do. — 
 
 What is the matter with young Boatswain? who, 
 to the best of my recollection has been on the sick 
 list many weeks: — I wish you well and am 
 
 Your friend &c. 
 
 Go : Washington. 
 Mr. William Pearce. — 
 
 German Town Septr. 7th 1794. 
 Mr. Pearce, 
 
 Your letter of the 31st ulto. with the Reports, I 
 have received. — 
 
 A few days ago I received a letter from Mr. Pyne 
 dated in the City of Washington still expressing a 
 desire to be employed at Mount Vernon, and a wish 
 to be there some short time before Butler left it, that 
 he might get a little insight into the nature of the 
 business previous to his entering upon duty. — I 
 referred him for his being employed at all, & for the 
 terms & time, to you ; not chusing to enter into any 
 agreement with him myself lest it might militate with 
 
294 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 any views of yours — desiring him to show you the 
 letter I wrote him on this subject that you might be 
 acquainted with my ideas thereon. — 
 
 Enclosed is a certificate for Mr. Butler — The 
 latter part I suppose he wd. have dispensed with — but 
 in my opinion it is necessary that the whole truth on 
 such occasions should be told for I have no idea that 
 with a view to serve one person it is justifiable to de- 
 ceive another — and without that part, it might with 
 propriety be asked why I parted with him. — If his 
 activity, spirit, & ability in the management of Negros 
 were equal to his honesty, sobriety & industry there 
 would not be the least occasion for a change. — 
 
 It is not possible for me, at this distance to say 
 when the Carpenters & Negros on the respective farms 
 will be most at leisure for removing the Negro quarters 
 at Union and River Farms ; but if this work is not 
 set about before the weather gets cool, it may be dan- 
 gerous (as the daubing and filling in will be green, & 
 not sun enough to dry them before winter) to put the 
 Negros in them — and besides, after the ground gets 
 soft & slippery, the trouble, and time necessary to ac- 
 complish the removal of the houses will be double. — I 
 have nothing further to add at present than to wish 
 you & family well. — Being 
 
 Your friend &c. 
 
 Go : Washington. 
 
WASHINGTON AS A FARMER 295 
 
 German Town Sepr. 14th 1794. 
 Mr. Pearce, 
 
 I am well satisfied that the omission of the date 
 of Colo. Lyle's bond was accident & not design — & 
 for that reason suggested a mode, by the observance 
 of which, no information that is required will ever be 
 omitted. — When is the Gentleman, by promise, to 
 discharge this bond ? 
 
 I think you were quite right in sowing the early 
 (or drilled) wheat at different seasons, with a view to 
 discover the best season for it. — But have you been 
 told, or do you know that the drilled Wheat at Union 
 farm was of two kinds — one of them double-headed. — 
 Unless Crow kept them asunder, the next growth 
 from these seeds will be a curious hotch potch. — 
 
 I am sorry to hear of the heavy rains you have 
 had, on many accounts ; but on none more than 
 throwing you backward in the Mill Swamps, & the 
 hard and unfit condition it will put these grounds for 
 the reception of the grass seeds even if it should not 
 have gullied & washed the soil off in places. — I know 
 too, that besides stopping your ploughs on acct. of the 
 wetness of the land, that such rains are apt to gully the 
 fields already sown with wheat and to render those 
 which have not received in the seed in a much worse 
 condition for this purpose but as these are the effects 
 of Providential dispensations, resignation is our duty. 
 — I am persuaded you will render the disadvantage as 
 light as possible & that is all I can expect. — Under 
 these circumstances I hope the season has not urged 
 
296 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 you to sow faster than the ground was in order ; for I 
 know no practice worse than ploughing & sowing 
 when it is too wet. 
 
 Drains in all the fields that require it (& none re- 
 quires it more than No. 6 at Dogue Run) if those 
 heavy rains had not come ; ought to be made before the 
 winter wets set in ; as, for want of these ; & notwith- 
 standing I am continually inculcating this doctrine upon 
 my Overseers, I have much wheat drowned every year. 
 
 I am sorry to hear that you, among others, have 
 the Ague & fever. — It has, from what I hear, been 
 uncommonly rife this year — occasioned it is presumed, 
 by the wetness of the summer. — An emetic, after It 
 becomes regular, as I mentioned in one of my former 
 letters & care generally removes it. — 
 
 The actual spitting of young Boatswain should be 
 carefully investigated, & medical aid administered if it 
 be real ; — which from the temper of the boys mother, 
 & her desire of keeping him with her as waiter may 
 well be questioned. — Under pretence once before, of 
 a hurt by a Cart she kept him three months (if I recol- 
 lect rightly) in the house with her until he was forced 
 out & this may be the case again. 
 
 Whilst some deny, others affirm that the yellow 
 fever is in Baltimore — I shall decide nothing on this 
 head myself, and only mention the matter, that if that 
 should be your rout to the Eastern Shore whensoever 
 you may go, that you may be on your guard. 
 
 I am. Your friend &c 
 
 Mr. Winiam Pearce Go : Washington 
 
CHAPTER XV. 
 
 Gilbert Stuart and the Washington 
 Portraits. 
 
 WATSON, in his "Annals of Philadel- 
 phia," makes the statement that Gilbert 
 Stuart painted both the full-length, 
 so-called " Marquis of Lansdowne," portrait of 
 Washington and also the "Athenaeum " head, in 
 Germantown. Definite or documentary evi- 
 dence is sadly lacking when the life and work 
 of this gifted artist are considered, but what 
 evidence there is to confirm Watson's statement 
 has been collected here. Much of it is in the 
 way of tradition and of later day gossip of the 
 studio, but a lack of any direct evidence to the 
 contrary gives these rather slender historical 
 props greater weight and strength than they 
 might otherwise possess. 
 
 The honor of having been the place where 
 was painted the best known and most satisfac- 
 tory portrait of the First President, which has 
 also been considered the masterpiece of a truly 
 great portrait painter, is one well worth striving 
 for, and one which seems properly to belong to 
 Germantown. 
 
298 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 Gilbert Stuart returned to America in 1792, 
 landing in New York, after a seventeen years' 
 absence. He had come back to his native land 
 filled w^ith an intense desire to paint the portrait 
 of Washington. He remained in New York 
 for about two years, and it was not until late in 
 November, 1794, that he reached Philadelphia 
 with a letter of introduction to Washington 
 from John Jay, whose portrait he had painted. 
 Stuart was soon enjoying great popularity as an 
 artist, and his studio in the house where he re- 
 sided, the southeast corner of Fifth and Chest- 
 nut Streets, was overrun with work. Here he 
 painted his first portrait of Washington, which 
 Stuart himself says was so unsatisfactory that he 
 afterwards destroyed it. Rembrandt Peale gives 
 the date as September, 1795, for he himself 
 had been allowed three sittings of three hours 
 each and was then at work on a portrait of 
 Washington. 
 
 Stuart painted in all three portraits of Wash- 
 ington from life. First, the one referred to 
 above, a full bust showing the right side of the 
 face and sometimes called the "Vaughan" por- 
 trait; second, the full-length so-called "Marquis 
 of Lansdowne " portrait, and third, the well- 
 
yl'.-,, '!//ni'-',(..-/^./,-wy./-r/.: . %7.-^. -wC^' 
 
 
GILBERT STUART'S PORTRAITS 299 
 
 known unfinished head now in the possession of 
 the Boston Athensum. It was the second and 
 third of these which, according to Watson, 
 were painted in Germantown. To this asser- 
 tion, so far as relates to the third portrait, can 
 be added the positive testimony of Miss Jane 
 Stuart, the artist's daughter.* 
 
 The second portrait was executed for the 
 purpose of presentation to the Marquis of Lans- 
 downe at the charge of Wilham Bingham, of 
 Philadelphia. The painting was afterwards 
 sold at auction, and was purchased by Samuel 
 Williams, an American merchant in London. 
 It is at the present time owned by Lord Rose- 
 bery, who acquired with the portrait an auto- 
 graph letter of Washington's. The letter was 
 addressed to "Mr. Stuart, Chestnut Street," and 
 is as follows: 
 
 Sir : — I am under promise to Mrs. Bingham to 
 sit for you to-morrow at nine o'clock, and wish to 
 know if it be convenient to you that I should do so, 
 and whether it shall be at your own house (as she 
 talked of the State House), I send this note to ask 
 information. I am, sir, your obedient servant, 
 
 Geo. Washington. 
 Monday Evening, nth April, 1796. 
 
 *Scribner's Magazine, July, 1876. 
 
300 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 In looking over my papers to find one that had 
 the signature of George Washington, I found this, 
 asking me when he should sit for his portrait, which 
 is now owned by Samuel Williams, of London. I have 
 thought it proper that it should be his, especially as 
 he owns the only original painting I ever made of 
 Washington, except one I own myself.* I painted a 
 third, but rubbed it out.f I now present this to his 
 brother Timo. Williams, for said Samuel. 
 
 Gt. Stuart. 
 Boston, 9th day of March, 1823. 
 
 N. B. Mr. Stuart painted in ye winter season 
 his first portrait of Washington, but destroyed it. 
 The next painting was ye one owned by S. WiUiams, 
 
 third Mr. S. has two only remain as above. 
 
 T. W. 
 [Timothy Williams.] 
 
 The Lansdowne portrait thus begun in 
 mid-April was completed some time in May, 
 1796. Rembrandt Peale, in company with 
 his father and uncle, called to see it during 
 that month. They all agreed that it was beau- 
 tifully painted and touched in a masterly style, 
 but with perhaps the natural feeling of rival 
 artists they yet found fault with it as a likeness, 
 
 * This was the Athenffium portrait. 
 
 \ This was presumably the original of the so-called Vaughan por- 
 trait. 
 
GILBERT STUARTS PORTRAITS 301 
 
 and declared that its value as a portrait was less 
 than its merit as a painting.* Stuart was so 
 interrupted in his work by the visits of those 
 who wished to see the portrait, the fame of 
 which was rapidly spreading, that upon the sug- 
 gestion and advice of his friends he placed it 
 on exhibition in the State House, employed a 
 man to look after it and charged a small ad- 
 mission fee. It was on exhibition here during 
 the latter part of June and some time after that 
 date it was forwarded to England. The letter 
 from the Marquis of Lansdowne to the Bing- 
 hams expressing his thanks and appreciation of 
 the gift and at the same time his admiration 
 for the character of Washington, was dated 
 March 5th, 1797, and in it he apologized for 
 his delay in writing. 
 
 It was on account of the interruptions occa- 
 sioned by the natural desire of many to see the 
 artist and his paintings that Stuart decided to 
 remove to the quiet and seclusion of German- 
 town. The exact date is not known, but the pre- 
 sumption is it was in the early summer of 1796, 
 and consequently after the original Lansdowne 
 
 * Letter of Rembrandt Peale, Magazine of American History, 
 August, 1880. 
 
302 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 portrait, was finished, but a replica was executed 
 for William Bingham, and this without any 
 doubt was made in Germantown.* This would 
 in a measurejustify the Annalist's assertion, that a 
 Lansdowne portrait was painted in Germantown. 
 This painting made for William Bingham was 
 turned over to the Pennsylvania Academy of the 
 Fine Arts by Bingham's executors in 1 8 1 1 , and 
 is still in its possession. 
 
 In Germantown Stuart occupied the house 
 now numbered 5140 Main Street, then the 
 property of Samuel Bringhurst. The second 
 floor of a little two-story barn at the rear was 
 fitted up and used as a studio. It was surmounted 
 with a big weather vane in the form of an In- 
 dian with extended bow and arrow. Stuart had 
 the interior lathed and plastered and the outside 
 painted red. Until it was destroyed by fire, some 
 forty years ago, the interior walls were daubed 
 in many places with the artist's brush. After 
 the fire the ruins were roofed over, and in this 
 shape it was preserved until about five years ago, 
 when it was entirely cleared away. 
 
 * For an interesting article by the original and the Marquis of 
 Charles Henry Hart, aiming to Lansdowne's the replica, see Har- 
 prove that Bingham's portrait was per's Magazine, March, 1895. 
 
GILBERT STUART'S PORTRAITS 303 
 
 On the 27th of July, 1797, Robert Gilmor, 
 a young gentleman from Baltimore, accompa- 
 nied by Mr. Sherlock, an English friend, visited 
 Germantown and called on Stuart. Gilmor had 
 provided himself w^ith a letter of introduction 
 from the Vicomte de Noailles, then in Phila- 
 delphia. The travelers knocked at the door, 
 vrhich was opened by Mrs. Stuart, w^ho said 
 that her husband was out. Mr. Gilmor re- 
 quested that she would forward the note to him 
 no matter where he was, telling her at the same 
 time he only had a few days in Philadelphia, 
 and that they would be greatly disappointed if 
 they did not see the portrait of Washington, 
 which was the object of their call. Mrs. Stuart 
 at length invited them into the parlor. In a 
 few moments the artist appeared, greeted them 
 in the most welcome manner, offered them re- 
 freshments and invited them to the stable studio 
 in the rear. Gilmor then goes on to say, "The 
 picture he had there of the President was the 
 first copy he had made of the celebrated full- 
 length which he had painted for Mrs. Bingham, 
 intended as a present to the Marquis of Lans- 
 downe. It was supposed one of the finest por- 
 traits that ever was painted. This copy was 
 
304 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 for Mr. Bingham's own use, and from which 
 Stuart told us he had engaged to finish copies 
 to amount of 70 or 80,000 D" at the rate of 
 600 D" a copy. This circumstance is an unique 
 in the history of painting, that the portrait 
 of one man should be sought after in such a 
 degree as to be copied by the original artist 
 such a number of times and for such an 
 amount." 
 
 There were a number of unfinished por- 
 traits of distinguished people in the studio 
 which Mr. Gilmor thought very excellent. 
 The callers were impressed with the good 
 nature and humor of the artist, who related for 
 their entertainment a number of interesting an- 
 ecdotes. Upon taking leave Stuart invited them 
 to make him another visit, on their return from 
 New England, whither they were bound, and 
 inspect the various copies he was making. The 
 travelers separated in New England, and Mr. 
 Gilmor on his return early in September was 
 for a week the guest of Mr. and Mrs. Bingham 
 at their country place, Lansdowne, on the west 
 bank of the Schuylkill. Here he found Stuart 
 at work on portraits of the various members of 
 the Bingham family, and spent a portion of his 
 
GILBERT STUJRTS PORTRAITS 305 
 
 time watching the progress of the work in the 
 library, where the artist had set up his easel.* 
 
 All authorities seem to agree that soon after 
 the completion of the Lansdowne portrait the 
 President commissioned Stuart to paint Mrs. 
 Washington's portrait and his own. This was 
 the third or Athenaeum portrait, and its com- 
 panion piece, the unfinished vignetted head of 
 Mrs. Washington. Miss Stuart, in the article f 
 previously referred to, states that these sittings 
 were given in Germantown, and that having by 
 this time become better acquainted with the 
 President, the artist gained his entire self-posses- 
 sion, and was able by his conversation, particu- 
 larly as to horses, to arouse the interest of the Pres- 
 ident, and thus secure the expression he desired. 
 
 William Wynne Wister, one of German- 
 town's honored citizens, now deceased, stated 
 that Samuel Ashmead, whose father-in-law, 
 Samuel Bringhurst, rented the premises to Stu- 
 art, and of whose heirs Mr. Wister bought the 
 property, told him that when the General was 
 visiting the studio for a sitting, he was in the 
 
 * From a manuscript journal of A Tour to the Eastern States in the 
 Year 1797, in the Boston Public Library. 
 ■f-Scribner's Magazine, July, 1876. 
 
3o6 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 habit of walking into the garden and eating 
 fruit from an apple tree, which in Mr. Wister's 
 time still stood and bore fruit. The apple in- 
 cident, if correct, would make the time of 
 painting the poftrait in the late summer or 
 early fall. Washington returned to Philadel- 
 phia from a five weeks' visit to Mount Vernon 
 on August 2 1 St, 1796, and remained in Phila- 
 delphia until September 19th, when he left the 
 city and did not return until October, 31st. 
 His term of office expired March 4th, 1797. 
 He left soon after for Mount Vernon, and ex- 
 cept a visit made in November and December 
 of 1798 was never again in Philadelphia or its 
 immediate vicinity. There is therefore some 
 reason to believe the sittings for the famous por- 
 trait were given in Germantown between August 
 2 1 St and September 19th, 1796. 
 
 Miss Stuart has this explanation as to why 
 this and the companion piece of Martha Wash- 
 ington were never finished : " When General 
 and Mrs. Washington took their last sittings my 
 father told Washington it would be of great 
 importance to him to retain the original, to 
 which Washington replied : * Certainly, Mr. 
 Stuart, if they are of any consequence to you ; 
 
GILBERT STUARTS PORTRAITS 307 
 
 I shall be perfectly satisfied with copies from 
 your hand, as it will be impossible for me to 
 sit again at present.' " The copies made from 
 the original were for Mount Vernon, and Stuart 
 afterwards made over sixty replicas of the Pres- 
 ident's portrait. He used to call the picture 
 his hundred dollar bill, for when he was in 
 need of funds he would hurriedly paint off a 
 copy, for which there was always a ready sale. 
 No portrait of Washington's later life is better 
 known or more appreciated, and G. W, P. 
 Custis says that it should be accepted as the 
 standard portrait of the first President.* 
 
 Stuart was once asked which of the various 
 representations of Washington was the best, and 
 declared that Houdon's bust came first, and that 
 his own unfinished portrait was next. He an- 
 
 * It is acknowledged that his last of his portraits of Washington 
 likeness of Washington is the only alone with which Stuart expressed 
 just representation of a counte- any satisfaction. He promised to 
 nance wherein the tranquillity of present it to the family when fin- 
 self-approval blends with wisdom ished, and with a humorous 
 and truth, so as to form a moral shrewdness in accordance with his 
 ideal in portraiture as the character character, left the head alone 
 was in life. It is lamentable that upon the broad canvas, in order 
 such inadequate copies of this head to retain what he justly deemed 
 have gone abroad, owing in some his most invaluable trophy, 
 instances to the inability of en- From Sketches of American 
 gravers, and in others to the use Painters, by Henry T. Tuck- 
 of spurious originals. It was the erman. 
 
3o8 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 swered one criticism, which apparently was 
 frequently made of the constrained expression 
 around the mouth, by explaining that it was 
 due to the fact that he had just had a set of 
 false teeth inserted. The President had lost his 
 teeth in 1789 and had had a more or less unsatis- 
 factory set. In order to remedy this defect in a 
 measure, it is said Stuart inserted rolls of cotton 
 between the President's teeth and cheeks while 
 he was sitting. 
 
 The original unfinished paintings were re- 
 tained by Stuart until his death in 1828, when 
 they were sold, and in 1 8 3 1 they were presented 
 to the Boston Athenasum. 
 
 Stuart spent the following summer, that of 
 1798, in Germantown. David Edwin, a suc- 
 cessful copper plate engraver, who had engraved 
 many of the Stuart portraits, spent the summer 
 of 1798 near the Falls of Schuylkill, and says 
 that there he was a neighbor to Stuart. This 
 statement would not be incompatible with Stu- 
 art's residence in Germantown. Further a Mrs. 
 Capron advertised in June, 1798, that she would 
 open a school in Germantown opposite Mr. 
 Stuart's the painter.* As everybody who possi- 
 
 * Philadelphia Gazette, June 28th, 1798. 
 
GILBERT STUART'S PORTRAITS 309 
 
 bly could left the city during the yellow fever 
 visitation of ijgg, there is every reason to sup- 
 pose that the artist occupied the Germantown 
 studio in that year, returning to Philadelphia or 
 w^orking in the homes of his many patrons 
 during the w^inter. His name is not to be 
 found in the Philadelphia directories for any 
 year during his residence near Philadelphia, /. e., 
 1795 to 1800. Some time after the seat of 
 government removed to Washington he fol- 
 lowed it there, and remained until about 1805, 
 when he removed to Boston. 
 
 Several stories are extant relating to Stuart's 
 residence in Germantown. He seems to have 
 entered into the life of the town, and often used 
 to stop at the stoop of the old Wister house, some 
 doors above, to chat with the merry company that 
 would gather there. While living there he was 
 noted for his eccentricity and his love of eating 
 and drinking. Gilmor, who has been quoted, 
 said he had the appearance of a man addicted 
 to drink. On one occasion he was observed 
 kicking a large piece of meat from his house 
 over to Diehl's, the butcher, indicating that it 
 was too offensive to touch with his hands. On 
 the sign of the King of Prussia tavern Stuart is 
 
3 1 o WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 said to have painted a picture of Frederick the 
 Great on horseback. It remained for many 
 years, but in modern times was covered over 
 with common black paint, with the inscription 
 "King of Prussia Hotel" in plain letters. 
 
 The following story is given in all the early 
 accounts of Stuart and his work, as if told by 
 the painter himself: 
 
 " When I lived at Germantown a little, pert 
 young man called on me, and addressed me 
 thus : ' You are Mr. Stuart, sir, the great 
 painter ? ' My name is Stuart, sir. " Those 
 who remember Mr. Stuart's athletic figure, quiet 
 manner, sarcastic humor, and uncommon face, 
 can alone imagine the picture he would have 
 made as the intruder proceeded : " * My name 
 is Winstanley, sir ; you must have heard of me.' 
 Not that I recollect, sir. 'No! Well, Mr. 
 Stuart, I have been copying your full-length of 
 Washington ; I have made a number of copies ; 
 I have now six that I have brought to Philadel- 
 phia ; I have got a room in the State House, 
 and I have put them up, but before I show 
 them to the public, and offer them for sale, I 
 have a proposal to make to you.' Go on, sir. 
 ' It would enhance their value, you know, if I 
 
GILBER T STUAR T'S POR TRAITS 3 1 1 
 
 could say you had given them the last touch. 
 Now, sir, all you have to do is to ride to town 
 and give each of them a tap, you know, with 
 your riding-switch — just thus, you know.' " 
 
 Stuart, who had been feeding his capacious 
 nostrils with Scotch snufF, shut the box, and 
 deliberately placed it on the table. Winstanley 
 proceeded, " 'And you will share the amount of 
 the sale.' Did you ever hear that I was a 
 swindler? 'Sir! You mistake. You know — '" 
 The painter rose to his full height. " You 
 will please to walk down stairs, sir, very quickly, 
 or I shall throw you out at the window. " The 
 genius would have added another " you know," 
 but seeing that the action was likely to be suited 
 to the word, Winstanley took the hint and 
 hastened down the stairs. 
 
 No further record is obtainable of any later 
 visit of Washington to Germantown than these 
 traditional autumn rides to the studio of Gilbert 
 Stuart. It is a pleasant thought to conclude this 
 narrative with the picture of the President riding 
 out in the early fall, his dismounting and walk- 
 ing through the garden, picking apples from 
 the trees, of his sitting and listening to the an- 
 ecdotes and stories of which the painter had an 
 
3 1 2 WASHINGTON IN GERMANTOWN 
 
 I ,-J.- ■ ^- ■ ■■J^- ■ H I -J i I <- 1- ■ I ■ ■ I I I n I H I II »] . 1 J J l l . ll I ■! 
 
 inexhaustible store and knew so well how to 
 tell while he plied his brush, and of the result 
 of this toil and skill, the faithful and best liked 
 portrait of the great first President. 
 
INDEX 
 
 FAGB 
 
 Adams, John, to Mrs. Adams . .231 
 Adams, Thomas Boylston . . 232 
 
 Address to Washington 1 1 1 
 
 Alburger, John, House . . . . I02 
 
 American Revolution 200 
 
 Anas of Jefferson 138 
 
 Armstrong, John, to Wasliington .211 
 
 Ashmead, Samuel 107 
 
 Athenaeum Portrait of Washington, 297 
 Attorney-General's Formal Opinion, 119 
 Ball, Burgess, to Washington, 202, 247 
 260, 262, 272 
 Bank of North America ... .63 
 
 Bank of Pennsylvania 63 
 
 Bank of the U. S 63 
 
 Baptistry .... . . 50 
 
 Beckley, John, to Madison . . , .218 
 
 Belmont , . , 7 
 
 Bensell, Dr. Charles .... 37» 93 
 
 Bensell House 37 
 
 Bettinger, Valentine .... 61 
 
 Betton, Dr . . 61 
 
 Biddic, Charles . . . 108 
 
 Billmeyer House 5 
 
 Bingham, William ^99) 3^4 
 
 Blight, Peter 61 
 
 Bockius, William 100 
 
 Bolles and Jordan 61 
 
 Brandywine, Battle of 3 
 
 Bringhurst, John . . . 105 
 
 Bringhurst, Samuel 302 
 
 Bringhurst, William 113 
 
 Buchan, Earl of 1 92 
 
 Buck Tavern 44 
 
 Budd, Joseph 61 
 
 Bush Hill 10 
 
 315 
 
 FAGE 
 
 Cabinet Meetings 132 
 
 Carlton, Henry Hill's house . *, 3 
 
 Carmalt, Caleb . . . 61 
 
 Carrington, Edward, to Washington 66 
 
 Chew House 5i 7 
 
 Chichester, Richard 206 
 
 Chichester, Richard, to Washington 198 
 
 Cigars 47 
 
 Citizen of Va. to Washington . .180 
 
 Congress Meets 218 
 
 Conyngham, Nesbit & Co. . . 61 
 
 Craig, Jr., James 61 
 
 Crukshank, Joseph 61 
 
 Custis, Eleanor Parke . , . . 234 
 Custis, Geo. Washington Parke . . 234 
 
 ^35. 307 
 
 Dallas, Alexander, Jr 82 
 
 Dandridge, Bartholomew . . 99, 276 
 Dandridge to Hamilton . . . 214 
 Dandridge to Knox . ... 215 
 Deshler, David . . . . 113 
 
 Dilworth, Samuel . . 61 
 
 Dove, David J loi 
 
 Drinker, Elizabeth, Journal of . . 37 
 
 Dungan, Thomas 112 
 
 Dunlap, John ... . . 60, 61 
 
 Durany, Jacob, to Washington . .197 
 
 Eckfelt, Jacob 61 
 
 Edwin, David 308 
 
 Emerson, Mrs. , ... 12, 16 
 
 Emlen, George 61 
 
 Evans, David 61 
 
 Fair Hill II 
 
 Falls of Schuylkill ... 1,3,308 
 Ferree, Joseph . . 98, 100, 105, 107 
 Field, John 61 
 
PAGE 
 
 Fisher, James and Samuel . . . . 6l 
 
 Fisher, Thomas 6i 
 
 Fortification of Harbors 148 
 
 Fox, Charles James 221 
 
 Fox, George 61 
 
 Fox, Samuel 61 
 
 Franks^ House, Furniture in . . .114 
 
 Fraunces, Samuel 16 
 
 Fraunces to Washington 34 
 
 Franks, Isaac . , . 92, 97, 112, 113 
 116, 27s 
 
 Fries, John 61 
 
 Fromberger, John . . . . , 61 
 
 Germain, James 100 
 
 Genet, Edmund C 133 
 
 German Reformed Church . . . .236 
 
 Germantown Academy . . 63, 77, 1 01 
 
 104, 106, 159, 234 
 
 Germantown, Battle of 4 
 
 Germantown, Cmtributions from, 18, 60 
 
 Germantown Crowded 33 
 
 Germantown Escapes Contagion . . 55 
 Germantown, Hamilton's Opinion 
 
 of 79 
 
 Germantown, Main Street .... 56 
 
 Germantown, Pickering Visits ... 85 
 
 Germantown, Randolph's Opinion of, 8 3 
 
 127, 129 
 
 Germantown, Road to 93 
 
 Germantown, Washington Encamps 
 
 at I, ^■, 3 
 
 Germantown in 1793 37 
 
 Gilmor, Robert 303 
 
 Haines, Reuben 61 
 
 Hallowell, John 61 
 
 Hamilton, Alexander, 11, 22, 67, 77 
 
 78, 104, 138, 214, 244, 250,-276 
 Hamilton to Washmgton, 78, 205, 243 
 
 Hamilton, William 10 
 
 Hartshorne, Lodge & Co. ... 61 
 
 Henry, Patrick 245, 255 
 
 Herman, Rev. Frederick . , . 98, 100 
 
 112, 234 
 
 Hesser, George, Home of , , .37 
 
 PAGE 
 
 Hill, Henry, House Occupied by 
 
 Washington » 
 
 Hill, Henry 105, 107, 159 
 
 Hiltzheimer, Jacob 60 
 
 Houdon's Bust of Washington . . 308 
 
 Howe, Sir William 4 
 
 Jay, John 298 
 
 Jefferson, Thomas, II, 21,23, 99, 103 
 107, 138, 206, 219 
 
 Jefferson's Anas 138 
 
 Jefferson Reaches Germantown . . 99 
 Jefferson to District Attorneys . . . 141 
 
 Jefferson to Madison 108 
 
 Jefferson to John F. Mercer .232 
 
 Jefferson to Washington 71 
 
 Jenkins, Howard M 90 
 
 King of Prussia Tavern . 100, 102, 109 
 140, 309 
 
 Knorr, Jacob 56 
 
 Knox, Henry . . . 15, 22, 23, 67, 77 
 
 104, 138, 215 
 
 Knox, Henry, to Washington, 24, 27 
 
 31, 202, 207, 215, 216 
 
 Lancaster, Pa 109, 112 
 
 Lauman, George 61 
 
 Lansdowne 304 
 
 Lansdowne, Marquis of . . . 299, 301 
 Lansdowne Portrait of Washington . 297 
 
 Lear, Tobias 190 
 
 Lear, Tobias, to Washington, 185, 194 
 
 250 
 Lee, Gov. Henry, to Washington . 244 
 
 Lennox, Major David 97 
 
 Lewis, Mordecai 61 
 
 Lewis, Nicholas 203 
 
 Livezey Mill Burned 51 
 
 Logan, Dr. George S> S3 
 
 Logan, James 3 
 
 Lukcn, Jan . . 90 
 
 Lut, Lewis 99 
 
 McCall, Archibald 61 
 
 Madison, James , . . 67, 103, 218 
 
 Main Street 56 
 
 Marine Belt 1 39 
 
 Market Square Church . . . 64, 236 
 
 16 
 
PAGE 
 
 Mechlin, Samuel 105, 107 
 
 Meng, Melchoir 105 
 
 Mercer, John F 23X 
 
 Merkle, John 1 00 
 
 Meredith, Jonathan 61 
 
 Mifflin, Governor Thomas . . . 9, 82 
 
 Morgan, Thomas 61 
 
 Morris, Benjamin Wistar .... 61 
 
 Morris House 117 
 
 Morris, Elliston P 1 1 g 
 
 Morris, Samuel B 118 
 
 Mt. Airy 38 
 
 Mt. Vernon 15, 177, 306 
 
 Mutual Fire Insurance Co 100 
 
 New Hope, Pa 1 
 
 Nixon, John 6 r 
 
 Peale, Rembrandt .... 298, 300 
 
 Pearce, William 278 
 
 Penna. Academy of Fine Arts . . 302 
 
 Perot, Elliston and John 61 
 
 Peters, Richard 7, 79, 86 
 
 Phile, Dr. Frederic 77 
 
 Pickering, Colonel Timothy, 29, 67, 85 
 Pickering to Washington . . 30, 86 
 Pleasants, Samuel & Sons .... 61 
 Proclamation, Form of . . 80, 84 
 
 Poulson, Zachariah, Letter from . 57 
 
 Powel, Samuel 7i 12 
 
 Powel, Elizabeth 12 
 
 Parke, Dr. Thomas 56 
 
 Randolph Arranges for the Presi- 
 dent's Comfort 89 
 
 Randolph, Edmund , 11, 67, 89, 104 
 
 119, 138, 246 
 
 Randolph, Thomas Mann . . , .103 
 
 Randolph to Washington . . 81, 91, 92 
 
 96, 97, no 
 
 Rawle, William 61 
 
 Ray. J- M 234 
 
 Reading, Pa., 83, 109, ill, 128, 129 
 Record of a Busy Month . . . .152 
 
 Residence Act 120 
 
 Righter*3 Ferry 93 
 
 Roberts, George 61 
 
 Roseberry, Lord 299 
 
 317 
 
 PAGE 
 
 Ross, James ....... 237, 274 
 
 St. Clair, Sir John ...... 193 
 
 Sansom, Joseph 6i 
 
 Schneider, Christr 107 
 
 Smith, .Robert 61 
 
 Smith, William 22, 104 
 
 Snowdon, Richard, to Washington . 200 
 Spencer Family gj 
 
 S'^n'o". ■'. 3. 4, 5 
 
 Stevens, Edward 204 
 
 Stuart, Gilbert 103, 297 
 
 Stuart, Gilbert, Removes to Ger- 
 
 mantown 301 
 
 Stuart, Jane 299, 306 
 
 Summer of 1794 234 
 
 Swift, Joseph 61 
 
 Thornton, William, to Washington, 216 
 
 Thurston, CM 240 
 
 Trenton, N. J 128, 129 
 
 Trumbull, Jonathan 67 
 
 Trumbull, Jonathan, to Washington, 182 
 Trustees of Academy to Washington, 106 
 Trustees Call on Washington . . .159 
 Vaughan Portrait of Washington .298 
 
 Vaughan, John 61 
 
 Wagner, John 61 
 
 Wain, Nicholas 61 
 
 Wain, Robert and Jesse .... 61^ 
 
 Warder, Jeremiah 61 
 
 Warder, John 61 
 
 Warner, Dr. Jonathan . . 44 
 
 Watson, John F 297 
 
 Washington Absent from German- 
 town 143 
 
 Washington as a Farmer . ... 277 
 Washington's Early Visits . . . i 
 Washington Encamps at German- 
 town I 
 
 Washington, Martha, 12, 234, 236, 305 
 Washington Passes Through Ger- 
 
 mantown , . 276 
 
 Washington Returns to German- 
 town . . 112 
 
 Washington Returns to Philadel- 
 phia 275, 276 
 
Washington Sets Out from Mount 
 
 Vernon 152 
 
 Washington's Speech to Congress . 221 
 
 Washington Tavern 52 
 
 Washington to Burgess Ball 209, 239 
 Washington to Earl of Buchan . .192 
 Washington to Richard Chichester, 206 
 Washington to Bryan Fairfax , . .271 
 Washington to Hamilton , . , 23, 244 
 250, 270 
 
 Washington to John Jay 264 
 
 Washington to Jefferson ..... 206 
 Washington to Tobias Lear, 15, 191, 260 
 Washington to Henry Lee . • *53 
 
 Washington to Nicholas Lewis . . 203 
 Washington to Robert Lewis . . 268 
 Washington to Madison . . , . 68 
 Washington to William Pearce . 278 
 283, 285, 288, 291, 293, 295 
 Washington to Thomas Peter , . . 266 
 Washington to Randolph . 90, 93, 246 
 Washington to James Ross . , 237, 274 
 Washington to Sir John St. Clair .193 
 Washington to Edward Stevens . . 204 
 
 PAGE 
 
 Washington to Gilbert Stuart . . , 299 
 Washington to C. M. Thurston . . 240 
 
 Washington to Trustees 107 
 
 Washington to Alexander White . 208 
 Wells and Morris . . , .61 
 
 West Point, Military Academy at 
 
 148, 150 
 
 Willing, Richard 13 
 
 Wharton, Isaac . 61 
 
 Wharton, Robert , 61 
 
 Where Shall Congress Meet ? . .65 
 
 White, Alexander 208 
 
 Whitcmarsh Encampment .... 7 
 
 Whiskey Insurrection 276 
 
 Williams, Samuel 300 
 
 Williams, Timothy 300 
 
 Wister, Charles J 232 
 
 Wister, John 37 
 
 Wister, William Wynne 305 
 
 Wolcott, Jr., Oliver . . 10, 22, 67 
 
 Wolcott to Washington 72 
 
 Womelsdorf, Pa in 
 
 Yellow Fever . . .8, 40, 63, 230 
 Young, Charles ... ... 61 
 
 318 
 
OUN LIBRARY -O'^CULA I lUiN 
 
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